2023 Midyear AV Receiver Processor Testing Summary What's Next? - 7 tested, more coming

2023 Midyear AV Receiver Processor Testing Summary What's Next? - 7 tested, more coming
In this video we look back at the last 6 months of in-house tested with the Emotiva RMC-1, Anthem AVM 70 8K, Marantz Cinema 50, Marantz Cinema 40, Denon AVR-X4800H, Denon AVR-X3800H, and Onkyo TX-RZ50 and summarize our findings. Then we look ahead at the models we may be bringing in for testing that fit our 7.1.4 minimum criteria under $5000.
NOTE Slide Error - The Emotiva BASX MR1 and BASX MC1 don't support independent subwoofer outputs as indicated. The same signal is sent to both outputs.
Videos from recent tests -
Live Stream - Denon / Marantz AVR Super Unboxing - X3800H, X4800H & Cinema 40 + Cinema 50
kzbin.info...
Denon Marantz 7.4.4 AVR Super Comparison - Initial Setup
• Denon Marantz 7.4.4 AV...
Part 2 - Denon Marantz 7.4.4 AVR Super Comparison - Listening
• Part 2 - Denon Marantz...
Part 3 - Denon Marantz 7.4.4 AVR Super Comparison - Internal Amplifiers and Final Recommendations
• Part 3 - Denon Marantz...
Part 1 - Onkyo TX-RZ50 7.1.4 AV Receiver Review - Initial Setup
• Onkyo TX-RZ50 7.1.4 AV...
Part 2 - Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV Receiver Sound Quality, Room Calibration vs. Marantz and Emotiva
• Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV Recei...
Part 3 - Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV Receiver - internal amps, usability, sound modes
• Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV Recei...
Part 1 - Anthem AVM 70 8K better than Emotiva RMC-1? Marantz Cinema 50? in-house review - first impressions
• Anthem AVM 70 8K bette...
Part 2 - Anthem AVM 70 8K review - Part 2 - ARC blew my woofer (or was it my fault)
• Anthem AVM 70 8K revie...
Part 3 - Anthem AVM 70 8K - Failing Amp, Blown Speaker Troubleshooting
• Anthem AVM 70 8K - Par...
Part 1 - Emotiva RMC-1 vs Marantz Cinema 50 Sound Quality
• Emotiva RMC-1 vs Maran...
Part 2 - Marantz Cinema 50 vs Emotiva RMC-1 Sound Quality vs Vintage Sony TA-E9000ES
• Marantz Cinema 50 vs E...
Other videos...
Auro-3D Upmixer - Ceiling Speakers as Heights? Dolby Surround vs. dts neural:x vs. AURO-3D
• Auro-3D Upmixer - Ceil...
Marantz Cinema 50 Audyssey OSD vs MultEQ Editor vs MultEQ X MultEQ XT32 Room Calibration Correction
• Marantz Cinema 50 Audy...
New Denon AV Receivers 2022 23 vs Marantz Cinema - AHR-A1H, AVR-X3800H, AVR-X4800H, AVR-X2800H +
• New Denon AV Receivers...
The first Lower cost AV Processor video:
Lowest cost AV Processors - Emotiva BasX MC1 and Tonewinner AT 300
• Lowest cost AV Process...
IOTAVX Amplifiers 2022 - SA3, AVXP1 compared with Emotiva, ToneWinner
• IOTAVX Amplifiers 2022...
HDMI 2.1 8K AV Receiver and AV Processor videos:
JLB Synthesis New 2022 8K AV Processor (SDP-58) and AV Receiver (SDR-38)
• JBL Synthesis New 2022...
Arcam New 2022 8K AV Receivers Processor Range - AV41, AVR31, AVR21, AVR11
• Arcam New 2022 8K AV R...
McIntosh 2021 8K AV Processors vs Marantz and Lyngdorf
• McIntosh 2021 8K AV Pr...
Lowest cost AV Processors - Emotiva BasX MC1 and Tonewinner AT 300
• Lowest cost AV Process...
Yamaha 2021 8K Aventage AV Receivers
• Yamaha 2021 8K Aventag...
Pioneer Elite 2021 8K AV Receivers
• Pioneer Elite 2021 8K ...
#amplifier #avr #dolbyatmos #hometheater #ripewave
Onkyo 2021 8K AV Receivers vs. Pioneer
• Onkyo 2021 8K AV Recei...
Denon 2021 8K AV Receivers
• Denon 2021 8K AV Recei...
Marantz 2021 8K AV Receivers Processors vs Denon
• Marantz 2021 8K AV Rec...
Lyngdorf 2021 8K AV Processors
• Lyngdorf 2021 8K AV Pr...
#hometheater #marantz #avreceiver #ripewave #auro-3d

