Receiver to use as pre/pro

[Jay]

Seth and lordoftherings, Looks are a non issue because the unit is in a closet. Extra HDMI out is a non issue. Extra power is a non issue as I will be using an amp. So it looks like this will come down to sound. Lordoftherings indicates the 6003 is better sounding and the 5003 sounds thin. If I am using an amp for power, will the 5003 sound thin. I am no expert but I would not think so. I would think the amp would take care of an thin sound. Please correct me if I am wrong.

 

[Lordoftherings]

So you would agree that it is possible they sound no different when calibrated to the same spec? A lot of people will hear a difference between two products because they believe there is one (based on what they read, how the feel about paying more, etc.) even if there is no audible difference at all.

Seth=L, the general consensus is that the 6003 sounds fuller, and the 5003 sounds thinner. Some owners who did listen to these two at home confirmed with that statement. I just corrolate what they said.

Please, read reviews, and compare the specs; you might come to the same conclusion also.

* In life, we make our own judgement based on our own set of rules; this is my own deduction. You are entitled to your own, and one is not necessary better than the next one. Each one of us must make his (her) own conclusion, based on what we know best.

Regards,
Bob

 

[Seth=L]

Seth=L, the general consensus is that the 6003 sounds fuller, and the 5003 sounds thinner. Some owners who did listen to these two at home confirmed with that statement. I just corrolate what they said.

Please, read reviews, and compare the specs; you might come to the same conclusion also.

* In life, we make our own judgement based on our own set of rules; this is my own deduction. You are entitled to your own, and one is not necessary better than the next one. Each one of us must make his (her) own conclusion, based on what we know best.

Regards,
Bob

I make no deductions from what reviewers or user reviews state. I typically find them useless in practice.

 

[Lordoftherings]

Seth and lordoftherings, Looks are a non issue because the unit is in a closet. Extra HDMI out is a non issue. Extra power is a non issue as I will be using an amp. So it looks like this will come down to sound. Lordoftherings indicates the 6003 is better sounding and the 5003 sounds thin. If I am using an amp for power, will the 5003 sound thin. I am no expert but I would not think so. I would think the amp would take care of an thin sound. Please correct me if I am wrong.

You are totally correct Jay.
But the Dacs and the integration of the DSPs, plus Audyssey or MRAC in the preamp section will have an influence on the final sound, right?
The audio parts used on these two receivers might not be of the same quality, important to remember. It's all about the preamp section.

With all this said, I'm convinced that you'll be totally satisfied with the sound from the Marantz SR5003.

Regards,
Bob

 

[Lordoftherings]

I make no deductions from what reviewers or user reviews state. I typically find them useless in practice.

You are entitled to your opinion.

 

[Seth=L]

You are entitle to your opinion.

And so are the people that "reviewed" those receivers, Based on what I've experienced with home audio a lot of this supposed "receiver having a distinct sound" is mostly bunk and not helpful for someone trying get what is practical versus what a majority opinion that is purely biased because they want to believe one product that costs more must be superior in an audible way.

The way I look at it, is if it can be measured and proven they sound different I will believe it. If the measurement fails to show a quantifiable difference that would be readily apparent to a seasoned listener then it becomes a futile waste of time and possibly money. I'm about through with wasting time and money that could be put to far better use. Saving $100 to me is important, especially if the end result of spending the extra $100 is more than likely a personally generated difference rather than a real quantifiable change.

The whole prospect of receivers sounding so drastically different is at best a terrible case of consumerism that drives people broke. I refuse to accept things like this blindly and I refuse to sit idly by watching other people do it to. If I say nothing I become part of the problem.

 

[Lordoftherings]

And so are the people that "reviewed" those receivers, Based on what I've experienced with home audio a lot of this supposed "receiver having a distinct sound" is mostly bunk and not helpful for someone trying get what is practical versus what a majority opinion that is purely biased because they want to believe one product that costs more must be superior in an audible way.

The way I look at it, is if it can be measured and proven they sound different I will believe it. If the measurement fails to show a quantifiable difference that would be readily apparent to a seasoned listener then it becomes a futile waste of time and possibly money. I'm about through with wasting time and money that could be put to far better use. Saving $100 to me is important, especially if the end result of spending the extra $100 is more than likely a personally generated difference rather than a real quantifiable change.

