Yes just looking at price alone, the Marantz SR5008 has a current list price of $899.00 and I believe the Cambridge Audio AZUR 650R had a list price in 2011 at approx $1799.00 per some on-line articles. So that alone should raise a flag. Just because power ratings are published the same doesn't mean they are equal in quality and if they are hand selected, etc. Marantz makes great products and I have a Marantz Blu-ray DVD/SACD universal player and love it. But their power ratings are somewhat misleading. I agree with Bobnegi to go with the Cambridge unit if you can swing it. You're going to have it for a long time. Yes knowing what your listening room size is LWH is important and what kind of furnishings are in the room.
Marantz SR5008 vs Cambridge Audio AZUR 650R
Hi all..I'm quite a newbie to this. Deciding between the Marantz SR5008 and the Cambridge Audio AZUR 650R (too outdated??) to drive Anthony Gallo Ref 3.5s (front speakers), Anthony gallo reference Strada 2 center and strada 2 rear speakers and a gallo TR-1 subwoofer. Which would be a better bet? (Just to add, I also have the ref 3 SA to drive the reference 3.5's). Any thoughts would be more than appreciated...:-) Thanks so much!