Preamp/Processor Top PicksA preamp/processor, or pre/pro, is the nerve center of a home theater based on separate components rather than an AV receiver. It accepts the audio and video signals from all your source devices, processes the selected signals as needed, and sends them to your video display and power amp.
We'll help with tips for each stage starting with our top picks and a primer on making the right choice.
Audio decoding, video processing, HDMI…what you need to know to choose the perfect pre/pro for you.
Entry Level (Less than $1,999)
At A Glance: THX Ultra2 Plus certification • Seven HDMI inputs • Dual HDMI outputs • Home network and Internet audio streaming
At A Glance: Receiver priced, separates performance and power • Next-gen Internet connectivity and versatility • Sophisticated sonics, simplified setup
Midrange ($2,000-$5,000)
At A Glance: 4K scaling • Reference-quality video processing • Audyssey MultEQ XT32 ups the ante for room EQ
At A Glance: Excellent detail and resolution • Music jumps alive • No video processing
High-End (More than $5,000)
At A Glance: State-of-the-art video and audio performance • Customizable amplifier • Sets the bar for connectivity • Tedious GUI and remote
At A Glance: Audio is smooth yet highly detailed • Great ergonomics • Spartan video
We help you make the all-important decision between an AV receiver and a separate pre/pro and power amp, and we explain all those surround-sound formats.
Even if you know which technology is the best fit for you, the salesroom floor can be unforgiving terrain. We'll help you become a smart shopper.
Now that you've unboxed your new pre/pro, how do you hook it up and get all the performance you paid for? Want to know how to dial in your surround channels for the best sound? Find out here.
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