Hi guys,
Sorry in advance for the long thread, but I have multiple issues and am having a tough time making decisions. Hopefully you can help. I have 2 home theaters setup.
#1) Living room - 5.0 = Yamaha TSR 7810 with Fluance signature floor standing, center, and Bi-Polar rears. I found it difficult to hear center and use primarily for music
#2) Finished 3rd floor - 5.1 (purchased mid 90's) = Marantz SR 7000 with Paradigm reference bookshelf L/R and small Bi-Polar rears. 12" Paradigm sub that rocks the house. Room is 20X20 with raised ceiling. Although large room for bookshelves, I never had system up to full power and did not need more sound ( based on Gene's explanation of power, I bet the Marantz is > today's 100W ratings).
With the new purchase, and winter coming I'll be watching more TV, and I decided to work on upgrading the Home Theater. I have a 12 foot screen I plan on installing instead of sheet.
Issue #1: 3rd floor R front bookshelf started crackling. Some time after, receiver began cutting in and out, then no sound at all. Powers up but no sound.
Issue #2: Lightning hit and fried Yamaha in living room. I ordered a Yamaha A-2080 to replace, and then found my TSR is under 2 year warranty.
Questions/Decisions:
1) Receiver placement: TSR in home theater (movies only) and A-2080 downstairs (primarily music)?
2) Do I move Fluance speakers upstairs and replace living room with bookshelves? Wife would be pleased.
3) Is the low center volume a Fluance issue or receiver issue? Can I correct via receiver?
4) If I move paradigm downstairs, can they handle the power of A-2080?
5) Is it worth getting the Marantz fixed? Is the Marantz a better AV unit compared to TSR?
6) Is it worth eventually adding 7th surround? should I continue to use bipolar?