Marantz or Denon....That is the Question!

[tomd51]

THX Ultra or Ultra 2 is a certification process that, while it provides some peace of mind that the receiver is capable of meeting certain performance specifications, this by no means rules out any receivers that do not have this certifcation. There are several manufacturers that have and still produce receivers capable of the same performance, however choose not to put them through this testing process for a number of reasons.

Considering that your current room is fairly large, you'll be using large speakers and will likely have a dedicated theater room in the near future, a feature-rich receiver coupled with a 2, 3 or 5 channel external amplifier will likely provide you with the best performance for the money... -TD

 

[j_garcia]

If you're looking at a used 5803 but you like Marantz, why not also check around for a 9300v? Also Ultra2 cert.

 

[Tim-Ex]

The Marantz 9300 is nice, but I think I want to go with a 7.1 receiver, not that I have the additional speakers now, but I will have them before too long (next christmas perhaps...). I would love to get the Marantz 9600, but I don't think the Mrs. will give me that much green leeway - I am lucky to be able to swing the $2k mark!!

Looking into the seperates option, can you give me some suggestions for a sweet grouping of components for $2k or less? Also, let me make sure I have this right: If I were to get a receiver and amp(s), I would use the pre-outs to send the signal to the amps, right?

Thanx again for everyone contributing to this discussion!!

 

[tomd51]

Also, let me make sure I have this right: If I were to get a receiver and amp(s), I would use the pre-outs to send the signal to the amps, right?

You got it, brotha...

If you do some pokin' around on the Amps, Pre-Pros & Receivers forum or do a search for using a receiver as a pre/pro or preamp, you'll find lots of information on this.

Also some product reviews (Yamaha 2400, 2500 and 2600, Denon 3805, etc.) here on AH can provide some professional input on using some decent mid-level receivers in this capacity... -TD

 

[j_garcia]

Outlaw!! you could go with a 970 pre/pro and a 7075 amp that would be under $2K and with a 7125 amp that would be right around $2K. www.outlawaudio.com

Then there's the Onyx LMC-1 processor and a MPS-1 amp for just under $2k also, or their package deal for the "lite" LMC-1 + LPA-1 for ~$1K. www.av123.com

9300V is a 7.1 receiver but you need an amp for the 7th channel, though it has 6ch of power on board just like my 8300. Unfortunately that means another amp or a multichannel amp, so 5803 is probably a better choice.

 

[Tim-Ex]

That Outlaw package (990 + 7125) looks pretty appealing. Any thoughts from others in the crowd? My only issue is that I have no experience with this brand. Do any retailers sell them where I could take a listen to them?
Anyone have any positive/negative experiences with them?
What kind of warranty do they come with?

Now I am intrigued....

 

[j_garcia]

Might want to start a new thread and/or search the receiver's forum for that one. A buddy of mine has their 1050 (older model) and it is a heck of a receiver. As far as up to date, the 990 and 970 are pretty new and have most recent features covered. I think there may have been a review of the Onyx stuff (not sure if it was those particular models) a while back too.

 

[Tim-Ex]

In a recent review I saw that Outlaw has a 5-yr warranty. Pretty impressive I must say...

 

[tomd51]

Outlaw equipment is generally the best "bang for the buck" type of offerings. They've got a great customer service and satisfaction track record, one of the more solid online retailers.

I picked up a barely used Outlaw 775 5x200 watt amp from Audiogon close to a year ago and have nothing but praise for it, one of the best components in my HT. I would recommend their equipment in a heartbeat.... -TD