YES! They do! I just replaced my Marantz SR7013 with a Marantz AV8805. The level of detail and clarity - especially in my surround speakers - is quite noticeable. Thanks for the helpful videos.
I totally agree with you about separates. I'm currently running a Marantz AV-8805 pre/pro with Cherry Amps. The sound is just super 'Sweet'. Also, it's not that I'm dissatisfied at all with the Marantz, but just would like to try something different in my second theater space, which is currently running an older Yamaha AVR - which does sound good; just looking to step it up a notch or two to get better channel separation and detail. Knowing the separates are so much better, as this video stated, I also know that different processors sound different (better) than others - due to their internal hardware as well as software differences. And no I'm not looking to spend the crazy $$$ for one of those 'higher end' pre/pros, but certainly around the cost of the AV-8805 and even perhaps a little more. Nice video, Michael! Was nice to hear that others could also hear the difference too.
I used to do preprocessors and separate amps, but with the way the tech was advancing at the time, I decided to just to higher end AVR and switch them out every few years. I may have to revisit this. Love your channel and especially the enthusiasm you bring! Cheers from up here in the North
Flag ship AVR’s’s offer an incredible performance to value ratio. I was extremely impressed with the SR 8012 that I reviewed two years ago and also the SR 8015 that I recently reviewed. They both offer incredible performance.
@@Youthman absolutely love your reviews! As someone building a home theatre in India, your channel provides much needed inspiration!!! I'm considering the MarantzSR7015 with B&W704S2s and a 5.1.2 Atmos setup (tiny room, don't need more). What are your thoughts on the 7015 and do you think it's better going with a 5015+Poweramp for 2 channel listening? I'm stretched on budget, hence can't do better. Thanks again!
It’s not about getting more volume. Think of it this way. I can bench press 265 lbs. but I can only do it once. A professional bodybuilder could easily bench press 265lbs 3 sets of 10 reps and not break a sweat. Same could be said when comparing cars. My Ford Explorer can go 60mph in probably 10-14 seconds (I’ve never timed it). The new Tesla Plaid can too…except it gets there i 4 seconds. When you have dedicated amplifiers, you can deliver the dynamics with ease regardless of what volume level you’re at. Do you have all the torque and high speed regardless of whether you’re listening to intricate music or a complicated soundtrack in a movie
@@Youthman Many integrated systems can provide the clarity required for the space that most people have. The key to the more expensive separate systems is that they can go much louder and still offer clarity for the larger spaces that people use. A good quality integrated system can easily meet the demands for many people. My living room has an integrated system that is on par with any sperate system for the space that is used. I could go a lot bigger and still would not get any extra quality for the space that I am using in the living room.
Well dang, now I have to get separates once I upgrade to ATMOS. My wife is going to start banning your videos if you keep up with your amazing reviews!
Lol thanks. Honestly there are some fantastic AVRs out there, the SR8015 being one of them. No matter what you buy, there Will always be something bigger and better out there that you could upgrade to. At some point you have to decide what do you need to satisfy your home theater needs.
Hi there, I have become a follower of your videos and I have to say great! I have a question, rather a dilemma after seeing your video. Here he comes : I want to upgrade my 5.1 set. Current set up Marantz Av7701 connected to MM7055 and 2 MA6100 Mono amplifiers from Marantz. Speakers fronts, monitor audio silver 8, 4 ohms of which the woofers are driven by the Ma's6100. Center apex A 40, surround speakers A10 all 8 ohms and sub silver W12 all this from monitor audio. For the upgrade I doubt to connect the Sr8015 with the MA's 6100 for the fronts or the AV 7706 with my MM 7055 and the MA's. The Sr 8015 has of course a lot of power, but the same prossesor as the AV 7706. What do you think? regards  Hi there, I have become a follower of your videos and I have to say great! I have a question, rather a dilemma after seeing your video. Here he comes : I want to upgrade my 5.1 set. Current set up Marantz Av7701 connected to MM7055 and 2 MA6100 Mono amplifiers from Marantz. Speakers fronts, monitor audio silver 8, 4 ohms of which the woofers are driven by the Ma's6100. Center apex A 40, surround speakers A10 all 8 ohms and sub silver W12 all this from monitor audio. For the upgrade I doubt to connect the Sr8015 with the MA's 6100 for the fronts or the AV 7706 with my MM 7055 and the MA's. The Sr 8015 has of course a lot of power, but the same prossesor as the AV 7706. What do you think? regards
@@gaverstraat As I recall, the SR 8015 has two subwoofer outputs so you can run those wires into the mono amps.. I personally freed up space on my audio tower by buying SVS subwoofers where all that is needed is RCA wires from Marantz to SVS subs.. I also use amps for center and fronts, including self powered subs and I let the marantz handle the surround sound as the Avr has much power to deliver for atmos speakers, as they only need power to make sound in certain parts of the movie..
