2. home-theater
  3. 151959-96112

Anthem vs. Marantz for Focal speakers

I recently moved to a new home which was prewired for a 5.1 system. I bought a focal flax 5.1 system for 2k. Now I Need an amp or a receiver to complement my speakers. I've been into high end audio for a while but never really ventured into home theater. I know focals can be quite forward with their titanium tweeter, so would like to take that into consideration. I also would like to use these speakers for streaming tidal into 5 channels. I have oppo 205, which could do this very well. I also have a separate preamp (krell KRC3) which I could use to bypass the Receiver/ processor.  I also have an old Mcintosh MX-136 paired with krell 5 channel amp which I'm currently using as a preamp for a separate 5.1 system in basement.

I'm not looking for a reference system. I have a decent stereo system for music in my dedicated listening room. I'm looking for a processor/amp/reciever that would take full advantage of what focals have to offer. I would prefer not to spend more than 2k, new or used. I don't need any latest atmos etc, just a simple 5.1 system. I heard that anthem and marantz are quite capable receivers. Any other ideas? Anthem mrx520 looks decent, how does it sound?
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Showing 1 response by eziggy

eziggy
137 posts
 
I have a Marantz 8805 driving the HT side of our system and couldn't be happier.  I have always wanted to try out Anthem as well, both are good choices, so it's all about sound signature and features.  I haven't heard the Focals, if they tend to be on the brighter side, I would recommend Marantz.

I have even tried out the 8805 for 2ch music, while it isn't as precise and accurate as a dedicated DAC it is musical and has an immense soundstage.  Just a pleasant experience especially if you are used the even warmer McIntosh gear.  I was pretty impressed how much you get for the price with the 8805.  Their HEOS streaming interface is decent, but quality is great and supports native Tidal and Amazon streaming.  

Depending on high up you go in their respective lines, build quality and upgradeability is something to look at.  I know Marantz's higher end gear is upgradeable to HDMI 2.1 and are built like tanks.  Some of their processors/receiver support recently got updates to support movie/sound formats like IMAX etc.

ARC is better regarded, though I wouldn't count on it to change the sound signature dramatically.  From what I have heard, it should fine tune and balance things better than Marantz's Audyssey, especially in a less than ideal room.
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