2. home-theater
  3. 1205187886

A/V Receiver for B&W matrix speakers

I’m trying to convert my stereo system into 5 channel HT. My current system comprises Toshiba SD-9200 DVD player, Audible Illusions L2 preamp, Musical Fidelity A3Cr amp and B&W 802 matrix speakers. I’m planning to use HTM matrix for central channel and 804 matrix for surrounds. I’m thinking about either buying AV receiver for processing signal and driving center speaker (not a very bright idea) and surround speakers or buying processer/preamp and three channel amp. I’m not sure if I really need processor since Toshiba has a built in digital processor.
I don’t want to spend more than 1k and at the same time I need the system that would allow me to listen to my current setup without switching cables.
Any thoughts?
Thank you.
alexv
gaw370
14 posts
 
hi I am running 801 matrix series 3 - you are correct these speakers need a fair bit to get them going and i ended up going down the path you mentioned I have a dedicate hifi system feeding the speakers thru a gryphon amp. I am using an older marantz sr18 amp for home theatre duties feeding the gryphon from the marantz sr18 amp - it takes a bit of setting up but you can get it fairly right - its not perfectbut its pretty close - btw the speakers sound pretty good when have some decent power driving them - good luck
kewadinbob
7 posts
 
I agree with Gaw - a Marantz SR-18 is an excellent choice. I've used them to drive 4 ohm KEFs with no issues at all. In addition, it's just a wonderfully musical receiver built like a tank.
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
The Rotel HT Receivers would be a good choice IMO.

Also, I use an Integra Research DTR receiver into cheaper B&Ws with good results.
alexv OP
34 posts
 
Sigarbire,
Do you have any particular model in mind?I saw lots of 1056 for sale. I'm not sure whether it is a good or bad sign for this model.
alexv OP
34 posts
 
Pdn, Gaw, Kewadinbob,
Besides the number of channels and power output ( I presume they both have A/B type of PAs) what is the difference between SR18 and SR8500. I mean video and audio signals processing capabilities?
Can I bypass Marantz audio processing circuit feeding my DVD player into preamp via Marantz?
Gaw, you dont have dedicated 2 channel preamp you are using SR18 preamp for stereo right?
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