Marantz AV8801 - 11.2-Channel Surround Sound Processor (SSP) | Review

[NorthStar]

Bob
On an earlier thread I said I didn't want spend much on the processor. I believe I may have to spend a bit more in order to get the quality level I may want.
Barry

If my memory serves me well, you mentioned that the home theater (movies) equation (at this time) was taking priority.
And most people in that case use the HDMI connections.

Some of them surround sound processors put the main accent on the multichannel analog audio stage (analog multichannel connections - XLR and/or RCA).

_____________The Krell Evolution 707 (mentioned above by Design Audio Verity) retails for $30,000, and that price doesn't include the JBL Synthesis Room EQ system and speakers and subwoofers. ...That is quite a bit more.

And the reason why previously I asked you what was your main objective (music purity, or movie impact), and what type of connection you were contemplating using.

If my memory is still intact I believe that you mentioned a $3,000 or less price range. I might be wrong though.
But like me sometimes, we are flexible with finances, in the pursuit of a better surround sound experience at home.

Barry, how much is the Krell Foundation SSP? ...And the McIntosh MX121 A/V Controller (just got it - $6,000 list).

If your budget is $5,000 or less I will tell you which ones I think are best (I already did).
And if it is $10,000 or less, that too I mentioned few (Classe, Bryston, Arcam, Anthem).
And if it is sky is the limit, then it's James Bond double 007 - JBL Synthesis system or Krell Evolution 707.

It can go even way more complex than that, or simplest (I already made one allusion, with Dirac Live in combination with a reasonably affordable SSP).
I'm simply replying to what you're asking without going to extremes.
We're all different, and I only want to follow your line of thought.

And by the way, with a SSP like the Denon AVP-A1HDCI ($7,500 list), and with Audyssey MultEQ XT32 (extra $1,200),
it too is restricted @ 48kHz with Audyssey engaged.
But the DACs implementation sure does that it sounds better when using its Stereo analog output (XLR or/and RCA) as it is using four DACs per each stereo channel in dual-differential balanced mode.
And for the multichannel analog out also (B-B PCM-1792 all around).

 

[NorthStar]

I have had just about all processors mentioned. I can comment on each but will list my favorite. Krell 707 with JBL subs and speakers with a JBL Synthesis room EQ. Everything else is a distant second. Krell Foundation Bryston Classe is a toss up. Then Anthem. The key is the Synthesis room EQ and JBL speakers. The compression drivers just do movies better than anything I have heard.

Audio dealer? ...Or high end audiophile and music/movie lover? ...Both?

 

[Big B]

Thanks Bob
My use stays the same. 95% movies. The MX121 or the Krell Foundations 5 to 6 Cdn. That's not a big jump for the better quality. Hope to see Classe' tomorrow or Sat.
Barry

 

[NorthStar]

All mentioned are amazing products. Some just a little better sound and some with more bells and whistles. If anyone needs help putting together a theater room please PM . I have done many rooms over the last 17 years and many different levels. I would be glad to share my experiences with anyone who asks.

Here is my potential system so far.
Wilson Alexia and Mezzo front three.
Wilson watch (4) for surrounds or JBL Synthesis?
2 JL113 subs
Mark Levinson 533 to start
2 Jobb 225 to run the surrounds
Krell Foundation SSP
Oppo 105
Shunyata cables if the budget allows
Stillpoints ultra 5

open to suggestions
Barry

I would go all Wilson because the drivers and tweeters will be very similar with your mains and surrounds. I used the Mark Levinson 533H for a couple of years with the Krell 707 and Mark Levinson 532H with excellent results. I just sold a bryston Sp3 and three 7B's and a 14B. Tomorrow we are installing a Krell foundation processor with a seven channel Sunfire amp. I will let you know how it sounds.

Great look forward to the feedback.
Barry

Alright, I just read, now, these last few posts.

 

[NorthStar]

Thanks Bob
My use stays the same. 95% movies. The MX121 or the Krell Foundations 5 to 6 Cdn. That's not a big jump for the better quality. Hope to see Classe' tomorrow or Sat.
Barry

Yes, I was right; your priority was on movies.

ME!
1. I wouldn't go with a McIntosh SSP. ...I've simply read too many issues.
2. The Krell Foundation: I don't know anything about.
3. The Classe SSPs: Yes, I've read some great things about.

 

[Big B]

Thanks Bob

 

[Mike]

Barry - you could also join the "die waiting" crowd and sign up for an Emotiva XMC-1....it's coming out next month, no really it is, no really....LMAO.

If you are 95% movies, then go with one of the big boys: Krell, Bryston, Classe, Mcintosh (but only MX151). Sonically they sound great, but none of them do Dolby ProLogic IIz, so I stick with my Marantz.