Replacing my Pioneer VSX-94TXH with the Marantz SR8012

[VOguyinLA]

I returned the Pioneer SC LX701 after determining that the sound just did not compare with my old VSX-94TXH. After reviewing Gene's bench test and the Best of 2018 Receivers I decided to pull the trigger on the SR8012 and will receive later this week. Thanks to all those in the forum that provided input during my search for a replacement unit.

 

[Dmantis10]

I owned the VSX-94TXH and many older Pioneer Elite receivers back in the day. I also have had most of the flagship SC models and found all of them to out perform my old 94TXH.
I had the SC-07, SC-68, SC-99 but didn't go for the SCLX901 due to the fact they removed the USB DAC input on the back and that just angered me. I used that feature on the SC-68 and the SC-99 and loved it.
I hope you enjoy the Marantz. Like to hear your impressions. What speakers are you driving?

 

[slipperybidness]

I owned the VSX-94TXH and many older Pioneer Elite receivers back in the day. I also have had most of the flagship SC models and found all of them to out perform my old 94TXH.
I had the SC-07, SC-68, SC-99 but didn't go for the SCLX901 due to the fact they removed the USB DAC input on the back and that just angered me. I used that feature on the SC-68 and the SC-99 and loved it.
I hope you enjoy the Marantz. Like to hear your impressions. What speakers are you driving?

Curious as to how exactly the SC line outperformed the older VSX elite line??? Better room correction s/w?

Those older elite amps are beasts!

@VOguyinLA
My step-down model VSX-82txs is still in service and it is indeed one heck of an AVR!

 

[TechHDS]

Nice unit you picked up! Post up your thoughts when you have a little time with it.

 

[Dmantis10]

Curious as to how exactly the SC line outperformed the older VSX elite line??? Better room correction s/w?

Those older elite amps are beasts!

@VOguyinLA
My step-down model VSX-82txs is still in service and it is indeed one heck of an AVR!

The Early SC models had ICE amps. They where very powerful clear and stable. Later on Pioneer switched to their own design which is called Class D3. You should go check it out on the Pioneer website.
I found the SC-07 to sound better then my VSX94TXH. I was rocking Polk audio speakers back then and then later switched to Dynaudio

 

[slipperybidness]

The Early SC models had ICE amps. They where very powerful clear and stable. Later on Pioneer switched to their own design which is called Class D3. You should go check it out on the Pioneer website.
I found the SC-07 to sound better then my VSX94TXH. I was rocking Polk audio speakers back then and then later switched to Dynaudio

From what I have read on several resources, the ICE amps were the ones with complaints about audio quality and not being stable on 4 ohm loads. Everything I have seen on the Pio D3 modules has been positive.

I'm pretty sure the VSX94TXH is class A/B.

I have spent plenty of time on the Pio website.

 

[everettT]

IIRC pioneer still uses ICEpower and underagreemet with B&O distributes certain modules as well.

 

[VOguyinLA]

Curious as to how exactly the SC line outperformed the older VSX elite line??? Better room correction s/w?

Those older elite amps are beasts!

@VOguyinLA
My step-down model VSX-82txs is still in service and it is indeed one heck of an AVR!

Indeed - My 94TXH is a beast weighing in at 41 lbs. If it could pass through 4k I would have kept using it because it rocks my Polk Audio RTi12 front speakers. IMO the SCLX701 was not in the same league.