2. home-theater
  3. 131379-102885

Cambridge CXR200 vs Anthem MRX720

Anybody able to compare the audio quality and character of the Cambridge CXR200 vs the Anthem MRX720? I don't live in an area where I can demo either but am interested in upgrading an old Pioneer receiver (old enough that it doesn't have HDMI) for a 5.1 setup in a living room. It will be used probably 85% for TV/movies & 15% for stereo via streaming, CDs, and a VPI Nomad turntable.


Speakers are B&W 685s2s for LR and in-wall B&Ws for the center and surrounds. SVS SB2000 sub.


The room is far from sonically optimized with a large opening to another room and one wall being mostly floor to ceiling windows, so I'm thinking ARC might make the Anthem a better option. I can't ignore how glowing the reviews of the Cambridge sound is for a receiver with so few bells & whistles...plus the idea of an all British system (except the sub) just seems to make sense for admittedly no justifiable reason at all. Won't be able to add Atmos anytime soon so it's not an advantage for me. Any comparison of the ease of using the built in streaming functions/apps/etc for the family would be an added plus though. Thanks!


I realize that a dedicated stereo would give better sound quality but I want the best single box solution to keep the setup as simple as possible for the wife and kids...my dedicated stereo is in another room anyway for when I really want to enjoy music.

ethos123

Showing 1 response by ethos123

ethos123 OP
83 posts
 
audiotroy,

As a dealer for both brands, I'm interested if you might have insight into the recent price drop for the Cambridge. Were the CXR's simply not selling at the original price or does it represent the imminent arrival of new receiver models for Cambridge (which might include HDR, Atmos, &/or room correction)? Have there been large price reductions with previous models prior to the announcement of their replacements? 

Have you or your customers had any reliability issues with either product? Also, how would you compare the NAD 787? I've heard NAD is beloved by many and I love the modular design for improved "future-proofing" but have also heard their products have a reputation of being somewhat glitchy/unreliable. Currently have no need for 4K or Atmos in the room of intended use, but it looks like DiracLive will be available with NAD soon and that is something I might appreciate.

Definitely leaning towards Cambridge, but having never had room correction I'm not sure what I'm missing out on in foregoing that feature.
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