I just wanted to say that I respect your truthfulness. Even though you're getting some 'hate' from some in the industry for your honesty, I for one appreciate it!
I'm still rolling with my 20-year old Yamaha RX-V995 receiver -- which I'm admittedly too attached to. This video has helped me decide to make the leap to modern-day surround codecs (learned a new word, too). Thanks very much. Will watch more of your videos to hopefully guide me to a reasonable upgrade choice. I'm excited.
I'm pretty broke, but I find that buying the older stuff can make for an AMAZING home system for the price of a cheap soundbar. I have an Onkyo SR806, Yamaha RX-V1600, Emotiva XPA-200, and 4 pieces of Sony ES products (ie.. SACD, Cassette). The highest price I paid was $200 for the Emotiva, and all but the Onkyo came with original box with manual and remotes. I would never trade my setup for some sound bar or HTiaB.
This video was FANTASTIC! I couldn't agree with you more. There is such BS in the Home Theater industry. I definitely appreciate your honesty and subtle humor in the way you presented this important topic. I don't comment much on RUclips videos, but I HAD to comment on this one. GREAT JOB!
The key to good audio is Bose speakers connected to 2 gauge gold speaker wire. I've heard things I've never heard before listening to this setup. Mostly shouts of, "You're a freakin moron!!!" in perfect unison from friends, family, and neighbors. The sound is so pure and life like.
I only use 3.1 setup using a Cambridge Audio amp and blu ray player. I bought my Dali bookshelf speakers in 1998 and they still sound great. I bought a Krix subwoofer just last year and it really added life to my system. My setup suits me fine and I'm happy.
4:05 exactly. I recently bought an A/V receiver. I went with the older and higher model, I bought Denon AVR-X7200WA instead of Denon AVR-X6300H which had similar price. Then I found out that new Denon models stopped supporting front wide channels. So you cannot go with 9.1.2 setups or even with just 9.1 setup. I am very happy with my purchase.
There are very few in the Audio industry whose opinion I respect more than yours Gene. Thank you for having the courage to speak honesty even at the cost of industry backlash. As always keep up the good work and strive on with integrity and honesty.
Ryan yes sadly the days of flagship super receivers are long gone. If you want a brand that still maintains the integrity of a meaty amp section but doesn't give you ALL the latest features, NAD is probably your closest bet. Nothing by today's measure in a one-box solution comes close to the Denon AVR-5805 or Yamaha RX-Z11. Those were works of art. Even the only Onkyo / Integra stuff was really superb back in the day.
Gene, I've NEVER been a fan of receivers, going back to the 1970s. That was when I got a separate amp and tuner/preamp (Altec 721, if memory serves). Not only are the setups more versatile, but when you're not trying to cram power gear in with processing gear, the electronics always seems to work better. Right now I'm using a Marantz 7700 driving Emotiva Pro Stealth 8s in the front, and it's clean no matter what the level.
They're only getting worse. I used to recommend the HK 3490 stereo receiver for people wanting to get into good stereo quality. It was a nice and competent start to a respectable system. The replacement is now half the weight and runs hotter. What an improvement...not! The industry is adding every Bluetooth, wifi, pandora/spotify whistle, while the meat of the amp is being reduced. Screw this. DSP units are now cheaper and more affordable. I'm gonna go active and flip a bird to these crappy consumer units and ham-fisted passive crossovers.
Can't tell you just how much I've enjoyed your videos since discovering your channel, Gene. What I can tell you, however, is that up until I did, I didn't even know what I didn't know when it came to home audio! I have learned SO MUCH from you guys and have become a much wiser (and happier) consumer of home theater equipment as a result. Nothing beats getting to go into an audio shop now & flexing the knowledge that you guys have given me. No one in my family will ever be swindled by an unscrupulous electronics salesman again. lol Thanks so much & keep up the great work!
This video is spot on!! Too many people rushing out to get the next big thing only to find it's a very minor update that has barley nothing to do with the AQ. This video needs to be seen by all, especially with everyone that gets itchy feet.
Biggest upgrade impact by far was quality dual subs for me and eliminating that cheapo single sub. Properly setup and balanced they crushed my other upgrades for the smile factor. Thanks Gene, keep telling like it is.
nice info, just upgraded my 2008 Denon to a 2017 Yamaha, added Atmos ceiling speakers and replaced my very old bose 501's with Klips added 12 ga. speaker cable and new HDMI 4k cables to go with my new 82inch screen.... it's an awesome upgrade to my 2008 system. Your vids were lots of help.
About six months ago I bought an Oppo UDP 203 blu Ray player for many of the reasons you described. The old one was very slow. I was blown away by the improvement. I even noticed a picture and sound quality improvement. I also added two bookshelf speakers to take my setup from 5.2 to 7.2, and I really love it. Something I noticed of course was just like in a real movie theater, you’re sort of expecting 100% sound all the time and that’s not the case. It’s just that when the sound should be there, it is. Especially in 7.1 blu Ray movies.
Really excellent advice and enjoyed listening. I have what was a fairly high end 5.1 home cinema system purchased in 2009 and recently have been considering a new LG OLED TV to replace my pioneer Kuro. But i would also need a new 4k amp and 4k blu-ray player to get the most from it. But my existing set up still is very good. And you're right its just not good value for money to swap old but perfectly good kit for new and better kit but with such a big cost impact. The return on investment just isn't there. I am however now going to consider two sub woofers!
Gene great video! Best AV investment I ever made was subscribing to your channel! :-) As for recent purchases, bought a second hand xpa-5 a few months ago. What an absolute beast, weighs more than double the amount of my receiver. I had high expectations but everything you guys said was true my AV receiver must have an eenie weenie amp section because with the xpa my Kef Q900's are singing! Now on the hunt for an xmc-1!
@MAD GRUMPYMAN my speakers go down to 30 hertz, basically that bass is great on this speakers they are Klipsch rp280 f, I'm basically putting 2 subs for the theatre not for music, don't really need a sub for music the speakers are great
I recently put a Denon 9.2 Atmos receiver in my system with an additional 2 channel amp to make it 11.2. The difference is AWESOME! Atmos encoded movies are light years beyond DTS-HD, etc etc. I'm with you on the cables. Smoke and mirrors. Digital cables will either pass the appropriate signal or they won't. Period. Same with speaker wire. Just get the right gauge and that's it. My next upgrade is going to be acoustic panels. My room is way to lively to get the most out of my equipment. Going to try and make my own sound absorbing panels. See how that goes! Great video. I totally agree with everything you said.
My favorite upgrade was getting a proper rack to put my equipment in. Beats cheap theater furniture from Target any time of the day! Yes, they're pricey, but if you don't need a lot of space, look at the ~30-36" tall ones. I have one in a regular sized living room/theater room and it doesn't stand out. AND, look around, search the webs over and over. I found a RCS-1824 for almost a full 50% of the list price (with free shipping and lucked into no tax) and I love it!
Talking about speakers, I'm still running a pair of 1979 NS1000s balanced atop a pair of YST-SW800s as my mains. Now while I will admit they are not as efficient as some of the modern day stuff, the sound quality is undeniable and I don't plan on trading either of them any time soon. I've never been too concerned about cables though, except that they be beefy 10guage or so, with soldered connectors. I generally just get these from a local hardware store when I need to. I really don't understand the whole oxygen free, molecularly aligned, ion enhanced, space shuttle tested, cable religion thing. Cheers Gene, thanks again for the informative video.
Speakers if you go from a lower end to a higher end model along with room austoics can make what you already have sound better. Those are likely 2 of the biggest things you can do to get better audio.
New house, started with my 8060st and A60 modules and just using the built in subs on the towers along with some OLD Klipsch bookshelf speakers hung from the ceiling for Atmos channels on my SR5010. I've since added an SR7011 using the 5010 for new RSL C34E in ceiling speakers, rear 8020ST Det Tech's and side Def Tech in wall speakers for 7.1.4. I also added an SVS PB 16 Ultra and for the first time in my life I have true surround sound and sub subsonic sound in my house. Last week added the Oppo UDP203 and enjoying that, looking forward to Atmos/TrueHD support on .mkv files soon. Last step will be to score a lightly used Sony 665 projector and a ~180" motorized screen to use at night with all the lights off, lights on time will be seen on my open box 79UB9800 TV I scored for $3K last year. Thanks for the great video, definitely agree on the cable scenario, I used to love mess with the sales guys when they told me toslink cables that were expensive were better than my cheapies, light is light, right? :) BTW, my favorite thing to do is score last year's models during close outs at big discounts instead of the latest and greatest if I can. :)
I really needed an upgrade. I haven't upgraded my sound system since 2001. Sad to say, but I am just putting it out there. I always had great speakers, so I decided to start off with a Yamaha A3080. From there I will begin began change other components, like my Blue which was purchased 2014 and the TV. I really appreciate you schooling us on what to buy and what not to buy. Thank you. Of course I subscribed to your channel. :-) Looking forward in learning more.
Just got the Oppo UDP 205. Running the 5.1 analog outputs into my Yamaha DSP A-1 (circa 1998) and it sounds great. Will eventually upgrade to a new Yamaha A/V receiver, which is next on my list; will do it for the HDMI compatibility/simplicity. Great advice. Thanks for putting it together.
Still have my old Onkyo 7.1 receiver and I think it is breaking down. Takes ages to start up and lacks support for 4K so I have to connect all my devices to TV and run passthrough for the sound to the reciever. So I'm looking to upgrade and I will be getting a 9.1 receiver with support for atmos but I'm gonna wait until my Onkyo breaks. Good advice and good video!
