B&K or Rotel?
Comments
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The DAC2 will not allow you to connect an ipod directly, Ipods either go through that USB cable which requires a software installation on your computer, or through the headphone jack. The headphone out on an ipod is analog - it uses the tiny cheap DAC's that are built into the ipod to convert the mp3 files to music. You'll need some sort of ipod dock or to run it from your computer to use it that way.
The bypass is one of the input settings, when you switch it to bypass, it "passes" the signal through the system so that instead of going to the two channel route, it continues on to your processor where a 5.1 signal can be processed. I've never tried it but it should work.
Processors are also almost always preamps, you only need one or the other. The processor will have a built in volume control, as well as input switching and everything else. Even video switching. Processors also always offer 2 channel in addition to the extra. I'd suggest starting with a good processor and if you are unsatisfied with the 2 channel performance then considering making the upgrade to the Wyred. I don't think you'll be unsatisfied with it though, you could even find a processor with the same DAC chip built into it, though obviously the implementations of the circuitry do vary between units.
Thanks again Sm88.
I like your idea. I know it's an AVR, but I've been looking at the SC-27, not interested in 3D, seems to be well liked. I can use this to power the deck speakers and use the amp for the HT and maybe get a 6 channel to bi-amp the fronts, if it's worth it.
Kitchen remodels are a pain. -
I'm not a proponent of bi-amping as having significant benefit if any at all, personally. The way I see it the money spent on an extra amp could go towards room treatments, better speakers, or a better main amp and give you greater results.
Among receivers, Pioneer Elites are well respected. I owned one of the older models which was ~$3500 when it came out, and was surprised by the quality. While it won't beat good separates, if you use the preamp outs and a power amplifier to handle at least the most important channels (L C R) then I doubt you'll question the sound quality or the decision to go with a receiver. Plus for movies they are just oh-so-convenient!
Figure that you can start with that and not break your bank, and then save up to perhaps get into a two channel separates system built around the Wyred DAC2 and a nice amp.Current System:
Paradigm Signature S2 v2
Conrad Johnson MF2500
Wyred4Sound DAC2
Audioquest Black Mamba II
For Sale:
3x Wilson Cub's
Conrad Johnson MF2500 -
Thanks again Sm88.
I forgot to mention, even though the Pioneer's are well respected, I have another reason of wanting a Pioneer. It just so happens to be the first stereo receiver I purchased as a teenager in 1980 and it was an SX-1080. If my memory serves me right, it claimed to push 120 watts per channel.
Oh, by the way, I still have it today sitting in my workshop awaiting some speakers.
