Pioneer Sc-05 sound issues? Help?

[Sherardp]

Sucks you couldnt get the SC-05 to play well with your speakers. I personally think both the SC-05/07 are excellent AVRs, especially at the price point they go for. I enjoy the SC-07 in my own setup and found them very upfront and detailed. To each their own, happy listening.

 

[sedonalar]

I really liked the looks and features of the SC-05. If I hadn't experienced the change in sound when I reconnected my older receiver HK AVR520, I don't think I would have believed it either. It was the same with the Denon 3808ci which I found harder to beleive. I re-checked everthing several times. I was almost willing to buy newer speakers to accomodate keeping the SC-05. I have already spent way too much time and effort on this. I am still debating waiting for newer models or just going wiith sepearates so I would always have a solid amp and just change out the AVR head unit when it would be appropriate.

 

[Lordoftherings]

Here's my top choices right now.

#1. There is Onkyo TX-SR876 or TX-NR906 (but the 906 cost more money).
The 876 is the best value for sure and is basically the same as the 906, less the Ethernet port. Both the 876 and 906 have three individual transformers, the 876 weights 53.1 lbs, while the 906 weights 54 lbs. The 906 has a toroidal transformer.

#2. There is also the Marantz SR8002 with a toroidal transformer.
#3. But, there is also the Marantz SR8001, also with a toroidal transformer, with HDMI version 1.2, I don't know if you want to go that route (me, I would); but the nice thing about the 8001, is that it is only $700 (retails normally for $2,000), so it is a HUGE discount for a SUPER receiver, just amazingly build, inside, outside, front and rear (all gold plated jacks).
But, of course, it does not have the magnificent video processor of the Onkyo 876, and Audyssey is just EQ, not XT. Audyssey MultEQ XT is really worth it in my book. And the Marantzs are THX Select2 and not THX Ultra2 Plus. The Onkyos are simply more features rich with deep power reserves. They certainly are able to drive 4-ohm loads.

Me, I still go with the Onkyo TX-SR876 (that's why I bought it), and it was only $875 at one point.
But the Marantz SR8001 at only $699 is surely very tempting.

#4. Another very high recommendation and a dynamite one too, is the Onkyo Pro PR-SC886P or PR-SC885P (the 885 used to be only $529!) with a combination of separate power amplifiers from Emotiva, the XPA-2 & the XPA-5.
Total, depending if you choose the 885 or the 886, is between $2,300 and $2,500.

Recap:

#1. Onkyo TX-SR876 = $879 to $849 ** Excellent performance + value, ratio. (Runs hot)
#2. Onkyo TX-NR906 = $1,249 (Toroidal transformer and runs hot)
#3. Marantz SR8001 = $699 * > Best value of the bunch. (HDMI version 1.2)
#4. Marantz SR8002 = $1,199 (Toroidal transformer, same as the SR8001)
#5. Onkyo PR-SC886P & Emotiva XPA-2 + XPA-5 = $2,499 (the 886 is worth the $ difference).
#6. Onkyo PR-SC885P & Emotiva XPA-2 + XPA-5 = $2,299 (Toroidal, same as the 886).

** Me, I went with option #1, the 876.
But they are all excellent options according to individual budget.

Bob

 

[sedonalar]

The Onkyo 876 does sound the easiest way to go. Well, after searching for three weeks for a new AV TV console, my wife and I finally agreed on a peice of furniture that looks good and addresses all of the AV, wire, ventillation, with oversized shelves issues for a large AVR. Check it out, it's unique with a flip up rear desk top to access components from the top. www.martinfurniture.com, look under entertainment furniture Bradley, IMBR371. It's a large piece. I looked at the usual units from Sanus, BDI etc. This was most unique with it's "EasyWireAccessSystem". This unit should be able to handle the hotest AVR, and it would be easy to add a fan if needed. I am still contemplating going with a seperate Amp and head unit. Any thoughts on Outlaw versus Emotiva. Emotiva seems to have the price point. I have also seen good deals at Audio advisor on the Parasound Amps. By the way I have noticed Vanns is selling the Mirage OMD-28's at a big discount. Any Idea how much better the OMD-28 would sound better than my OM-9's????

Thanks in advance for the info. I was unable to find any info in other threads on the Mirage OMD-28's. I will probably post a new thread asking about them in the speaker section.
Larry

 

[Lordoftherings]

The road to audio paradise...

Hi Larry,

Ouf! Talk about some changes and new ideas here. That's perfect, that's how it goes in life.

