A newer preamp/control center?

[MOSFET]

Originally Posted by LarsT

Is there a consensus as to what the best processor is for 2 channel audio?

I ask because I am trying to reduce the total number of boxes in the house in order to gain a few points with management.

Bryston SP4 is hands down the best. Got one from Ivan about two years ago; single best audio decision I ever made. I listen to a ton of 2 channel through mine, and it never sounded better.

[Kal Rubinson]

Originally Posted by LarsT

Is there a consensus as to what the best processor is for 2 channel audio?

??? Do you mean a stereo processor or multichannel processor? If the latter, you have to define the application. There is never a "best' apart from context.

[LarsT]

I am referring to using a multichannel processor for 2 channel audio through analog inputs.

[70sMac]

Originally Posted by bart

Bill, I had a long search for a good processor.
Looked into seriously expensive options also (like Datasat).
Finally I settled with a Marantz, and it is a really fine pre/DAC/tuner.
It doesn't equal my stereo set-up, but having 5 channels is an absolute plus for some great pop classics (Moody Blues, Genesis, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, and a lot of classical music).

Considering that I'm going to refer to another manufacturer, I'm wondering if this is the place for it...It gets kind of confusing, but I suppose that this sort of thing comes with a general question like the one I started this thread with...so here goes...

Bart..... Based on your signature, I assume that you're referring to the Marantz AV8802A. I'm also assuming that you're not that crazy about its 2-channel stereo performance? Would you mind elaborating a bit on that?

[Kal Rubinson]

Originally Posted by LarsT

I am referring to using a multichannel processor for 2 channel audio through analog inputs.

Can't help, sorry. Never use that config.

EDIT: I guess, on reflection, that I do use something like that in my CT setup. The server/streamer can feed an Oppo UDP-205 (used as DAC) via HDMI and the outputs of the Oppo are connected to the analog 7.1 input of the AV8805. So, I guess, I do play stereo recordings that way but it is probably not relevant for you.