Denon sound is too pitchy, fix?

[tomd51]

Damn, I missed this thread, pretty funny though.

Gotta say that's the first time I've ever heard the word "pitchy" too, then again I've only been involved in this just a little longer than the OP's been on this big, blue marble.

Not sure what's in the water lately, but it seems to be troll season lately... -TD

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

Ive looked online and i can find pioneers highest end receiver the VSX-94TXH for only 1,200 shipped, i doubt that the denon would out preform this receiver....

Instead of spending $1,200+ on a receiver, I would spend that money on a nice speaker system. Really, most receivers will soud very similar. Would you like us to recommend a speaker system for you? Speakers are the most important components in the entire audio system. You must spend the majority of your HT budget on the speakers.

So do take that Denon receiver back for a refund and focus on a new speaker system.

 

[zhimbo]

I googled "pitchy", having never heard it myself, either. First result: A story in People magazine talking about its frequent use on American Idol.

The second is a slang dictionary that attributes it to American Idol.

The only other entries on the first page use it to mean "covered in pitch" or "black like pitch".

Draw your own conclusions.

 

[pzaur]

...Even if this receiver didn't sound bright, i still would return it. Like i said, I do not like the listening modes, and it is missing some key features. Also, just because I use a word to describe sound that you have never heard before doesn't mean I don't know terminology. In fact one of the best known audiophiles and speaker system designer/installers in the bay area uses the term, pitchy. I am using small size Onkyos, the type that comes with the 990THX.

What "key features" are missing from the 2808ci? I don't recall an elaboration on this anywhere in the thread? Looks like a pretty solid performer to me.

It's been mentioned elsewhere that speakers with horn tweeters tend to be on the bright side. If you're looking at speaker systems, why start with the SVS system which utilizes a horn tweeter?

BTW - pitchy = off key or out of tune.
If the speakers sound "pitchy", find a better singer/musician to listen to.
If you do have a respected installer using this term, I'd be leery of the equipment being installed just based on the poor use of vocabulary to describe sound.

-pat

 

[markw]

Actually, Ican see using the term "pitch" in relation to his speakers.

BTW - pitchy = off key or out of tune.
If the speakers sound "pitchy", find a better singer/musician to listen to.

He should "pitch" those speakers as far as he can and replace them with better ones.

 

[am74Gibson]

At the risk of getting flamed

After reading this amusing thread, and getting the less than subtle inference that in most cases the speakers can be the problem, it has me worried on my new purchase.

I ordered a Denon AVR 3808ci and should be getting it in a few days. And while I am not the audiophile some of you guys are, I at least know how to spell it

But now, I am worried if my new reciever is going to match up with my speakers. Maybe you guys can offer an opinion. My mains are Infinity RS6 Kappa 6 (old I know, but I love'em) Infinity RS210II Wall mount surround (space problems requires wall mount) Infinity Alpha 37C center channel and a pair of MK powered subs MK V-125 (these baby's rock!). How would you classify these Infinity speaker characteristics...bright...warm...neutral..etc.? I have been told they are hard to drive..will the Denon provide enough juice? I would think so. I currently have a Marantz SR9300 AV reciever, but want to get the Denon for the features (HDMI, Network, etc) that the Marantz can't offer. Do you think the Denon will match up to my speakers ok as far as sound and power go? Will it sound as good as the Marantz, or at least close? Thanks, and please don't pick on my speakers too much, they are old and sensitive

 

[3db]

To me, all asian mass manufactured receivers sound harsh and glaring. You could try "taming" your room by adding some items that will cut down on reflections (heavy drapes, maybe a heavy throw rug or two, go nuts and cover the rear wall with 2.5" acoustic foam). Also try playing with the placement of your speakers to see if that will help.

Care to back that statement up with a DBT?

 

[3db]

yeah thats what i want.. more features! power is nothing to me! i dont need 130 watts per a channel.. thats ear bleeding! its all about quality!

An amp with more power gives you a much broader scope when upgrading on speakers. As long as the essentials are covered in the "features" I wouldn't be to quick to knock power over features. Personally, if I could afford it, I'd take a similar powered NAD over Denon, Pioneer, or Yamaha anyday.

 

[fmw]

After reading this amusing thread, and getting the less than subtle inference that in most cases the speakers can be the problem, it has me worried on my new purchase.

I ordered a Denon AVR 3808ci and should be getting it in a few days. And while I am not the audiophile some of you guys are, I at least know how to spell it

But now, I am worried if my new reciever is going to match up with my speakers. Maybe you guys can offer an opinion. My mains are Infinity RS6 Kappa 6 (old I know, but I love'em) Infinity RS210II Wall mount surround (space problems requires wall mount) Infinity Alpha 37C center channel and a pair of MK powered subs MK V-125 (these baby's rock!). How would you classify these Infinity speaker characteristics...bright...warm...neutral..etc.? I have been told they are hard to drive..will the Denon provide enough juice? I would think so. I currently have a Marantz SR9300 AV reciever, but want to get the Denon for the features (HDMI, Network, etc) that the Marantz can't offer. Do you think the Denon will match up to my speakers ok as far as sound and power go? Will it sound as good as the Marantz, or at least close? Thanks, and please don't pick on my speakers too much, they are old and sensitive

Modern AV receivers like these include an equalizer. If you prefer a darker sound, just cut the high frequencies. You can have it any way you prefer.