[@cafiveohsrockbandremix9254]

It'd be great to see your take on either the Sony AZ7000 or 5000ES since those have been getting generally very favorable reviews. I don't know how well Sony's room calibration works, but it would be interesting to see where its sound falls on the spectrum versus the Denon 4800 and Marantz Cinema 40.

[@djparra41]

This is exactly what I looking at right now. I know Sony can put out some show stoppers, however, I hate to say it but there is some doubt in my mind that it can keep up with the Denon and the Marantz when it comes to power. Also, I was considering the Anthem because a lot of people have been saying it’s the warmest sounding, whereas the Sony is far more cold.

[@Dalt1225]

​@@djparra41I've read and heard that the Sony room calibration in these new receivers is excellent. Surprisingly good actually. It's making me want to try them. I have two nice external amplifiers in case the receiver can't cut the mustard.

[@GaryWalters]

+1

[@ripewave]

Sony is coming for my October reviews. Likely the AZ7000ES. -Jon

[@JOHNNYJAMS08]

This is a great review. Thank you. Because of your review of the Emotiva RMC-1, I purchased it. I was glad to see the results of both the RMC-1 and the RZ50 as I own both. Feels good to know i made two out of two good decisions.

[@ripewave]

Thanks - What are your thoughts between the RMC-1 and TX-RZ50? Do you feel one is clearly better? Do you feel one is better suited for different use cases? -Jon

[@level80888]

unlike most other models 3800 has both Auro3D and Dirac Live. One can almost effortlessly find a sample for $1,000 or less. And it sounds good too. This rating spaciousness/richness is mostly a joke.

[@ripewave]

Yes - the Denon X3800 is a good value and both Dirac and Auro-3D. Lowest cost for that pairing. While I stand by my ratings, I respect other opinions. -Jon

[@mikeschmidt2339]

I bought an rz50 based on your recent reviews. Ty

[@ripewave]

I hope it works out for you. -Jon

[@VillainCollector1]

The Integra DRX 8.4 needs more reviews out there. I know the differences on paper compared to Marantz 40 and Denon 4800h, but I'm curious about real world testing and performance.

[@ripewave]

Integra is coming - aiming for November this year - Jon

[@Mark-hb5zf]

As always, excellent episode. One interesting thing I think is a take-away is the importance of audio correction (i.e. DIRAC, etc.). At what point does the audio correction become the deciding factor, more so than the hardware? I admit at my age, my ears aren't what they used to be (old age lowpass filter automatically 'enabled'), but when I enabled the DIRAC option on my Onkyo TX-NR7100, it made a noticeable difference. I would have bought the RZ50, but at the time (COVID), the availability and prices were a bit bonkers. Hence, the 7100.

[@ripewave]

Dirac does make a difference. I would rather have Firac compensate for room characteristics then to address quality issues in the AV Receiver or Processor. Buy good hardware and have Dirac correct the room, not the hardware. -Jon

[@brianarby5954]

It would have been nice to see how a legacy receiver like the Marantz 8015 compares to the newer models

[@HappyBullets]

A review of the Arcam AV41 would get my vote. Best Buy has them on sale at the moment.

