New Halo owner W/Questions

[boettinger]

Hi!

I recently purchased a Pioneer VSX-74 (new model with HDMI). Was really happy till I started reading about seperates and found a Halo A52 and an A23 at a really good price (store closing). I mostly use the equipment for home theater with Kef Q5, Q10C, Q1, Q compact and Kef 15" Sub in 7.1 channel surround. I also enjoy music as well. Now for the question.

I may be able to get a C2 at a good price also. How much difference will this controller make? I realize I will not get the HDMI video switching or the direct firewire connection to the DVD player for multichannel sound, but I can probably live without it if I will see a significant sound performance increase. All my equipment will hook up to the TV, just not through one HDMI input. If I replace the Pioneer with the C2, do you think I'll notice an increase worth the 2 grand increase in price.

I know this is subjective but would appreciate any comments. Thanks, Bob

[Kingdaddy]

There will be a huge difference in my experience, the Halo Processors are among the best sounding on the market for any price. Until I demoed a Halo C2 in my home I never thought a processor change would make much difference, boy was I wrong. Check out my review below, and welcome to the club, you should be receiving your inaugural dancing banana post from our fearless leader (Chris) soon.

Enjoy.

http://www.htguide.com/forum/showthread.php4?t=7651&highlight=kingdaddy

[Chris D]

Hi, Bob, and welcome to the Guide and Club Parasound! :banana:

First, yes, I think you'll see a very distinct improvement from the Pioneer product to the C2, both in audio and video quality. Having seen the nicer Pioneer products, they do make some nice stuff. And the new ones do have the newer technology that you're talking about. However, going to separates, and ESPECIALLY if you go with Parasound Halo, really take it to the next level. You'll get a cleanliness in the audio and video unreachable by receivers.

Can I hazard a guess that you're finding this equipment at a Good Guys that is being converted to a Comp USA? We're seeing that all over, but especially in the area you're at.

Can you make arrangements to audition the equipment to make a comparison, specifically in your own house? Or even consider calling up Parasound direct, since you're right there in their headquarters of SF, to hear their recommendations and what they can do to help you make the decision.

[boettinger]

Thanks

Yes, I was able to get the Amps for less than the Good Guys paid for them. Years ago I actually worked as a store manager for them and can read the hidden cost price in their computer when they bring up the selling price. When I worked for them they carried Adcom and were into some higher end gear than they have been recently. They still have a C2 but I am hoping if I wait a little longer I can get a better price than they are asking now. Although someone else may snatch it up. Only problem is with the stores closing they will not accept returns so I will not be able to audition it at home and it is currently not connected to anything in the store.

I really noticed a difference using the Pioneer as a Pre/pro with the Halos. Hoping I would notice the same kind of increase in performance using the C2.

Thanks again.

[Peter Nielsen]

Only problem is with the stores closing they will not accept returns so I will not be able to audition it at home and it is currently not connected to anything in the store.

Take a chance! If you for some reason decide that the C2 is not for you, then you can always sell it on A-gon or eBay. The second hand value is usually pretty good.

Peter

[Chris D]

I can confirm that...

Bob, still consider calling Parasound direct there in San Francisco for information.

[boettinger]

Well, based on all the info here I decided to get a C2. It should be here next week. I also picked up a T3 since I'll be giving up my tuner when I get rid of the Pioneer.

I'll post my opinion after I get it all hooked up next week.

Thanks again for your input.

Bob