Can you help me out here?
I just compared the Marantz you suggested to what I purchased (Onkyo HT-RC360). The Marantz clearly has more input options, however, looking at the specs, it doesn't seem that different:
- comparable power 100w (8 ohms, 20-20)
- THD same
- S-to-N 106 vs. 98
- Marantz is a little heavier (25.6 vs. 24.7)
Am I missing something that makes these vastly different?
I'm planning on looking at other stereo receivers based on exchanges I've had with Garcia and his explanation on why it'll make more sense for me and my music focus, but in the comparison of the AVR I purchased and the Marantz, I'm not finding a difference on the specs (save the input ability).
I'm sure I'm missing something, I just don't know what it is.
My initial reaction to the model number was the same as GranteedEV; I figured it to be a lower end receiver, but looking at the specs on Onkyo's site yesterday, it has nearly identical specs to the NR609. I'd have to say that Onkyo will probably be fine for a small system, especially with bookshelf speakers. Having said that, something like the H/K 3490 will likely give you more real world oomph, and possibly the Onkyo 8255 will as well.
Another thing to note is that most stereo receivers
lack is the ability to handle a sub properly - they have a sub pre-out, but most do not have any kind of internal crossover, meaning you will have to blend a sub with the mains manually. The exception to the rule is the Outlaw Audio RR-2150.
My Integrated amp is rated at just 95W X 2, but it handled my 4 Ohm A/V-2 speakers fine in a large room and has no problem filling an even larger room with my A/V-1s now.
One more tidbit: 100W is the "magic number" that manufacturer's shoot for on the lower models, because they know that if they don't get that spec to say 100W, they won't sell.