@@gaverstraat : So why would you want to go from separates to a receiver, what does your system lack? If your just looking to add ATMOS, the Marantz AV7706, AV7705, or AV7704 would be a direct upgrade to your AV7701. Depending on your requirements and budget, you could always check the used market for people looking to upgrade... Audiogon was the place to go for used equipment, but the traffic has fallen off since their policy changes, but still a good place to check. I assume your sub-woofers are not powered, but are they still big enough for your needs with your amps (70 watts @ 8 ohms)? Where adding powered sub-woofers is an option with a benefit of getting more power and less cables, there not free. The real question is how many ATMOS channels you require, and if you want more power in your sub-woofers... you may only need to add another 5 or 7 channel amplifier and sell the MA6100 amplifiers to reduce the change, or keep what you have and add a 3 channel amplifier for the LRC channels, and move the sub-woofers to the MM7055 (140 watts @ 8 ohms) and use the MA6100 amplifiers for the .2 ATMOS channels.
Been doing separates for a long, long time. I would say probably 2 years after I got into HT. Parasound 5 channel amp has served me well for 20 years now. Processors come and go but that tank of an amp keeps kicking.
I can confirm this from my own experience. I have the MK S300 setup in my room, full Atmos with two subs and it has never sounded great since I drop one amp and went with an AV. When I used to run separates it was miles better. Now I'm going back once the AVM 90 lands and dropping in an ATI Signature.
I had been using a Marantz SR6012 in my HT. I thought it sounded pretty good when connected to my Emotiva XPA-11 amp. Just yesterday I got an AV7706, set it up real quick using all the same connections as the SR6012, and noticed a substantial improvement in clarity even without running Audyssey. It was a pretty noticeable step up, especially in the center channel which I was never really happy with before.
I have been researching the Marantz 7706 and 8805. It was good to view your video about the 7706. Are these models both made in Japan? Have you compared the 8805 to any Anthem processors. Keep up the good work!
Just watched this as I am in the process of switching from a Denon x7200wa AVR to a Anthem avm 60 and two power amps. Looks like I am making the right choice. Thank you for all your videos as they help greatly with upgrades and decisions that are made doing a stereo amp for my towers and a Monoprice 7x200 for the rest for a 7.1.2 set up
I’m wondering, if there was a significant difference in performance if you used only RCA while connecting the SR8015 and AV7706 to the Monolith amp, instead of XLR in the case of AV7706 and RCA of the SR8015. If you ever have some time to do this comparison, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Even under this comment. 😊 So then we would be sure DAC and processing is really superior on a dedicated pre-amp and sound quality is noticeably better in every day use. And if you definitely hear the difference, the blind test is unnecessary, as you’re not a student doing statistic homework at university. I get the point of view behind this methodology, but I honestly appreciate you do this already to us as your hobby and help us in these difficult times, when demoing is not really possible and available at all.
Thank you kindly. Some have shared in the comments that the 7706 doesn’t have fully balanced XLR. I’ve never heard a difference between XLR and RCA connections.
@@Youthman I've heard it only really makes a difference over really long cable runs where noise can effect RCA's compared to balanced XLR's which is the reason they are used in PA applications.
This was the DECIDING video review for me. I had already ordered the SR8015 from Crutchfield and it was on back order. I was studying separates, but my main concern was whether there was enough difference to justify the additional money and also how I was going to power 11 channels when Marantz doesn't offer an 11 channel power amplifier. I just cancelled my SR8015 order and ordered an AV8805A and Monolith 11x amp. EDIT: BTW, I have Klipsch Cornwall II fronts, with a Klipsch Academy center, Klipsch Heresy II surrounds, and Klipsch RP 6000F rears with 4 Klipsch CDT-3800-C II Atmos overhead speakers.