The whole prospect of receivers sounding so drastically different is at best a terrible case of consumerism that drives people broke. I refuse to accept things like this blindly and I refuse to sit idly by watching other people do it to. If I say nothing I become part of the problem.

I really like your reasoning Seth, and I'm with you on the part of not buying into the problem.

Best is to listen to different receivers in your own home, with your own speakers and setup, plus make the final decision, based on your own set of ears.
Besides, the speakers make the biggest difference in audio perception anyway.

 

[Jay]

New wrinkle. I am still leaning toward the Marantz 5003 based on the previous posts. However, I have an opportunity to pick up an open box Denon 3808 for $725 total. Now, that would be spending a little more than $300 more than the Marantz but certainly getting a lot more features, which I probably won't use. I realize that is a fantastic price for this receiver so of course a little (deal is to good to pass up) comes into play. I realize I probably don't need this but just looking for thoughts?

 

[PENG]

New wrinkle. I am still leaning toward the Marantz 5003 based on the previous posts. However, I have an opportunity to pick up an open box Denon 3808 for $725 total. Now, that would be spending a little more than $300 more than the Marantz but certainly getting a lot more features, which I probably won't use. I realize that is a fantastic price for this receiver so of course a little (deal is to good to pass up) comes into play. I realize I probably don't need this but just looking for thoughts?

$725 for an open box 3808 is too good to be true unless it is actually a used one. In your previous post you asked if the 5003 would sound thin when used with an external power amp. If 'thin' means weak in bass and mid bass, then it really depend on your speakers and your room acoustic condition. The 5003's preamp should be ruler flat over the audible frequency spectrum.

 

[Lordoftherings]

Jay, if you're using the Marantz SR5003 as your pre-pro with external amplifier(s), then, it should cut the mustard.
* But remember, you cannot apply Audyssey over the new high res. audio codecs.


And now, for something new; the Denon AVR-3808CI, at only $725, should be a very serious consideration into the equation.

P.S. By the way PENG, nice to see you again my friend.

 

[WmAx]

OP: I don't know specifically which features/codecs you want to use, but the RX-V2600 had substantially better design/build quality and far superior measured performance as a pre-amp as compared to the RX-V2500. The RX-V2600 was the 1st model year they revamped the design, and with the exclusive purpose of showing off what they could do. The models after this do not have the same level of performance (even the 2700 suddenly have inferior performance - measurably). So, if the HDMI 1.1 audio support is sufficient, you can occasionally find factory refurbished units on eBay for great prices, or excellent condition used units. I purchased a 2600 some time ago to use exclusively as a pre-amp in a 2 channel dedicated stereo system of extreme high quality, and I very much love the 2600 in this capacity(much more so than the Stereophile recommended 'audiophile' pre-amp I used to use). Also, the new cosmetic is a bonus; a very simple and sleek thick aluminum front plate that looks more like a pre-amp as opposed to an A/V receiver, as only a couple of knobs are on the front and a button or two, with all other controls hidden under a door. Here is the RX-V2600 as used in my system: http://www.linaeum.com/images/wmaxcomponents_1.jpg

-Chris

 

[Jay]

Jay, if you're using the Marantz SR5003 as your pre-pro with external amplifier(s), then, it should cut the mustard.
* But remember, you cannot apply Audyssey over the new high res. audio codecs.


And now, for something new; the Denon AVR-3808CI, at only $725, should be a very serious consideration into the equation.

P.S. By the way PENG, nice to see you again my friend.

Can you apply Audyssey over the new high res. audio codecs in the Denon or can't you for any high res. audio codecs no matter the receiver?

To flaxtaxspa, thanks for you multiple insightful posts!

 

[Lordoftherings]

Can you apply Audyssey over the new high res. audio codecs in the Denon or can't you for any high res. audio codecs no matter the receiver?

To flaxtaxspa, thanks for you multiple insightful posts!

Hi Jay,

Yes, with the Denon receivers, you can surimpose Audyssey
in top of the new high res. audio codecs.

* Only Marantz receivers have that fatal flaw, if you can call it that (beats me!).

 

[Jay]

Lordoftherings, thanks for the reply. I am really torn on this issue. I am certain the Marantz will be fine and not even sure if I will use the Audyssey. Just not sure what to do. This Denon is hard to pass up at that price, just have the feeling that I am going to be paying almost twice as much for something that I won't notice an appreciable difference between the two. What to do, what to do. I love this hobby and hate it all at the same time.

