[ssuellid]

I currently have a Denon 3802 and am just using it as a decoder and preamp - I have dedicated power amps.

I want to replace the Denon with a processor/preamp and then use the Denon in another room.

It needs to have at least a 5.1 analogue input for SACD, DVD Audio and the new HD surround formats.

Video processing is something I probably won't use.

Any ideas? I'm happy with second hand, ex demo or new recommendations. Budget is £1k.

Models I have seen about are the Audiolab 8000AV, Rotel RSP-1066 1068 and 1098, NAD T163. Any others to consider?

[scarty16]

not quite what you are after but

denon 4306,

• lpcm over hdmi - for HD-DVD & bluray
  5.1 for sacd + dvda
  denon-link for sacd & bluray as well

[ssuellid]

Thanks for that but I don't need the amplification side of a reciever and feel its a bit of a waste having 7 or so amp channels sat idle. It is an option I will consider tho as that would maybe help solve a HDMI distribution issue - 3 TVs and just the one Sky HD box.

Also I would like a box that is a bit smaller and less fussy about positioning for cooling purposes than my current Denon 3802.

[mhuk05]

Primare and Proceed AVP both do AV pre-amps. Not sure of the models/ prices but Google will find you those

I think the current primare sp31.7 will be over your budget as I've never seen one yet for less than half its retail price of 2500 pounds. The Proceed also has the same issue. I have yet to see one go for under a 1K pounds although some have gone near it. From all remarks on the forum, a remarkable processor although it does not have the 5.1 you want. Its latest model the AVP2 has 5.1 as an optional extra but you won't find a AVP2 for the lower side of 1.5K and most don't have the 5.1 option. For less than 1K may I add an Arcam AVP700. Also instead of an Audiolab 8000AV which is just the Tag Mclaren 30R with a new name, a second hand Tag Mclaren 32R may be a better option if it has the 192 dacs and 5.1 bypass. All the rest in your list and the ones I've suggested have a single 5.1 bypass so it should okay for one of either a HD-DVD, Bluray, or SACD player. The choice would then have to be one what type of sound you'll like. The clinical sounding ones would be the Rotel and Tag. Nad and Arcam have a slightly softer sound.

[mhuk05]

I was thinking of the Primare P30 which is well under £1k used.

[ssuellid]

Thanks for those suggestions.

I've been reading about a bit and think that I may be able to ditch my current stereo pre amp if I find a decent enough processor that is good with stereo - and therefore extend my budget a bit - maybe up to £1500ish.

The Primare processors seem to fit the bill - very good with stereo and surround it seems.

[slingshot]

I've always like Rotel stuff 1066 & 1068, other options are a 2nd had TAG AV32 with bypass, should be well under 1K for SP versions. I never liked my TAG for music but I'm in a minority.

Slingshot

[ssuellid]

Cheers for all the suggestions. Managed to pick up a Primare SP31.7 within budget. Not had a chance to wire it up yet.