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Comparing Denon Tuners to new

Hi folks.  I'm having a delema as to weather to update one of my Denon products.  Currently I have a Denon DRA-385 no remote in storage, a AVR-4800 no remote (trying to use sofabaton), and a AVR-2312CI.  The 4800 and 2312 are running 7.1 systems for movies and are occasionally used for music as well.  I am no audiofile pro.  I have always disliked the overly complicated set up with these older units. 

My main system, 2312, has been terrible when it comes to volume control for movies.  Setting the volume to able to hear the actors speaking makes the loud movie track (ie swelling music, explosions, action, etc.) WAY too loud.  So I sit there with my hand on the volume control, jockeying it up and down constantly through out the show.  I am running it through Defiinitive Tech. speakers all the way around except for the Velodine sub.

Considering purchasing a s760h from Costco ($400.00 with coupon)  to replace one or both.  I know I'd be replacing a medium to flagship unit with a entry level. The pros being, hopefully easier set up/operation, blue tooth and other options available now.  The cons being less power and possibly quality?  Any opinions are appreciated.

mtstereo
akg_ca's avatar
akg_ca
2,155 posts
 

Unibox AVRs are a distinct and significant down performance compromise from quality build 2-channel separates .

Your post had me a bit confused .,, the title refers to “Tuners” “ but the OP body is a complaint about an irritating wandering volume pot control issue. Are you asking about a dodgy build creating an irritating wandering volume control pot issue? 

if it’s a wandering volume control problem in your current unit, , then buying a bottom-level new unit from COSTCO at a stated $400 rock bottom level pricepoint strata Is a risky blind gamble for any improvement at best - these are all built to their pricepoint. 

mtstereo OP
3 posts
 

I understand your questioning my reasoning.  I'm doing the same.  I guess to simplify my question, are the newer entry level AVRs as good or better than the older stock mid/higher end I'm currently running?  You hope every new model is an improvement over the previous units.  Trying to figure out if I've reached that point where my older quality units have been either met or passed up by these more entry level ones in quality and features to warrant replacing?

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,499 posts
 

If you dislike old "complication" buckle up for new.

You just need better centers and a compander, even the old Terk would help. And stick to dramas or comedies.

@akg_ca

Not any risk. Costco gives 90 days return any reason.

OP: hopes aside the only thing that is absolute is that Joe 6 pack brands like Denon are built cheaper as time rolls on.

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