Why I Like This BUDGET 16 Channel Processor? Tonewinner AT300 Review & Comparison to Marantz AV7706.

The review of the Tonewinner AT300 budget 16 ch processor is here. I also do some comparisons to the Marantz AV7706 processor.
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[@originalRoyalty1]

Always nice to see a new player in the A.V. Processor Sandbox. Great Review!

[@batchv.7737]

Just the video I was hoping to see from this channel. And once again, Barrett delivers. Amazing review of the ToneWinner AT300, and your comparison of this unit to the pricey Marantz AV7706 is well-explained and unbiased. I have one question Barrett. What appears on the front screen of the TW AT300 when you're watching movies or listening to music? Does it have the option to display the current decoder being used like "Dolby Atmos/DTHD, DTS:X, 2-Ch Stereo, etc"?

[@FrankieKennethL]

This was a very well laid out overview and introduction to a unit I’ve been intrigued about. You covered a lot of great information and delivery was on point! Thank you for sharing.

[@SpecOfTech]

No problem my friend, I am glad it helped you out.

[@lbudt29]

The Tonewinner was more defined in the bass than the Marantz through my Cerwin Vegas and Emotiva power amp. The music demo showed the Marantz was cleaner in the bass, but the TW. was better defined all the way around.

[@BuildMontage]

Tonewinner processor and amp looks quite interesting. I’d love to try one out over here for a system demo. Great video as always mate, nice intro :) that bundle price looks enticing!

[@SpecOfTech]

Thanks buddy. Yeah these do not look budget imo, they are slick. Summit Hifi priced them right, no doubt. Let me know if you want an introduction to Aamir if you are interested.

[@BuildMontage]

@@SpecOfTech just finished watching the whole video (I often comment before I finish watching) those demos were interesting that you have an enjoyable experience with the tonewinner no less so than the marantz.

[@Jacobskate]

@@BuildMontage Shelby acoustic have on preorder, I’m interested.

[@Johnnytrades101]

Great review! I am quite impressed with the AT300! Unbelievable value, and the 2 amp combos is insane!! Hope Aamir has stock lol!! Seeing this review, and thinking about the NAD M17v2 I just got, at $7999 I had a moment of regret, well.... just for a moment lol. Absolutely love the NAD. I am a huge Tonewinner fan, having 2 AD5180's. If the AT300 and the amplifiers were available when I was starting to upgrade my system, I guarantee that they would be in my room!! People really need to know about this new product, do the comparisons, and shop around. Separates, until now cost a lot of $$. Great job Barrett! Cheers

[@SpecOfTech]

Thanks brother, as always, I really appreciate the support. Maybe one day you will have to come down and check it out if I still have it.

[@keepingupwiththejones2933]

Welcome back buddy. It has been a minute. Hope all is well. We know you are always honest and try to compare similarly priced AV gear.

[@SpecOfTech]

Thanks man, good to be back lol. I find myself struggling with 1 video per week with my job being as busy as it is. I have been shooting for 3 videos every 4 weeks now. As always, I appreciate the support my friend!

[@DREDKNOT2063]

​@@SpecOfTech does the units Built-in auto room correction auto adjust an configur Each channel an its 7 to 11 band EQ adjustment an are the parometric an how refinable are the band adjustments compared to the outlaw audio 976 4k unit an does it have similar sub trim controls

[@tedtimmis8135]

As always, excellent review. I have a Denon X8500H that I bought for $3400. Of course, it is a receiver but it has 11 channels of amplification at 150 wattts, 13 channels of processing, Auro-3D, WiFi, Spotify Connect, internet radio, a headphone and phono amp, Audessey room correction, 9 hdmi ports (1 with eArc), gorgeous build quality with billet aluminum and a fairly modern interface. I think the Tone Winner’ price demands consideration, but at the end of the day, I think the Denon x8500H is a significantly better value. I would be interested in your thoughts. One final note, I always understood “number of channels processed” to mean just the speaker channels, not the subwoofer channels. Thus, the Denon processes 13.2 channels with separate processing for 2 subs although I can attach up 4 subs. From your description, it would appear that the Tone Winner is a 13.3 channel processor and that’s assuming each sub is processed separately. Is this correct?

[@TwoGuyzTech]

Great video as always Barrett - looks like a really interesting option! 16ch at that price is insane. Love the amp as well.

[@SpecOfTech]

Thanks TGT 😊. I am glad to see some fantastic looking & sounding options enter the arena, I hope more follow suit.

[@dan_hitchman007]

It's actually a 13.1 channel processor. The two extra sub outs are derived from bass management.

[@baohoaily]

'sup Barrett! I think a "fair" comparison could be the AVR-X3700H in full pre-amp mode!

