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Marantz AV8003 Processor

I've just received my new processor for 4 days now. After reading previous reviews, the Michael Fremer one really scared me away from the processor because of the perceived difficulties in switching inputs and a difficult remote.
I can assure everyone that inputs are easy to switch. every input is linked directly to a number. The remote's backlight can be set up to a minute. Setting personal input names and links to hdmi, coax etc can b e a little confounding but I figured everything out under an hour and half. Sound quality is good but I have yet to set the EQ with the mic. Sound is not quite as transparent as my Simaudio Attraction 7.1 but blue ray playback with the new sound formats are fantastic. Hope this will help.
anwill
rustinr's avatar
rustinr
2 posts
 
Anwill - What amp(s) are you using with it? I just got an AV8003 and (as best as I could figure out) played my CD player through the 'Pure Direct' mode (analog) and the Wadia iTransport through the digital input. I'm using a Carver A-500x with a Carver SD/A-450 CD player, and the sound was just plain bad. I was using my old Kenwood KR-V 7060 as a pre-amp before and the sound was detailed and open with a decent sound stage, but switching to the AV8003 just killed it all. I was just curious as it looks like a fantastic unit and perhaps I just need to adjust something.

Thanks!
mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,602 posts
 
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I've had the 8003 for two years and it has worked flawlessly. Great sound and easy to use. You have to read the manual cover to cover a couple of times to really get familiar with it. I only use it for dvd's and television. I've never bothered to see what it could do on 2-channel.
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hubbman's avatar
hubbman
25 posts
 
Just picked one of these up new for 1500.00. Did I do good there?

This is a replacement for a much more expensive Theta Casablanca 3 that I unfortunately must part with due to the march of technology and Theta's utter lack of moving forward with the times and employing HDMI support. Yes, I know it's coming soon, but they want 5K for the upgrade!

At least I'll be running this receiver through Theta amps! I'm hoping I wont be noticing a huge drop in performance going this less expensive route.

Any thoughts or comments on this painful move?
mitch4t's avatar
mitch4t
1,602 posts
 
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You got an excellent bargain for a processor at that price. I cannot vouch for its two channel strengths, I've never taken the time to see. Be sure and read the manual....twice. You'll find that the unit is very flexible and has a ton of features.
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firedrums
83 posts
 
I own the AV 8003 - It's a reasonable priced, terrific Processor - It sounds wonderful in theater applications, but like most processors, it dosen't make for the best 2 channel preamp.
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