@@Youthman BTW, I have Klipsch Cornwall II fronts, with a Klipsch Academy center, Klipsch Heresy II surrounds, and Klipsch RP 6000F rears with 4 Klipsch CDT-3800-C II Atmos overhead speakers with a 85" Samsung QN85Q80TAFXZA QLED Quantum 4K UHD HDR Smart TV. I'm replacing a 2008 model Yamaha RX-V3800 AVR. I just added an SVS PB2000 Pro sub and the Klipsch RP 6000F rears. I can't WAIT to see how much difference the separates make, and also how much the ceiling speakers are going to add.
Similar situation - We just replaced our Denon 3600H with the Marantz 8805A. Now waiting patiently for the additional 7ch power amp (ordered) to pair with our existing DR3. This is our first time experimenting with separates and we are loving the experience.
Interesting. I didn't realize there was a difference in channel separation. I've been looking at switching out my old Marantz SR5010 AVR for an Emotiva processor + amp stack. I just upgraded my speakers all around to the Revel Concerta2 series (The F36 towers are incredible!) plus two SVS PB-3000 subs. Level matched it all and fine tuned everything, it sounds AMAZING but you just sold me on separates to bring it to the next level.
I really enjoyed your video comparing the AVR to the Dedicated Separate Processor. I really enjoyed the fact that you took the time to test the AVR driving the separate amps. You produce an amazing show.
Most subwoofers have their own internal amplifier. This video should help ruclips.net/video/dUzqJCcRe0Y/видео.html Here is a video discussing how to connect multiple subwoofers - ruclips.net/video/4A87H0DqKZE/видео.html
How much of it was placebo effect? I would like to see a video where you get some other home theater enthusiasts and repeat the test as a blind test. Also, according to Audioholics, most processors do not actually have real balanced xlr connections on them (until you get to really high price points) so it shouldn't make much difference whether you use xlr or rca cables.
All I can share is what we both experienced. I have compared a lot of amps and do not hear a difference. I have added amps to AVR’s and. It heard a significant difference. This was very noticeable. I agree on RCA vs XLR. I have never heard a difference in sound quality between the two. You do get a higher gain with XLR so that’s a positive.
@@Youthman I'm not saying that you didn't hear a difference or even that there isn't a big difference in fact. It's just that there are a lot of claims made within the high end audio community and I would like to understand what is happening from a scientific, measurable perspective. Since you are playing audio from the same source at the same volume but one scenario is with an AVR and one is with a separate processor and amp, what do you attribute the difference to? Assuming that both scenarios have sufficient amplifier power and that the AVR is not just lacking enough power for the volume you were using. Do you think the actual processor is just that much better quality in the dedicated processor compared to the AVR? I would think that both devices have pretty basic computer hardware inside (compared to an actual PC) and that if there is a big difference in how well they work, it is probably an artificially created gap to drive sales towards more expensive solutions.
As mentioned in the video, I am not certain what is the biggest contributing factor. We were not using the internal amps in the SR8015. SR8015 was in preamp mode which disconnects the internal amplifiers. Both SR8015 and AV7706 were connected to Monolith 11X. SR8012 was connected with RCA. AV7706 was connected with XLR. I don’t think the XLR made the difference in dynamics and detail. My guess is it simply does a better job processing the data it’s given.
@@Youthman XLR does not mean anything is balanced. Its just a 3 pin connector. In order for the cable to be balanced, all 3 pins must be used. 2 for signal and one for ground. Its true that most cables that are terminated with xlr connectors are balanced. Most components with xlr connectors are not balanced, even if they say they are. The only way you can take advantage of balanced operation is to have both components that actually run balanced. Otherwise, its a regular single ended rca connection.
Separates do sound cleaner, more dynamic with better separation of sounds. Your descriptions weren’t technical but spot on. If you get great amplification and speakers, (I’m using a Cinepro amps and legacy audio speakers) you can keep them for many years and just upgrade the processor every now and then as technology dictates.
