What would yield the greatest 2 channel improvement? (1 Viewer)

[Aslam Imran]

I want to upgrade the two channel sound of my modest system consisting of Infinity speakers, Velodyne CT120 sub and a Denon 3801. I am only looking for an improvement in two channel sound as music is my main interest. I am thinking of going two ways.

1) Buy a used B&K ST 140 (I like the smooth B&K sound) for about $250 and hook up the main L/R channels to it or..

2) Buy a tube preamp like the Antique Sound 2004 model for about $299 and integrate that with my HT setup for two channel sound.

Which setup would yield better 2 channel sound in your opinion? If the answer is 2) then that brings up the next question, i.e., whats the best way to integrate the ASL 2004 preamp with my HT so I dont have to adjust the volume everytime I switch between 2 channel and HT?

Thanks guys.

 

[Mike Peveler]

Aslam if you are really interested in a mint ST 1400 shoot me an e-mail.

 

[Aslam Imran]

I have a thought on a related issue to my original post. What would happen if I connected the 5.1 digital connection from my DVD player to the 3801 and then took the C/SR/SL pre-outs of the 3801 and fed them back to the 3801's ext-in. For the two L/R preouts I would route them through the tube preamp and into the ext-in on the 3801. Do you think that way I would have 5.1 HT with tube preamplified L/R channels? Would it work or would it self destruct itself?

P.S. Mike I just sent you an email but my e-mail doesnt work so you would either have to send me a PM or post in this thread.

 

[Mike Peveler]

My e-mail doesn't work if you want give me a buzz at work use the sales option.

 

[Aslam Imran]

cant call from work but if you want to send me a PM with price?

 

[Brian Treinen]

Aslam,

Personally, I think you'd get the best bang by going with an amp. That would have the benefit of not only improving your stereo but take some of the load off the Denon amps so digital surround will also sound better. Another benefit is that the amp can continue to be used into the future if you ever decide to go with a higher end pre/pro down the road. Besides, it's cheaper now!

 

[Charles Gurganus]

I say buy the amp and go from there. I see no way to incorporate any 2 channel preamp and still use the HT receivers power for music. By adding the outboard amp, you will kill 2 birds with 1 stone. The amp should improve your front main speakers AND give you the mechanisim (outboard amp) to add a 2 channel preamp down the road.