Monitor Audio’s Silver line is good, but the AMT tweeters in their Gold and Platinum line are not up to par.
For 7.1.4, you need at least 11ch.
I’d go with a Denon X6400 for $1500. Now, there is the X8500 that is 13ch and uses the AKM 4490 DAC instead of the AKM 4458. However, it’s $4K, and I don’t think it’s work $2500 more.
For the subwoofer(s), stick with Rythmik, HSU, SVS, and PowerSoundAudio (maybe JTR if you want the 4000ULF). I would recommend at least going dual. Also, go ported, all of their subs are musical so you don’t need to be restricted with sealed (sealed also has higher distortion). I’ve seen people with 3 Rythmik FV25HP‘s, so the sky is the limit. I don’t like SVS’s higher line because you are paying for the digital screen and mobile app, stuff you don’t need when you have Audyssey.
As for speakers, you want at least 88dB efficient for the mains. I would look at PowerSoundAudio, they also get good reviews for pure music as well. If you really want to spend some money, then JTR. For the Atmos speakers, any will do really, just make sure to use 8” woofers, you don’t to have to crossover them too high. Don’t spend too much money on them if music is not your main concern.
Room treatment should be on your mind too, unless going to DIY, go with GIK or Acoustimac.
For 7.1.4, you need at least 11ch.
I’d go with a Denon X6400 for $1500. Now, there is the X8500 that is 13ch and uses the AKM 4490 DAC instead of the AKM 4458. However, it’s $4K, and I don’t think it’s work $2500 more.
For the subwoofer(s), stick with Rythmik, HSU, SVS, and PowerSoundAudio (maybe JTR if you want the 4000ULF). I would recommend at least going dual. Also, go ported, all of their subs are musical so you don’t need to be restricted with sealed (sealed also has higher distortion). I’ve seen people with 3 Rythmik FV25HP‘s, so the sky is the limit. I don’t like SVS’s higher line because you are paying for the digital screen and mobile app, stuff you don’t need when you have Audyssey.
As for speakers, you want at least 88dB efficient for the mains. I would look at PowerSoundAudio, they also get good reviews for pure music as well. If you really want to spend some money, then JTR. For the Atmos speakers, any will do really, just make sure to use 8” woofers, you don’t to have to crossover them too high. Don’t spend too much money on them if music is not your main concern.
Room treatment should be on your mind too, unless going to DIY, go with GIK or Acoustimac.