[@donjaun540]

Great video. The Tone Winner was shaking my TV.😳 I hope products like this help drive in my opinion over inflated prices down. I'll never understand how you can buy a receiver that does basically everything but lacks power. Then they come out with pro/ pro with no power but even more expensive than their best all in one units. In my opinion no amps should be way cheaper. Also the size should be way smaller since there are no amplifiers inside. Those companies should see if they keep their prices fair more people will buy their products especially if they offer amps, speakers, and accessories. 👍👍

[@BigBadGreenGuy]

It's called "economy of scale". The average Joe doesn't give a r@ts @ss about having separate components. I don't know the actual numbers, but would not be surprised to find out that more than 90% of home stereo/theatre equipment is sold from the big box stores. So the average Joe goes in there to buy a "system" for his TV/family/living room. He knows nothing about it, but "heard" that a 5.1 Dolby system is what he needs. The kid working at Best Buy knows next to nothing about any of it, and shows Joe an all in one AVR (or even worse, a soundbar 'capable' of 5.1). Of course the big companies (Denon/Marantz, Yamaha, Pioneer/Onkyo, Sony etc) know this. Since this accounts for probably 90%+ of their sales market, their R&D and production budget is similarly scaled. They still make the separates of course for the enthusiasts/audiophiles, but it's really a small niche market. Production costs are high, unit sales are low = higher price for separates. They probably sell more than 90 AVR for every 10 pre amp pre pro they sell.

[@GSP-76]

Awesome review...and I'm helping a family member plan out a custom home theater in his basement that will seat 8-12 people. This is a great way to save.

[@moonmash]

The AT300 has 13.1 channels but the sub channel can be split into max 3 via RCA but it's the same one just with individual levels no individual EQ. So in reality you are looking at 9.1.4 or 7.1.6. I have had the 9.1.4 xlr setup for a couple of month which I find works best here and we are still working on improving the firmware with tonewinner who are indeed working with every distributor and customers. It should also be mentioned that for a unit at this price point it has a very high S/N ratio and great channel separation compared to marantz when playing at near reference level plus I love the manual PEQ giving me full control when working with REW. Let's not forget it unofficially does Dtsx pro neural x upmixing though currently only with dts signals. More good things to come. I might do a tech video on my channel about the unit once I feel we are closer to full functionality

[@jaakanshorter]

That little box was want I was hoping emotiva was going to do a while ago. XLR outputs on budget pre/pro and limited or no legacy inputs.

[@hyuuuhyyy7887]

totally makes sense to grab one of these and some power amps, then potentially upgrade the processor in many years ahead. IMO thats a better option than than the single high end receiver route. 16 channels too... the savings using this processor could also be spent on a few more speakers for a truely immersive setup.

[@mrsonar3656]

I have been selling and installing systems with self powered studio monitors for this reason for 20 years!

[@sethpettman5491]

Great review Barrett. Appreciate the honesty 🙂 seems like a FANTASTIC budget unit to get into seperates!

[@SpecOfTech]

Thank buddy!

[@gerad9882]

I agree Amir is awesome, always Answers questions, and is very friendly!! I too am patiently waiting on my processor which should be shipping next week

[@godfather1116]

Hmmmm, considering this processor for my small room and office set up - the prise is hard to beat!

[@phillipknox5010]

Great review and appreciate the transparence.

[@SpecOfTech]

Thank you, I appreciate the support 😉.

[@Deadite8593]

This looks like an excellent option for someone like myself who has never owned separates before. I will probably use my old receiver as a power amp to limp myself along the upgrade path, but am really excited to hopefully pick one of these AT300 units up soon.

[@SpecOfTech]

Nice man, I have no doubt you will enjoy the added clarity that comes from stepping up to separates. I will ask a favor, if you do decided to go with this unit, please use my link in the description, it helps out the channel.

[@Deadite8593]

@@SpecOfTech Absolutely, it was your channel where I found all the important info on the unit!

[@bigdreams5554]

@Deadite8593, keep us posted . I am super tempted to try out separates too but can get so expensive, budget friendly alternatives are welcomed .

[@josealfredfernandes]

@@SpecOfTech Anthem AVM 70 vs Tonewinner AT 300?

[@SpecOfTech]

@@josealfredfernandes Well that isn't at all a fair comparison. The Tonewinner is less than half the cost. Tonewinner will offer a much better bang for your buck. It will give you great sound and a phenomenal price. The Anthem will of course sound better, give you a better room calibration software and a fantastic WEBUI. You will get more if you spend more as general rule. If you want the best budget ATMOS processor, I believe that is the AT300.

[@bigjack79]

I would love to see hown it compares to denons 3700h 11 channel avr/processor. Thw 3700h can be used as a straight processor

[@dhjengr8756]

I would like to see this comparison as well. I own the Denon 3700h in full pre amp 5.1 mode.

[@royr5527]

Wow this is a great setup for getting into separates at an amazing price. Thanks for review.

[@antiWhiteism777]

​@SpecOfTech --- The processor has 16 channels, but two amplifiers only have 14 channels... how do you power the remaining channels? Why doesn't it have XLR for all subwoofers? Will mixing XLR and RCA affect the sound?

[@caballerosuave]

@Spec Of Tech, Thank you! This will be my starting point in separates. Initially I’m going to pair it with the Carver AV-405 I picked up recently before upgrading to more power.

