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Anthem AV receiver better than Denon as a preamp

I asked this question in a previous thread and it turned into a bit of a gongshow, so I am going to try it again, but ask a very specific question this time.

Once again, I NEED to utilize an AV receiver in my setup. I have a 3 channel Bryston 5Bst amp utilized through the preamp outs on my Denon 2808ci to power my front L front R and center. The AVR powers the rears and a second zone (my patio).
I am not in love with how my Denon performs as a pre for music ( but a separate 2 channel pre is not an option for many reasons..respectfully, please don't suggest). I am currently looking at the Anthem MRX line of AV receivers.
Does anyone have any experience using these ? Would this provide me a significant enough improvement over my Denon when using as a preamp (and powering my rears and 2nd zone)?
dallyd31

Showing 4 responses by dallyd31

dallyd31 OP
34 posts
 
Thank you but as I stated in the rigianl post, I am looking specifically at AV receivers. This went off the rails in the previous thread and I tried to make it quite clear what I was looking for and asking about.

Not really interested in Emotiva...the Anthem has what I need as specified in the post (power to run rear channels AND a second zone).
dallyd31 OP
34 posts
 
And I certainly don't need another amp. I have the Bryston which is generally considered a world class amp.
dallyd31 OP
34 posts
 
Odd about the Anthem. I hear good things and the Stereophile review is great, but paraneer say it is no better than the Denon. Not sure what to think.
Would love the Arcam, but may be a bit out of my budget. Also regarding NAD, great stuff, but they have just had so many reliability issues I am leary. Especially when buying used like I am looking to do to keep it afforadable (for example, the Anthem MRX 500 is $1500 new, but I can get used locally for $750). Would like to keep it under $1200
dallyd31 OP
34 posts
 
Paraneer...will the Arcam AVR360 give me the same performance as the 400 just will a little less power and features ? Or is it a different pre section all together ?
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