1. I check that nice AV cabinet TV stand. Looks very nice.
Now, if you go for a receiver like the 876, which run quite hot, you want to make sure that there is at least 4" of free space on top. And a small fan on top will help too, that's very easy to install and it's cheap too ($20).
* OK, let me put it this way: I got a nice home entertainment center that only accomodate a 27" TV, with closing doors for the TV, 2 big drawers, compartment for VHS, components space with two wood doors, compartment for components with two tempered glass doors. It's quite big and made of oak.
Now, I did some modification to it: I removed all the doors, the back panel and I even remove the middle support, so it can accomodate my 55" widescreen TV. I even lift the top to another 3 inches to accomodate my TV.
Radical change, but it seves the purpose perfectly and you cannot tell if it comes brand new like this already (I'm talented with wood working and remodelling things to custom made). My Onkyo 876 sit at the bottom right with 6" of free space on top. I remove the two huge drawers in the middle, plus the pull out shelf for a turntable. Six inches higher of my 876, I put my Rotel CD player. In the middle section, where the drawers used to be, I got my huge center speaker, and below are my Denon Universal DVD player and my Toshiba HD DVD player. On top of my cabinet (53" high), I got a couple Blu-Ray players. I'm all set with everything open on the front and rear, plus my 6" of free space on top of my 876. I could even take out two components, no sweat, no need for all of this. But the way it is now, it looks very sharp and I build some nice acrylic shelf for the two very top components (a pro job you can say).

--> All this to say, that the old days are gone. An audio cabinet should always be open on the rear, period, it is easier to change components, access all your wiring, and let your components breathe at one of the most important spot. Stacking components on top of each other does not looks good and for a receiver in particular, you want always 4" or so of free space on top.
Now my sides are close, so as yours, fine. But now, I decided to even open the front. No glass doors (glass doors sucks for sound quality anyway). And I also remove all the wood doors (4 of them), and I remove 2 big drawers.

Now, in your case you don't have to do that, it's a different AV cabinet with some nice elegance. But you can remove the rear cardboard cover, at least you gain something useful and easy to do. Where your receiver will go (if you decide now to go that way, cause you don't seem to be sure anymore), you can only take the front glass door on that side. Leave some 4" on top of the receiver, and voila. Or leave the glass door on front, and leave the back cardboard cover too, but instal a dual (4" fans) in the top part of the cardboard by cutting just the right opening for your receiver (about 8" by 4").
In the end, if you and your wife like (I do) this AV cabinet TV stand, go for it, it will suit any components that you might decide to acquire, hot (876) or ICE cold (SC-05). By the way, I believe the SC-07 is more alert than the SC-05.

2. Now, you're talking separates. I'll say, go for it. Couple Emotiva amps with a nice pre/pro, like the Onkyo PR-SC886P for example. More money, but so what, better looks, less heat problem, and better sound. If I'll have a couple thousand extra or so, that's what I'll do for sure at your place.

3. You already know the score about cost and the great value of the components that I already mentioned to you previously, so no need to repeat myself here.

4. Emotiva or Outlaw, the choice is yours, they are both great.
Me, I personally like Emotiva for the better looks, the great value and the performance too. I think that an XPA-2 with an XPA-5 combo is a very nice solution. But this is your choice, not mine.

5. Parasound amps are also excellent. I f you get a good deal on one or two, go for it, they are top notch amps. But you already knew that.
And Audio advisor is a top notch place to shop too.

6. The Mirage OMD-28, ouf!, it is the top of the line Mirage speaker for the 2007-08 year. It retails for $3,750. It's a big speaker with serious heft to it, and two big 8" drivers. I will highly recommend that you give them a listen, if you can. How much better will they sound compared to your OM-9s?
Only you can answer this in your own room with your own equipment.
What, who do you think I am? Jesus walking on water?

7. I check in my mags about reviews of the OMD-28, but nothing.
Just keep looking on the wide web world, and I'll do the same. If I find something, you'll be the first one to know.

8. OK Larry, that's about it for now, according to your instructions.

Till next time, and my bests to you and your wife,

Bob

 

[septim]

Forgive me if this is an obvious dumb question but I'm kind of confused.

I could get an Onkyo TX-SR876 for well below the cost of an 886. While my eventual plan is to go to separates currently I do not have a dedicated power amp.

I do not need the Zone 2/3 sub outs or the ethernet. The only difference I can see is the 886 having balanced pre-amp outs. Which I assume means XLR. My plan is to eventually get an Emotiva XPA-5.

