Do I need Pro Logic IIx?

Hello again,

It would be cost effective to use the Marantz as the pre-amp but don't worry about the extra channels.

If you can sell the Marantz, the first real jump in performance with the B & K amps and B & W speakers would be an Arcam. The Arcam with B & W's along with the B & K amps will sound much better than a B & K pre-amp for example. The B & K pre-amp doesn't sound much better than the Marantz once you’re not using the Marantz amps.

An unbelievable upgrade would be to pick up an older Classe SSP-25 or SSP-30. This would be twice as good as the Arcam and 5 times better than the Marantz or B & K pre-amp.

Good Luck,
Duane

Raduray,

I have a different perspective, and it is that 7.1 has a far superior surround envelopment compared to 5.1, and for me is highly preferrable. I started with 5.1, then expanded to 7.1, and now I have no desire to ever go back to 5.1.

Since there are no 7.1 sources at the present time, AFAIK, you need DPLIIx and / or Logic 7 to drive a 7.1 speaker system. Both do a very creditable job.

Sometimes, there are room layout constraints that make 7.1 an untenable choice, primarily when your listening position is against the back wall and you don't have room to place the pair of rear surround speakers behind the listening area. Other than that, I would urge you to try 7.1.

Bruce

No. I never use all 7.1

Bruce - you hit the nail on the head, but unfortunately Rad's not interested. Not sure if its space issues or what, but if he ever got a taste of 7.1 or 7.2 done rights, he'd never come back to 5.1. I agree with you whole heartedly.

Even though there is no media formated in 7.1, just the soundfield variations of 7.1 are remarkable. Whats even more remarkable is that so many "audiophile" discredit surround for Music and only limit it to movie. But thats another thread in itself.

Rad - what have you experienced in 7.1?

Hello again,

I have to disagree with Cdwallace and Bruce because the only time 7.1 is clearly better are for other reasons.

1. 7.1 can only better 5.1 as long as quality is not cut to pay for 7.1.

2. 7.1 only images better if the speakers chosen for 5.1 were not wide dispersion.

3. 7.1 is better when you have 2 rows of seating to cover.

4. 5.1 in most rooms need to be dipole and a model that doesn't run the woofers out of phase.

5. With dipoles, DON'T sit in the null of the speaker. You should have the speakers slightly behind you. (Lucas is deaf)

I know everyone has an opinion but my qualifications as an audio engineer and a high end system designer for several famous people makes me more opinionated. LOL

Thanks,
Duane