[@o.c.g.m9426]

I just ordered this. I'm coming from X4700h in full Pre-Amp mode but I wanted more channels & very simple room correction as it's 1 recliner in middle of livingroom. Their customer service was wow good.

[@NitinKatiyarCircle]

Is it good to move from Denon to Tonewinner? I am new to home theatre and confused in denon 7.2, 9.2 or this 13.3 channel. Just wondoring how it is giving this much channel in this small package and lower price then denon?

[@RahzAlGhul]

How’s it compared to the 4700h u had?

[@thetrumanshow4791]

Too late! I just dropped $2,365. on a brand new Marantz SR6015. Oh well, at least it's financed at 0% apr for 24 months, ($98. per month). Tell you what, check with me again in 20 years.

[@andrethegiant2877]

You're smoking premium grade crack if you think a Marantz SR6015 will be with you in 20 years. The receiver game is designed to make you replace that thing every 8-10 years.

[@thetrumanshow4791]

@@andrethegiant2877 It went in a guest bedroom that was converted into a 3rd hometheater. The room gets used for a couple of hours, once (maybe twice) a month. To be clear, thats 2-4 hours a month. Technically, as far as wear and tear, all the gear in that room will last several life times.

[@RJ-xj3ct]

wow this plus the new emotive amps makes going separates much more affordable

[@TimOHea]

Exactly what I did. Emotiva 4 channel BassX and Emotiva 7 channel Bass X for a 7.1.4 setup

[@JBudgetDIY]

Thank you for this. I think that marantz processor is a good comparison, not of price obviously but in sound quality. People know where Denon vs marantz stands as well as marantz and anthem (according to reviews). I may go for this processor now

[@kevonmanuel]

With those packaged deals, The Tonewinner AT300 and 2 7 channel amps, Blows away the AVM70.

[@nathandaniels4823]

Excellent review! Thanks for covering this unit for all of us! Question about the music section: what about the music comparison was better about the Marantz, other than the bass? If one were to tweak the bass on the eq of the Tone Winner, would that bring it up to par with the Marantz, or are there other ways in which the Marantz wins out?

[@SpecOfTech]

It just had an overall more musical presence, slightly more balanced. With EQ I am sure you could get the Tonewinner to sound very similar though.

[@danashay]

I left the Marantz fold 30 years ago because of poor base response. So, I just bought a new amp and a used prepro. Got hosed on the prepro. Badly. I am undeterred. Can't wait to get another, and see how far Marantz has come. Am I the only one who sits and stares at the monolithic Marantz stack? The power amp ran too hot to touch for the first month, then the fan started to work. Far louder than I expected. That wasn't part of a break-in program, was it? Awesome video, please carry on!

[@wa2368]

Can you show us the calibration interface, etc on your tv in a future video. Since this is brand new, it would help to see what it all looks like before i lighten the wallet. Thank you.

[@SpecOfTech]

I may try and do a video showing that, if there is a demand for it 😁.

[@Zoranurai13]

Oh wow actually a new player in the market. I always found that processors are too expensive as they are basically high end receivers without amps but the same cost

[@kilgoretrout4461]

That’s what I always thought too...until I actual heard a good separate setup. The definition and separation, no pun intended, are just no comparison. Separates will sound better pretty much every time.

[@Zoranurai13]

@@kilgoretrout4461 while i agree, especially in stereo. In music i feel it makes a much more noticeable difference compared to a home theater with so much going on. One of the benefits of having a processor and an amplifier, is that when standards change, you don’t have to buy a new amp, just a processor. The issue is that a processor is often more or just as expensive as a good multi channel amplifier by itself

[@dan_hitchman007]

According to Analog Devices, the SHARC chipset used in the AT-300 (as well as the Marantz 8805 and others) has a DTS: X Pro update available. I wonder if Tone Winner has the ability or the desire to add a DTS: X Pro firmware update to this processor any time soon?

[@leonsmullen2669]

Hoping that you will also compare the Tonewinner AT300 to the new Emotiva BasX MC1, which is 13.2, Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HDR 10+, Dolby Atmos, DTS-X, eARC. I believe that would be a very fair comparison, so, how about, a possibility maybe ?

[@WarriorProphet]

They're the same unit, Emotiva is just meant to be the name brand whereas Tonewinner is sold as oem meant for rebranding. Same manufacturer and chipsets.

[@organfan668]

I was gonna say if you look the inards of the mc-1 and tonwinner they look identical.

[@gerad9882]

Awesome content as usual man, can’t wait to get my processor, and I just talked to Amir and will be getting 2 of the amps!!

[@SpecOfTech]

Thats awesome man, congrats. Let me know when you get them.

[@12schnsaint]

nice, another nice 16 ch pre. now we got a few in the budget area. gonna be looking hard for one soon.

[@hi-fihaven2257]

Man Barrett I don’t what looks better, the components or there price tags! That power amplifier looks absolutely awesome. Love all the inputs on the pre. Have a great day man!

[@SpecOfTech]

I know right, Summit Hifi bringing the budget goods, that looks slick too.