[@ripewave]

Arcam AV41 review series in progress. Next up - sound comparison with Monoprice and Emotiva -Jon

[@mboljar]

I am from Europe, so prices are a bit different here. That changes really a lot of things, specially with Onkyo. Cinema 50 - 2000€ Onkyo RZ50 - 1600€ X3800H - 1500€ X4800H - 2200€ So Onkyo is not as much good priced and Denon X3800H gives much better value for money. Marantz Cinema 50 is 500€ more then 3800H but 200 cheaper then 4800H. Just to see how things change with different pricing. Great video by the way.

[@_intrepid]

I'm from Poland and here the Cinema 40 is just about 100 USD cheaper than the RZ70 right now. I was considering both and even though I somehow *like* the Cinema 40 more, the Onkyo is hard to beat as it's better in pretty much everything: more amps, has dirac, is supposed to be roon ready with an update etc.

[@ripewave]

I really appreciate you taking the time to communicate European price differences. I guess I need to take that into account in May analysis. Thanks again. -Jon

[@_intrepid]

@@ripewave Just as a follow-up. I paid about 2 880 USD for a brand new RZ70 in July.

[@stevelivingstone3495]

Integra drx 8.4. More hands on reviews. Compare it head to head to the cinema 40. Show off how many benefits the drx 8.4 over the cinema 40. After that the new a arcam products.

[@ripewave]

Integra is coming - aiming for November this year. -Jon

[@garykarczewski6678]

Looking forward to you review the Arcam AVR 31 and the AVP 41!

[@ripewave]

AV41 review series in process. No plans for the receiver version AVR31 - Jon

[@garykarczewski6678]

Ok, I don't need a Processor right at the moment so probably will skip this one. @@ripewave

[@JohnnyBroker76]

Amazing reviews, very thorough. I am in between the Onkyo RX50 vs the Sony AZ5000ES. I only need the 9 channels and was trying to determine if the price difference of almost $600.00 for the Sony really worth it. And I have the new Martin Logan XT F100 which are 4ohm speakers. Both at 120w per channel 2 channel

[@ripewave]

I am looking to get one of the new Sony models in so I can fairly provide guidance on which may have better audio quality. Martin Logan often require a high current amplifier. So if you are to power with the AV Receiver, the amplifier section is going to make a difference. The Yamaha RX-A6A may be a good option as well and may outperform the others with its amplifiers. -Jon

[@mikeschmidt2339]

you do great reviews its helpful im leaning towards rz50 since its close to the cinema 40

[@ripewave]

So glad you are finding value in these reviews. I think the TX-RZ50 is a good one -Jon

[@3184Patrick]

Hey John , just a little correction. The Yamaha RX-A6A does process 7.2.4 it just doesn't have 11 amplifiers. it only has 9. but dac wise and processing its very similar to the A8A but for $1000 less. Id love to see it added to your list as well.

[@Boxkerp]

Yes, I have the A6A. Though I'm only using it as a 2 channel pre-amp. But it can do 7.1.4

[@ripewave]

Thanks for correcting. I brought in the A8A only as I feel the A6A was too close - just less the 2 amplifier channels. -Jon

[@dj_houdini7766]

Thanks again for another amazing video! I for one would mostly be interested in 8k60/4k120hz capable receivers without the need for any external amplification.

[@ripewave]

Your first criteria of supporting 8k60/4k120hz is getting easier to find now that the HDMI 2.1 chipset implementation and availability issues are largely resolved. It sees that many of the models fall at least two channels short of amplification to support 7.x.4 speaker configurations. -Jon

[@joentell]

I have the NAD T778. It's good. I hate the menu system. It's in 1080p so the projector has to switch over everytime I go to the menu. Maybe take a look at the HTP-1 also. 16-channels at $3999 with Dirac Live Bass Control. It has Auro3D. I think once we do Magic Beans calibration later tonight, it will narrow the gap significantly between the least expensive and most expensive options.

