Warning

 

Close
Confirm Action

Are you sure you wish to do this?

Cancel Confirm
AR15.COM
6/3/2025 10:33:11 AM EDT
Who here runs dedicated 2-channel systems?

I've got 3 separate 2-channel systems and 2 surround systems, and I have been making several changes to two of the 2-channel systems lately with more upgrades in the que.

I was running some 80's vintage gear in the main system. Adcom GFP-565 II preamp and a pair of bridged Amber Series 70 amps, but the preamp died. I moved the speakers, Wharfedale Linton 75th anniversary, over to my Denon AVR. I was happy enough with the sound with this setup, but switching the AVR back and forth between 2-channel and surround was a bit complicated. So I bought a Yamaha A-S701 integrated amp and moved the Wharfedales, turntable, and DAC back to a dedicated system.  I also added a Schiit Mani 2 phono stage because the 701's phono stage was a little lacking. That's only been a couple of weeks ago now, but I am really happy with the sound.

Next up in the que is a new power supply, sub platter, and platter for my Rega P3 turntable.



1/15/2026 11:31:04 PM EDT
[#1]
I’m looking to get back into enjoying music again. I’ve always been a Yamaha fan too. Stuck on the fence between that amp or an older refurbished CA-1000 amp. Want to find some NS 1000 speakers and a turntable too. I scour my local FB and Craigslist looking for vintage/restored pieces. What are your impressions of the new Yamaha amps? Thanks!
2/19/2026 11:41:49 PM EDT
[#2]
I have an old Kenwood integrated amp for my main system which plays records, and has the DVD/CD player hooked up to it. I have a Kenwood receiver in my bedroom which supplies music for the magic. I'm not disappointed by either given my ability to hear things.
3/15/2026 11:40:16 AM EDT
[#3]
My 2 channel setup. Yamaha A-S1100 with Klipsch Forte III's. A VPI Cliifwood turntable and a Bluesound Node for sources.

Same setup for watching movies. I use the optical out of the TV through a small converter to analog into the amp.
Have been thinking of adding a surround sound receiver, but still utilizing the Klipsch and Yamaha for music playback.

(I need a proper credenza for putting equipment into, so I can get rid of the little rack in the corner.)

6/1/2026 10:55:46 PM EDT
[#4]
I've been using my old 1999 Marantz SR8000 surround receiver for a 2 channel setup for TV/turntable in our living room, running some North Creek Rhythm DIY tower speakers and an ACI Titan II sub.  The receiver developed a buzz and I decided to replace it.

Picked up a WiiM Amp Ultra last week and it's awesome.

100 watts x 2 channel
ESS ES9039Q2M DAC chip
Dual TI TPA3255 Amp chips
WiiM streamer
Touch screen
Sub out with great bass management
Room correction
A great EQ
A nice metal rechargeable remote with programmable presets
Album art and track info shows up on the TV through the WiiM firestick app
Everything can be controlled either through touch screen, phone or remote.

It sounds fantastic and has all the bells and whistles but is simple enough that my wife never needs to touch it or the remote.

Only criticism is that the HDMI ARC input is only an input and it can't mirror its screen directly to the TV. You have to use the firestick app.

$529




6/5/2026 11:43:32 AM EDT
[Last Edit: czmadness][Edited] [#5]
I bought all this when I was stationed in Okinawa in 1985. It's been stored in the basement for over 20 years. I overhauled the Bose 901s, refoaming the drivers, replacing the wood top and bottoms, and adding a Dear Creek equalizer. Preamp, tape deck, and ADC equalizer died and were replaced. I finally added a laptop for streaming and MP3s. Nice to have it back again!
 Attached File



Attached File
6/5/2026 4:55:18 PM EDT
[#6]
Nice. That before and after was really cool.

Sign up to continue the discussion

Create a free account to share your thoughts, follow topics, and connect with the AR15.COM community.

Already a member? Sign In