I do think they do sound different to some degree depending on your entire system I just recently tried to upgrade my HT Receiver(second system). I have a 2011 Pioneer Elite A/B I thought could be easily improved. Bought Marantz, Integra, Anthem 100-120W more recent models and resold them all. My crazy Pioneer receiver in analog direct mode sounded much more realistic, warmer and better bass at low volume than any of them. I confirmed it sounds pretty darn good and I enjoy it as something different than my main set up. 🤯 I did not expect that at all and I have now given up on my search. I chalk it up to system synergy???
HT Receivers Compared
Simple Question: Are any really better than the others - Marantz, Yamaha, Arcam, NAD, Rotel, et al in sound quality? They all seem to get 5 star (or close) Performance reviews in Sound and Vision. The local high fi shop even said they're all about the same. What do you guys think? I almost tend to believe them. I bought into the hype a time ago in buying a Anthem receiver that ended up being supremely overrated IMHO.