Moving to separates

Almost all AVR's lie about RMS power. They show 100w, but that is 2ch mode, in all ch mode, they put out 60w or less. If you have ever opened up an AVR compared to a 2ch integrated, it's amazing how much stuff is packed into the AVR.

Yes, dollar for dollar you should notice an upgrade with separates. The big downfall of separates are all the cords. With an HT setup, you are talking about a dozen RCA cables, a dozen speaker cables, then all the power cables. 

Have an TOTL Marantz AVR running 9.4.2, it's amazing for what it is, if the music is Atmos encoded it's cool, but my 2ch (separates) sounds so much better. 

@bassbuyer Thank you, you are in almost my exact situation.  I also have Arendal 1723's.  That is helpful.

@skeptikal -  There has been a lot of good suggestions and info supplied already.  I I looked at the pictures you took of the room as well.  Looks good, nice acoustic treatments as well.  (Although the two small sofas directly in front of the speakers are probably not helping things.)   After being in this hobby for 40+ years, the best suggestion I can make to you right now is to borrow a decent stereo power amp (for the front L/R speakers) and set of decent interconnect cables and give it a try.  While upgrading to a better preamp, streamer, etc. should (and I stress should) be an approvement over the AVR, don't worry about them yet.  Start with the 2 channel amp. You might like it, you might not.  Either way, it may give you a better idea of what direction to go.

In the end, it is all about what you like and makes you happy.

... my 2 cents...  

Jeff

I'd suggest getting out and listening to few systems either through local shops or audio members. If you arent sure if you would be able to tell the difference the first thing you need are a few good reference points. Otherwise you might spend significant money for gains that you might not even care about hearing.

Good luck and have fun.

My first system growing up was separates.  A few years ago, I thought about going the other way and I bought a Hegel H390 and it really sounded good, but I went back to separates just a couple years later.   I changed for a change in the second and no other reason.  I guess I’ll reinstall the Hegel this weekend and double triple check.