Upgrade or no?

[Wags240]

It's been a long time since I've delved into home theater. Now that I'm retired I'll have more time to enjoy my system. Considering updating my AVR. Right now I'm using a Marantz 7008 driving Def Tech BP2000's with 7.1 in ceiling surrounds (don't remember what brand). I don't mind spending the money if it makes sense to update. I'm a bit rusty with what's out there now so bear with me. Thanks.

 

[Pogre]

That's a pretty good receiver still. I'd say if the tech is current enough for your needs and connections you're good to go. In ceiling surrounds tho..?

I notice you didn't mention a subwoofer tho, and your speakers aren't bad, but there's some opportunity there too. Got a budget in mind?

 

[lovinthehd]

For 7.1 that avr should be just fine. Now, if you want to change things up and get Atmos or perhaps 4k/HDR needs....then newer avrs would cover that. The ceiling surrounds might work for Atmos and you could buy some more speakers. Or the sub that's not evident (the powered woofer in the Def Tech isn't really a sub).

 

[2channel lover]

It's been a long time since I've delved into home theater. Now that I'm retired I'll have more time to enjoy my system. Considering updating my AVR. Right now I'm using a Marantz 7008 driving Def Tech BP2000's with 7.1 in ceiling surrounds (don't remember what brand). I don't mind spending the money if it makes sense to update. I'm a bit rusty with what's out there now so bear with me. Thanks.

As mentioned, if the new movie updates, 4k, atmos, etc. are appealing to you...you will need to update the avr. In ceiling surrounds are not the most functional in a good surround system, but they make great atmos speakers so something to think about there.

Subs...idk where you are with a sub, but the newer subs are great musically and still great for movies...if you don't have one, this is an upgrade I would consider.

Speakers...the life blood of any audio system. Not that you should get new speakers, but if you've had them more than 10 yrs...I would demo some that may be a step or two up over the ones you have and see if it means anything to you.

 

[Wags240]

The in ceilings speakers were sort of a necessity. My room is in the basement/walkout with huge windows behind my viewing area and other smaller windows to each side. Yes, not the best environment for a home theater. I didn't want floor standing speakers behind me in front of windows and there is limited space on the rear walls near the corners of the room. So the drop ceiling seemed the best at the time.

The subs/woofers in the def techs will rattle the room if needed so not sure I'd need an additional sub.

I've been talking to someone about Atmos but not sure if there is enough content right now. The other issue is could I really hear the effect? Too much loud music over the years so my ears ring constantly.

The Marantz seems to have plenty of power just missing a couple of bells and whistles of the newer units I suppose. I've just been out of the loop for too long and needed opinions. I appreciate all of your input.

 

[Pogre]

Sounds like you're all set then! Enjoy!

 

[lovinthehd]

The in ceilings speakers were sort of a necessity. My room is in the basement/walkout with huge windows behind my viewing area and other smaller windows to each side. Yes, not the best environment for a home theater. I didn't want floor standing speakers behind me in front of windows and there is limited space on the rear walls near the corners of the room. So the drop ceiling seemed the best at the time.

The subs/woofers in the def techs will rattle the room if needed so not sure I'd need an additional sub.

I've been talking to someone about Atmos but not sure if there is enough content right now. The other issue is could I really hear the effect? Too much loud music over the years so my ears ring constantly.

The Marantz seems to have plenty of power just missing a couple of bells and whistles of the newer units I suppose. I've just been out of the loop for too long and needed opinions. I appreciate all of your input.

Rattle the room can be done by a variety of speakers. Subs can be better positioned (which may not be an option for you) and dig deeper and get louder more cleanly than the woofers in your Deftecs in any case. Not everyone needs/wants subs like some of us do

Atmos you'd need a bed layer closer to ear level, but having the surrounds and Atmos both in the ceiling would be a waste from what I've read (just 7.1 here too and still only 1080p display....works for me and don't really want to mess with the ceilings yet, or all the upgrading). Your avr can handle everything 7.1 has to offer now, tho.

There's always adding more content as something to spend on....

 

[2channel lover]

The in ceilings speakers were sort of a necessity. My room is in the basement/walkout with huge windows behind my viewing area and other smaller windows to each side. Yes, not the best environment for a home theater. I didn't want floor standing speakers behind me in front of windows and there is limited space on the rear walls near the corners of the room. So the drop ceiling seemed the best at the time.

The subs/woofers in the def techs will rattle the room if needed so not sure I'd need an additional sub.

I've been talking to someone about Atmos but not sure if there is enough content right now. The other issue is could I really hear the effect? Too much loud music over the years so my ears ring constantly.

The Marantz seems to have plenty of power just missing a couple of bells and whistles of the newer units I suppose. I've just been out of the loop for too long and needed opinions. I appreciate all of your input.

Yeah, it sounds like you've pretty much got all the bases covered.

Enjoy retirement!

 

[William Lemmerhirt]

As far as Atmos content, there are literally hundreds of titles with Atmos tracks, and the upmixers are great for older tracks. As for rattle the room, that can mean many things, but imo is not a measure of the quality of bass. Would you be able to add IW surrounds? Not sure of the floor plan...

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

I personally already have about 350+ titles with Atmos/DTSX. So I think the total contents out there with Atmos/DTSX is probably over 1,000 by now.

 

[William Lemmerhirt]

I personally already have about 350+ titles with Atmos/DTSX. So I think the total contents out there with Atmos/DTSX is probably over 1,000 by now.

Agreed. Too many times I see lack of content as ding towards Atmos. But hey!!! DSU.....dtsnx.....

 

[Wags240]

I'm attaching the layout of the room. Lots of windows plus the fireplace.

 

[slipperybidness]

Add a real sub!

That is the answer for HT needs, despite the DT marketing!

 

[Gmoney]

I personally already have about 350+ titles with Atmos/DTSX. So I think the total contents out there with Atmos/DTSX is probably over 1,000 by now.

Years of movies to watch!