[elmo366036]

Can anyone recommend a surround processor to use with my FetValve preamp, FetValve 550hc amp, and an OmegaStar 240/3EX (yet to be purchased)? I plan to use it as shown in the diagram in the August 2000 issue of Audio Basics. There are a lot of products out there, and I am having a hard time figuring out which one would work best with my system. Thanks!

[elmo366036]

No responses? Someone must have a few ideas for me! I would greatly appreciate it.

Cooper

[avahifi]

Start out with a two channel system first.  Feed the analog audio from the cable or satellite box into the preamp.  Feed the digital out from your DVD/CD player into an AVA DAC and on to the preamp, feed the video directly to the multi-input HDTV, turn the sound off at the TV, and enjoy how much good two channel can do for your video lisening when a low fi sound sound processor is not used.  If you have to have 4 channels, try a Dyna/Tyco passive processor first (no additional amplifier needed).

When you go to a processor and lots and lots of speakers, you will give up all that inner detail and resolution and emotion.  Rather have seven pennys or two quarters?

Here I am trying to not sell you another amplifier.  Must be crazy or simply just love the music.

Regards,

Frank Van Alstine

[cdorval1]

About two years ago, I called Frank to ask this question, and he gave me the same answer.  At the time, I wanted to upgrade a NAD surround receiver I'd been using.

I followed his advice, and it sounds great.  I gotta say the only thing I miss is having more stuff in the room, and the weird sensation of hearing a door close behind me when what I'm watching is in front of me. 

Before taking the surround plunge, I suggest you take time with your great two-channel setup.  I would add a great DAC or a subwoofer or upgrade your speakers before messing with surround.  But that's just me.

Have fun!

Craig

[elmo366036]

How about if I used the amp I have now for the mains (using the same set up) and a 3 channel amp for the surround and center speakers using the Dynaco passive processor? In this case, the Dynaco would only feed the rear and center channels while the mains are fed as I have them today.

My main speakers are very large (Legacy Whispers) so I am worried about using my amp to run them, two surround speakers, and a center.

Thanks for responding! It is very helpful.

[tbrooke]

Just a thought but I'd think about a good used processor. I have an old Lexicon that you can find pretty cheap on Ebay and Audiogon. You don't need all the new stuff and frankly multi channel is good sounding for movies . I just don't know as two channels would cut it. Any good processor has an analog bypass for listening to stereo. If the CD has two outputs run one into a DAC and one into the processor.

Tom

[elmo366036]

Tom,

Thanks for the reply. Do you have a model that you could recommend? Thanks.

[Sine]

Do not buy the OmegaStar 240/3.
Get the Ultra preamp, the Fat Valve Ultra amp, and the Ultra DAC.
Hook up your DVD player's digital out to the Ultra DAC. You will have better imaging, better dynamics, and an overall better experience.
Don't surround yourself with inferior multichannel when you can face superior 2 channel.

[OldCoder]

If you absolutely have to hear sound behind you,
turn up the volume on your high quality 2 channel rig
until it envelops you!

I have done this for years with rock concert videos, works great.