Last year i bought a Denon DHT-1311XP which comes with very thin cables from factory, like 22AWG. In this particular case it's convenient to buy any larger thicker cables? Like you said, i have no trouble at all with my equipment, but maybe i can improve something. Can´t tell you how much i´ve learned with you guys, thank you so much and i will, for sure, keep listening!
Everything you said was DEAD ON Gene! I was wondering what some of the topics were going to be & what was going to be said. You nailed it on the info. There were a few things I was hoping you'd mention, for those who aren't in the know, you mentioned nearly all of them. Kept it simple, understandable & to the point! Well done🤙🏼...btw, where has Hugo been? He cracks me up, always up beat & laughing, I hope he is still on board.
Hi, I'm new to this channel and you may well have covered this topic. My experience is that most people are ignorant about the importance of having components that are HDCP 2.2 compatible when upgrading to UHD/4K. If they're not, they won't talk to each other. For example, I can't use my AV receiver as the output source of signal to my UHD television because the television is HDCP 2.2 compliant but the receiver is not. To overcome this so I have both picture and sound I simple connect the source components (UHD player etc) to the televisions HDMI input and use the optical audio output from the TV to return an audio signal to my receiver. The only drawback is that I can't use the receiver as a switching device for HDMI inputs.
I just recently bought a 4k Ultra HD OLED TV so also needed to upgrade my blu ray player and receiver as my current one does not support any of the new standards for 4k UHD etc. Had my old receiver for almost 8 years. Still works great!
Thanks for videos. I was deciding how to upgrade my home theater . After watching some of your videos, I decided to add a second subwoofer and decided to run wires for back surrounds. I'm going to use old speakers that I've had since the early nineties for now .7.2 is enough for me Thanks again.
Absolutely fantastic video and I am so pleased to see you back on your feet safe and well but I must admit it is so nice to see a supplier speak the truth because new is not always better I've commented on your videos sometimes and with new stuff it's like a very strange version of fishing it catches more fisherman than fish and you couldn't have put it better if something is not broken do not fix it great video love from the UK
I kinda upgraded everything, except the cables. All my gear was 8-10 years old. That being said I went with the previous year's models and got everything on clearance and saved a ton. I wanted a bigger TV and a projector, which meant a new receiver with more hdmi in and out, otherwise I would have stuck with the old one. I did go with a separate power amp for the mains, the new speakers were simply because I didn't have good speakers and decided this is the time.Mediabridge are incredible, and not at all expensive, for speaker wire, Amazon Basics. They're my new go to cable brands.
Oppo, fantastic brand. I have a BDP-103 that was released back in 2012-2013 (I think) and they are STILL releasing firmware updates. Great product support. Great Video also, always learning something new. Cheers from Melbourne Australia.
You know what could be awesome? A 10 week, 1 step per week mini-series on improving your home theater system for less than $100 (or maybe $0?). I think I doubled my system's performance just with correct placement and running Audyssey the right way (with multiple mic positions within two feet of the primary position). At the end of each vid, you should offer your consultation package, which I purchased and am getting great value out of. I think a ton of more advanced enthusiasts are missing out on getting an expert's direct advice on how to level up their specific systems without wasting money. Keep telling the truth, Gene!
I have a used Lexicon MC-8 non-HDMI, when new it was $6,000, I got it for $250. It sounds way better than a $2500 HDMI type of today's processor. Even though it doesn't have Tru Dolby, etc, the dacs and the rest of this high end piece more than makes up for it. I'm good...
Upgraded panel 12 months ago from a 10 year old Samsung 1080p HL-S6187W DLP that was ISF calibrated to a 4K Sony XBR X65850C Had been using my old Oppo BDP 83 and Denon 3808ci until a month ago. Tried playing a native 4k source (Planet Earth II broadcast) from my Dish Hopper 3. No pass thru old Denon. Got bit by the upgradeitis bug, sold the old Denon for 150 and the Oppo for 170 and settled on Oppo UDP 203 new from Crutchfield for 485 shipped and a Denon AVR X4300H for 1149 from an authorized dealer. Was happy to get 2k+ of new new for 1,316 by doing a minimal amount of wheeling and dealing. Now new stuff sitting in shipping boxes until the last component(s) arrives, matching surround Yamaha's from my current 7.1 to install as front heights and expand the soundstage to 7.1.2 After 9 years and a very demonstrable non 4k passthru experience with the mrs, was a sensible and subsidized upgrade cycle....
I enjoyed another video. Thanks. I just upgraded from a Pioneer to a Marantz. Pioneer HDMI Outputs died. Also just added SVS rear elevation. That’s my latest changes.
Thanks for the much needed tips I just bought a denon 2800h because my old pioneer vsx1128k was incompatible with the newer Apple TV 4K and my TV. The pioneer is still solid although 10 years old but it was time and I will still keep pioneer and use it elsewhere in the house.
Thanks Gene - appreciate the video. Personally I have found upgrading speakers to have the largest impact in terms of improving sound quality. I recently bought a Denon X7200WA and have a PA for my front 3 speakers running a 7.2.4 setup. Honestly couldn't be happier with it. Going to keep it for a good few years. I'll just use a separate HDMI cable to go to the TV once HDMI 2.1 becomes useful. So pleased I bought it now rather than at RRP.
Kimber Kable silver interconnect cables have made a huge difference in my system. Their speaker wire is great too. Bought then 25 years ago and I am glad that I did. Very expensive, but worth it. HDMI, just get Blue Jeans
Had a Denon AVR 2808 but couldn't handle just 2 HDMI inputs anymore. I already upgraded amplification using the pre outs so I decided when upgrading to move to the Marantz 7702mkii pre/pro. Plenty of HDMI inputs and now room to grow into Atmos when I get there, HDMI 2 spec and HDCP 2.2 compliant
I really enjoyed this video and I strongly agree with the advice given in the video. I tend to the opposite extreme. My speakers are nearly 20 years old and I just recently updated my receiver and Blu-Ray player. I can't follow all the advice due to room limitations in my house, but I appreciate the honest advice. It is also refreshing to hear audio enthusiast that doesn't buy the crazy audiophile snake oil. Thank you!
I have had an Onkyo 5.1 AVR and the Bose Acoustimas speakers since 2009 but then I used to live in a 450 sq ft. apartment as a student working night shifts. It was plenty for the room size and my neighbors LOL. However, in the new house, I have a 20x20 bedroom and needed to upgrade. So, I started with the AVR first and picked up a Denon S930H - 7.2. Added the Bose speakers to that with a couple of old Samsung speakers to make it a 7.1. Then, recently, switched out all my main and the sub with 2 Polk S-50s, 1 Klipsch RP-250C and a Klipsch R-10SWi. Picked up a LG 65" 4K to replace the old Samsung 60", and replaced the old Xbox One with One S for better gaming and 4K BD player. I got lucky to find deals during this Thanksgiving and also, I looked for open box items and bought them $150 - $200 less than brand new price. Like Gene said, go in increments from highest to lowest of priorities. Oh and also switched out the old 20 AWG cables with 16 AWG. Next, I'll prolly upgrade the surrounds with a couple of bi-poles.
Clear, well explained, unbiased advise. Thanks a lot for the info. You know your stuff and you’ve answered tons of questions I was struggling with. Keep up the good work.
I have 15 years old Yamaha AX -1 amplifier I want to upgrade my Amplifier to the new models !Which one I Should upgrade? Denon?onkyo ?Marantz? I Don’t mind upgrade to using different brand name,But I wouldn’t like the Yamaha AX-1 sound .Please advise
Hi Gene, thanks for another great video. As always you talk a lot of sense, however regarding receivers, there is another approach that is worth considering. As you were saying amps tech is not changing radically at the moment, while the digital tech is, so splitting the two makes sense and then when the time comes just upgrade the AV pre-amp. But rather than go for an expensive AV pre-amp/power amp combo (Are there any cheap ones?) instead just buy the power amp and drive it directly from an Oppo Blu-ray player. These are quality audio outputs and Oppo have included sufficient functionality to make this work. I did this for my last upgrade, when a few years back I bought an Oppo 95 and an ex-demo Marantz MM8003 multi-channel power amp, now for my next upgrade (to 4K HDR) I’m only going to have to buy a new Oppo 203 or 205, which is way cheaper than the equivalent quality Blu-ray player and receiver. Keep up the good work Gene, we love to hearing you tell it as it is!
Hi, sorry if any of these model numbers are not the same in the USA as I'm from the UK. I watched this for a guide on upgrading my AV Receiver. My equipment started with a Yamaha DSP-AX1 which I used for the optical inputs and was used until I upgraded to a full HDMI receiver, my current Pioneer SC-LX58 which said it was also 4k compatible so I thought I was future proofed, but now I have a 4k Netflix source (Xbox One S) I am finding that I get zero 4k support with this receiver as the HDMI is not 2.2 standard and has no HDR 4k support. Now I am considering an upgrade again, even though I have only had the SC-LX58 for a relatively short time and I am looking for a receiver with a minimum set of specifications to match the SC-LX58 but with full support for 4k HDR. I was looking at a Pioneer SC-LX801 but find it is quite hard to get hold of here in the UK and the SC-LX901 is just too expensive for my budget. I have looked at the Yamaha range and would be happy enough with the outgoing "60" series you mention in the video, eg. an RX-A3060. As I consider the SC-LX58 to have been a bad decision I don't want to make another one with my next investment so wondered which way you would look to change. Thanks
Thank you for your honest advice. I plan to upgrade my Sony Bluray player because once in a while it locks up and it will not work or turn off unless I unplug the unit and re-plug it again and then it works. I also plan probably later this year to buy a 4K tv. I plan to buy the Oppo 203.