 

[3db]

Here I thought trolls were fairytale creatures!!!

 

[markw]

Hey guys, another newbie with questions!

don't worry, just funnin' wid ya. You ask good, valid, questions and I think you'll accept the answers in the spirit in which they are offered.

...and ewe kan spel, to.

But now, I am worried if my new reciever is going to match up with my speakers. Maybe you guys can offer an opinion. My mains are Infinity RS6 Kappa 6 (old I know, but I love'em) Infinity RS210II Wall mount surround (space problems requires wall mount) Infinity Alpha 37C center channel and a pair of MK powered subs MK V-125 (these baby's rock!). How would you classify these Infinity speaker characteristics...bright...warm...neutral..etc.?

Actually, that's not a determination we have to make. Speakers are totally a preference issue, kinds like the preference for blonds, brunettes or redheads. Since you like their sound, then, like Goldilocks said, I'd say they are just right.

I have been told they are hard to drive..

Now this is another issue. Some speakers have impedance problems, where their impedance can dip so low at some frequencies that it can cause an amp to sweat hard and even cut off at times.

I do know some of the real old Infinity speakers, the ones with the big dual-woofer Watkins drive, have been known to send amp some amps running away in sheer terror.

Has this happened with your current (no pun intended) receiver? If not, I think you'll do fine, particularly since you'll be using a sub to handle the heavy work.

... will the Denon provide enough juice? I would think so. I currently have a Marantz SR9300 AV reciever, but want to get the Denon for the features (HDMI, Network, etc) that the Marantz can't offer. Do you think the Denon will match up to my speakers ok as far as sound and power go?

Again, assuming the power ratings are in the same ballpark, I think you'll be fine but keep all receipts and packing materials just in case.

Will it sound as good as the Marantz, or at least close?

See above answer but remember, it's the speakers and the room that dictate more than 99% of what you'll hear.

Thanks, and please don't pick on my speakers too much, they are old and sensitive

Aw, gee. Let us have some fun. will ya?

Oh, BTW, welcome. Hope you enjoy it here. Having a sense of humor helps tremendously.

 

[am74Gibson]

Thank you sir, may I have another!

No worries, I know the new guy gets punched around some. But someday maybe I will do the punching on the newbies!

In regard to the "hard to drive" issue. I have had my Marantz SR9300 go into "protect" mode when it is at a high volume...the SR870 I had before did also. Not sure if ths was because of the speakers or something to do with the Marantz maybe designed not to overdrive or something.

I'll be stopping back by for another beating later.

 

[Davemcc]

A dedicated stereo amp to drive the mains may be the best solution for you. Find one with plenty of power that's 2 ohm stable and you're good to go. Your marantz has pre-outs, doesn't it? You can continue to use it if you like, or get a separate preamp/processor or even a much less expensive receiver to use as a preamp/processor.

 

[Joe Schmoe]

A dedicated stereo amp to drive the mains may be the best solution for you. Find one with plenty of power that's 2 ohm stable and you're good to go.

2 ohm stable is a rarity, is it not?

 

[tomd51]

I'm sure something like the Behringer EP1500 or 2500 would be able to handle that load w/out breakin' a sweat... -TD

 

[3db]

2 ohm stable is a rarity, is it not?

Not in the power amp,

SymAudio, Bryston, NAD, Anthem can all 2 ohms. I'm sure there's a few more to throw on that pile.

 

[bandphan]

the speaker terminal options go down to one ohm(1,2, 4, and 8) on my power amp, but im not sure what that load would phyically do(nor do i want to find out), im sure highfihoney could shed some light on it

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

Not in the power amp,

SymAudio, Bryston, NAD, Anthem can all 2 ohms. I'm sure there's a few more to throw on that pile.

The Emotiva MPS amps are 400 Watts into 2 ohms.
The Sunfire 5400 & 7400 amps are 1600 Watts into 2 ohms.

 

[pmac]

This was a pretty funny thread. How come y'all were so mean to this new guy? What is a "Troll" please explain that part.
P.S. JOD maybe the receiver is defective. I just picked up a 3808 and it sounds really nice. I think based on followers they must be doing a whole heck of a lot right.
Did you mention whether or not you have a sub for the bottom end? I imagine if these speakers came with a HTIB setup they are probably missing the lower end. I know you said it is pitchy "now" but wasn’t before, perhaps it is a placebo effect, expecting a lot more from speakers that aren’t able to keep up? Just a thought.

Regards,
pmac

P.S. don’t ask me calculus. I’m the bright guy who gets paid carppy (misspelled on purpose)
For the record I paste my comments to Word first, I always spell stuff wrong.

 

[markw]

hmmmm...

In regard to the "hard to drive" issue. I have had my Marantz SR9300 go into "protect" mode when it is at a high volume...the SR870 I had before did also. Not sure if ths was because of the speakers or something to do with the Marantz maybe designed not to overdrive or something.

Now this is another issue. Some speakers have impedance problems, where their impedance can dip so low at some frequencies that it can cause an amp to sweat hard and even cut off at times.

I do know some of the real old Infinity speakers, the ones with the big dual-woofer Watkins drive, have been known to send amp some amps running away in sheer terror.

From the sound of this it sounds like you may have some really hard to drive speakers. As the other s have said, no matter what receiver you wind up with, you may be a candidate for a nice, beefy separate power amp.