Video Asylum

what component to purchase first?

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I am planning to integrate a high end stereo system into my home theater system by adding a preamp between my amp and HT pre/pro, adding a two channel amp to replace the L/R from the 5 channel HT amp, and changing my CD player. Before even doing research on amps, preamps and new digital front end, I was wondering in what order should I purchase my components to give the most significant change in stereo listening? I am planning on spacing out my purchases about 3 or 4 months apart for each addition and would like to hear the most significant improvements upfront. I started with my speakers... I recently purchased a used pair of JM Reynaud Trentes on Lovan stands.
I currently have a Rotel Pre/Pro, Rotel 5 channel amp and Sony SACD C333ES player.

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I would go with the amplifier - Lasermeister 15:26:55 03/14/02 (4)
I think you can make a case for doing it the other way, too, starting with your source component. However, if you upgrade the amplifier first, you will better be able to hear changes later when you upgrade the preamp and CD player. Were you thinking about a high powered tube amp or solid state, and what brands? You must have some inkling of what you're interested in because the quality of your system indicates that you're at least somewhat knowledgeable about high end audio.
Todd
- Re: I would go with the amplifier - TJ 15:54:50 03/14/02 (3)
  Hmmm ... as far as amps go, just off the top of my head in the $1.5k to $2k range (new or used) that I was thinking about were:
  Belles
  Odyssey
  Sim Audio
  Classe
  McCormack (sp?)
  BAT
  
  I have never used tubes before but I'm open to try anything at this point.
  - I would go with the amplifier - woodduck 12:57:29 03/19/02 (0)
    I concur with Lasermeister in recommending the Bryston 3B-ST; it is a great sounding amp and an excellent value.
  - Those sound pretty good - Lasermeister 17:17:41 03/14/02 (1)
    I'm familiar with the last four brands you mentioned, and I think they're all good. You might want to include the Bryston 3B-ST also, as this is a very good sounding 120 watt/channel solid state amplifier in this price range (I have the 5B-ST, which is the three channel version). Keep in mind that if you are going to have a combined audio/home theater system, you don't want to skimp on power. Since your query is actually more of an audio query than a home theater one, you might also want to try one of the other asylums here.
    Todd
    - Re: Those sound pretty good - TJ 17:59:15 03/14/02 (0)
      Thank for your help. I also posted this in the General Asylum.

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