I have a Denon AVR-3805 and it weighs 37 lbs and it's made in Japan, great build and sound quality. I'm running a Anthem D2v processor because I want lossless HD audio, but the Denon served me well for years.
Most recent upgrade was going from a Marantz SR-5010 to their AV-7703 Processor and MM7055 separates. I'd say (especially for the money) that 7703 is one of, if not the best multi-use processor on the market, plus the meat and potatoes of the processing sounds brilliant as well!
Good video, thanks! My rig consists of a Yamaha CX-A5100 Pre-amp, Outlaw Audio 7 channel 200 W per channel Amp (It weighs 95 lbs!), BIC Venturi Sub, Arcam P38 100W per channel amp for running my effect speakers. I just purchased a Klipsch Reference Premier RP440C Center channel speaker and I just ordered two Klipsch R625 FA Atmos speakers. I have four Bose 301 speakers for side and rear channels. I'm replacing my old Bose AM7s which I used for center and effect speakers. I'm also ditching my Bose 901s which I'm using for left and right channels. I realized how bad the AM7s sound, and how limited the 901s are. I also use my XBox One to play Blu Rays and pay per view, as it's Atmos capable. The new center speaker sounds way better than the Bose AM7 cube, and can't wait for my new Klipsch L and R speakers!!! Then, I'll be done for quite a while :-)
Great Video. It's nice to hear that some audiophiles know what they are talking about and aren't afraid to tell the truth and say it how it is. I just upgraded my receiver to the Sony STR-DN1070 from the Sony STR-DA2400ES. I love Sony's ES series, but I just can't afford the price line right now and everyone seems to want to sell old or discontinued ES equipment for what it cost when it first came out. I am depressed that the 1070 receiver doesn't have any pre-outs, but from the reviews I have seen, I think I can live with it for a while. Looking forward to upgrading my TV next to a 4K.
Hello Gene, I have hopefully just done a smart upgrade, let me know what you think. I had an older DTS Yamaha HTR 6140 5.1 surround receiver, running Polk audio speakers, two towers, larger center, two upgraded rear bookshelf and of course the one sub. I was thinking of getting the powered speakers from edifier, the s1000db, but I decided where I now have a 4K 65" TV just buying powered speakers for streaming music from my i phone is just a waste of cash. What I have done is just bought the Onkyo TX-NR575 7.1 receiver, as it has Bluetooth plus so much more especially for my TV to run through & my i tunes. I will still only be running it at the 5.1 surround level for now. The receiver is on its way today. I believe this was a good upgrade for only the price of a receiver priced at $299.00 CAN. Just the edifiers alone were going to be $450. What do you think of the Onkyo TX-NR575 RECEIVER?
Always great informative videos ! Still very happy with my Denon 4308 receiver , Oppo BDP-103 , Klipsch RF-83 , RC-64 , RS-62 , R-115SW , Pro-Ject Carbon Debut DC table , Panamax and Richard Grey's Power Company line conditioning , Vizio 70" 4K display....when it comes time to upgrade it would be to an Oppo 4K player and most likely another Denon capable of 4K. I still enjoy my vast DVD , Blu-Ray collection and of course all the Porcupine Tree 5.1 mixes , Steven Wilson Blu-Ray's :)
Great video Gene! The last video I asked a question about was on your Q&A video when I asked if I should upgrade from my Denon 4520ci to take advantage of the new Dolby Atmos & DTS:X codecs. I really loved my 4520ci too, but I had the upgrade bug. So I got a pretty good deal on a Denon X-7200WA and I had in ceiling speakers added so I can truly take advantage of these new codecs. I must say, it was definitely worth the upgrade! I'm blown away with these new codecs! I thought my theater sounded great before but I just couldn't ignore these new codecs.....
I have a Yamaha RX-A3000 and would like to upgrade to the audio streaming Atmos enabled RX-A3080. Love the Pro Sabre DACs as well. Do I wait for the Yamaha RX-A8? I'd like to keep my next receiver for over 5 years.
You said that you suggest sitting at 1/4 of the room length away from the back wall, but doesn't that put you right in a null for a room mode? Thanks for all your great work and help!
No usually the null is about 1/2 way into the room. Really need to measure b/c simulation programs are only so good as nobody has a perfectly shaped and lossless rectangular or square room.
I am upgrading my speakers to some new DIY Synergy horns...sticking with my Yamaha cx5100, Oppo 203, and DIY 14 channel B&O amp. I will make some new speaker cables as we have moved, and our distances have changed. Wires will be Monoprice 12 gauge.
Just got a Panasonic DPUB820 4K player and a Denon X3700X is in the mail. My 10 year old Onkyo SR608 that I still love doesn't have Atmos or 4K HDR so I will run it as a 2 channel amp from the clean Denon pre-outs. Should be sweet having a 7.2.4 system.
Only had my setup for a year and I’m already getting the upgrade bug, especially the more I watch audioholics. But I agree with all of Gene’s points. I’m going to focus on learning how to do my own measurements and Bass management first. At the end of the day this stuff is not an investment, it all depreciates. I saved 50-75% off retail just by buying N-1 or N-2 model year equipment that was still new in box or in some cases open box returns.
Great video Gene, ya know what, I may get picked on, but I still have a DD 5.1 setup and with the higher end gear, it still sounds great! I am tired of the constant upgrade cycle. The car analogy was great, because the newer cars are using such cheap materials these days.
Great video, I had a lightning strike really close to my house, which fried out my plasma panasonic tv, (from 2011), Yamaha reciever 673 I think (from 2013), Dell xps pc (from a little over a year ago and fixing it). Have to replace tv, and reciever. I had 7.1 surround with jbl Northridge speakers all the way around including jbl pb12 from around 98 as well. I have always wanted an svs sub (Since I demoed a cylinder one back in 98/99 and actually felt the bass push my chest) I do plan on adding the pb1000 or pb2000 for an upgrade I have always wanted since that day.
@audioholics @Gene - What do you think of upgrading from an Oppo 105D to a 205 which they are still available? - Even though you do not yet need it? Still stuck on JVC X30 + Yamaha CX-A5000. If it was not for Oppo stopping the production, I would get a AV8805, CX-A5200 or maybe even Emotiva RMC this fall instead...
I just pulled the trigger myself. Had "trash tier" speakers ; low-end sub that's not working quite right ; no Atmos or 4K support ; 1080i [not P!!] ; good light treatment & acoustically sound room & good cables [not upgrading these]. Upgraded to decent 5.0.4 speakers ; shopping now for decent dual subs ; 4K blu ray player with DV & HDR10+ support ; 4K TV with FALD & ARC ; Receiver that can support the above [at least for the most part]. Still "low tier" compared to a lot of folks but I'm going to really enjoy this set of upgrades.
I haven't seriously considered an upgrade to Atmos but after seeing this video (as well as another video that discussed the diminished built quality of today's AV Receivers), I'm more comfortable now staying pat until i really want to spend serious bucks on a good quality pre-pro and outboard power amp set-up. In addition, since my current set-up still has to maintain backward flexibility w/ SACD/DVD Audio, DVD, and LaserDisc (just can't let go of those huge discs just yet), today's AV Receivers just won't cut it for me feature wise compared to what I have now.
I'm looking to upgrade my subwoofer. I'm still running a Yamaha from 1998 with dual 8s in it. SVS seems to be the route I'm going in x 2 for sure.. Next is a 7.2.2 receiver.
I do not want to upgrade my Yamaha RXV 3900, but I recently got a 4K projector and my old receiver is not hdcp 2.2 compatible. I want to let people know that I have been able to stream 4K UHD content without any issues, I'm guessing you will only have issues if you use a 4K player. but I would like to know if there's any actual Hardware difference between older HDMI and newer HDMI ports. thank you for your help you guys are brilliant.
Thanks for your expertise! My next purchase is a better 📺, I want to get an Oled, I just don't know what brand to go with : 1st generation Sony, panasonic or LG....
I am currently running an Onkyo receiver about 3 years old without DTS and it's running 2 Jenson fronts, 2 Yamaha 150 watt 10" front firing side ported subs, a Polk audio centre and the original Onkyo fronts as rears and I'm not happy with the sound. I'm looking at getting a Denon AVR-X550BT 5.2ch 4K UHD AV Receiver with Bluetooth. My question is, if you have upgraded all of your speakers would I get a better listening experience than with my old Onkyo? I have a 72" 4K TV with HDR and 200hrtz
Great video. I just bought an LG C9 TV. My AVR is old and isn’t 4K. Can you recommend a low cost unit. I didn’t think about the avr when I bought the TV. Thanks
He is correct! If you've got a solid Yamaha AV delivering 100 wpc into 7.1 & decodes DTS-HDMA or Dolby True Master Audio? Stick with it! In most homes, 7.1 surround, when setup to Dolby Labs specs will deliver unreal surround sound. Remember this, Yamaha uses Burr-Brown DAC's which ROCK! So, their discrete amp sections are straight up killer. ATMOS, DTS-X and AURO codecs are still new & rapidly dropping in cost. So, waiting a year or 2 more before stepping up to ATMOS etc is solid advice. Calibrate Calibrate Calibrate!
