Topic: Qual home theater without sacrificing 2 ch (new playback advice needed)

[nickgregory]

Ok, with my taping gear, all sold, I am beginning to settle on my playback purchases.  I am looking for that magic line where you can get quality home theater without sacrificing on 2 channel.  As a result, here is where my head is at now..

Receiver – Arcam 300/350 – still trying to determine if the difference between the two is something that I would utilize.  Definitely looking for 7 channel so that I can run 5 channel surround and bi-amp my fronts

DVD – Denon 2900

Speakers – I haven’t heard a speaker to date that I have been more impressed with than the VR-4jrs, so as a result I am leaning towards the VR-2s, though I am going to hit some local specialty shops to hear the B&Ws as I am a big fan of the Tannoy sound, which I hear shares characteristics with B&W

Cables – looking for advice on reasonably priced bi wire cables…will likely grab what is available when I figure out the other stuff, but opinions welcome

Power Conditioner – Same as the cables…

So looking for any input from folks with experience with other pieces of gear that I am not considering and should be (or shouldn’t based on your perspective).

Looking to keep total cost between $5-6k

Thanks all…

[Nick's Picks]

simple.
two different rooms.

[nickgregory]

simple.
two different rooms.

not going to happen

so given that constraint...

[Nick's Picks]

a von schweikert HT package perhaps?
that wouldn't suck for anything.

I've always been interested in the maggie HT rig as well...but that probably needs gobbs of power.

[bgalizio]

simple.
two different rooms.

Or 2 different setups in the same room.

[scervin]

Concern yourself with the front stage and don't worry too much about the surrounds.  I would get a receiver that could be used to decode all HT and DVD-A/SACD.  Find a 2 channel pre with HT bypass and you are good to go.  Then just get a nice 2 channel amp for front L/R.

Speakers:  The VSA LCR-15 is WEAK!!!!  Need to order the LCR-35 or whatever the larger center is.  Get a good sub.  SVS, HSU, JL Audio, or a Mark Seaton sub would be nice.

Power conditioner: The new PS Audio stuff seems to be getting good Fluke readings for filtering out junk.  The unit I posted in the thread a few down is the best I've heard (compared it to Exactpower and Shuntyata which isn't a regenerator).

Cables:  Pulsar or Electra IC's and Anticables for speaker

[nickgregory]

VR-2s are now locked in