Audyssey implementation differences in Denon and Marantz

[darthkringle]

Audyssey looks like this is exactly the solution I need for my HT. I currently have a very lively bright room that my Axiom speakers are placed in. All Hardwood, Stone, Glass (Modern Condo). I have already softened the room as much as the wife will allow w/some area rugs etc.; however, the room is still very bright. I love my Axiom setup (M60, VP150, EP500) and they sounded amazing in our old place which was a much warmer room.

My question is: Is there a difference in the Audyssey features between the Denon 4306, 4806, and Marantz SR8001?

Can you recommend one based on my room situation that would also be an actual upgrade from my current HK7300 that I'm not always pleased with.

Also, my room is 13x32x10 and again, very reflective which can make the treble from the Axioms fatiguing despite my attempts to reduce the Tone control on my current HK7300.

Thanks in advance for any guidance or information.

 

[gene]

Hmm. You really need to tame the room acoustics first before applying EQ. Can you add some insulated drapery over your windows and glass doors? Perhaps add more furniture, bookcases, etc? Any chance to do some ceiling treatment in a nice pattern to compliment the room decor?

Try to be in a more direct sound field of the speakers in your primary listening area (ie. toe them in, sit closer) and see if that helps.

Audyssey is definately the best EQ system we've tested in a receiver and it can help you for sure, but you should try to address the room as much as possible first.

The Audyssey system is basically the same in all the Denon systems you mentioned but I am not sure if the Marantz version is slightly scaled down. Check with Audyssey.

You may also wish to consider adding another EP500 to smooth out the bass response which can help tame the listening fatigue.

 

[darthkringle]

Thanks for your quick response Gene. You guys are truly an invaluable resource. Yes, I am also considering adding a second EP500 as I currently have 1 that is running through an SMS1. I'm leaning toward a second sub and the 4306. Regarding more room adjustments, the wife won't go for it except maybe adding a second seating chair to complete the furniture "circle" in our living room.

 

[mdrew]

I recently bought the SR 8001. My previous receiver was a HK 745, which replaced a HK 7300, which replaced a HK 7200 (I like HK if you hadn't guessed). I'm running Axiom speakers in my HT room.

I'm not certain, but I think the only difference with Audyssey is the 'Pro' version and standard. To step to the Pro, you have to go to the 5XXX series Denon's....I THINK. My Marantz uses a six position set up where you place the mic in six different room locations. The pro has eight, plus some other tweaks that I'm not really up on.

All that aside, I'm absolutely loving the Marantz. I don't normally praise receivers because I prefer separates. This Marnantz on the other hand sounds great. The EQ did help with my room as well. And, if you really want to tame down the high's, use THX. It rolls the high's off a tad.

But as Gene already said, you need to do what you can with your room first. I have hard wood floors in my HT and the room sounded horrible until I threw a big wool rug down in front of the speakers. It made a HUGE difference.

If you want some more info on the Marantz, I wrote up a mini review and posted it at the Axiom boards somewhere about a week ago.