I really enjoy this channel all full of useful info. I upgraded my speakers about 8 month ago with jbl l880 towers and 8400p sub. I am getting a good sound but my av receiver is just not cutting it anymore is on the way out. I am looking a the Yamaha rxv 3081.
Great video & advices as always. I was checking my analogue connections from my Blu-ray player to my amp and I have an RCA directional cable connected the arrows looking the inverse side (amp to Blu-ray player) . It can affect the sound or it´s pure marketing?
See this is exactly why I am subscribed to your channel! Now IMAX enhanced is out (partnered with DTS thank god) And Now I’m finally going to upgrade my processor and a projector that are capable of IMAX enhanced. I think the playing field is kind of leveled out now that IMAX has stepped in! I just absolutely can’t stand Dolby. DTS has always sounded better if set up properly. Now I love that they are teaming up with IMAX and have some of the top studios and brands i.e. Marantz, Sony, Denon..
Currently using Onkyo 9700THX HTIB, decent system but I knew I would upgrade eventually, I run Mediabridge HDMI and speaker wire in my small room, I will be upgrading to SVS Speakers and Subs eventually, I’m happy but I want to upgrade the sub to Duel SVS SB16, from the reviews I read it is the Onkyo weak link and I agree with that.
Just purchased an LG OLED TV with the though of 4K upgrade. I have an Pioneer SC85 receiver that can not pass 4K signal but I can source route through the TV passing sound to the SC85. Do you think I should upgrade my receiver?
I want to upgrade my center speaker. I have the original one (Definitive Technology 600) from my 5.1 system and want to get the Klipsch R-25C. Hoping this will make a difference in sound quality. LMK what you think.
I'm a 47 year old home theater enthusiast with mostly "old school" tech knowledge,, and In the last 3 months i have been in and out of Sony receivers!! I was replacing a str810 and went with the dh1060....FRY AN EGG HOT!! Sent that back, went with the 165w dh1070...really liked this one, but the menu was basic and cheap compared to the 1060 but had 2 hdmi outputs. A day after getting the 1070 hooked up Amazon dropped the price $100 on the 165w dh1080 ATMOS to the price i paid for the 1070, so having heard about ATMOS i sent the 1070 back and just set up the ATMOS.........WHAT HAVE I DONE!!?? I'm not sure i am impressed at all!! WHAT AM I MISSING HERE!!? What should i know about the technology difference between the 1070 and 1080 ATMOS? What should my ears be hearing that they would not be hearing from the 1070? THE MAJOR disappointment? WHERE ARE ALL THE MUSIC SOUNDFIELDS? Like MUSIC DOLBY DIGITAL X, MUSIC HALL A,B,C, STADIUM, DANCE, CONCERT ETC ETC ETC? Movie AND Music on the 1070 had bookoo sound fields!! The ATMOS has me down to maybe 5 sound fields/effects to choose from!! I LOVE MY METALLICA THROUGH STADIUM SETTING!! (Reminds me of the stadium concerts!) Is there an APP that can be used to get these effects? SONY customer service is a bunch of piss poor attitude, incompetent assholes who only know what they look up in a book about their products, so maybe they are personally buying DENON etc. My dilemma here man, is....Not sure i am impressed by this SONY and the post sale BS from SONY...The price came down to $498 from $598 then back up. Is there anything out there for $500 That will give me all the soundfields i speak of above, plus ATMOS. Is ATMOS THEEE future? or are these other receivers like the 1070 right there into the future of surround processing tech etc? Is ATMOS a preference or necessity moving forward in tech? If i could mix the two SONYs i would be happy, so would DENON or yamaha or ?? have the following features for $500?.... 7.2, ATMOS, Shitloads of sound fields, 2 HDMI outs, 150+watts, a remote worth a damn.. Anything like that out there for $500. I have a 100" HD Viewsonic (NEVER BUY VIEWSONIC!!) so my home theater needs a badass receiver. ORRRR is your answer an easy, "TRUST ME!! KEEP THE SONY ATMOS 165w RECEIVER YOU HAVE AND GET TO KNOW IT BETTER AND YOU WILL BE VERY HAPPY WITH IT!!" Like i said, this is my 3rd SONY in 3 months and I want to find THE RECEIVER for ME and stick with it. Can you please offer some advice? Thanks man!!
Great video and I have a question for you my friend. I have a Denon 2808 which I paid over a thousand dollars years back and I'm very happy with it but I just bought a 4k tv and I'm afraid will not work with my denon for my home theater needs, so my question is what do you recommend for under $500 to replace my avr which I don't want change but I may need to do. Thanks
Hi sir , just found your channel , I am impressed with your view . I have a question , I am still in old version 5.1 , all my system is old but I am still very happy with the sounds quality . I am thinking of upgrading but I have limited budget , I am using 1080p projector , I am used to big screen , don't want to change to tv yet ... I have 7 speakers but my setting is 4.2 because my I have 2 set of 2 ch power amp .. I kind of like phantom center , kind of more balance compare to center speaker , all 3 ch is the same series ..what to you think about phantom center ? Should I upgrade to Atmos or just stick to True HD because as I told you I don't have budget .. I will stick stick with the 4.2 or 5.2 at the moment , is Atmos performance the same in true hd ? If in 5.1is the same , I am thinking of getting a used true hd processer at the moment ... I have a lot of Blu-ray collection in full HD , so mostly in true hd or DTS master .. only few in Atmos .. What is your advise ...Thanks sir
Hello, What do you think about waiting for an AV receiver that incorporates the new HDMI 2.1 standard, it's supposed to be released on 2018 components. HDMI 2.1 requires hardware change over due to HDMI 2.0 chips cannot be upgraded to the 2.1 standard. I understand that there is no current use for HDMI 2.1, yet is a AVR with HDMI 2.0/2.0a (last year models) still a good value choice? Thank you
I have focused on upgrading my HT system this year and below are some of my upgrades. I finally upgraded my Denon 3805 (no HDMI) to the newer 4300 model. I had the 3805 for over 13 years and was missing out on many of the codecs and I just had to get with the times and so glad I did. Loving Atmos (4 ceiling speakers). I am holding onto that 3805 though. I also purchased the SVS PB2000 and use the old Denon 505 as my 2nd sub until I get a 2nd PB2000. Future: 4k TV and Oppo UHD player; not sure if 203 or 205. I will review your video comparing the 2. No rush though as I wait out the technology. I am happy with my Panasonic 65" plasma and 1080p for now. The BDP93 is still working. Do you also do videos on the 2ch Audio side of the house? Thanks
I always like this guy he is always real tells you the way he's. My upgrade that I done to my home theater recently I hard a monolith power amplifier to my marantz sr7012 which gives more power to all my SVS speakers.
Thanks Gene, I have a Sony STR-DA5800ES running to Polk Audio RTIA9's for the front and RTIA7's for side and rear surround with 2 x Polk PSW110 subs, quick question....am I best to leave the format selection on Auto? or choose the tweaked up surround modes, I've always chosen the auto format mode
spot on, i am that guy. my 65" 1080 went out. was a great matched budget 7.1 with rx v663 that just wont quit. but 1.3 wont cut it and im forced to upgrade to 4k. what old receiver you guys recommend. tia
Hi there, I have an Onkyo TX-SR703 looking to replace this model with a better one is there any recommendations? Also I have problem with this receiver trying to accommodate my 4 in ceiling speakers and 2 outdoor speakers. And I have an infinity SAT-750 satellite speakers with surround sound...thanks for your input...
Amazing stuff. I'm just getting into high end audio by reading and watching videos. Big fan of your site. Love the vids. You know what's funny. I was at a local Best Buy just this past week. Wanted to listen to some b&w speakers they had on hand. The sells person told me I should budget my system equally 3 ways on speakers, amplification/receiver, and cables 😂😂!!! He literally said I should spend 30% of my budget on CABLES!!! Hahaha couldn't walk outta there fast enough.
JUST BROUGHT THE PIONEER VSX 933 AND THE MONITOR AUDIO BRONZE SUBB AND BRONZE CENTRE AND BOY WHEN I WATCH A 4K UHD BLUE RAY FILM THE BASS IS PHENOMENOL,EVEN BETTER I GOT MY MONITOR AUDIO BRONZE SUBB HALF PRICE,HAPPY LISTENING PEOPLE.✌👌👌
I just wanted to say that I respect your truthfulness. Even though you're getting some 'hate' from some in the industry for your honesty, I for one appreciate it!
Hate, facts. Tomatoes, bananas. Same thing.
I'm still rolling with my 20-year old Yamaha RX-V995 receiver -- which I'm admittedly too attached to. This video has helped me decide to make the leap to modern-day surround codecs (learned a new word, too). Thanks very much. Will watch more of your videos to hopefully guide me to a reasonable upgrade choice. I'm excited.
man I love this guy he tell it the way it is
Yeah he has been telling it like it is well before youtube. His site moves and stops the "needle" to AV company's chagrin.
I'm pretty broke, but I find that buying the older stuff can make for an AMAZING home system for the price of a cheap soundbar. I have an Onkyo SR806, Yamaha RX-V1600, Emotiva XPA-200, and 4 pieces of Sony ES products (ie.. SACD, Cassette). The highest price I paid was $200 for the Emotiva, and all but the Onkyo came with original box with manual and remotes. I would never trade my setup for some sound bar or HTiaB.
