Suggestions for a new pre-amp (replacing Denon AVP-8000)..
So while the world's struggling with the swine flu I seem to have gotten bit by an upgrade bug yet again. To make the long story short I currently have Denon's AVP-8000 (with which I really have no fault), but am thinking of whether I should upgrade from it and to what. I don't think I'll be going (if at all) with a new piece, but rather a good second-hand. So the question really is this - what are some of the better (or else why bother) pieces that won't break the bank.. I am less worried about the price at this time but would just love to see some names and model numbers thrown out there that would help me facilitate my search. I think Lexicon's MC-1, B&K's Reference 30 or one of the newer (II and higher) Sunfire Theater Grands might be some of the ones that could fit the bill. It'll mostly be for TV/HT and blues/rock/metal type of music, in that order. Again, the most important question is whether I will actually gain anything meaningful outside of the satisfaction of owning a newer piece by ditching the Denon.
Thanks to all responding in advance.
Roman