Would this be a downgrade?

[Bob Leonard]

I am thinking of making a system change. My current system that I have is.

1. Lexicon MC-12 EQ

2. Classe CAV-75

3. Classe CA-101

Would a change to a modern up to date receiver like the Denon AVR-X7200W be a down grade?

It would only be set it up in a 5.1 configuration. It would be used mostly 70% for music and 30% video.

 

[jcparks]

No it really isn't, however I would also consider spending less on a AVR-X4300 and using it as a pre amp with you Classe Power amps. The Lexicon doesn't have HDMI so it is worth getting a new AVR for that, but if your only going to be using as 5.1 you don't need the 7200, hell you really don't need the 4300 and could easily get away with using even an X3300.
I think you should hold on to your Classe power amps and just get one of the modern Denons to use as a Pre. I just really don't think you need to spend so much on a 7200.

 

[PENG]

I am thinking of making a system change. My current system that I have is.

1. Lexicon MC-12 EQ

2. Classe CAV-75

3. Classe CA-101

Would a change to a modern up to date receiver like the Denon AVR-X7200W be a down grade?

It would only be set it up in a 5.1 configuration. It would be used mostly 70% for music and 30% video.

Purely from audible sound quality stand point I don't think it is a down grade. For peace of mind, I suggest before you get rid of the old system, take some time to set them both up and perfectly volume matched too, so that someone can easily do a blind test for you. Just a simple blind test will do, no need for a double blind test as you are not trying to convince others or to publish your results. Then play some high quality source media, something that has good dynamic attacks, high impact cymbals, bass drum hits, followed by piano and violin solo, and then some of your favorite and familiar vocals. Again, all have to be of high quality, whether CD, HD digital flacs, waves etc.

If you guess right more than 60% of the time that the Classe/Lexicon sounds better then you know, otherwise you know too and will be happy with your "downgrade". My educated guess is that it will be a downgrade in terms of price and certain specs on paper only but not practically. I used to think my separates sound better than my very old Denon AVR, but after a series of serious comparison listening, I now know the truth.

 

[Bob Leonard]

I took your advice, and bought a Denon AVR-X7200WA from Best Buy Magnolia. I installed the Denon into my set-up so I could compare the Lexicon/Classe to the Denon. I preferred the Lexicon/Classe for music listening. However, I preferred the Denon over the Lexicon/Classe for watching movies. Since my system is used more for music listening I regretfully will have to return the very nice Denon.

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

I definitely don't think going to a Denon 7200 is a downgrade.

When you compare, make sure the VOLUME is MATCHED. Even a slight difference in volume will skew the result.

Also make sure you compare the same sound mode - Direct mode vs Direct mode.

Bottom line, the only thing you MAY gain when you change gears is FEATURES like HDMI and AirPlay streaming, etc. The Sound Quality most likely won't change.

 

[lovinthehd]

I took your advice, and bought a Denon AVR-X7200WA from Best Buy Magnolia. I installed the Denon into my set-up so I could compare the Lexicon/Classe to the Denon. I preferred the Lexicon/Classe for music listening. However, I preferred the Denon over the Lexicon/Classe for watching movies. Since my system is used more for music listening I regretfully will have to return the very nice Denon.

Also curious on the details of how you setup the comparison....or what features you've employed in the Denon vs other gear.

 

[PENG]

I am not surprised of the outcome, but at least now he knows, assuming he did do the test probably and that it was a blind comparison test, with the Denon on pure direct. Some heavy lifting back and forth, but that's the only way to find out.