This video was FANTASTIC! I couldn't agree with you more. There is such BS in the Home Theater industry. I definitely appreciate your honesty and subtle humor in the way you presented this important topic. I don't comment much on RUclips videos, but I HAD to comment on this one. GREAT JOB!
The key to good audio is Bose speakers connected to 2 gauge gold speaker wire.
I've heard things I've never heard before listening to this setup. Mostly shouts of, "You're a freakin moron!!!" in perfect unison from friends, family, and neighbors. The sound is so pure and life like.
I only use 3.1 setup using a Cambridge Audio amp and blu ray player. I bought my Dali bookshelf speakers in 1998 and they still sound great. I bought a Krix subwoofer just last year and it really added life to my system. My setup suits me fine and I'm happy.
4:05 exactly. I recently bought an A/V receiver. I went with the older and higher model, I bought Denon AVR-X7200WA instead of Denon AVR-X6300H which had similar price. Then I found out that new Denon models stopped supporting front wide channels. So you cannot go with 9.1.2 setups or even with just 9.1 setup. I am very happy with my purchase.
There are very few in the Audio industry whose opinion I respect more than yours Gene. Thank you for having the courage to speak honesty even at the cost of industry backlash. As always keep up the good work and strive on with integrity and honesty.
Thx, I've honestly given up caring what the "industry" thinks of me long ago and yet....I'm still here ;)
Ryan yes sadly the days of flagship super receivers are long gone. If you want a brand that still maintains the integrity of a meaty amp section but doesn't give you ALL the latest features, NAD is probably your closest bet. Nothing by today's measure in a one-box solution comes close to the Denon AVR-5805 or Yamaha RX-Z11. Those were works of art. Even the only Onkyo / Integra stuff was really superb back in the day.
Gene, I've NEVER been a fan of receivers, going back to the 1970s. That was when I got a separate amp and tuner/preamp (Altec 721, if memory serves). Not only are the setups more versatile, but when you're not trying to cram power gear in with processing gear, the electronics always seems to work better. Right now I'm using a Marantz 7700 driving Emotiva Pro Stealth 8s in the front, and it's clean no matter what the level.
They're only getting worse. I used to recommend the HK 3490 stereo receiver for people wanting to get into good stereo quality. It was a nice and competent start to a respectable system.
The replacement is now half the weight and runs hotter. What an improvement...not!
The industry is adding every Bluetooth, wifi, pandora/spotify whistle, while the meat of the amp is being reduced.
Screw this. DSP units are now cheaper and more affordable. I'm gonna go active and flip a bird to these crappy consumer units and ham-fisted passive crossovers.
Can't tell you just how much I've enjoyed your videos since discovering your channel, Gene. What I can tell you, however, is that up until I did, I didn't even know what I didn't know when it came to home audio! I have learned SO MUCH from you guys and have become a much wiser (and happier) consumer of home theater equipment as a result. Nothing beats getting to go into an audio shop now & flexing the knowledge that you guys have given me. No one in my family will ever be swindled by an unscrupulous electronics salesman again. lol Thanks so much & keep up the great work!
This video is spot on!! Too many people rushing out to get the next big thing only to find it's a very minor update that has barley nothing to do with the AQ. This video needs to be seen by all, especially with everyone that gets itchy feet.
Biggest upgrade impact by far was quality dual subs for me and eliminating that cheapo single sub. Properly setup and balanced they crushed my other upgrades for the smile factor. Thanks Gene, keep telling like it is.
nice info, just upgraded my 2008 Denon to a 2017 Yamaha, added Atmos ceiling speakers and replaced my very old bose 501's with Klips added 12 ga. speaker cable and new HDMI 4k cables to go with my new 82inch screen.... it's an awesome upgrade to my 2008 system. Your vids were lots of help.
About six months ago I bought an Oppo UDP 203 blu Ray player for many of the reasons you described. The old one was very slow. I was blown away by the improvement. I even noticed a picture and sound quality improvement.
I also added two bookshelf speakers to take my setup from 5.2 to 7.2, and I really love it.
Something I noticed of course was just like in a real movie theater, you’re sort of expecting 100% sound all the time and that’s not the case. It’s just that when the sound should be there, it is. Especially in 7.1 blu Ray movies.
Really excellent advice and enjoyed listening. I have what was a fairly high end 5.1 home cinema system purchased in 2009 and recently have been considering a new LG OLED TV to replace my pioneer Kuro. But i would also need a new 4k amp and 4k blu-ray player to get the most from it. But my existing set up still is very good. And you're right its just not good value for money to swap old but perfectly good kit for new and better kit but with such a big cost impact. The return on investment just isn't there.
I am however now going to consider two sub woofers!
Gene great video!
Best AV investment I ever made was subscribing to your channel! :-) As for recent purchases, bought a second hand xpa-5 a few months ago. What an absolute beast, weighs more than double the amount of my receiver. I had high expectations but everything you guys said was true my AV receiver must have an eenie weenie amp section because with the xpa my Kef Q900's are singing!
Now on the hunt for an xmc-1!
Thank you for the compliments.
Dual subs, best upgrade you can do and this channel got me into that
What does two subs do better that one alreay does?
Did you watch the video?
I don't have room for another sub so I'm out.
@MAD GRUMPYMAN Not many speakers goes down to 20 hz.
@MAD GRUMPYMAN my speakers go down to 30 hertz, basically that bass is great on this speakers they are Klipsch rp280 f, I'm basically putting 2 subs for the theatre not for music, don't really need a sub for music the speakers are great
I recently put a Denon 9.2 Atmos receiver in my system with an additional 2 channel amp to make it 11.2. The difference is AWESOME! Atmos encoded movies are light years beyond DTS-HD, etc etc.
I'm with you on the cables. Smoke and mirrors. Digital cables will either pass the appropriate signal or they won't. Period. Same with speaker wire. Just get the right gauge and that's it. My next upgrade is going to be acoustic panels. My room is way to lively to get the most out of my equipment. Going to try and make my own sound absorbing panels. See how that goes!
Great video. I totally agree with everything you said.
My favorite upgrade was getting a proper rack to put my equipment in. Beats cheap theater furniture from Target any time of the day! Yes, they're pricey, but if you don't need a lot of space, look at the ~30-36" tall ones. I have one in a regular sized living room/theater room and it doesn't stand out. AND, look around, search the webs over and over. I found a RCS-1824 for almost a full 50% of the list price (with free shipping and lucked into no tax) and I love it!
Talking about speakers, I'm still running a pair of 1979 NS1000s balanced atop a pair of YST-SW800s as my mains. Now while I will admit they are not as efficient as some of the modern day stuff, the sound quality is undeniable and I don't plan on trading either of them any time soon. I've never been too concerned about cables though, except that they be beefy 10guage or so, with soldered connectors. I generally just get these from a local hardware store when I need to. I really don't understand the whole oxygen free, molecularly aligned, ion enhanced, space shuttle tested, cable religion thing. Cheers Gene, thanks again for the informative video.
Speakers if you go from a lower end to a higher end model along with room austoics can make what you already have sound better. Those are likely 2 of the biggest things you can do to get better audio.
New house, started with my 8060st and A60 modules and just using the built in subs on the towers along with some OLD Klipsch bookshelf speakers hung from the ceiling for Atmos channels on my SR5010. I've since added an SR7011 using the 5010 for new RSL C34E in ceiling speakers, rear 8020ST Det Tech's and side Def Tech in wall speakers for 7.1.4. I also added an SVS PB 16 Ultra and for the first time in my life I have true surround sound and sub subsonic sound in my house. Last week added the Oppo UDP203 and enjoying that, looking forward to Atmos/TrueHD support on .mkv files soon. Last step will be to score a lightly used Sony 665 projector and a ~180" motorized screen to use at night with all the lights off, lights on time will be seen on my open box 79UB9800 TV I scored for $3K last year. Thanks for the great video, definitely agree on the cable scenario, I used to love mess with the sales guys when they told me toslink cables that were expensive were better than my cheapies, light is light, right? :) BTW, my favorite thing to do is score last year's models during close outs at big discounts instead of the latest and greatest if I can. :)
I really needed an upgrade. I haven't upgraded my sound system since 2001. Sad to say, but I am just putting it out there. I always had great speakers, so I decided to start off with a Yamaha A3080. From there I will begin began change other components, like my Blue which was purchased 2014 and the TV. I really appreciate you schooling us on what to buy and what not to buy. Thank you. Of course I subscribed to your channel. :-) Looking forward in learning more.
A very frank and honest video. What was said might not be what people want to hear, but it is the best advice I heard in a long time.....
Just got the Oppo UDP 205. Running the 5.1 analog outputs into my Yamaha DSP A-1 (circa 1998) and it sounds great. Will eventually upgrade to a new Yamaha A/V receiver, which is next on my list; will do it for the HDMI compatibility/simplicity.
Great advice. Thanks for putting it together.
Still have my old Onkyo 7.1 receiver and I think it is breaking down. Takes ages to start up and lacks support for 4K so I have to connect all my devices to TV and run passthrough for the sound to the reciever. So I'm looking to upgrade and I will be getting a 9.1 receiver with support for atmos but I'm gonna wait until my Onkyo breaks.
Good advice and good video!
Last year i bought a Denon DHT-1311XP which comes with very thin cables from factory, like 22AWG. In this particular case it's convenient to buy any larger thicker cables? Like you said, i have no trouble at all with my equipment, but maybe i can improve something. Can´t tell you how much i´ve learned with you guys, thank you so much and i will, for sure, keep listening!