[@hi-fihaven2257]

@@SpecOfTech You said it man! I just saw a KZbin video with the Tone Winner CD player. That is an awesome looking unit!

[@paulupton5557]

Excellent review, really enjoyed it, well done.

[@SpecOfTech]

Thank you!

[@paulupton5557]

@@SpecOfTech You are more than welcome.

[@chrism9976]

I have the IOATA VX (Tonewinner clone) and the Marantz AV7706. The IOATAVX after calibration had amazing channel separation, better punchy bass, better sound clarity. I didnt know my 20 year old MK750s could sound so good. The Marantz sounds good after Audyssey calibration, but the crossovers are too high and it sounds muffled. Have to return the IOATAVX as it is too buggy. Firmware updates didn't help and sub line out 3 and 4 don't work. I only wish I could make the 7706 sound as good as the IOATAVX.

[@RahzAlGhul]

So what did you default back to?

[@chrism9976]

@@RahzAlGhul I have the Marantz 7706 with a Monolith 11x. Measured with REW to then calibrated with Audyssey. Sounds pretty darn good now that I have 2 subs. Now that it's calibrated, I think it sounds cleaner than the IOATAVX and no bugs to deal with.

[@philsingh8153]

Another great video ✌️

[@LexusAllTerrain1]

Great value even after the shipping charges and importation fees

[@Turtleback8024]

The blue dot lights on the Processor remind me of the EMOTIVA X Series amps.

[@johnf517]

Awesome content !!

[@SpecOfTech]

Much appreciated, glad you enjoyed it!

[@deeteepeafore]

Great review! What kind of upmixing is it? Dobby? DTS?

[@moonmash]

Dolby Up to 11.1 channels and dts up to 13.1 upmixing. Unfortunately dolby or pcm 5.1 can't be upmixed to 13.1 with dts upmixer yet but I hope to get this sorted with tonewinner.

[@deeteepeafore]

@@moonmash thank you very much I really appreciate that.

[@BigBadGreenGuy]

I enjoyed your honest review, but do you have any real world numbers/testing to validate any of the manufacturers claims? This is a very interesting new product, and I'm cautiously optimistic about it. But without some real world valid testing, not just an "ear test", I'm a bit skeptical.

[@shaneducholke364]

Great, honest review while leaving all your cards on the table. Tonewinner is definitely a great way to enter into the realm of seperates and keep you happy for a very long time until your ready to spend four times the price!!

[@davidstein9129]

Thanks for this informative video. This is a little off topic but I have a question about my Outlaw Audio 976 7 channel home theater preamp/processor & my Parasound Halo a52+ 5 amplifier Parasound Halo A52+ amplifier. I will be unboxing & connectimg my Parasound amp to the speakers & pre/pro this weekend with help from a friend. The frequency response measurements are the same and are considered conservative. However, Their Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) specs are quite different... The amps THD is just 0.04 The pre/pro's THD is 0.7 Will this difference in matter in the overall performance of my system? I am also curious to know what you & your viewer's think about the pairing of these 2 components. Thanks So Much!

[@DREDKNOT2063]

Hey is there a pdf for the manual that I can get so I can read over the specs and stuff

[@bzrdbrew]

This seems to be a great value, but do you have any idea or opinion why this processor is not getting more recognition? Tonewinner should be paying you for putting this on the map, but I've only been able to find two other reviewers, nowhere near as through as you. Is it really worth the investment or better to save for the next level?

[@davonfranklin5158]

Thanks for the review. How does this unit do with Atmos. I see it only supports HDMI 2.0 and not 2.1.

[@SpecOfTech]

It does very well with Atmos. You're right, it supports HDMI 2.0. But unless you need 8K or 4K 120hz, then HDMI 2.0 will work just fine.

[@Techdiscussed]

Does anyone owning the at300 notice something missing on the rear channels? For example when warching gravity? (Begin scene, guy never reall goes to the back)

[@MrYamaha413]

great video and one question - is room correction close to audyssey and why u choose to not enable it for the demo ?

[@SpecOfTech]

I would say that the room correction definitely makes a beneficial difference, but I wouldn't say it's on par with Audyssey. I always disable room correction so that you can hear the raw sound of the unit without any compensation for the room. All rooms are different, so your mileage may vary with the correction software.

[@zxmazterxz101official3]

I’m running tonewinner 5100 amp ok so I’m asking I put my subwoofer to my Marantz sr6007 amp input

[@brianlove3369]

I needed a amp for my large room any way getting a AVR with pre outs cost wisse was about the same or less than what the AT-300 cost after i got it both me and my with extremely happy with vthe sound was a huge difference over the many ARV's i have had in the past

[@b3owu1f]

I am about to buy this thing next week.. waiting on a paycheck. This looks amazing and so far the reviews seem to say it's very good. It is on par in price with AVRs with preouts.. but from what I can tell sounds better.. has better separation and articulation. I am curious if it has various DSP settings like many AVRs have.. or is it basically whatever the source material playing through it? E.g. if the source only has 7.1, can you change it to use all 13 speakers, and can you use different music FX settings for music playback? Wasn't sure given its price tag. Also.. what amp are you feeding the XLR outputs of this in to?

