@auxinput Hmm, interesting. I will be using the receiver's amp section to power at least the surrounds. I would love to buy the older 77xx range processors, but I worry about HDMI 2.1
@soundmd I have taken a look at Anthem's ARX line but they have mixed reviews and they convert the D to A signals using their DAC and don't have analog passthrough, plus software issues. Other than that, I really liked them.
Their processors don't have this limitation, but processors are expensive...!
They also don't have HDMI 2.1 (4k/120) yet...
@maxwave Ya, I think the living room being open to the kitchen helps alleviate the echo effect. Just need to work on reducing reflections from the hard surfaces.
Not too sure how much effect losing the soundstage to the 1 side being open (to the other sitting area with the orange sofas) is having though...
Agree with acoustics with sound level...hopefully, making these room changes will help with that.
@larry5729 I listen to mostly light rock/pop/some instrumental. I am not trying to listen to that last instrument pluck sound to be clear etc., so not too interested in extreme high frequency detail, but do want to be able to hear music at louder volumes for extended periods of time (2-3 hours) from time to time.
This is also not a dedicated music listening room. So, there will be Home Theater use as well, about 60/40 HT/Music maybe 50/50.