[@ripewave]

After waiting over a year for the HTP-1 to come back, I had dropped it from my actively monitored list. Thanks for raising. It is a good example. Thanks for the firsthand feedback on the NAD T778. I would love to advice this audience to focus on the least expensive model which delivers the speaker layout and features they need - and not to spend more for the promise of sound quality. - Jon

[@Music.Movies.67]

Marantz and Denon AV Receivers are handy as they have Dynamic EQ Dynamic Volume Which l both use as live in apartment and can play content at lower volumes and still get good impact and dialogue is Louder at Lower volumes

[@ripewave]

Thanks for weighing in with that perspective- yes, being able to adjust the output to be neighbor friendly can make a big difference. -Jon

[@kirk891]

Thank you Jon for this analysis. Great overview. In a sub-$2000 budget, would you place more emphasis on better sound and DIRAC inclusion with Onkyo or AURO3D with Denon? Starting at ground level home theater system. Thank you

[@o.c.g.m9426]

My personal opinion would be denon. For that price you'll have more options. I hear the X3800 or 3700 I believe is nice.

[@kirkainsworth6835]

Thank uou for the reply Jon

[@ripewave]

For my own system I favor sound quality - so it would be Onkyo over Denon in my theater. -Jon

[@nickmaddalena985]

Great job, Jon! Always top-notch content. Love to hear your take on all of those mentioned.

[@ripewave]

Thanks for the compliments. -Jon

[@Whisperkill001]

Hey Jon, love the videos, so informative. I would love to see the Arcam AV41, it seems to have a ton of features for the price and looks like it will come in under the price of the new Emotiva RMC when it comes out later this year (also would love to see the updated Emotiva), but I have not seen much in the way of reviews on the Arcam, so that would be my vote since its on my short list of ones to look at when I upgrade.

[@mfkhometheater7742]

I would like to hear more about the Arcam also, hopefully Jon will help us out with a review.

[@ripewave]

Address your request this month with 2 of 3 videos posted already. Next up the sound comparison video with the AV41. Jon

[@ripewave]

Done!

[@razhua]

you are totally right, most of us wonder how much of those extra thousadns of dollars are going to be heard, some one said the law of diminishing returns applies after certain amount of money.

[@ripewave]

As I bring in more products to review in house, I am finding your statement more true. Today it is possible to purchase an AV Receiver or Processor in the $1,000-$3,000 range (and in the lower side of that range) and have a full-featured great sounding component to drive your system without missing out on much. You start to turn to non-audible reasons to justify the more expensive options.-Jon

[@baracudasmile]

John great video! I went with Sony due to wireless rears and subs. STR az7000es that uses ra-rs5 battery powered wireless Dolby Atmos speakers. Sony with center lift on Bravia TVs show where Sony is innovating for the future.

[@baracudasmile]

PS STR az7000es can run two wireless subs.

[@ripewave]

I have yet to find another brand that provides the same wireless capabilities and center lift features. Certainly, a great choice for those who want to leverage. How is it working out for you? -Jon

[@baracudasmile]

@@ripewave Jon, Thank You for your reply. I am a beginner. I had a Bose 301 in the 90's with a Magnavox 40" picture tube TV, and really nothing since. I watched your reviews, and many others, and know and trust Sony so I decided to go with a pure Sony system since I live in Japan, and service, warranty work would be more convenient. I started with STR AZ 3000ES 9.2 AVR, Front is 2 x SS-CS5s and a SSCS8 Center along with 65 A95L using center lift. Two SA-SW3 wireless subs, and two RA-RS5s for rear surrounds, finally four SS=CSE's for Dolby Atmos heights. I assumed incorrectly that the Wireless Speakers because they were powered that they would be free channels, not knowing how an AVR works. I also assumed incorrectly that the TV would be a free channel. The RA-RS5s have Dolby Atmos up-firing speakers as well. I learned going through Auto Calibration IX that the Wireless speakers actually consumed four channels, and the TV consumed another. I should have a 6.2.6 as you can see that a 9 channel AVR will not work. I upgraded to the the STR AZ7000ES, yet it still does things a bit different than the 3000. I had issues in Auto Calibration IX and even spent a week with Sony tech support. My RA-RS5's are behind the couch. I basically have a simple system in a 9x9x9 room, yet in IX I could not assign the speakers as Rear Surrounds, instead I had to make them Rears, and then this changed the height channels. I have front heights, mid heights, and the up-firing speakers in the rear. I had to assign the mid heights as front wides. It seems like every thing works, but it does bug me that I can not assign the speakers to where they are in the IX calibration because the priority set to Rears over Rear Surrounds, and this only has to do with the wireless speakers.

