Preamp with HT bypass reccomendations

rburgess714

I am considering adding a preamp to my existing rig to enhance 2-channel listening. I have a yamaha aventage 1060 avr with a parasound a23 amp. This system servers ht and 2channel duty. Will I see a significant improvement by adding a pre?

I would think the p5 would be a great match since it has ht bypass, however I have heard some say the a23/p5 combo can be a bit sterile? What other manufactures that have ht bypass should I consider.

Looking for recommendations and suggestions.

Thanks,
RB

tonyb

I would add a tubed pre, if you want to enhance your 2 channel listening. Tubed pre's don't necessarily need a HT by-pass function. If they have a standby mode, the signal will still pass. I use a vintage Joule la-100 in the same fashion your looking for, works like a charm and sounds fantastic.

rburgess714

My budget for this is around $600.

rburgess714

Happy to update I pulled the trigger on a P5 and it does exactly what I want it to do. This unit is perfect for me and I am getting the experience of a dedicated pre-amp and matching amp while able to use the bypass mode for HT. The audio improvement is noticeable and pleasing. CDs sound more lifelike and detailed, streaming with chromecast is better as well. I am truly enjoying 2- channel music more and more.