Everything you said was DEAD ON Gene! I was wondering what some of the topics were going to be & what was going to be said. You nailed it on the info. There were a few things I was hoping you'd mention, for those who aren't in the know, you mentioned nearly all of them. Kept it simple, understandable & to the point! Well done🤙🏼...btw, where has Hugo been? He cracks me up, always up beat & laughing, I hope he is still on board.
Hi, I'm new to this channel and you may well have covered this topic. My experience is that most people are ignorant about the importance of having components that are HDCP 2.2 compatible when upgrading to UHD/4K. If they're not, they won't talk to each other. For example, I can't use my AV receiver as the output source of signal to my UHD television because the television is HDCP 2.2 compliant but the receiver is not. To overcome this so I have both picture and sound I simple connect the source components (UHD player etc) to the televisions HDMI input and use the optical audio output from the TV to return an audio signal to my receiver. The only drawback is that I can't use the receiver as a switching device for HDMI inputs.
I just recently bought a 4k Ultra HD OLED TV so also needed to upgrade my blu ray player and receiver as my current one does not support any of the new standards for 4k UHD etc. Had my old receiver for almost 8 years. Still works great!
Thanks for videos. I was deciding how to upgrade my home theater . After watching some of your videos, I decided to add a second subwoofer and decided to run wires for back surrounds. I'm going to use old speakers that I've had since the early nineties for now .7.2 is enough for me Thanks again.
Absolutely fantastic video and I am so pleased to see you back on your feet safe and well but I must admit it is so nice to see a supplier speak the truth because new is not always better I've commented on your videos sometimes and with new stuff it's like a very strange version of fishing it catches more fisherman than fish and you couldn't have put it better if something is not broken do not fix it great video love from the UK
I kinda upgraded everything, except the cables. All my gear was 8-10 years old. That being said I went with the previous year's models and got everything on clearance and saved a ton. I wanted a bigger TV and a projector, which meant a new receiver with more hdmi in and out, otherwise I would have stuck with the old one. I did go with a separate power amp for the mains, the new speakers were simply because I didn't have good speakers and decided this is the time.Mediabridge are incredible, and not at all expensive, for speaker wire, Amazon Basics. They're my new go to cable brands.
Oppo, fantastic brand. I have a BDP-103 that was released back in 2012-2013 (I think) and they are STILL releasing firmware updates. Great product support. Great Video also, always learning something new. Cheers from Melbourne Australia.
An excellent and honest broker, the opposite of a used car salesman. Thank you I really learnt something and should save a whole lot of money.
You know what could be awesome? A 10 week, 1 step per week mini-series on improving your home theater system for less than $100 (or maybe $0?). I think I doubled my system's performance just with correct placement and running Audyssey the right way (with multiple mic positions within two feet of the primary position). At the end of each vid, you should offer your consultation package, which I purchased and am getting great value out of. I think a ton of more advanced enthusiasts are missing out on getting an expert's direct advice on how to level up their specific systems without wasting money. Keep telling the truth, Gene!
Thanks Gene, you rock 😊
Would be great to have a video on HDMI such as how to setup CEC on all components.
I have a used Lexicon MC-8 non-HDMI, when new it was $6,000, I got it for $250. It sounds way better than a $2500 HDMI type of today's processor. Even though it doesn't have Tru Dolby, etc, the dacs and the rest of this high end piece more than makes up for it. I'm good...
Upgraded panel 12 months ago from a 10 year old Samsung 1080p HL-S6187W DLP that was ISF calibrated to a 4K Sony XBR X65850C
Had been using my old Oppo BDP 83 and Denon 3808ci until a month ago.
Tried playing a native 4k source (Planet Earth II broadcast) from my Dish Hopper 3. No pass thru old Denon.
Got bit by the upgradeitis bug, sold the old Denon for 150 and the Oppo for 170 and settled on Oppo UDP 203 new from Crutchfield for 485 shipped and a Denon AVR X4300H for 1149 from an authorized dealer.
Was happy to get 2k+ of new new for 1,316 by doing a minimal amount of wheeling and dealing.
Now new stuff sitting in shipping boxes until the last component(s) arrives, matching surround Yamaha's from my current 7.1 to install as front heights and expand the soundstage to 7.1.2
After 9 years and a very demonstrable non 4k passthru experience with the mrs, was a sensible and subsidized upgrade cycle....
Sadly theres barely any 4k chanells on dish :(
I enjoyed another video. Thanks. I just upgraded from a Pioneer to a Marantz. Pioneer HDMI Outputs died. Also just added SVS rear elevation. That’s my latest changes.
Thanks for the much needed tips I just bought a denon 2800h because my old pioneer vsx1128k was incompatible with the newer Apple TV 4K and my TV. The pioneer is still solid although 10 years old but it was time and I will still keep pioneer and use it elsewhere in the house.
Excellent realistic advice Gene.That is hard to come by theses days when most tend to be biased to their sponsors.
Thanks Gene - appreciate the video. Personally I have found upgrading speakers to have the largest impact in terms of improving sound quality. I recently bought a Denon X7200WA and have a PA for my front 3 speakers running a 7.2.4 setup. Honestly couldn't be happier with it. Going to keep it for a good few years. I'll just use a separate HDMI cable to go to the TV once HDMI 2.1 becomes useful. So pleased I bought it now rather than at RRP.
You are so right about speaker cables and interconnects.
Kimber Kable silver interconnect cables have made a huge difference in my system. Their speaker wire is great too. Bought then 25 years ago and I am glad that I did. Very expensive, but worth it. HDMI, just get Blue Jeans
Had a Denon AVR 2808 but couldn't handle just 2 HDMI inputs anymore. I already upgraded amplification using the pre outs so I decided when upgrading to move to the Marantz 7702mkii pre/pro. Plenty of HDMI inputs and now room to grow into Atmos when I get there, HDMI 2 spec and HDCP 2.2 compliant
I really enjoyed this video and I strongly agree with the advice given in the video. I tend to the opposite extreme. My speakers are nearly 20 years old and I just recently updated my receiver and Blu-Ray player. I can't follow all the advice due to room limitations in my house, but I appreciate the honest advice. It is also refreshing to hear audio enthusiast that doesn't buy the crazy audiophile snake oil. Thank you!
I have had an Onkyo 5.1 AVR and the Bose Acoustimas speakers since 2009 but then I used to live in a 450 sq ft. apartment as a student working night shifts. It was plenty for the room size and my neighbors LOL. However, in the new house, I have a 20x20 bedroom and needed to upgrade. So, I started with the AVR first and picked up a Denon S930H - 7.2. Added the Bose speakers to that with a couple of old Samsung speakers to make it a 7.1. Then, recently, switched out all my main and the sub with 2 Polk S-50s, 1 Klipsch RP-250C and a Klipsch R-10SWi. Picked up a LG 65" 4K to replace the old Samsung 60", and replaced the old Xbox One with One S for better gaming and 4K BD player. I got lucky to find deals during this Thanksgiving and also, I looked for open box items and bought them $150 - $200 less than brand new price. Like Gene said, go in increments from highest to lowest of priorities. Oh and also switched out the old 20 AWG cables with 16 AWG. Next, I'll prolly upgrade the surrounds with a couple of bi-poles.
Clear, well explained, unbiased advise. Thanks a lot for the info. You know your stuff and you’ve answered tons of questions I was struggling with. Keep up the good work.
my pleasure, thanks for the compliment.
I have 15 years old Yamaha AX -1 amplifier I want to upgrade my Amplifier to the new models !Which one I Should upgrade? Denon?onkyo ?Marantz? I Don’t mind upgrade to using different brand name,But I wouldn’t like the Yamaha AX-1 sound .Please advise
Hi Gene, thanks for another great video. As always you talk a lot of sense, however regarding receivers, there is another approach that is worth considering. As you were saying amps tech is not changing radically at the moment, while the digital tech is, so splitting the two makes sense and then when the time comes just upgrade the AV pre-amp. But rather than go for an expensive AV pre-amp/power amp combo (Are there any cheap ones?) instead just buy the power amp and drive it directly from an Oppo Blu-ray player. These are quality audio outputs and Oppo have included sufficient functionality to make this work.
I did this for my last upgrade, when a few years back I bought an Oppo 95 and an ex-demo Marantz MM8003 multi-channel power amp, now for my next upgrade (to 4K HDR) I’m only going to have to buy a new Oppo 203 or 205, which is way cheaper than the equivalent quality Blu-ray player and receiver.
Keep up the good work Gene, we love to hearing you tell it as it is!
Hi, sorry if any of these model numbers are not the same in the USA as I'm from the UK.
I watched this for a guide on upgrading my AV Receiver. My equipment started with a Yamaha DSP-AX1 which I used for the optical inputs and was used until I upgraded to a full HDMI receiver, my current Pioneer SC-LX58 which said it was also 4k compatible so I thought I was future proofed, but now I have a 4k Netflix source (Xbox One S) I am finding that I get zero 4k support with this receiver as the HDMI is not 2.2 standard and has no HDR 4k support.
Now I am considering an upgrade again, even though I have only had the SC-LX58 for a relatively short time and I am looking for a receiver with a minimum set of specifications to match the SC-LX58 but with full support for 4k HDR.
I was looking at a Pioneer SC-LX801 but find it is quite hard to get hold of here in the UK and the SC-LX901 is just too expensive for my budget.
I have looked at the Yamaha range and would be happy enough with the outgoing "60" series you mention in the video, eg. an RX-A3060.