[@ripewave]

That would bug me too. I think Sony should be able to explain what is currently possible and ideally fix to deliver the expected configuration with IX. -Jon

[@ripewave]

Sony support should be able to explain how their receiver and IX should work. They need to be able to support those configurations even with the wireless. -Jon

[@psyphonyxaudio]

Excited to see how these all pan out! Keep at the great work!

[@ripewave]

Thank you. I am addressing each brand one-by-one - or sometime more at a time. -Jon

[@mauriciob8260]

Your content is always premium quality ,easy to digest and entertaining .I have a Denon X4400H with Auro 3D Built in , I have no complains even knowing that is a old model but still give me great sound and features like Auro 3d , will make any difference if I upgrade to the 38000H ? I bought the Multi EQ editor and the sound really improve a lot

[@peakoil-ko5oq]

That's the model I own too. Im thinking about upgrading to the Sony 5000

[@ripewave]

As for sound quality I don’t think upgrading will improve. I would hold off. -Jon

[@_intrepid]

It's interesting how prices vary. In my country you can get the Cinema 40 way cheaper (about 2 953 USD) than the VSX-LX805 (about 3 938) and the similar TX-RZ70 is just a bit more expensive than the Cinema 40 (about 3 076 USD). This changes the playing field quite a bit.

[@ripewave]

Very useful to know how pricing is different in other countries. Thanks for sharing. This brings another dimension to the discussion.

[@nonametofame]

Try to get an Arcam AVR in for review. They should compete with the RMC-1. The Audiocontrol units have the same guts as the Arcam, so they will sound similar if not the same. Also, now that the Monoprice HTP-1 is back in stock, I think that'd be a great to look at too.

[@ripewave]

I have a feeling the ARCAM will perform well against the RMC-1. Great info on the HTP-1. I had been checking in to the Monoprice site regularly and gave up in recent months. Glad to hear it is back.

[@Audiomainia2310]

I don't see Auro 3D as being as big a deal as it's really popular in Europe, but I've not seen Auro 3D encoded materials .

[@ripewave]

Where Auro 3D has a fan base is with the Auro 3D upmixer - Auromatic. Many who tune in here use that regularly. -Jon

[@BugleBoogie]

Jon, I really appreciate your efforts. Thank you. I would like to see a pre-processor that supports 7.4.4, Dirac Live, 8K and Auro 3D. I don't think anyone is making such a critter yet. If you are aware of such a unit, I would love to know about it. I hate to be negative but I wish you would refer to power as power and not wattage. Power is measured in Watts. Keep up the good work.

[@ripewave]

I think the closest you get to a pre-processor with 7.4.4 is the Denon and Marantz AVRs running in pre-amp only mode. Otherwise, there are pre-processors, like the Anthem AVM90 which supports 9.4.6 configuration - but beyond what you need and expensive - $7,500. It is the independent 4 subwoofers that is not common. Thanks for calling attention to the correct terminology for power. I think it is really important to use terms correctly. -Jon

[@BugleBoogie]

@@ripewave Thanks for the reply and my apologies for being a nit-picker. I keep thinking that Denon-Marantz will be coming out with replacements for the AVR-X6700H which I am currently using in pre-amp mode and the 7706 which I find appealing except for the missing features. I am patiently waiting for them to do so. I am not interested in spending an obscene amount for the pre-processor. Thanks again.

[@user-us9ms3jk6c]

Pioneer 804, Integra8.4 and Onkyo70 also have AURO since June.