[@kcwanlass8721]

Great video! I’m always learning from watching your content, but then I get confused on what direction to go. Could use your knowledge and guidance. I’m looking to get the Marantz sr6015 with the Parasound amp, but after your video I’m thinking of the Tonewinner package or unless you can think of something else? I’m just getting started with my home theater so any advice or best direction with your expertise is appreciated.

[@SpecOfTech]

Hey man, thanks for watching the vids. I can say that IMO the TW AT300 was close in sound to the Marantz AV7706 that I had. The Marantz 7706 would offer a better cleaner sound than their AVR's like the SR6015. With that in mind, it would make sense to say that you would most likely get a cleaner more defined sound from the AT300 over the SR6015. The big difference would be in the room calibration software. I can't deny that Audyssey is better than the onboard calibration software on the AT300...BUT, even just setting proper distances and levels on the AT300 would still give a cleaner sound than the SR6015 IMO. I hope that helps...cheers.

[@kcwanlass8721]

@@SpecOfTech Thanks for getting back to me, I appreciate your advice and helping in my direction and decision with my home theater. Keep up the great work… cheers!

[@user-sz9cl2ii7y]

What is the necessity of 16 channels in a home theatre of limited space...7.4.2 is more than wanted...

[@madcrabber1113]

For that price it could say "cheap bastard owns me" in florescent green on the front in bold face type and I'd embrace it! 😉

[@SpecOfTech]

Lmao, I believe they have a real winner here. The price is fantastic and it truly sounds very good. I hope more manufacturers continue down this path of affordable processors.

[@madcrabber1113]

@@SpecOfTech you and me both! I'm just getting back into decent sounding home audio after a 25 year hiatus. I am totally blown away by how many things have changed, stayed the same, variety and how much more affordable decent sound products are now!

[@scottwrezenski2356]

This still looks better then some of the more expensive processors and receivers

[@davidahmad3560]

It physically looks like the same chassis as the Oppo UDP-205.

[@TylerStout]

How does the room correction compare to audyssey in terms of customization? Specifically can you input a custom target curve or anything like that for it to match or run it with room correction disabled above a certain frequency? Don't really care if the interface is trash if it's as customizable or better. Honestly would be curious to see how this compares to say a x3700h in pre-amp mode where it disconnects all the amplifiers to clean up the signal path. Would be a really fair comparison since they are both the same price with the main con of the Denon being it's only 11.2 avr instead of 15.1.

[@TylerStout]

@John Smith you could always get an ac infinity fan to put on top of the denon.

[@TylerStout]

@John Smith cheaper than a new AVR though. You could use USB computer fans as a cheaper alternative

[@ericaljets6272]

@John Smith but 3700 only has 9 channels of processing I think

[@ericaljets6272]

@John Smith the 3700 also processes 9 channels as well - AVR - all in one

[@deepfriedbutter]

My Marantz SR6013 just gave up the ghost after going to service 3 times. I'm considering this Tonewinner AT300 and an Integra 3.4 (for Dirac). The Integra is the same price and you get Dirac, so it's almost hard to justify the Tonewinner, even though I really want it.

[@SpecOfTech]

I guess it would really depend on how many channels you want. The Integra is a maximum of 9 speakers not including subwoofers, and the TW is 13 channels for speakers. I guess they both have their benefits, it just depends on your needs...cheers.

[@deepfriedbutter]

@@SpecOfTech Thanks for the reply! I am only running 5.1, so my only real necessity is preouts. I just got off the phone with Aamir and he is very passionate about this unit. Makes me want to support him.

[@JohnSeitz]

On the AT300 how’s the dialogue. And any menu adjustments for dialogue?

[@SpecOfTech]

I had no complaints for the dialogue. There is a DTS Dialogue button on the remote, but to be honest I never tested it. The next time I am doing testing I will try to remember to look into this in more detail.

[@gigikeke12]

Now since the ToneWinner At300 has increased their price to 1700.00, I've lost interest. Can you recommend an AV receiver for under $1000.00 that has 5.1 Pre outs?

[@54tristin]

Isn’t the proper comparison between the tonewinner and the Emotiva?

[@arunmohan9379]

Excellent review ❤️

[@SpecOfTech]

Thanks brother!

[@Jamison42166]

SACD/DSD bitstreaming? DVD-A support? looking for a replacement for my aging integra dtc 9.8

[@NitinKatiyarCircle]

Is it good to move from Denon to Tonewinner? I am new to home theatre and confused in denon 7.2, 9.2 or this 13.3 channel. Just wondoring how it is giving this much channel in this small package and lower price then denon?

[@SpecOfTech]

I would say it's a good move from Denon to Tonewinner. I have had a couple acquaintances make that exact switch and noticed an improvement in channel separation and clarity.

[@pictiger]

I recently purchased the IOTAVX AVX17. I can tell you that it is Identical to the TW offering in many ways. I can't say they are twins, but damn near. The question is, do I also need to get one from TW? For the price, it's almost a no brainer. Would REW be something to use in getting my theater to that next level? Now I need more subs, amps and speakers!

