Main function is 2 channel stereo with a strong Dolby 5.1 sub-capacity.
Just went with the Graham and DV XX-2, and WOW! The combo on my Sota blows the MVP881BR away.
Ultimately might have to go with new monitors. The Rogers are the closest I've heard to B&W 801 Series III, and I bought them new so they are still in great shape. If I kill a driver though, I'm probably toast. Auditioned some Martin Logans and thought they sounded terrific, but don't know if the electrostatic elements will give me the punch that I'm used to. Fortunately, that's not something I have to worry about now!
Original Series III production upgraded to Series IV by Kirk at Sota, oak finish
Graham Engineering Phantom II Supreme
Black & silver, 9"
Dynavector XX-2 Mk II
Low output MC
Rega Planar 3
A very nice early 80's example recently purchased second-hand to replace my Pioneer PL 15D II. I'd had a Planar 2 from the same era as my first really good turntable. This one came with a Grace G-747 tonearm in like-new condition and an ADC 440 cartridge
Grace G-747 Tonearm
This was what really drove me to buy the Rega Planar 3 above. It's a superior low mass arm with excellent properties, and was in like-new condition. It made the package a can't-lose proposition.
ADC 440
Like the Grace arm above, this cartridge was already installed on the Planar 3 and was also in very good condition. It's getting a bit long in the tooth and could use a new stylus, but remains very serviceable for recordings that can't benefit from my Sota / Graham / Dynavector deck.
McIntosh MVP881BR
BR/CD/DVD/SACD Combination disk player
Tascam DA-3000
This ADC recorder is an addition to facilitate transcription of analog media. I'm impressed with how easy it is to use and how well it records. I must also say it generates a pretty significant 60 Hz EMF; nearby gear needs to be properly grounded, shielded and equipped with good quality interconnects.
McIntosh C-50
MC and MM phono input capable
McIntosh MAC-3
Factory updated 2012
McIntosh MC-302
300 WPC
McIntosh MC-7100
Mono bridged for center channel
Belles Model 1
100 WPC stereo for rear surround
Rogers Studio 1
Phase corrected 3 way ported
B&W HTM62
Center channel
Velodyne DEQ-10R
195 watt 10" HT sub with remote, adjustable crossover and automatic equalization features.