As I consider the SC-LX58 to have been a bad decision I don't want to make another one with my next investment so wondered which way you would look to change.
Thanks
Thank you for your honest advice. I plan to upgrade my Sony Bluray player because once in a while it locks up and it will not work or turn off unless I unplug the unit and re-plug it again and then it works. I also plan probably later this year to buy a 4K tv. I plan to buy the Oppo 203.
I have a Denon AVR-3805 and it weighs 37 lbs and it's made in Japan, great build and sound quality.
I'm running a Anthem D2v processor because I want lossless HD audio, but the Denon served me well for years.
Most recent upgrade was going from a Marantz SR-5010 to their AV-7703 Processor and MM7055 separates. I'd say (especially for the money) that 7703 is one of, if not the best multi-use processor on the market, plus the meat and potatoes of the processing sounds brilliant as well!
Good video, thanks! My rig consists of a Yamaha CX-A5100 Pre-amp, Outlaw Audio 7 channel 200 W per channel Amp (It weighs 95 lbs!), BIC Venturi Sub, Arcam P38 100W per channel amp for running my effect speakers. I just purchased a Klipsch Reference Premier RP440C Center channel speaker and I just ordered two Klipsch R625 FA Atmos speakers. I have four Bose 301 speakers for side and rear channels. I'm replacing my old Bose AM7s which I used for center and effect speakers. I'm also ditching my Bose 901s which I'm using for left and right channels. I realized how bad the AM7s sound, and how limited the 901s are. I also use my XBox One to play Blu Rays and pay per view, as it's Atmos capable. The new center speaker sounds way better than the Bose AM7 cube, and can't wait for my new Klipsch L and R speakers!!! Then, I'll be done for quite a while :-)
Great Video. It's nice to hear that some audiophiles know what they are talking about and aren't afraid to tell the truth and say it how it is. I just upgraded my receiver to the Sony STR-DN1070 from the Sony STR-DA2400ES. I love Sony's ES series, but I just can't afford the price line right now and everyone seems to want to sell old or discontinued ES equipment for what it cost when it first came out. I am depressed that the 1070 receiver doesn't have any pre-outs, but from the reviews I have seen, I think I can live with it for a while. Looking forward to upgrading my TV next to a 4K.
Hello Gene, I have hopefully just done a smart upgrade, let me know what you think.
I had an older DTS Yamaha HTR 6140 5.1 surround receiver, running Polk audio speakers, two towers, larger center, two upgraded rear bookshelf and of course the one sub.
I was thinking of getting the powered speakers from edifier, the s1000db,
but I decided where I now have a 4K 65" TV just buying powered speakers for streaming music from my i phone is just a waste of cash.
What I have done is just bought the Onkyo TX-NR575 7.1 receiver, as it has Bluetooth plus so much more especially for my TV to run through & my i tunes. I will still only be running it at the 5.1 surround level for now. The receiver is on its way today.
I believe this was a good upgrade for only the price of a receiver priced at $299.00 CAN.
Just the edifiers alone were going to be $450.
What do you think of the Onkyo TX-NR575 RECEIVER?
Always great informative videos ! Still very happy with my Denon 4308 receiver , Oppo BDP-103 , Klipsch RF-83 , RC-64 , RS-62 , R-115SW , Pro-Ject Carbon Debut DC table , Panamax and Richard Grey's Power Company line conditioning , Vizio 70" 4K display....when it comes time to upgrade it would be to an Oppo 4K player and most likely another Denon capable of 4K. I still enjoy my vast DVD , Blu-Ray collection and of course all the Porcupine Tree 5.1 mixes , Steven Wilson Blu-Ray's :)
Great video Gene! The last video I asked a question about was on your Q&A video when I asked if I should upgrade from my Denon 4520ci to take advantage of the new Dolby Atmos & DTS:X codecs. I really loved my 4520ci too, but I had the upgrade bug. So I got a pretty good deal on a Denon X-7200WA and I had in ceiling speakers added so I can truly take advantage of these new codecs. I must say, it was definitely worth the upgrade! I'm blown away with these new codecs! I thought my theater sounded great before but I just couldn't ignore these new codecs.....
Will probably change the speakers next, recently added a bigger sub, which was the best decision ever! Great info!
What on earth, I literally see you everywhere on everything audio related.
I have a Yamaha RX-A3000 and would like to upgrade to the audio streaming Atmos enabled RX-A3080. Love the Pro Sabre DACs as well. Do I wait for the Yamaha RX-A8? I'd like to keep my next receiver for over 5 years.
You said that you suggest sitting at 1/4 of the room length away from the back wall, but doesn't that put you right in a null for a room mode? Thanks for all your great work and help!
No usually the null is about 1/2 way into the room. Really need to measure b/c simulation programs are only so good as nobody has a perfectly shaped and lossless rectangular or square room.
I am upgrading my speakers to some new DIY Synergy horns...sticking with my Yamaha cx5100, Oppo 203, and DIY 14 channel B&O amp. I will make some new speaker cables as we have moved, and our distances have changed. Wires will be Monoprice 12 gauge.
I like your no nonsense advice honest and direct
Just got a Panasonic DPUB820 4K player and a Denon X3700X is in the mail. My 10 year old Onkyo SR608 that I still love doesn't have Atmos or 4K HDR so I will run it as a 2 channel amp from the clean Denon pre-outs. Should be sweet having a 7.2.4 system.
I agree 100%...room acoustics can make a huge difference vs replacing equipment.
Only had my setup for a year and I’m already getting the upgrade bug, especially the more I watch audioholics. But I agree with all of Gene’s points. I’m going to focus on learning how to do my own measurements and Bass management first. At the end of the day this stuff is not an investment, it all depreciates. I saved 50-75% off retail just by buying N-1 or N-2 model year equipment that was still new in box or in some cases open box returns.
Great video Gene, ya know what, I may get picked on, but I still have a DD 5.1 setup and with the higher end gear, it still sounds great! I am tired of the constant upgrade cycle. The car analogy was great, because the newer cars are using such cheap materials these days.
Great video, I had a lightning strike really close to my house, which fried out my plasma panasonic tv, (from 2011), Yamaha reciever 673 I think (from 2013), Dell xps pc (from a little over a year ago and fixing it). Have to replace tv, and reciever. I had 7.1 surround with jbl Northridge speakers all the way around including jbl pb12 from around 98 as well. I have always wanted an svs sub (Since I demoed a cylinder one back in 98/99 and actually felt the bass push my chest) I do plan on adding the pb1000 or pb2000 for an upgrade I have always wanted since that day.
Gene I'm grabbing that Samsung KS8000! Only thing I'm upgrading for a long long time..... don't plan on ever getting rid of my denon 2809CI either...
@audioholics @Gene - What do you think of upgrading from an Oppo 105D to a 205 which they are still available? - Even though you do not yet need it? Still stuck on JVC X30 + Yamaha CX-A5000. If it was not for Oppo stopping the production, I would get a AV8805, CX-A5200 or maybe even Emotiva RMC this fall instead...
I just pulled the trigger myself. Had "trash tier" speakers ; low-end sub that's not working quite right ; no Atmos or 4K support ; 1080i [not P!!] ; good light treatment & acoustically sound room & good cables [not upgrading these]. Upgraded to decent 5.0.4 speakers ; shopping now for decent dual subs ; 4K blu ray player with DV & HDR10+ support ; 4K TV with FALD & ARC ; Receiver that can support the above [at least for the most part]. Still "low tier" compared to a lot of folks but I'm going to really enjoy this set of upgrades.
Thanks Hugo, I have the Yamaha 2050, and was thinking up upgrading to the 3070 for the DV or waiting for next year's HDMI 2.1 models to come out.
This is a great informative video!
I’m curious do you guys have a room acoustics how to/do’s and don’ts video?
I haven't seriously considered an upgrade to Atmos but after seeing this video (as well as another video that discussed the diminished built quality of today's AV Receivers), I'm more comfortable now staying pat until i really want to spend serious bucks on a good quality pre-pro and outboard power amp set-up. In addition, since my current set-up still has to maintain backward flexibility w/ SACD/DVD Audio, DVD, and LaserDisc (just can't let go of those huge discs just yet), today's AV Receivers just won't cut it for me feature wise compared to what I have now.
I'm looking to upgrade my subwoofer. I'm still running a Yamaha from 1998 with dual 8s in it. SVS seems to be the route I'm going in x 2 for sure.. Next is a 7.2.2 receiver.
I do not want to upgrade my Yamaha RXV 3900, but I recently got a 4K projector and my old receiver is not hdcp 2.2 compatible. I want to let people know that I have been able to stream 4K UHD content without any issues, I'm guessing you will only have issues if you use a 4K player. but I would like to know if there's any actual Hardware difference between older HDMI and newer HDMI ports. thank you for your help you guys are brilliant.
i just upgraded to a marantz SR5011 for the pre-outs and bought 2 emotiva A-300 to run my fronts and center and soon A 800 to run my surround speakers
Thanks for your expertise!
My next purchase is a better 📺, I want to get an Oled, I just don't know what brand to go with : 1st generation Sony, panasonic or LG....
