Elite 56TXi or Marantz SR84\8500

[DaveOCP]

Ok I've been able to narrow it down to either the Pioneer or the Marantz. Is there anybody thats familiar with both and could make a recommendation? I can get the 56TXi for around $1K, $800 for the SR8400, or $1K for the SR8500. Does the 8500 add anything besides DVI switching and Marantz's auto setup that would make it worth the extra $200 or so?

 

[Methost]

You should be able to find the SR8400 for a bit less then that. I found one that was returned after just a few days. I got it shipped for $500. Opened it up and it was as they claimed, new. Or someone did a hell of a job cleaning it.

Anyway .. I love my SR8400 but have never owned a Pioneer.

 

[mudakas]

Happy 56txi owner

Go grab Elite 56 while you can. I know it is personal, but I love it! Once we compared side by side Denon 1603 (which I owned) with Marantz 8400. They sounded very close. Now when I got Pioneer 56, what a difference!

 

[thxgoon]

I'd have to agree. The 56TXi is one of the most impressive receivers I've heard. Grab it while you can. I bet you can get a great deal on it now that it is discontinued.

 

[DaveOCP]

Thanks guys. I havent gotten a chance to put them head to head yet myself, but I've heard the 49TXi through some Nautilus 803s and was REALLY impressed. One of my friend's home theater is powered by a Marantz SR-18EX. While its older, its also a higher end model than the 8400. Its certainly not bad sounding receiver, but it doesnt blow me away either.