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Better 2-channel music

My system consists of the Marantz SR7007, a pair of Emotiva XPA-1 mono blocks, Emotiva XPA-3 for center and surround, Rythmik 15HP sub, Oppo 103, Focal 1000 Be II series front and center, Infinity IL10 surround and back. I listen music from CD and different digital sources and movies from bluray DVD and Netflix, Amazon... My complaint is the Marantz doesn't deliver the quality of 2-channel audio as I expected. My plan is to upgrade either to Emotiva XMC-1 or Marantz AV8802. All suggestions and advices will be greatly appreciated.
128x128philkoan
twoleftears's avatar
twoleftears
5,318 posts
 
851C review here.

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/cambridge-audio-azur-851c-cd-playerdac/

Just jump to the section on "Listening" and see what you think.
philkoan's avatar
philkoan OP
65 posts
 
It was a great review. I think I'll try it. Thank you Twoleftears.
elevick
2,638 posts
 
Phil, the 105 crushes the 103 in 2 channel quality. In my opinion, the 851 will easily beat out the 105. So, you will be jumping up multiple levels by buying a Cambridge.
philkoan's avatar
philkoan OP
65 posts
 
Elevick, Oppo 103 is good for movies, and I won't be thinking of the 105. This week, the local store will set up several CD players including Cambridge, Naim, Mac...for me to compare. I don't think I'll go that far. The Cambridge 851C fits my need because it has digital input source, good CD player, and 2 channel preamp.
philkoan's avatar
philkoan OP
65 posts
 
The Cambridge 851C doesn't have balanced or unbalanced inputs to accept 2 front channels from the Marantz Av8802. We can't do HT bypass.
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