I am currently running an Onkyo receiver about 3 years old without DTS and it's running 2 Jenson fronts, 2 Yamaha 150 watt 10" front firing side ported subs, a Polk audio centre and the original Onkyo fronts as rears and I'm not happy with the sound. I'm looking at getting a Denon AVR-X550BT 5.2ch 4K UHD AV Receiver with Bluetooth. My question is, if you have upgraded all of your speakers would I get a better listening experience than with my old Onkyo? I have a 72" 4K TV with HDR and 200hrtz
Great video. I just bought an LG C9 TV. My AVR is old and isn’t 4K. Can you recommend a low cost unit. I didn’t think about the avr when I bought the TV. Thanks
He is correct!
If you've got a solid Yamaha AV delivering 100 wpc
into 7.1 & decodes DTS-HDMA or Dolby True Master Audio?
Stick with it!
In most homes, 7.1 surround, when setup to Dolby Labs specs
will deliver unreal surround sound.
Remember this, Yamaha uses Burr-Brown DAC's which ROCK!
So, their discrete amp sections are straight up killer.
ATMOS, DTS-X and AURO codecs are still new & rapidly
dropping in cost.
So, waiting a year or 2 more before stepping up to ATMOS etc
is solid advice.
Calibrate Calibrate Calibrate!
HI, I have RX-A3060 Receiver running a 7.2.4 with my mk sound speakers.I'm using my old denon receiver as a amplifier for my 4 atmos ceiling speakers.
I really enjoy this channel all full of useful info. I upgraded my speakers about 8 month ago with jbl l880 towers and 8400p sub. I am getting a good sound but my av receiver is just not cutting it anymore is on the way out. I am looking a the Yamaha rxv 3081.
Great video & advices as always. I was checking my analogue connections from my Blu-ray player to my amp and I have an RCA directional cable connected the arrows looking the inverse side (amp to Blu-ray player) . It can affect the sound or it´s pure marketing?
See this is exactly why I am subscribed to your channel! Now IMAX enhanced is out (partnered with DTS thank god) And Now I’m finally going to upgrade my processor and a projector that are capable of IMAX enhanced. I think the playing field is kind of leveled out now that IMAX has stepped in! I just absolutely can’t stand Dolby. DTS has always sounded better if set up properly. Now I love that they are teaming up with IMAX and have some of the top studios and brands i.e. Marantz, Sony, Denon..
Currently using Onkyo 9700THX HTIB, decent system but I knew I would upgrade eventually, I run Mediabridge HDMI and speaker wire in my small room, I will be upgrading to SVS Speakers and Subs eventually, I’m happy but I want to upgrade the sub to Duel SVS SB16, from the reviews I read it is the Onkyo weak link and I agree with that.
Just purchased an LG OLED TV with the though of 4K upgrade. I have an Pioneer SC85 receiver that can not pass 4K signal but I can source route through the TV passing sound to the SC85. Do you think I should upgrade my receiver?
I want to upgrade my center speaker. I have the original one (Definitive Technology 600) from my 5.1 system and want to get the Klipsch R-25C. Hoping this will make a difference in sound quality. LMK what you think.
I'm a 47 year old home theater enthusiast with mostly "old school" tech knowledge,, and In the last 3 months i have been in and out of Sony receivers!! I was replacing a str810 and went with the dh1060....FRY AN EGG HOT!! Sent that back, went with the 165w dh1070...really liked this one, but the menu was basic and cheap compared to the 1060 but had 2 hdmi outputs. A day after getting the 1070 hooked up Amazon dropped the price $100 on the 165w dh1080 ATMOS to the price i paid for the 1070, so having heard about ATMOS i sent the 1070 back and just set up the ATMOS.........WHAT HAVE I DONE!!?? I'm not sure i am impressed at all!! WHAT AM I MISSING HERE!!? What should i know about the technology difference between the 1070 and 1080 ATMOS? What should my ears be hearing that they would not be hearing from the 1070? THE MAJOR disappointment? WHERE ARE ALL THE MUSIC SOUNDFIELDS? Like MUSIC DOLBY DIGITAL X, MUSIC HALL A,B,C, STADIUM, DANCE, CONCERT ETC ETC ETC? Movie AND Music on the 1070 had bookoo sound fields!! The ATMOS has me down to maybe 5 sound fields/effects to choose from!! I LOVE MY METALLICA THROUGH STADIUM SETTING!! (Reminds me of the stadium concerts!) Is there an APP that can be used to get these effects? SONY customer service is a bunch of piss poor attitude, incompetent assholes who only know what they look up in a book about their products, so maybe they are personally buying DENON etc. My dilemma here man, is....Not sure i am impressed by this SONY and the post sale BS from SONY...The price came down to $498 from $598 then back up. Is there anything out there for $500 That will give me all the soundfields i speak of above, plus ATMOS. Is ATMOS THEEE future? or are these other receivers like the 1070 right there into the future of surround processing tech etc? Is ATMOS a preference or necessity moving forward in tech? If i could mix the two SONYs i would be happy, so would DENON or yamaha or ?? have the following features for $500?.... 7.2, ATMOS, Shitloads of sound fields, 2 HDMI outs, 150+watts, a remote worth a damn.. Anything like that out there for $500. I have a 100" HD Viewsonic (NEVER BUY VIEWSONIC!!) so my home theater needs a badass receiver. ORRRR is your answer an easy, "TRUST ME!! KEEP THE SONY ATMOS 165w RECEIVER YOU HAVE AND GET TO KNOW IT BETTER AND YOU WILL BE VERY HAPPY WITH IT!!" Like i said, this is my 3rd SONY in 3 months and I want to find THE RECEIVER for ME and stick with it. Can you please offer some advice?
Thanks man!!
Great video and I have a question for you my friend. I have a Denon 2808 which I paid over a thousand dollars years back and I'm very happy with it but I just bought a 4k tv and I'm afraid will not work with my denon for my home theater needs, so my question is what do you recommend for under $500 to replace my avr which I don't want change but I may need to do. Thanks
Hi sir , just found your channel , I am impressed with your view . I have a question , I am still in old version 5.1 , all my system is old but I am still very happy with the sounds quality . I am thinking of upgrading but I have limited budget , I am using 1080p projector , I am used to big screen , don't want to change to tv yet ... I have 7 speakers but my setting is 4.2 because my I have 2 set of 2 ch power amp .. I kind of like phantom center , kind of more balance compare to center speaker , all 3 ch is the same series ..what to you think about phantom center ? Should I upgrade to Atmos or just stick to True HD because as I told you I don't have budget .. I will stick stick with the 4.2 or 5.2 at the moment , is Atmos performance the same in true hd ? If in 5.1is the same , I am thinking of getting a used true hd processer at the moment ... I have a lot of Blu-ray collection in full HD , so mostly in true hd or DTS master .. only few in Atmos .. What is your advise ...Thanks sir
Hello, What do you think about waiting for an AV receiver that incorporates the new HDMI 2.1 standard, it's supposed to be released on 2018 components. HDMI 2.1 requires hardware change over due to HDMI 2.0 chips cannot be upgraded to the 2.1 standard. I understand that there is no current use for HDMI 2.1, yet is a AVR with HDMI 2.0/2.0a (last year models) still a good value choice? Thank you
I have focused on upgrading my HT system this year and below are some of my upgrades.
I finally upgraded my Denon 3805 (no HDMI) to the newer 4300 model. I had the 3805 for over 13 years and was missing out on many of the codecs and I just had to get with the times and so glad I did. Loving Atmos (4 ceiling speakers). I am holding onto that 3805 though.
I also purchased the SVS PB2000 and use the old Denon 505 as my 2nd sub until I get a 2nd PB2000.
Future: 4k TV and Oppo UHD player; not sure if 203 or 205. I will review your video comparing the 2. No rush though as I wait out the technology. I am happy with my Panasonic 65" plasma and 1080p for now. The BDP93 is still working.
Do you also do videos on the 2ch Audio side of the house?
Thanks
I always like this guy he is always real tells you the way he's. My upgrade that I done to my home theater recently I hard a monolith power amplifier to my marantz sr7012 which gives more power to all my SVS speakers.
Thanks Gene, I have a Sony STR-DA5800ES running to Polk Audio RTIA9's for the front and RTIA7's for side and rear surround with 2 x Polk PSW110 subs, quick question....am I best to leave the format selection on Auto? or choose the tweaked up surround modes, I've always chosen the auto format mode
spot on, i am that guy. my 65" 1080 went out. was a great matched budget 7.1 with rx v663 that just wont quit. but 1.3 wont cut it and im forced to upgrade to 4k. what old receiver you guys recommend.
tia
Hi there, I have an Onkyo TX-SR703 looking to replace this model with a better one is there any recommendations? Also I have problem with this receiver trying to accommodate my 4 in ceiling speakers and 2 outdoor speakers. And I have an infinity SAT-750 satellite speakers with surround sound...thanks for your input...
Amazing stuff. I'm just getting into high end audio by reading and watching videos. Big fan of your site. Love the vids. You know what's funny. I was at a local Best Buy just this past week. Wanted to listen to some b&w speakers they had on hand. The sells person told me I should budget my system equally 3 ways on speakers, amplification/receiver, and cables 😂😂!!! He literally said I should spend 30% of my budget on CABLES!!! Hahaha couldn't walk outta there fast enough.
JUST BROUGHT THE PIONEER VSX 933 AND THE MONITOR AUDIO BRONZE SUBB AND BRONZE CENTRE AND BOY WHEN I WATCH A 4K UHD BLUE RAY FILM THE BASS IS PHENOMENOL,EVEN BETTER I GOT MY MONITOR AUDIO BRONZE SUBB HALF PRICE,HAPPY LISTENING PEOPLE.✌👌👌