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What AV amplifier for 4 x b&W + centre

Hello,

I have 4 x b&w 803 d3 + centre and currently all this is run by Arcam 850 

Could you please suggest how to improve sound ? 
Would it be a good idea to buy Classé 5300 and then look for another processor ? Can I use my old Arcam and add the Classé as an amplifier only ?
Maybe it is possible to add powerful stereo amp to fronts and adjust Arcam to only rear and centre ?

Any advice would be appreciated 

Tom 
tcooper656
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
@mayoradamwest - why would you call MX-160 old tech?  It does use the new Lyngdorf DSP/processing hardware.  

The MX-150/151 is the "older tech" platform.
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mayoradamwest
429 posts
 
The 160 is nice and if just using for pass through it’s probably fine but lacks the latest HDMI HDCP 2.3 and most of the HDR formats like Dolby Vision. 
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
Well, I guess it depends on how current you want to be and how current your sources actually are.  The MX-170 does support those newer HDMI standards, but the retail is $15.5k.  That is, if you want to be in the "always get the cutting edge" technology mindset.
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mayoradamwest
429 posts
 
That’s why I think the 8805 is a tremendous value if your system is primarily a home theater. 
auxinput
2,920 posts
 
Well, I agree that Marantz AV8805 is an excellent product for the cost.  However, it's important to know that it carries the Marantz "sound", which is warm and full, but has softened high frequencies.  Some people may not get the visceral impact/excitement that they are expecting if they choose this processor.  That being said, it is likely to be an excellent pairing with fast amps such as Bryston and fast/bright speakers such as Monitor Audio or KEF.  It is just too warm sounding for neutral systems.
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