Another HT Processor Preference Question

[Pookie007]

I am looking at getting a new HT Preamp. I am interested in hearing suggestions based on the following criteria. My current considering the Rotel RSP-1069.
1) Budget is $2000 - $2500. It can't be stretched beyond that.
2) Sound quality is more important than features.
3) Sound quality is more important than video quality, I could always connect the video direct to the TV. This is not preferred due to the aesthetics of multiple cables to the TV.
4) New products only. I will not consider used. (Warranty)
5) Balanced outputs would be nice, but not necessary.
6) HDMI isn't critical. I can do everything I need with component video and digital audio via coax or fiber.
7) I am not interested in using the processing 1/2 of a receiver.
8) Two channel audio performance is very important.
9) Trans encoding to ether component of HDMI is preferred. I only want 1 cable to the TV.

[PewterTA]

I was able to get the 1098 for your price range over 2 years ago... you might want to talk to your dealer and try to work out a deal. That would give you the best audio quality for your "mainly" 2ch listening.

[Hdale85]

I don't know about "Best" I think that changes from person to person. But it's deffinately A nice piece. A lot of people have loved the DTC-9.8 but its a little scarce right now and thats what I'm waiting for. I haven't looked to much into the 2000-2500 price range though.

[Pookie007]

I don't know how much of a deal I will get on the 1069 since it is a new model. I am sure I could get about 10% off, but beyond that it will depend on the current demand the shop is seeing.

I was curious to hear if anyone has used the Arcam stuff or something that hasn't been discussed recently.

[LikeCoiledSteel]

It sounds like what you want is a Cary Cinema 11. It has no video features at all to interfere with the sound and is getting very good reviews for 2 channel.
Steel

[John Holmes]

Pookie007,

I have a B&K Ref 50 (series 1). And I am just tickled pink everytime I turn it on. Be it movies or 2ch, I'm very satisfied with it's performance. That said, if it was I making the choice today, I would have to find something with HDMI. While 1.3a would not be a must, 1.1 or higher would. And of course, it would have to sound good, as well as meet my functional needs.

I just do not see the point in spending $1k and up for something that doesn't. Especially when so many entry level recievers (well below a grand) offer this connection.

I haven't heard the 1069. However, Rotel seems to have a very good following. And they get high praise for there sound.

[gostan]

It sounds like what you want is a Cary Cinema 11. It has no video features at all to interfere with the sound and is getting very good reviews for 2 channel.
Steel

I have had the Cinema 11 in play for about a week. Each hour of break in only makes it sound better. All of its' audio capabilities exceed that of my prior Anthem D2.

For now my video sources are all running directly to the monitor via hdmi or component.

The msrp is $3K, but I purchased it within your suggested price range.

[Pookie007]

I just looked at the Integra spec's. This unit seems to do everything at a lower cost than the Rotel. I would get a lot of use out of the XM and HD radio functions. The Integra also has balanced outputs. Has anyone heard both units? I am trying to figure out what benefits an extra $600 buys.