Upgrade from Denon x2200w to 4520ci - sound quality increase?

[KMG5402]

Hi guys,

Lurker and first time poster here. I have been searching for an answer to this question on the forums as well as all over the internet, and I cannot seem to find a clear definitive answer. I am hoping someone here has some greater insight.

I'm somewhat new to a "custom" home audio configuration. I use my system to listen to music more than home theater and have always loved the sound of Klipsch. I listen to everything from Jazz to Rap and Hip-Hop, and at times I love to crank it UP! My current setup consists of (2) Klipsch Reference R28F, (1) R12SW, and the Denon x2200w (which I only paid ~$1k for all 4 pieces). The system sounds "good" to me, however I wish I had more clarity especially from vocals/highs/tweeters.

I have been trying to research the estimated improvement in sound clarity if I upgraded from the x2200w (~95w/ch.) to the 4520ci (~150w/ch.). My intent here is not to make things louder, just clearer at preferably all volume levels. (Through my research I understand (I think) adding the 50% more wattage would yield +1.5dB). I have been told by a reputable source more wattage "generally can give you better clarity- even at lower levels." Reviews of the 4520ci talk about "crisper clarity with the added power". However I've also seen people saying at lower levels it will make no difference, and the upgrade would only offer more headroom.

What type of sound clarity and improvement could I expect upgrading from the X2200w to the 4520ci? Can anyone comment on how the specifications other than power watts may effect clarity between the two receivers? Unfortunately I do not understand much of the technical data outside of wattage and ohms.

Thanks,
KMG

 

[lovinthehd]

I'd say they're equivalent to an extent, but the processing capabilities are different. The added power of the 4520 isn't readily apparent just because it has a couple more watts per channel...and 1.5dB isn't that big of a deal. The different Audyssey or different sound modes is where the differences lie. I have a 4520, haven't had one of the current X series but the 3300 looks interesting (and has pre-outs if you want to scratch that extra power itch).

ps First make sure your speakers are well positioned and your room's acoustics are being considered, then maybe change speakers....trying to shape sound with an avr...not so much.

 

[jcparks]

If your using Klipsch speakers you probably aren't going to notice a huge difference. Your Klipsch speakers are so efficient that you just wont benefit from all that extra power. Honestly I think you should just save your money.
Just to explain what I mean by efficient..
Your Klipsch R28F speakers have a 98db at 1m/2.83v efficiency rating. Most speakers you find sit between 85 and 90. So your speakers can do a lot with a little bit of power.

 

[PENG]

adding the 50% more wattage would yield +1.5dB).

More like 1.8 dB increase in SPL.

I have been told by a reputable source more wattage "generally can give you better clarity- even at lower levels." Reviews of the 4520ci talk about "crisper clarity with the added power".

I read about such claims too and that makes little sense to me if lower levels mean the amplifier will be operating well below their rated capacity. If those "reputable source" were right, a $5,000 50W tube amp or Luxman class A integrated amp will not sound crisp and clear right? Of course that is not the case, those $5,000 Luxman, Marantz, Denon solid state amps and other low power tube amp can in fact sound excellent in small rooms with high quality and high sensitivity speakers.

However I've also seen people saying at lower levels it will make no difference, and the upgrade would only offer more headroom.

That makes a little more sense but one shouldn't over simplify things, there are other factors involved.

What type of sound clarity and improvement could I expect upgrading from the X2200w to the 4520ci? Can anyone comment on how the specifications other than power watts may effect clarity between the two receivers? Unfortunately I do not understand much of the technical data outside of wattage and ohms.

Thanks,
KMG

The 4520 is not just more powerful, it also has higher quality components that include the power supplies, DACs, as well as higher processing capability, so depending on how it is used, with what source, speakers etc., may give you fuller sound, better sound stage, transient response, crisper bass, less fatiguing treble due to lower distortions. Again, how much better would really depends on many other factors, it could range from not audible in a level matched A/B comparison listening test, to clearly audible but subtle, or simply clearly audible difference.