2. home-theater
  3. 125630-126

Adding Center Channel

I currently have my 2 channel providing the Audio for my projector. Unless I turn the volume up significantly the dialog is too low. I was told adding a inexpensive AV Receiver and center channel would help, so I did. I purchased a Marantz NR1607 and Monitor Audio Gold center channel. The NR1607 is used to drive the center channel only. The problem is I hear dialog through my main speakers before I hear it through the center channel. It almost sounds like an echo. I've tried everything and I can't solve the problem. Is it because I have two different amps(1 driving the main speakers and the AV receiver for the center channel)? I've contacted Marantz and Oppo via the phone and they couldn't resolve the issue. Any suggestions?
ricred1
ricred1 OP
2,051 posts
 
tls49,
thanks , it worked. No more sync problem and the L&R speakers still sound great when watching television or movies. Of course I turn the center channel and AV receiver off when listening to 2 channel. In addition, I decided to go to the next level Monitor Audio center channel. 

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dbphd
1,630 posts
 
I wonder why OP's dialog is low without a center channel.  My center amp is power cycling itself, so I deleted the center channel in my processor menu and returned to a phantom center.  The sound seems just as good without them, so I suspect the Parasound JC 1 amp and KEF R600C are redundant.  We do sit centered at the near-field apex, and the KEF Reference 107/2s image splendidly.

ricred1 OP
2,051 posts
 
dbphd,
Prior to getting the center channel and AV receiver, the sound was coming through my 2 channel system. 

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dbphd
1,630 posts
 
"Prior to getting the center channel and AV receiver, the sound was coming through my 2 channel system."

So?  Do you get a strong center image for a soloist in stereo?  If so, why should HT dialog be any different?  I'd look elsewhere for the problem.

ricred1 OP
2,051 posts
 
Yes, I  have great imaging/ soundstage with 2 channel. I've already added the center and AV receiver for when I'm watching TV or movies. There is a significant difference with the center channel.  When I listen to music I turn off the receiver/ center channel.
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