Glad the MRX 510 works well. I have a Pioneer Elite VSX 51 class A/B 90W (since 2011) that I can’t seem to replace on my HT 2nd system. They now sell for $200 used. It sounds better in 2 channel Analog Direct mode than several amps and is as enjoyable as my 2 channel system just different. I tried several more expensive HT 90-120 watt amps from, Marantz, Integra, Anthem MRX510. None sounded as good. Most lacked low volume bass and sounded too solid state unlike the Pioneer. I even compared it to an LTA Z40 + with nos mullad el34’s an $8000 amp and low volume bass was much better with the Pioneer. LTA was better at high volume, soundstage, detail clarity but lacked warmer tones. Sold them all and I keep shaking my head in disbelief and given up replacing it for now. Crazy how this hobby makes no logical sense at times…🤯
Best 2 channel music quality on a 5.1 home theater AVR
Hello,
New to this forum. Building a system over the years and time to upgrade my AVR.
Current gear… Onkyo TXNR 686 - rated at 100 W/CH - 2 channels driven
Front - PSB Image T-5 (Bi-amplified)
Center-PSB Image C-5
Surround - PSB Alpha LRC
Sub- SVS SB 2000 Pro
Ive collected everything on a budget, either second hand deals or deep discounts. Im not too particular when it comes to Cinema sound, the Onkyo is just fine. Where I do feel like the Onkyo is lacking is with Music, in particular 2.0 and 2.1 listening both audio quality and power. I’d like to upgrade my AVR as I feel that the front speakers are much more capable than what the current Onkyo can provide. I can also see upgrading the speakers at some point. I have a budget of $2,200 Max, would ideally like to keep it under $2,000. My goal is high quality 2.0 or 2.1 music listening. I do like to listen to 4.1 music in all channel stereo and studio mix setting from time to time.
My question is… What would be the best, an upper tier AVR from Yamaha Aventage, Anthem or marantz? A mid tier AVR with front preout and run a higher power 2 channel or even a 5 channel amp?
I’ve toyed with the idea of middle to lower tier Yamaha AVR with preouts along with the Peachtree Nova 300 with home theater bypass. This would be a more complicated system for other people in the house to use.
Thanks