Need multi-channel that's great on 2 channel

I'm with Jmcgrogan2. I gave up and now use a mid level receiver for movies and multichannel music, and a Modwright pre-amp with HT pass through. The cost of a top shelf receiver to match what I have is prohibitive for me, the processing for room analysis is frequently upgraded and improving, and I spent my money on the front speakers and amps since I am 90% music/ 10% movies and DVD-A and SACD. Onkyo makes very reliable units at all price ranges and include the best current iterations of room correction, ease of use, and amplification good enough for surround.

Thanks for your responses; most helpful; I've been reading this forum, and this seems to be a recurring theme.
I currently own a Marantz SR7005, which I bi-amp my front B&W805's. For the money, the Marantz has been very good with my source components...Arcam Alpha 9 CD, Arcam MCD Multi disc changer, and a Marantz UD7006 SACD/BD.

So why change?

Well, basically I'm a two-channel guy; in my closet, just back from a trip to an Arcam authorized service center....my vintage Alpha 9 integrated and power amps...all tuned-up and ready to come back into service. In order to do that, I need to reconfigure my living area to fit in a second system...; before I jump through that hoop....I just wanted to check out my options.

That's the deal; anyone else, feel free to jump in,
Jeff

frankly, i think you'll get more significant improvement by adding an power amp to your marantz (which is a well-regarded piece) than by replacing it with another avr (should be cheaper, too).

Yes Jeff, it is a recurring theme everytime the question is asked. The majority of responses will be to use a 2 channel preamp with an HT Bypass feature. I am also firmly in this camp finding the 2 channel pure direct modes of most AVR's sadly lacking.

If your adament about a one box solution though, The Arcam 600 you mention is about the best out there for 2 channel reproduction from an AVR. But if you can consider adding 1 or 2 more boxes in your installation you will find that at the 600's price, it can be bettered for a lot less by using a 2 channel integrated w HT bypass or a 2 channel preamp & power amp. Again, the preamp must have a HT Bypass feature. And there are many, many quality models available to get the job done right and blow away even the Arcam 600.

Your Marantz 7005 is a fine AVR and can still be used to power the center and surrounds when listening to multi-channel sources along with its room correction facilities for multi-channel. No need to replace it for it. I use a mid level AVR as a pre/pro also but for my 2 channel listening, I have a 2 channel preamp w HT Bypass and a power amp. The best of both worlds in one clean installation. Good luck.

The Arcam 600 is great on 2 channel. I had one in my own room for quite some time. I reluctantly sold it to a customer that kept asking me for it. I ended up with Arcam separates to replace it cause that's what I had available. I could have lived with the 600 for a loooong time. I honestly think its that good. Don't take my word for it, go listen to one. You will be surprised, but not disappointed.

***dealer disclaimer***