[@rayking507]

What does the iotavx avx17 sound like and what does it compare to.

[@Quaddragon]

I wish they had a deal going on the XLR version of that amp paired with the receiver.

[@EdwardHarding-jr5ow]

Did you have a chance to do room calibration with the AT-300? If you did, how were the results? Also, will this unit pass through 3D video? Really enjoyed your video!

[@SpecOfTech]

I just got another AT-300 in for review, stay tuned on the channel for an updated review.

[@EdwardHarding-jr5ow]

@@SpecOfTech Can't wait to see the improvements since your last review. Perhaps you can do a small part on the actual calibration that would be great.

[@vector4763]

Want this amp but with a receiver with nice easy Bluetooth compatibility any suggestions?

[@zackw4941]

May I suggest investing in some basic binaural recording equipment? Sennheiser has a $50 earbud set for iOS devices that does an astonishingly good job, especially with bass.

[@SpecOfTech]

It's funny you should mention that, I currently have the Zoom H3-VR in my Amazon cart. I like the fact it will record binaural in a stereo format, basically giving a great since of dimension to stereo sound.

[@zackw4941]

@@SpecOfTech Huh, I'm not sure exactly what that is specialized for. But it looks like a 360 degree point source. If you get a binaural recorder of some kind, your audience can experience 3D sound on headphones. I haven't heard Atmos before, but I think a good binaural recording could capture much of the effect. I used the Sennheiser Ambeo to take a few recordings of my new speakers. I should do some more. They've broken in now and sound better than they did when I last recorded them.

[@apratim1919]

Could you please help us understand what was better musically when you say Marantz was better? Was it something specific or overall clarity?

[@SpecOfTech]

I would say overall the sound of the Marantz and the AT300 are very close. The Marantz does have a slight edge in clarity and detail, but you would only hear it if you compare them side by side. There is no way the AT300 can be beat for its price.

[@apratim1919]

@@SpecOfTech good to hear. Thank you so much 🙂🙏🏼

[@TimOHea]

My unit just arrived! Where can I find the manual in English?? The manual that came with it is all in Chinese!

[@Antimonkat]

Hey is that a Sanus Euro av shelf/rack? Looks just like the one I just got, with a few extra shelves. Shame they discontinued it. Still waiting on my av7706, still delayed from Marantz to my vendor. Debating going with something else, since I have the chance, whether down to the av7705 though decided against that since the 05 doesn't have independent sub outs, and the 06 does, or maybe something else. Leaning twords waiting, since it was a good price, and will aesthetically match my amp...just tired of waiting. I am choosing to think it's stuck in the suize canal, lol.

[@SpecOfTech]

Haha, yeah it is 2 Sanus racks stacked one atop the other.

[@Antimonkat]

@@SpecOfTech Good taste man. Now I know I like you!. I should have another shelf coming today. It's a great sturdy little unit, especially for what I paid. Had a little nick in the corner of a shelf in the back so was like $70 off

[@SpecOfTech]

@@Antimonkat lol Great minds think alike 😜.

[@2kdesignstudios72]

I've been out of the game for a while because I figured out early on, there is no endgame in sight when it comes to home theater enthusiast-ism. So if my inquiry seems off, its not meant to be. Wouldn't an integrated 7-ch AVR be a more valid comparison if they still make them in the $2500 range.

[@djdac7451]

Do you know if Tonewinner has any plans in adding Auro 3D?

[@SpecOfTech]

Sorry, not that I know of.

[@seanlacroix]

Auro 3D is pretty much dead in the water now. Not a lot of adoption.

[@djdac7451]

@@seanlacroix Not for me, I use it to up mix 2 channel stereo music at times and in my opinion, it BLOWS AWAY DTS and Dolby

[@dan_hitchman007]

Given that it renders 9.1.4 or 7.1.6 configurations, I wonder if this will be upgradeable to DTS: X Pro.

[@scottfairchild596]

I was wondering if the at300 allows bi-amping?

[@hobbylover3882]

Does Tonewinner AT-300 has Analog Bypass Mode for using CD Player with Analog Audio Output.

[@SpecOfTech]

Yes it does have L/R RCA analog inputs.

[@gstavrou]

Why can't we have a budget minded processor. I've got multiple AV receivers that would be great as multi channel amps.

[@jebcamaro]

No they wouldn’t

[@dan70cutlasssx]

I know the AVM 70 is 3 time the cost Barrett, but is it a significant improvement over this unit?

[@SpecOfTech]

Yes, the Anthem does offer a step up in sound quality.

[@mack4477]

@@SpecOfTech But is it 3x the sound quality to justify the 3x cost?

[@SpecOfTech]

@@mack4477 No I wouldn't say it is 3 times the sound quality.

[@apratim1919]

Could you please help me understand if this unit could work in 2.1 channel mode? L + R + LFE? I want to start with 2.1 channel and then add more speakers later. Could this work with Stereo Outs and a separate LFE for sub woofer? So that I can define my crossovers and have separate gain control from within the unit?

