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Need multi-channel that's great on 2 channel

Gang,
I'm looking for a multi-channel receiver that's GREAT for two-channel listening. I'm thinking of upgrading what I have, given the space I have to play with. Most of the time I listen to music, not watch movies.

Arcam's AVR600 keeps getting mentioned; are there others that are very good musically?

Any input would be most welcome,
Jeff
arcamguy
arcamguy OP
84 posts
 
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
loomisjohnson
1,985 posts
 
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).
paraneer's avatar
paraneer
818 posts
 
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.
zydo's avatar
zydo
242 posts
 
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***
arcamguy OP
84 posts
 
Paraneer....
What would be some a good options for me if I wanted to add something to my Marantz? Your suggestion about amp/preamp, paired with what I have, may be the way to go. (Zydo....also still thinking about AVR600, too.)

Have any amps you'd recommend?

Looking for something that would really improve the two-channel sound I'm already getting; as I said earlier, the 7005 allows me to bi-amp the front channels....sounds very good.....looking to improve, if possible.

Thanks for the info,
Jeff
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