@@Youthman "Not super technical" is a funny way of saying wrong. Gene at Audioholics measured the SR8015 pre-outs and they are measurably superior to the AV7706 (which isn't even balanced, it just has XLRs so it can LARP as pro gear). This whole video is more of a powerful example of how psychological biases can make you hear things that aren't there.
Measurements are great and I believe Gene’s measurements to be accurate. But Gene himself has said not everything you measure can be heard. My question is have you personally (or Gene for that matter) listened to them both side by side with your own ears or are you just relying one some else’s data? As far as bias, your argument would make much more sense if I went into it thinking separates were superior. I assumed I would not hear a difference since the SR8015 has preamp mode which in theory, should make it the same as a dedicated process.
@@Youthman Placebo effect actually still works regardless of assumptions. In a lot of research, when people are aware of the placebo effect it is even more profound, ironically. When you get into these sort of situations, measurements are really what we can rely on because our ears and brains lie to us, and something as simple as the levels being off 1dB or slight setup configurations being different can dramatically change results as well. The takeaway most are getting, judging by the comments on this video, is separates are superior which in many cases simply isn't true. Most times it's just a waste of money, hardly a "Youthman Deal" lol. Gene is absolutely right that not everything you hear can be heard. Should people buy separates that are no better (or in this case the separate is objectively worse than the integrated) because their psychology is playing tricks on them? Maybe that's acceptable, but what we really need in audio is to break these myths so that people spend money in the right places instead that will make an objective and much more profound difference in their theater. You call me a troll but I'm trying to help the channel. The fact is you have great potential but you're starting to make content that is promoting inaccurate beliefs when you have an opportunity to really help people in an industry that is full of snake-oil. A lot of these people have no idea and are getting sold a bag of lies often, so my hope was your channel would help out with that similar to the ethos of early Audioholics.
AWESOME video Michael! This really helped me with my decision to wait for the new Marantz AV 10 and Marantz Amp 10. I initially considered upgrading to the Anthem AVM 90 with 3 Emotiva XPA amps to power my LCR's, surrounds, and atmos channels separately. However, I really like the simplicity of just the AV Processor and the all in one power amp. I know there's not a ton of reviews on them yet but what's your thoughts on the new Marantz AV10 with AMP10 setup vs lets say... the Anthem AVM 90 processor + 3 separate power amps?
I feel you on the simplicity brotha. I havr a Denon x4700h. Got my first A5 then got an A7. Now I'm like maaan all I use this AVR is to power my 7.2.4 with the 11 pre outs. Now I want to sell my avr for $1200
It very well could be. I do not believe it was as I actually thought I would not hear any difference being that the SR8015 had preamp mode and I was using the same amplifier with both units.
With these many speakers… even the power reserve of separates gives the edge. There is a limit how much intregrate can push to each channel clean power.
So Marantz is crippling their sound processing unit in their flagship product? I can understand that the amplification stage is not up to par in the AVR vs dedicated amp, but I find it troubling that their flagship AVR cannot process the sound to external outputs in a similar fashion (where it's indistinguishable to a listener) to a dedicated processor.
Considering the SR8015 uses the same dac, dsp, etc. it is a let down. The SR8015 even has extras like copper chassis, etc. Curious if anything is software related else just related to the hardware implementation...guessing hardware since even pure direct seems to lack some. I will say it sounds pretty decent with Audyssey flat enabled.
I'll just leave it here - Audioholics post from this video: ruclips.net/video/0CH29SuaYaM/видео.html "I go with measurements and controlled listening tests over feelings or opinion. The 8015 has the best preamp section of ANY Marantz AV product right now. We measured both the 7705 and 7706 and it's not nearly as good as the 8015. It is at least on par with the AV8005 and I even confirmed this with Marantz engineering directly. Most budget processors like the 7706 are fake balanced. They use a phase splitter to derive a balanced output as opposed to a truly differential circuit path like what you see in the Emotiva RMC-1. That said, it's possible audibility of the better preamp of the 8015 is not detectable compared to the AV7706 depending on many factors such as room acoustics, source material, speaker quality, and hearing acuity."