[@SpecOfTech]

Absolutely, you can use this for a 2.1 setup. You can set it up with as little speakers or as many speakers as you want, up to 13 speakers and 3 subwoofers.

[@apratim1919]

@@SpecOfTech thank you so much 🙏🏼

[@0kiruku]

Hi wanted to know if dirac live can be used with AT 300

[@caballerosuave]

@Spec of Tec, I’m curious to know your thoughts about the AT-300 vs. the Marantz 6015. I ask because the latter supports the latest formats, HDMI 2.1 and eArc.

[@SpecOfTech]

I have not heard the 6015, so I can't give a valid opinion on that. I would guess that the AT-300 would have better clarity and channel separation. I would say the AT-300 was close in sound quality to the Marantz AV7706, which would most likely have much better sound quality than the 6015. I will say that I believe the AT300 is one of the best budget processors on the market. Thanks for watching.

[@caballerosuave]

@@SpecOfTech thank you for the response.

[@Cybertron-cs7sk]

@@SpecOfTech thanks for your effort much appreciated I'll use your code when I purchase in the next few weeks.

[@b3owu1f]

Spec: If I use my TV (which like most new ones has all the streaming apps like amazon, netflix, etc) with earc HDMI out.. in to this AT300 processor.. will the tv remote be able to control the volume and on/off features?

[@SpecOfTech]

Yes, as long as you use the CEC features, it will control power and volume...cheers.

[@cliftonjohnson959]

Hi I was wondering if you think this Tone Winner is a better option than my current AV receiver which is the Onkyo TX-RZ 840 for my Home Theater which I only watch Movies. Currently I am looking into budget Processors to pair my Qutlaw 7000 amp.

[@SpecOfTech]

Honestly, I haven't personally heard the 840, so take this with a grain of salt. I preferred the Tonewinner AT-300 over my Denon AVRX4400, and it was pretty much on par with the Marantz AV7706. I would assume that at least the Marantz would out perform the Onkyo 840 in audio quality, but that is an assumption. With that information I would assume the AT300 would at least have better clarity & channel separation over the Onkyo, but again, that's an assumption. You could always try it and if it doesn't work out, return it. I'm quite confident you wouldn't return it though.

[@cliftonjohnson959]

@@SpecOfTech thanks that’s great advice I will definitely give it serious consideration

[@m4nc1n1]

Music the Marantz is a clear winner. I agree tho price is a huge factor

[@shaner3d]

Are you going to be doing a separate video review of the Tonewinner 7 channel amp or have you already done one for it?

[@SpecOfTech]

I might be doing that, not sure yet. It is a slick amp, and a beast. Its about 60 lbs.

[@johnfurious8419]

Are all the channels assignable?..... ex. I have 2 center channels and 4 side surrounds and two back not including height channels.

[@SpecOfTech]

Sorry, I am not 100% sure on that, could you just use an XLR splitter to accomplish the same thing?

[@justinmorris2740]

I won one of these in a raffle. And I had a separate high end 7 Chanel power amp I wanted to use it with and had low expectations when considering the price of say an Anthem processor. I wasn’t let down, the interface is diabolical. The manual provided was all in Chinese, the online manual is senseless Chinglish. So I got it all up and working and thought I could forgive the interface once it was all set up. It’s video processor has something seriously wrong with it, the shop recommended a firmware upgrade, after hunting around I found it and it made no difference. The video processor doesn’t seem to have enough memory and just brings up a caching circle every couple of minutes when playing 4k disks and it’s not the player as the players counter keeps going there just isn’t any video or audio coming out and then about 30 seconds later it comes back having missed 30 seconds of the movie. This happened on every 4k disk I tried. Each time I happened I plugged my high end disk player into my 8k TV and playback wan’t a problem. There is also high pitched clicking on play back when it starts back up after stalling. I went back to my Onkyo AVR and just pre outed it to my power amp and haven’t had a single problem playing 4k since. And to be clear the caching issues also happened with 2K bluray disks as well. The spec sheet looks good. In use it is frustrating and makes movies unwatchable. Weight is usually a good measure of build quality when it comes to AV, you can pick the unit up in one hand easily and I’ve had better quality remotes supplied with $200 DVD players. So the old saying when something seems to be too good to be true it probably is applies to this unit. Not to blow my own trumpet but when you get something like this for free and you put it back in the box a week later its a sad comment on it as I really hoped it would be fantastic. The shop suggested returning it but I can’t see how it is a one off issue I think the design is seriously flawed, they’ve tried to get a $5k job done for $1200 and it can’t be done.