[@BugleBoogie]

@@user-us9ms3jk6c Thank you. I will check them out.

[@10ny10]

Would like to know thoughts on Avr vs processor. Separates should be the advantage of a cleaner sound and having a main stay amp, upgrading the processor as needed. But many of the processors cost literally 2 to 3x more than your typical Avr. IMO I’m wandering if true value lies in a dedicated amp for front stage and upgrading your Avr as needed. Would you say that gets you to 95% of what you’d experience with separates?

[@ripewave]

I am finding that an AVR with external amps can equal the performance of a processor separate. If the AVRs continue to be less money and deliver the features you need that may be the best cost to benefit option. If you power the front stage externally, you reduce load on the AVR’s built in amps. -Jon

[@AlmightyGTR]

John I am really looking forward to your review of the Sony 7000ES. Pins and needles here :).

[@ripewave]

I am excited too. I hope I can deliver a good firsthand review of this Sony flagship. End of month you should see the first video. -Jon

[@AlmightyGTR]

@@ripewave Thank you sir. That is excellent!

[@billybobby7607]

Tonewinner at300 supports front wides. Mine is working 9.3.4

[@ripewave]

Thanks for that detail. Sorry I missed that one. The odd thing is the manual I am referring to for the Tonewinner AT-300 does not mention Front Wide support nor does the silk-screen on the back identify which outputs are for Front Wide. Which outputs can be configured for Front Wide speakers on the AT-300? Jon

[@jjchmiel78]

My personal perspective Is that comparing Onkyo, Pioneer, and Integra to each other is the least interesting as they share the same parent company and many of the options are the same. I am most interested in how Sony does it as they are completely different in their audio calibration software and even their spatial microphone used to calibrate. With the Sony, what difference can be had using the internal amps compared to using the pre-outs and external amplification.

[@ripewave]

I plan on reviewing Sony in-house in October. Thanks for suggesting your points make sense. -Jon

[@demariow78]

Thanks again for the information! It would be great if you were able to review the Integra 8.4. This seems to be the receiver that offers a lot for the price point. I am thinking about getting that one.

[@ripewave]

Of the Onkyo, Pioneer and Integra flagship AVRs, the Integra DRX-8.4 interests me the most. Having the balanced XLR inputs and outputs for LCR+subs is a unique feature set. -Jon

[@Unknown-1709]

I would like to see Iotavx avx17 reviewed.

[@ripewave]

The IOTAVX AVX17 is very similar to the Emotiva BASX MC1. I want to at least test one - both would be better. -Jon

[@TMDude815]

I would really like to see reviews on the emotiva plus series.....and the JBL sdp58

[@ripewave]

I will get the Emotiva plus upgrade when available. JBL is outside on my $5,000 maximum price range. Maybe in the future as this channel grows. -Jon

[@erod9088]

The HTP-1 is the best value out there with terrific DACs and implementation, 16 channels, Dirac DLBC with D-ART on the horizon, and just overall terrific sound. I've owned a ton of receivers and processors, and this is incredibly priced well below its punching weight.

[@ripewave]

Great feature set but unfortunately showing out of stock again until end of year. Only available for a few weeks over the last few years unless I am missing something. -Jon

[@erod9088]

@@ripewave They just sold several units and more on the way. They're back in production.

[@ripewave]

What baffles me is why they publish December 31, 2023 as the next available date. It seems they need to get there messaging aligned if they are in production right now. -Jon

[@erod9088]

@@ripewave Hobie is working on the DTSX Pro and Dirac ART upgrades for this fall. That date is a place holder.

[@mattgiunt]

I feel you should focus on the Sony since among all these receivers they are doing something different with their 360 calibration. Many companies and reviewers have mentioned what Sony includes with new receivers but no one has given the receivers an in depth look at how it functions compared to other receivers except Andrew Robinson. Your detailed review and results would be greatly appreciated by many.

