What is the difference. I’ve seen people talk about amps and pre amps and processors and I’m confused.
I’ve only ever used a receiver before.
What is the difference. I’ve seen people talk about amps and pre amps and processors and I’m confused.
I’ve only ever used a receiver before.
a preamp is 2ch only.
an avp is 5+ channel providing processing for surround sound. they typically can be used as a preamp using 2ch selection.
i use mine as a preamp only as its a very nice unit, sounds better than my other pre and avr, and i didnt want 5 amps(long story). i also have a 7.2 avr for home theater.
Nice!
I’m going to be running a home theater.
I’ve always just had a single receiver. But now that I’m looking at buying some super expensive (relative to my personal level of financial capability). So I’m trying to contemplate upgrading maybe beyond a single receiver. Maybe a receiver and amp. Or processors and amps. Not sure yet, but these definitions are helpful so I know what I am looking at.
As I mentioned, an AV Receiver is basically an AV Processor with built in power amps (for at least some of the channels).
Many of them have connections allowing you to start with one, but later bypass the internal amps and use your own external amplifiers. This gives you an upgrade path. External amps can be as powerful as you like, and can be superior to the tiny ones packed into the receiver.
Dedicated AVPs often cost as much or more than typical AV receivers, which might indicate how little is spent on those dinky internal amplifiers. Or it could mean that they know they can gouge you, knowing that you are about to spring for several outboard amplifier channels.
Nowadays, home theater devices support far more channels than is easily installed in a typical room. I still get by with a minimal 5.1 system (left center and right front speakers plus two surround speakers and a subwoofer.) I don’t miss helicopters flying over my head. AV equipment sees to go obsolete quickly. If you are willing to forgo additional channels and Dolby Atmos, etc., you can get a real bargain on an older processor or receiver.
The other thing to be aware of about older ones is that their video switching may not support the latest HDMI signals. In my case, I just do the video switching on the TV itself. It’s less convenient (requiring two remotes), but a hell of a lot cheaper than replacing the processor with a current one (I’m running McIntosh gear, and their latest AVPs cost is stratospheric.)
Makes sense. And yeah, some prices are wild. I’m definitely not audiophile wealthy. So I’m researching as much before spending any more because I plan on using my next set of purchases for a LONG time.
But also, I like being able to pay my mortgage.