[@SpecOfTech]

I am sorry you had an issue with yours, I can see how that would be frustrating, even for a free unit. I have several friends that have purchased these, and I now have a second unit in for review, none have experienced the issues you have listed. I am quite certain your had a faulty unit. I was actually impressed with how fast the UI is now, it operates without a hiccup. No the UI doesn't look like anything fancy, but it work and works very well. The only real downside to this unit, is the lack of a big name room calibration software. I have had the privilege of testing many different processors and AVR's, and for the price...this one can't be beat. Of course it doesn't have a fancy UI like the big brands, such as Anthem or Denon, but it does sound better than the Denon AVRs. I would say it's almost on par with Anthem AVM70, not quite, but close. This unit only does video passthrough, meaning it shouldn't effect video at all, there is no video processing. I think that is s telltale sign there was something seriously wrong with your unit. Either way, it's too bad you experienced a faulty unit, but that is something that can happen with any brand...big or small. Cheers!

[@Corvetto1991]

I miss in US Processors Auro3D

[@JSchurter]

So my avr is denon 3600h I have it setup as 5.4.4 How will it Improve my system I don't understand what the benefits are av300, I can have 6 atmos channels?

[@rindershow212]

Yes 6 atmos and front wide and surround back

[@mirbelm1]

I bought the tw ad 8300 but for some reason, I am unable to set it up on my television. any one can help? thank you. manual does not help me that much

[@SpecOfTech]

You bought the AD-8300 11 channel amplifier, and you can't connect it to your TV? I'm sorry, I'm not sure I follow the question, can you please elaborate?

[@mirbelm1]

@@SpecOfTech yes, i bought this AD-300 together with the AT-300 in a 5.1 speakers. but i don't know how to set it up

[@mirbelm1]

I connected HDM1 of AT300 to my tv and 5 speakers cable from AD-300 to AT 300 to a corresponding location. but I am unable to set it up

[@xray111xxx]

If you want the sound get the Emotiva RMC or XMC instead. Running full differential balanced, they are amazing for music and will smoke the Marantz. The Marantz gets it done, but the Emotiva has that sound that is good for the music and movies. I think the amplifiers the heavy good deal. Tonewinner is about the only amplifier high end solution if Emotiva is not what you want even if Tonewinner is the source for most Emotiva gear anyway.

[@SpecOfTech]

The Emotiva units do sounds amazing, but they really need to work on the UI and usability of their units. I tested the XMC-2 and it was a real headache to be honest. If they would upgrade the UI and make it operate without so many hiccups, they would have a real winner on their hands.

[@xray111xxx]

It is true. Also still complaints of HDMI issues though that is getting better. Emotiva needs more polish on the UI for sure. Has been that way in all generations of their preamplifier processors. Good sounding products looking for the experience to match.

[@4gbmeans4gb61]

How many watts per channel?

[@VinnyIyer]

So..is you opinion that this is better than a Denon receiver (like the 4400H you mentioned), but not as good as Marantz separates (even though it comes close). I'm currently running a Denon AVR 3400H and need just 7 channels(in 5.1.2). Would I better off upgrading to say a Anthem MRX 740 or would the Tonewinner combo be better? They would end up being similarly priced..the Anthem would be a bit cheaper.

[@SpecOfTech]

Yes, you got it right. I would say it is better than the Denon and close to the Marantz. Tough foe me to say regarding the Anthem 740, I havent heard it. But the Tonewinner with the amps is an absolutely killer deal!

[@VinnyIyer]

@@SpecOfTech You weren't kidding. Got the AT-300 a month or so ago, and paired with the AD-7300 amp, this combo kicks my Denon receiver to high heaven. And the Denon was no slouch. The interface is quite old school and I wouldn't recommend it unless you are an early adopter and a little bit geeky, but the manual calibration capabilities of the AT-300 are far superior to Audyssey XT32 with the Audyssey app. The AT-300 has made everything sound better and is a steal. And of course, dealing with Aamir is always a pleasure.

[@SpecOfTech]

@@VinnyIyer So glad you are happy with the set up brother. I forwarded your kind words to Aamir as well.

[@labalo5]

So can i use something like that this for my home setup as i have a two channel setup with 2 subs. Technically just ran in 2.0 with a 2 ch amp. I am in a shared space, so I need to decode Atmos or Dolby in the simplest form making it 2.1. I’m not looking to add any more channels or speakers to my set up, it is primary for 2 channel listening.

[@SpecOfTech]

You could use this for only 2 channel no problem. You just need to change the settings so it knows there are only 2 speakers, set their distances and levels, and done.

[@labalo5]

@@SpecOfTech thank you for the reply! Great channel and thanks for the vids

[@rayking507]

How does the tonewinner compare to IOTA VX AVX17 does anyone know. Thank u.

[@SpecOfTech]

I haven't heard the IOTA, hopefully someone else sees this comment that can weigh in.

[@mandrellrob7141]

What about for gaming pass through

[@snauspockets9924]

I have an 11 channel system with front and rear heights... How do we get to 16 channels? I can think of two more Atmos speakers for a total of six and front wides but that would only be 15 channels. Where's that last channel go?

[@SpecOfTech]

Manufacturers have started counting subwoofer channels in their channel count. This processor has 13 speaker channels and 3 subwoofer channels, for a total of 16.

[@snauspockets9924]

@@SpecOfTech Denon doesn't seem to be doing that yet. Thanks for the clarification. Seems almost a little bit sketchy to include the sub channels