where to go next? (Pre-pro for my 803 / Krell system)

[mrohde]

Hey, thanks to coming here you folks have pulled me over to the DARK SIDE of separates.

I bought the Krell Showcase 5 (two weeks ago) and with my speakers (as some have predicted) the system is pretty bright particularly at high volumes. Could we really expect anything different for a speaker that has a tweeter of this caliber external the speaker cabinet? At any rate, as the subject suggests where do I go next? Time for a pre/pro. So I might be looking for a pre/pro that might warm things up a bit, but I’d be interested in your advice in any case.

This system is used for Muti-channel, 2 channel audio, as well as HT applications.

System:
Front B&W 803S’s
Side surr.: B&W DS8S
Rear: B&W 805S
Sub:Sunfire (on the upgrade list, might be an under performer)
Pre/Pro: Sony ES
Amp: Krell Showcase 5
DVD: Denon 5910CI
TV: Samsung 50” 1080i DLP(on the upgrade list to 1080p)
Digital/HD cable
Room: acoustically treated basement room 15’X 20’X 7.5’
***Alpha certified HT room***.

Price range heck I don’t know. I guess I would prefer to buy used if possible. I don’t think I need HDMI on the pre/pro as I will run direct to the new TV (will most likely have 3 HDMI ports).

Brightness aside I like my system and am looking for a mid-high end pre/pro new or used in the 3k-4k range new or used.

This is a decent system so I guess I am looking for a pre/pro that will continue that trend/ improve on it.

Thanks!

[Aussie Geoff]

Hi,

If you like the Krell sound, how about the Krell Showcase processor (proably not as warm as you'll like) but worth a listen and should be a serious step up from your Sony ES Reciever..

Otherwise try a couple of the big names - like Anthem Statement D2 or the ARCAM AV8 - both very nice processors indeed

Geoff

[scanido]

To smoothen out the sound i would say coupling your Krell to an Arcam or even Classe.

I had an Arcam AVP700 and found the sound to be really smooth.

[sikoniko]

Hi,

If you like the Krell sound, how about the Krell Showcase processor (proably not as warm as you'll like) but worth a listen and should be a serious step up from your Sony ES Reciever..

Otherwise try a couple of the big names - like Anthem Statement D2 or the ARCAM AV8 - both very nice processors indeed

Geoff

I dont know.. everyone has their own opinion, but i think anthem is a "feature" company, and Im not impressed with their sound and the AV8 is overpriced...

[SCULLY]

I'd pick up a Krell showcase 7.1 Pre-Pro on audiogon , you can take advantage of balanced . They are on there for 2 grand . It would match your Krell amp very nicely .

[ShadowZA]

A Krell Showcase processor would be a great partner to your Krell Showcase amp, imho. :T

Good luck with your decision.

[mrohde]

Thanks, I guess I will consider the showcase or maybe even a used HTS 7.1. Any reason I should not consider an HTS?

All additional comments are welcome!

[Charles]

If you are balanced toward 2 channel, the HTS would be the one you want to look at.

[mrohde]

I'd like to have the ability for multi and 2 channel is the HTS 7.1 still a good choice?

Thanks,
Sorry to run this thread out so long.

[Charles]

Yes, the HTS and Showcase are pretty much the same for multi, but the difference in price buys better 2 channel for the HTS.