[@shaolin95]

Dirac and Audyssey are superior to Sony offering so that is a big handicap

[@mattgiunt]

@@shaolin95 too new to call that

[@ripewave]

Sony is planned for my October reviews. Good suggestion. Many are talking about their 360 technology. Need to experience firsthand. -Jon

[@Gustavo-en3uv]

I will like to see how Integra drx-8.4 compare with others brands . Thanks

[@ripewave]

Hoping to bring in for my November reviews the new Integra. -Jon

[@pocoyo500]

I really enjoy your channel, great job! Can you please also review the sony AVR series? Can you compare the calibration technology of sony's septial sound mapping vs dirac live and auddesy regarding surround results?

[@ripewave]

High on my list. Yes - comparing to DIRAC and Audyssey will be an important part of the comparison. -Jon

[@pocoyo500]

Thank you very much @ripwave! Can't wait for your review and comparison! I think that sony is up for a new technology that can change the course of the audio industry.

[@talosian]

Get the Integra DRX-8.4. 150 watts. Dirac included. XLR pre-outs. Amazing sound.

[@ripewave]

Anxious to get one. Curious how it compares with Onkyo and Pioneer equivalents, but the Integra has the most balanced I/O (Onkyo has none, Pioneer only has for subwoofers). -Jon

[@mikeschmidt2339]

does the rz50 sound as good as the cinema 40,50.

[@ripewave]

Better than the Cinema 50 almost as good as the Cinema 40. -Jon

[@mikeschmidt2339]

@@ripewave thanks it between the rz50 and sony av3000es, will be 5.1.4 bookshelf speakers and in ceiling in wall.4k projector using sr5008 now

[@baracudasmile]

7.2.6

[@ripewave]

You are running as 7.2.6 - nice

[@explodingsidewalk1820]

Excellent content Jon. I need help on upgrading my receiver. I recently installed a new LG OLED65C2AUA (4K@120Hz) and I currently have the following setup: Definitive Technology Mythos Six (L/R) Mythos Seven (C) Mythos Gem XL (SL/SR/SBL/SBR) SuperCube II Subwoofer Denon AVR-4311CI. What would be a cost effective upgrade? Thanks for all your help. Chris.

[@ripewave]

Getting caught up on responses - not sure if you still need help. Let me know what features are important to you. While speaker layout to support matter the actual models shouldn’t. You will want a HDMI 2.1 compatible model for 4K@120Hz -Jon

[@michaelburton5198]

I Have The Denon AVRX6700H Is It Any Reason I Should Upgrade???? I Have A Total Of Channel Speaker Set Up ( Home Theater 🎥!) And What Speakers Would U Prefer For The Home theater 🎥 Set Up, Far As Klipsch, Polk, Svs, Or Kef Speakers 🔊????

[@ripewave]

The Denon AVR6700h is a good model and feature rich. If you have one I would hold off upgrading. If you were starting fresh, I would recommend a few others with minor enhancements. I like 7.2.4 as the sweet spot for speaker layouts. Speaker brands come down to preference many times. I have enjoyed Polk flagship products for decades. -Jon

[@MrSzeryfx]

great work

[@ripewave]

Thank you - Jon

[@filipeperry]

Great content!

[@ripewave]

I appreciate that feedback- thank you! -Jon

[@kevinhoronzy6011]

Always like when u compare the receivers to using external amplifiers with its onboard processor. Does 6 channel overhead a deal breaker?

[@ripewave]

Glad my use of external amplifiers is a good approach for you. Not sure what you mean by 6 channel overheads being a deal breaker. Are you asking for me to add to my test setup? If so, I need a workaround for pipes within my ceiling at that location. May need to surface mound vs. in-ceiling. -Jon

[@neilrybicki7387]

I’m interested in the MR1

[@ripewave]

Mine too - Emotiva has told me I am on the review list since January. I need to give them another push. -Jon

[@BoBxPaiN]

In europe the avm70 8k is 5400 euro and the cinema 40 and sr8015 is 2500 euros do you think the avm70 worth the extra money?

