I'm really at a point where I like all the components I have in my few setups. I was recently contemplating picking up a receiver more to try out than because I think it's a big upgrade. It's likely sidegrade, didn't have pre outs (which I value) and because I didn't have a lot I wanted to spend I probably missed a great deal locally. But that's ok because not sure it would replace what I'm using.
On the other hand, as it relates to receivers, I notice an older Sony ES I picked up sounds outstanding and that's being fed by optical. So that got me thinking how much of an upgrade is a receiver really going to be especially since I use separate AMPs as much as possible because I have too many (not becuase I need them).?
With sound so good on an older out of date receiver, in addition to more modern AVRs feeding AMPs in my larger setups, I wonder if receiver is in fact one of the lessor payout upgrades there is especially considering those with 9 channels and ATMOS have been out a good while now. Only difference I see is in room calibration ,which once dialed in satisfactorily, then probably not a huge deal.
So what upgrades really make a difference? I'm guessing speakers (center specifically) and subs are #1,#1A. Frankly larger OLED for me might be 1A. Then AVR and power amps behind those.
Welcome your stories on where you had a wow moment with an upgrade and where you were barely impressed after upgrading. I could see AVR/Processor being one that may or may not be super impactful.
