B&K Reference 20 vs. Parasound AVC-1800 (1 Viewer)

[Rob||Kur||]

Ok, maybe my last thread title wasn't descript enough.

I'm caught between buying a B&K Reference 20 preamp or a Parasound AVC-1800.

The Parasound is cheaper and has 6 channel inputs. The B&K supposedly is the superior unit as far as sound quality goes.

Will I really miss multi-channel SACD or DVD-A? I mean, I sort of like just listening to music in 2 channels. I think it's the way it's supposed to be played. But there are a few DVD-A/SACD releases that I'd like to get, including the Dark Side of the Moon SACD. Is there any way to listen to these multi-track DVD-A/SACD's in stereo without losing all that other channel info?

Has anyone heard both units and can say how they compare?

 

[Rob||Kur||]

edit: nvm.

 

[Rob||Kur||]

Bump.

 

[EarleD]

Hey Rob,
Nice to see a local member, you do live in CT right?

In my opinion the multi channel inputs are a huge factor if you love to listen to music. I thought about getting a Ref 20 but decided to go with a Rotel RSX-1055 instead. Its basically a 1066 preamp with the amps. I use it just as a preamp.

So if my choices where the Ref 20 or the Parasound 1800, Id go with the Parasound. This is just my opinion, go with what makes you happy.

earle

 

[Ricky T]

For $300-400 used, the Parasound is a great buy.

 

[Rob||Kur||]

The inputs are a plus, but I'm not really considering them a buying point at this stage in the game. I think what will help me decide is which is the superior sounding unit.

Parasound +'s
- A little cheaper
- 24-bit D/A's

B&K Reference 20
- Looks classier
- Better sounding?
- Pure analog pass-thru for sources?

*sigh*

 

[Donnie Eldridge]

Any reason your ruling out the Reference 30?

 

[Rob||Kur||]

Price!

 

[David Poole]

Quick question, does anyone know if the six-channel input on the Parasound is an analog pass-through?

I have an 1800, and I know that the bass management is turned off for this input. However the channel level trims are working, so I'm a bit confused if its a pass-through or not.

 

[Rob||Kur||]

Well, I took my chances with the B&K. We'll see how it is.

When I have the money, I'd really like to pick up a Rotel 1066. Until then, hopefully this will be a nice piece.

Thanks everyone.