I know that I could not use the 886 in my application now until I would get a power amp. But am very tempted to go with an 876 and just wondering if I would regret not getting the 886 when I go separates.

 

[Biggiesized]

I think the PR-SC886P also has Audyssey MultiEQ Pro capability as well as assignable trigger outputs (x3).

 

[sedonalar]

Dang Bob, that was good stuff! Ok, ya got me with "OUF" ?. I am begining to think you have some Mcgyver in you. Wood working too! That's very inovative. I like it, because it is all too obvious that most manufacturers aren't really putting their own A/V equip into these cabinets, or at least not high quality units. I was surprised the cabinet/console we found was engineered so well for heat, wiring and usability. It was a close one, when my wife liked the cherry finish I knew it was a keeper. But it is a very long cabinet, 71" long. That will put a squeeze on my om-9 towers and sub. At least the newer sub is a little smaller. I got a killer deal on a high glass black Mirage Prestige 10 sub. It's pretty nice and smaller than the two Mirage S12's I own. I plan to place the S12 across the room near our sectional because it goes pretty low, I think about 20hz.

I am really getting serious about the separates route. I do like the Emotiva amps, looks and specs. The Onkyo pre-amp you menitoned 886, only seems to be avail as a refurbished unit from Onkyo.

Yea know you had to mention the SC-07, because that was my original target goal, not the SC-05. Talk about procrastination, by the time I decided on the purchase Vanns was out of the SC07, and only had the SC05. I still really like the looks of the Elites. One of my concerns is getting a newer reveiver Pioneer, Onkyo, HK, Yamaha and not having the pre-out power (volts?) being compatible to the XPA-5. I know Audioholics had a recent article regarding this. I hope I didn't blow it by returning the SC05; and shoulda kept it and added the amp for full sound.

Regarding the speakers, I am unable to find a dealer in my area who has the OMD-28's. I was able to hear the OMD-15's and they sounded good but not good enough to replace my OM9's. Then the salesman demo'd the B&W CM9's, they were pricey, but they were very very impressive. I started re-thinking about the Mirage Bipolar-Omnipolar sound idea.

The size of the new cabinet might be a challenge to position the OM9's with. I had a crazy thought and was thinking of downsizing the speakers to bookshelf, like Axiom M3's or something else similar to place on top at the ends of the cabinet, to eliminate the large towers in the room due to space. I am just not sure how much I would sacrafice in sound if I got a large bookshelf. With two subs I have the low freq's covered. Tough call, the Tower idea is still out there, and I know the deal Vanns has on the OMD-28's won't last too much longer. All of the Mirages have some serious placement issues, but when done right they are exceptional. The direct radiator B&W's CM9's really got my curosity up though. I could demo the Axiom's at no risk I guess, or even the largest Aperion bookshelf.

For right now my main focus is still getting a HDMI receiver, and making sure it is compatible with a receiver/pre-amp, because even the Axiom M3's are low ohm rated. At least with the amp, I don't need a high end receiver like the 876. I might be able to find a SC-07 I think for $1400 at Magnolia in my area. I know my ideas have added some complexity, now adding poss large bookshelves.

Good to talk with enthusiastic people who care about what they are hearing and seeing.
Larry

 

[Lordoftherings]

I think the PR-SC886P also has Audyssey MultiEQ Pro capability as well as assignable trigger outputs (x3).

Very true, a big plus on both counts.

Audyssey MultEQ Pro is the final answer, the ultimate EQ that will do for your speakers in your room what Audyssey MultEQ XT alone cannot do.

And the 3 triggers are also very handy to use with separate amps.

The Onkyo TX-SR876 is right now $950 (used to be only $875 at one time).
The Onkyo PR-SC886P is right now $900
The Onkyo PR-SC885P is right now $700 (used to be only $529 at one time).

* The 876 runs hot. And the only one trigger is only for Zone 2.
The 886 & 885 don't run as hot.

 

[Lordoftherings]

Hurrah! Just a short one this time.

Hi Larry,

Finally I got a break from you, because when it comes to speakers, it is your job, not mine, youpie!

And as for the 886, don't fret it for one second. I read all the posts from the owners that bought the 885 in mass when it was on sale for only $529.
And they all said, that they cannot tell if it was brand new or what. But they had with the latest firmwares. Personally, I prefer reconditioned, cause I know it's in working order with the latest firmware. So, I think you're just a sissy. But if you are that type of person, be my guess and spend your money to the four winds by getting a brand new one that might be defective and with an older firmware too.

