Rotel RB985 and ...

[duncan]

... a AV processor for small HT system build.

This is mt first foray into HT and I have the opportunity to buy a 2nd hand RB985 (@NZ$950) (driving all 5 w/ powered sub), and therefore need a capable yet not expensive AV processor.

Ideally I would like to get the benefits of a separate system without blowing the budget (ie a processor new or 2nd hand for similar money). The Rotel AV processors are out of my league at the mo (@NZ$4k new)

Any thoughts on this path, and possible solutions for a processor, for example what are the benefits of an AV processor into the amp, vs taking the preouts from an AV Receiver and putting them into the amp (ie essentially wasting the internal AV receiver amps)

Any other thoughts on paths? duncan

[Andrew Pratt]

Typically true pre amps have a lower noise floor then most AV receivers when used as pre amps like you suggest but you can still gain significant improvements with the use of an external amplifer like the one you've purchased. I'm not sure what you have available in NZ (beautiful country BTW!) but something like a used Rotel 1055 (last years model) would make a very nice pre amp.

[duncan]

Rb985

Am casting my eye about to see what is available second hand etc. Nearly had one, but it turned out to be pre Prologic II etc.

Will look into the 1055, thanks Andrew
Duncan

[chachi]

Or something like an older RSP-976 might be kinder to the budget and still give you dd/dts/etc

edit scratch that, just noted the dp2 remark :Z

[soundhound]

I had owned the RSP-980 preamp w/ outboard processors. The 980 was incredible for 2 channel, I now have the RSX-1055 and must say the multi channel processing is far superior to the older 2 processors I had. I use the redirect feature in the 1055, only running the rear centers thru the 1055, and the other 5 channels thru an RMB-1075. A good used RSX-1055 can be had in the states for $700 - $800.