Replacing AV receiver with ?

[elronhoover]

The more I reading I do in audio forums, the more I realize I probably made a mistake in purchasing a Yamaha TSR-7810 when picking up a pair of AR-90s to replace my JBL 4311s. I knew I would need an amp with proper power for the 4 ohm 90s, so I just found a receiver with pre outs to connect to a power amp, which ended up being an Adcom 555II. I didn't put much thought into the receiver beyond whether or not it had pre outs. Now that I'm finally trying to further educate myself on the subject, it has become apparent that the preamp is one of the most important components of a system. So what do I do now?

The setup sounds great to me, for the most part. Could it be noticeably improved for say, less than $1500? What should I be looking for to replace the Yamaha? I've been looking at the Adcom GFP-565 and 750, but that would require an external DAC for HDMI from my PC, right?

My setup consists of: PC -> Yamaha TSR-7810 -> Adcom 555II -> AR90

My TV is my PC monitor.

I also run a Rega P6 and Fono MC preamp into the Yamaha.

 

[E-Stat]

Long term, you may consider moving to a separate pre/processor and power amp arrangement.

I replaced a NAD AV receiver with an Emotiva UMC-200 and XPA-5 in 2011. I too, needed a strong and powerful amp to drive relatively inefficient electrostats. I've had very good experience with those units along with a small amplifier for the office system.

 

[Bahamayellow]

I agree with estat down the line would switch to a dedicated pre amp. Sound will be night and day. I have tried vintage and modern receivers as pre amps just for an experiment and all the electronics get In the way. The Parasound P6 has a lot of features and I believe a on board dac. I have the older P5 which is great. I would keep your Yamaha as a surround system.

 

[twiiii]

Unless you. are using efficient speakers. Say over 99 db 1 watt 1 meter you will always want to use separates. That way you can have the necessary power for your speakers until you change speakers. Then, you will be able to update your processor as necessary to keep up with the latest technology. They also keep adding more channels. I don't know how many channels you need for ATmos. 11.2? maybe 14.2 with the front height speakers. I heard 8k videos will go s high as 22.2 or 22.4. Give me a break. I prefer 3.0 for audio and 7.0 is just fine for HT. You notice I don't like subs.