Hey, that's pretty cool, I'm already done.
Well, of course, my prior post was pretty complete anyway. And there's nothing I can do for you about AV cabinet and speakers.
So, I just have to be on the edge and keep looking sharp.

Bob

P.S. The SC-07 was only $899 at Videogon.
* And auditioning new speakers is always refreshing.

 

[photoeye]

Sc-05 + Xpa-5

Hi,

just an update. I received my XPA-5 and hooked it up to the SC-05.
WOW! It truly made a difference. I'm running maggies and it
really brings out the sound in every way and plenty of power in reserve.

I'm glad I went this route vs. buying a higher end/higher power AVR and using it's internal amp. For the online price of the SC-05 and the XPA-5, I think it's still a better deal over all since you get the extra power of an external amp.

A higher power AVR would benefit those with 6-8ohms speakers. I think those that have 4ohm loads really need to go with an external amp.

It still would be nice if these new AVR's had the function/option to switch the power off of their internal amps.

I have no complaints other than when I just want to watch blu ray at night and not use the AVR or external amp, I have to physically pull the HDMI
cable from the AVR and connect it directly to the TV.

 

[sedonalar]

Hi,

just an update. I received my XPA-5 and hooked it up to the SC-05.
WOW! It truly made a difference. I'm running maggies and it
really brings out the sound in every way and plenty of power in reserve.

I'm glad I went this route vs. buying a higher end/higher power AVR and using it's internal amp. For the online price of the SC-05 and the XPA-5, I think it's still a better deal over all since you get the extra power of an external amp.

A higher power AVR would benefit those with 6-8ohms speakers. I think those that have 4ohm loads really need to go with an external amp.

It still would be nice if these new AVR's had the function/option to switch the power off of their internal amps.

I have no complaints other than when I just want to watch blu ray at night and not use the AVR or external amp, I have to physically pull the HDMI
cable from the AVR and connect it directly to the TV.

Very cool, thanks. That's where I am heading. Im currently comparing three receivers in the $500-$600 range, to use with the XPA-5. It's between: Pioneer VSX-1019AHK, Onkyo TXSR607b, Yamaha RXV-765bl. I'm not really sure which one would be the best match up. I may post a new thread to see who has thoughts on these.

 

[Lordoftherings]

Pause for a sec.

Very cool, thanks. That's where I am heading. Im currently comparing three receivers in the $500-$600 range, to use with the XPA-5. It's between: Pioneer VSX-1019AHK, Onkyo TXSR607b, Yamaha RXV-765bl. I'm not really sure which one would be the best match up. I may post a new thread to see who has thoughts on these.

The Onkyo TX-SR607 has preouts?

And why not go with the Onkyo TX-SR875, it's only $799, last time I checked at accessories 4 less. You probably won't even need an external amp. And you'll get Audyssey MultEQ XT, THX Ultra2 certification, TI PCM-1796a Dacs on all channels, VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) on all channels, HUGE power supply, 3.2 ohms drive capability, Bi-ampable & Bridgeable capability, HQV Reon VX-50 video processor, state-of-the-art power and quasi pre/amp sections, quality parts all around, very well build, just a simple true powerhouse of a receiver.
And in your budget range, the Onkyo TX-SR806 is only $599.

Too bad that you were not thinking of this at the time Onkyo Pro PR-SC885P was selling for only $529. That's a $2,000 pre/pro.

Take your time, and think it over carefully.

Bob

 

[sedonalar]

Ok, finally today, I made a decision. I found a killer deal on the Onkyo TXNR906b brand new for $1300. I should get it in a week. I will up date this thread with the results. I am hoping that this one AVR will have enough power and dynamics with out going with an amp.

Most of the info and evals came from a thunderous gale!!!

 

[Lordoftherings]

Youpie! Hurrah! Finally!

Ok, finally today, I made a decision. I found a killer deal on the Onkyo TXNR906b brand new for $1300. I should get it in a week. I will up date this thread with the results. I am hoping that this one AVR will have enough power and dynamics with out going with an amp.

Most of the info and evals came from a thunderous gale!!!

LOL. Congratulations! And you'd better stay in touch for the aural results.

And your deal is excellent too, because the best that I could come up (and I'm good at finding the lowest prices) was $1,250 for the Onkyo TX-NR906B reconditioned (refurb).

Be prepared to be blown away.

Bob

P.S. Nice touch: "... thunderous gale."