[@ripewave]

While the Anthem sounded better, there are reasons why I would select the Marantz Cinema 40 over the Anthem. Poor support - email only and they gave up on me, issues with Anthem ARC Genesis (but mine may be an isolated case), lack on Auro-3D and DSD support and a few more items. -Jon

[@michaelmorais6243]

I vote for the Integra DRX 5.1 as it is bundled with DIRAC without having to purchase an additional license.

[@boterhammetpindakaashagelslag]

Arcam too

[@user-us9ms3jk6c]

Integra 5.1 does not exist. There is a new 5.4

[@ripewave]

I think I will bring in the Integra after Sony. Aiming for November. -Jon

[@Audiomainia2310]

Also, Denon - Marantz makes you pay for Dirac Live / Onkyo - Pioneer does not. Not sure if Auro 3D requires a paid subscription either. Could you elaborate?

[@ripewave]

Yes - Really nice the Onkyo, Pioneer includes DIRAC at no additional charge. Auro 3D is included with the Denon and Marantz models that claim support. -Jon

[@user-us9ms3jk6c]

Two caveats. The Pioneer 805 does not have two XLR subwoofer outputs, but L+R. The Dirac full range costs $350 (not $500).

[@ripewave]

Thanks for the corrections. I don’t like making errors. -Jon

[@Quaddragon]

Which PrePro has the best Stereo upmix capability for 2 channel audio. I spend a lot of time watching content on KZbin and am looking for something that has some great upmixing.

[@ripewave]

I would say that the quality of the upmixing has more to do with the upmixing algorithm supplied by AuroMatic, Neural:x and Dolby Surround then the model of hardware used. If you have a receiver with support for all three, you have it covered. -Jon

[@madhunagarjuna]

Can you please consider Anthem MRX1140 if possible? Thanks

[@ripewave]

I covered the Anthem AVM 70 processor earlier this year. I struggled with the Anthem ARC Genesis room correction software and I am hesitant to try another Anthem product until they can assure me they have addressed the issue that blew my speakers. -Jon

[@grantpokarier7412]

Hoping you might be able to offer some advice/insight. Im currently considering the RZ50 $2100 or the anthem mrx740 (4k model) $3500. Im torn on if the anthem is almost twice the price better, if the fan issue has been resolved, and separately some of the reliability complaints going aroubd about the onkyo. People say the anthem is much better but im having a hard time seeing almost twice the price better. Im running 4ohm m&k s150 speakers if that makes any difference.

[@ripewave]

Many in this audience are advocates for Anthem. My experience with the Anthem AVM 70 4K was not good. While the sound quality was among the best, the Anthem ARC process damaged my speakers and I found their remote and menus hard to navigate. The fan issue was very noticeable as well. My issue with Anthem ARC was shared by a few others, but many never have that issue. Anthem's support is terrible - email only and never got back to me after saying they sent the issue to development. I found the Yamaha RX-A8A (or RX-A6A) has better sound quality then Anthem and worked without issue. Albeit, the navigation and menus need improvement in the Yamaha as well. Jon

[@grantpokarier7412]

@@ripewave are you able to go into more detail about Arc damaging your speakers? Thanks

[@ripewave]

I was unable to adjust the test tone levels during calibration. ARC sets these for you. As a result I was getting over 90dB output which blew two crossovers and one driver. I think it is related to my balanced external amplifiers which are capable of 1000W into 4 Ohm impedance speakers I have. -Jon

[@cgm246]

Emotiva BasX MR1L 9.2 Channel any thoughts on a review?

[@ripewave]

Absolutely. At least one to go over this new configuration. -Jon

[@gufiaito69able]

No monoprice htp-1?

[@ripewave]

It hasn't been in stock - but as you noted, it pops up from time to time and it appears it is back again now. If I can align my schedule with its availability we can review. -Jon

[@CynicalDad81]

Basx emotiva doesn’t support Dolby Vision…😳

[@randybehenna3081]

Can't afford any of the stuff you review if you have so much why don't you send me an emotiva 2 channel amp really

[@ripewave]

Well - most of it goes back after the reviews are complete. -Jon