 

[Lordoftherings]

Lordoftherings, thanks for the reply. I am really torn on this issue. I am certain the Marantz will be fine and not even sure if I will use the Audyssey. Just not sure what to do. This Denon is hard to pass up at that price, just have the feeling that I am going to be paying almost twice as much for something that I won't notice an appreciable difference between the two. What to do, what to do. I love this hobby and hate it all at the same time.

I think that if I was you, I'll jump on the deal of the Denon AVR-3808CI.
It is a fantastic price for a fantastic receiver, and that you'll be using for many years to come. The 3808 is a mid-high end receiver at a low mid price.
For $725 only, I'll be hard pressed to pass on that deal.
And you can rest assure that you'll own one of the very best receiver there is.
Plus, it will make you love this hobby much more too, and your hate will disappear at the same time.

* And as for Audyssey MultEQ XT, I consider it an indispensable and very useful tool.

But again, that's just me, for what my suggestion is worth.

Cheers,
Bob

 

[lsiberian]

If you pay 720 to use a receiver as a pre-pro why not just get the Onkyo 885 Pre-pro.

Auddysey is unecessary for you since you can use a DCX 2496 to eq your front sound stage.

You could save a lot of cash by getting an HK receiver. 254's go for less than 300 on ebay factory direct. That would leave you enough 420 for a DCX 2496 to EQ your front soundstage.

Also if interested you can get a great deal more power from power amps. I suggest you only amp the fronts. The surrounds are purely for effects anyway.

With the XPA-5 you'd need to attenuate the signal to use the DCX 2496(pretty simple to do actually)

http://www.amazon.com/Harrison-Labs-Line-Level-Attenuator/dp/B0006N41B0/ref=pd_bxgy_e_text_b

2 sets of those paired with XLR to RCA cables would allow you to hook up the very power DCX to the XPA-5

 

[Lordoftherings]

Jay, if $500 is more around your budget for a receiver to use as your pre/pro,
and that you really like Marantz products, then try to get a deal on the Marantz SR6003, or go even with the SR5003.

* Check at accessories4less for great prices.

If you have more specific questions or seem to be confused, don't hesitate to let us know your thoughts. We're here to help you out, and we'll do our very best to do so.

Regards,
Bob

 

[agarwalro]

That would leave you enough 420 for a DCX 2496 to EQ your front soundstage.

Also, to effectively use the DCX, one will need a calibrated mic (Behringer EMC8000), phantom power for said mic (any will do), Room Eq Wizard or some other equivalent room analysis software, a laptop with outboard soundcard, and a lot of time and dedication to navigate the bumps and dips.

Phew, I am tired just thinking about it, but that said, I am saving my way to DCX integrated into a stereo rig that I am putting together.

Wish list,
Salk SongTower QWT
Emotiva Stereo preamp
Yamaha Pro Amp
Behringer DCX

 

[Lordoftherings]

There are two type of systems; the complicated ones for the hardcore, and the simple ones for normal people that don't spend the time that the hardcore do.

 

[Jay]

lisberian, thanks for the thoughts. However, that seems way to complex to deal with. My opinion is more moving parts, more problems. Also, I read to many issues with HK to take a chance on the 254.

As far as between spending $400-$500 or $700, that is not an issue financially. I am just frugal and don't want to spend money for a receiver that has features that I really won't use. Options are used (all out the door prices) Marantz 5003 $400, 6003 refurbished about $550 - 600, open box Denon $725 (may be even able to get them down a little lower if I bargain).

While the Marantz is definately worthy at the $400 price, I am not sure it is better than the Yamaha 2500 I currently have (just has HDMI and new audio codecs) and Audyssey is the problem with hi res audio and I will need to get the XPA-5 right away for more power. Denon is a step up over the receiver I have, I have always been smitten with the 3808, has enough power that I won't need to get the XPA-5 right now and who knows I may be satisfied with the sound and not want to get the XPA-5 at any point, has Audyssey with the new hi res audio, has an extra HDMI in (which I am not sure I actually need but it is available), and is a fantastic deal at that price. I think I am going to go with the 3808...and as I write this I am changing my mind!!!!!

The other thought is get the Marantz and the XPA-5 and if I don't like the Marantz I can probably sell it for close to that $400 price. Of course the Denon will likely not be available (and it may not be as I continue to delay making a decision anyway).

Third option is continue to think about this and both deals are gone. Oy vey!