2. home-theater
  3. 182427-180011

Denon AVR-X4700H & Vandersteen 2Ce Signature III.

I am currently running two separate Audio/Video systems.  I have a dedicated music system that is based with an Ayre integrated amplifier to Vandersteen 2Ce Signature III's..  I also have a dedicated home theater system anchored with a Denon AVR X4700H with a variation of Bose speakers.  It sounds just ok and I am always looking to get better sound.  As most audiophiles, I am always wondering what can I improve!  I also wonder if I can eliminate the Ayre Integrated amp and drive the Vandy's with the Denon for Home Theater and stereo music?  My sources for music include an Ayre CD transport, Oppo Blue Ray/SACD player, Sony 4K/SACD player, Pro-Ject Turntable for Vinyl as well as a Fiio Digital Audio Player. Will the Denon drive all of this with satisfactory results for audio and Home Theater?  .   

128x128vcartier77
loomisjohnson
1,903 posts
 

i'm not one of those all-avrs-sound-terrible guys, and i've owned or heard various arcam, anthem and denon avrs which have been surprisingly good for music. however, i'd be really surprised if your denon sounded better than your ayre integrated, which has a much robust, less compromised amp section. if for whatever reason you needed to consolidate into one movie/music system, i'd consider  adding an external amp (parasound, ps audio, etc.) to your avr's preouts to power your vandersteens. also, everyone here will recommend that you lose your bose.

vcartier77's avatar
vcartier77 OP
2 posts
 

Thanks for your thoughts, they are spot on.  Your right about the Bose, but it is wife approved, while the Vandy's not so much.  I agree the Ayre is a really big step up from the Denon, just seeking ideas about trying to consolidate the two systems, if it is even possible.  

chuke076
45 posts
 

If you have an Ayre with an HT bypass, you're all set for 2-channel integration.

One of these?

  • Ayre AC-5 Twenty
  • Ayre AX-5
  • Ayre AX-7e
  • Ayre EX-8

 

 

kota1
2,706 posts
 

@vcartier77

If you improve your room you will improve both systems. Have you acoustically measured and treated your room?

Next if you improve power you would improve both systems. Are you using an upgraded wall outlet and/or a power conditioner?

After taking care of these two I think getting the upgraded version of Audyssey ($199 at the Microsft store) and the calibrated mike for your denon would be astounding.

Finally, after doing all of the above you could look at either getting separates or new speakers.

See my virtual system for examples and before and after measurements.

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