Denon 3805 vs 4806

[lanman]

Ok, here is issue. I have a Denon 3805, which I'm happy with regarding surround sound HT, but feel it is not quite an audiophile piece on 2-channel stereo. Since this unit has to serve both as a home theater and 2channel receiver, I have a decision to make. This would be to either add a 2-channel amp on the 3805 to help it out, or purchase a used Denon 4806. From blogs I have read from ex 38xx owners it appears the 4806 is major upgrade regarding sound quality. So, is there anyone out there that had experience with both units, especially when comparing an amped Denon 3805 with a 4806? I hope I’m not asking too much here!!

 

[PENG]

I have listen to many receivers within the same price range of the 3805 and I still owned a 1705, 3805, 4308, RX-V659 and a few amps. The receivers all sound the same to me with or without the help external amps but I have no doubt if you have hard to drive speakers in a large room you will benefit from an external amp. The 4806 does offer a little more power but not enough to make much difference. If you need more power you should add a power amp.

I have never had trouble telling two pairs of speakers apart but I always found it hard to tell the difference between separate preamp/amps and mid end receivers. I bought amps just to make sure I have enough power on hand if and when I need it, not that I really need it in my relatively small room.