Good to know. I am going to find out this weekend if I can get a Rotel 5ch for a decent price at Magnolia for a demo model. If that falls through, keeping my eyes open.
Again thanks for the insight.
Again thanks for the insight.
MidFi multi channel solution needed for HT.
@lightfighter2018 In my own limited experience one can setup a HiFi for less than $4k and sometimes dare I say even with good speakers. Of-course used is the best way. My electronics setup is less than $4k. My current setup is Tidal/Flac Mac USB -> Audio-Gd Master 5/6 (DAC + Preamp + Headphone amp(class A)) -> Benchmark AHB2. I got the used Benchmark for around $2k now and got the Audio-Gd Master 5 new few years ago for $1.5k. You can wing a used DAC + Preamp that is around $1.5k to $2k that could be better than Audio-Gd. Since the specs for your speaker clearly states minimum impedance is 3 Ohm, then why not try going for an amp that is rated on paper for 2 Ohm too?. Not sure the volumes and the distance you listen to but for typical you will need super clean and easy 50 Watts to 100 Watts, which means the amp should be rated far from 100 Watts (some exceptions like AHB2 have low distortion till clipping). Why aim for MidFi when you can go for HiFi :). Well it can be a matter of perspective sometimes. |
I think you're better off getting separates. A dedicated amp is going to produce more power and the sound quality should be better. I've had some nice AVRs, my last one being the Onkyo TX-NR3007. Processors change and you may end up upgrading every 2-4 years while a good amp is something you can hang onto for a long time. I've owned some of the amps you're considering (or similar models). Some that have been through my home theater system include a Rotel RMB-1095, Sunfire Cinema Grand, Krell Showcase, and Lexicon LX-7. The Rotel was nice, but a little "dry" and "grainy". The Sunfire was a step up in refinement and dynamics, but a little "rolled off". The LX-7 is still in my system, however I now have some Rogue Audio M-180s powering my mains. The LX-7 handles my surrounds. I recently purchased a Marantz AV7704 to replace my AV8801. While this might be considered a "downgrade" going from their top of the line to the mid, I'm quite happy with the AV7704. I use a separate pre-amp for 2 channel listening, but if I did not, I think the 7704 sounds as good as the 8801 and doubt I could have been able to tell them apart in a blind listening test. For your budget, you should be able to put together a decent system. I think I paid about $1400 for the AV7704 (refurbished) and the Lexicon was $1300 used when I bought it. The LX7 is a little long in the tooth now and you might want something newer (although mine still works great). I have not heard them, but have heard very good things about the Cinenova amps. A used one would be on my short list if I was trying to do what you're doing today. |
Hi Lightfigher2018, I am a dealer and have experience with all brands that have been mentioned on this discussion post. Based on most of your requirements I highly recommend that you look at AudioControl Concert AVR9. IMO it is the best sounding AVR at its price point, has rock solid HDMI reliability, supports HDR, Atmos and Dolby Vision. AudioControl is a 40 year old U.S. company! Please call me if you wish to discuss. Cheers Bruce www.hi-endaudio.com |