2-channel Preamp, DAC and HT- Please Help!

bklynNupe
bklynNupe Posts: 728
edited May 2009 in 2 Channel Audio
Hi: This is an update on an earlier inquiry last month. I’m looking for some advice on how to best approach quality two-channel listening with HT on a budget.
I have been advised to add a preamp among a few other things.
The Adcom 750 was recommended to several folks for the for HT bypass so I can integrate a good 2-channel into my HT setup. I’ve also read that I don’t necessarily need HT bypass in order to integrate, I’m still a little unclear on how that works?

A sales person at local high end retailer here in NYC told me not to waste my time with a “watered-down” HT set up, He said to “ sell off my rears and front and put all the money I can muster up” into a banging **** preamp like something from Audio Research.
If there is any merit to this, I will still need additional investigation and funds.

However, I have been looking at used market for Audio Research preamps. I might be able to part with 4-700 dollars for a used one if it will bring me a little dose of euphoria. I’m also not sure which one I should get?
I’ve also looked at a used Belles Soloist 3 because of the bypass.
What do you guys think??

Also, I’m looking to upgrade my DAC from my current Pro-ject USB to further improve my digital music. I think I can spend up to 500 for this on the used market. My total budget is 1,000. Late summer I’m also looking to replace my Onkyo 806 with a processor, perhaps the new one from emotiva? I’m still researching this one.

Please help because I have a case of a really itchy upgrade trigger finger today! :D


(all Polk speakers)
Onkyo 806
emotiva xpa-2 to fronts ( Rtia5’s).
emotiva xpa-3 for center ( csia6) and surrounds ( fxi3’s)
SVS PB12-NSD sub
Pro-Ject III Xpressions
Bellari VP129
Pro-Ject USB
Mac mini

Samsung LN46A650

emotiva xpa-2
emotiva xpa-3
Denon 3312ci
Rtia9 /csia6 / FXi A6
Samsung LN46A650
SVS PB-12-NSD sub

Audio Research SP-9 MKIII (GNSC mods)
W4S ST250
Lsi 9 (mods)
W4S DAC-2
Mac Mini
Audio Aero Prima CD player
Pro-Ject debut