Processer for mainly stereo but also for DD

[gtrman]

I'm in the market for a processer mainly for use in stereo, but I also want to be able to use it for surround from dvd & tele.

I'm also expecting to go dvda at somepoint, so if anyone has any suggestions I'd be very interested.

[mariner]

can you give a bit more information?-do you have an amplifier a nd want a separate processor? what speakers do you have and what is your budget? the more info you give,the more advice people can offer :)~:-)~:smile:

[gtrman]

I'm running active Genelec HT208's so I only need a processer, main source is Rega Planer 3 through MF X-LPS, cd63 ki for cd and on the verge of buying pioneer play everything job thats around £700, sorry forgot the model number.

The budget is a little confused as I'm a tight git, but by the same count would rather not buy the wrong thing to save money so £1000-2000 I guess.

[ricdiggle]

A used Tag AV32r would be my first port of call. Fabulous with both movies and music.

You may find an Arcam AV8 for that sort of money used but I'm not sure.



Richard.

[nicolasb]

Some people will tell you that the Linn 5103 is the second finest stereo pre-amplifier on the planet after the Linn Klimax Control. Personally I don't rate it very highly as a home cinema processor, but if stereo really is your priority, it might suit you.

[gtrman]

Thanks chaps, found the TAG which looks great, I'm now off to search out specs for the Linn.

[RossC]

How about the Cyrus AV8 - sounds superb as a stereo pre-amp and very good in AV. No vid switching, very minimalist feature set, but has the basics covered well, and is upgradeable for multi channel audio too.

[nicolasb]

Other possibilities:



1) I guess I should put in my usual plug for the Naim AV2 (£2200 new).



2) If you suddenly feel wealthy than the Bryston SP1.7 is very fine in stereo (not perhaps as good as the Linn 5103, but comparable with Bryston's own dedicated stereo pre-amp which sells for £1600). But that would set you back a lot more than £2K.



3) Depending on your precise requirements and what equipment you already own, a second hand Meridian 568 mk I might be a possibility.



4) You might also get in touch with Daninthemix and see if he can get you a good deal on an imported Theta Casa Nova. I think he sells them for about £2K (which is roughly 50% off the UK list price).

[SteveC]

Some people will tell you that the Linn 5103 is the second finest stereo pre-amplifier on the planet after the Linn Klimax Control. Personally I don't rate it very highly as a home cinema processor, but if stereo really is your priority, it might suit you.
I'd be one of them, but it is showing its age in other ways - no component video or similar, no analog inputs of any kind for DVD-A and SACD, no Prologic II etc... I have one but I will either wait until linn release a 'baby Kisto' or change to Tag, Primare, or something.