Can you please translate this for those of us who might not be as savvy? Is this saying that the SR8015 is technically better than the 7706 according to the engineers?
@@Smellslikegelfling Yes. 8015 is better, especially if you use it as preamp and if you need more info: www.audioholics.com/av-receiver-reviews/marantz-sr8015/conclusion
@@Smellslikegelfling Here is another quote from Audioholics "given the choice between the AV7706 vs 8015, I'd choose the 8015 and add a 2 or 3ch amp if you need more power up front. The 8025 does a solid 100wpc with 7ch driven." This was an answer to this question, Some guy: "exactly the statement I was looking for after Michael comparison, so in simple words it makes no sense that the HARDWARE on the 7706 produce a better sound quality that the hardware on the 8015? A part from what you mention of variables like room and accostics. And one last question according with your measurements running the 8015 on pre Amp mode with a good Amp makes a improvement on sound quality? Thank you so much Gene"
All I do is share what I hear and experience with my own ears in my own home connected to my own gear. The SR8015 is a fantastic AVR. In my setup, the AV7706 simply outperformed it.
Sound is not science. It is subjective. It is based on feelings and opinions not measurements. People like different sound characteristics and whilst on paper one thing might outperform something else, that is not necessarily what your ears think. Think of speakers. There are bright speakers, more dark and deep speakers and there are more balanced speakers. Just because someone likes the sound of a bright speaker it doesn't mean it's better on paper, and likewise, just because something seems better on paper, it doesn't mean you're going to like the sound of it and think it sounds better.
My xlr cables will be here tomorrow, can't wait!! I'm back to Marantz after pushing them away 30 years ago. Now, when the pre-amp has a physical switch to throw, to change between balanced and unbalanced cables, can a man leave all the cables hooked up and just throw the switch? That would make an a/b test pretty straight forward. But, I'm gonna ask someone about this before I experiment with my pride and joy. What say you? I just gotta add, I sure wish I still had that CRT tuner! Thanks for being there for us, pretty addictive programming! Please carry on!
Well what you say about av7706 is what im hear with my denon avr-x6500h when i turn off loud management in surround parameter in audyssey turn off dynamic volume and audyssey LFC multEQ xt32 set to flat but i could be wrong maybe it does Sound better with the av7706🤔
Very helpful! I was considering getting an AVR that can be a pre-pro and buying AMPs later, but now I'll just wait until I can afford the full separate setup.
A blind test conducted under strict scientific standards would expose the inability for humans to remember relatively insignificant audio differences. I've listened to the Marantz AVR vs. the equivalent separates. Yes, there's a difference, but other than scale/power, it's not even close to significant enough to remember unless you're switching back and forth with an a-b router. Unless the power of the AVR wasn't enough for your application, I hope you were wise and saved a lot of money.
Yeah I just got the AV7706 and the MM7055 amp, after setup I was amazed how good it sounded compared to my previous Arcam AV40 that was riddled with problems. I also ordered the SR8015 which was backordered and I forgot to cancel so it shipped. It will arrive today so I wanted to compare the two however, I fear between demo’s I won’t notice a difference... opinion- go With an AVR like the SR8015 or separates like the AV7706/MM7055. Running 805D3’s and HTM2D3 center
Thanks Youthman for the comparison video! When comparing the AV7706 vs the SR8015 being used as a pre-amp, it's the opposite conclusion that I expected hearing what Gene at @Audioholics measured on the bench. He notes in a video that the SR8015 pre-amp measurements were better than the AV7706. Link to that video and timestamp: ruclips.net/video/0CH29SuaYaM/видео.html. Were you able to run any bench tests and measurements in your review and experience with these units that compare to Gene's?
Hi @tmori19, no I do not have any bench testing equipment. Nothing wrong with buying something that measures better than something else. Just keep in mind, not everything that can be measured can be heard.
The problem with Gene's reviews is that it's more from a technical perspective using measuring equipment. He comes put with stuff the average consumer won't care about nor understand. His reviews are more for the manufacturers and consumers who dive very deep into measurements the human ear cannot pick up. Youthman like most reviewers on the other hand explain from a consumer perspective which I find far more enjoyable and engaging...
That is correct, my reviews are not as “the expert”, but rather from a consumer perspective, because I myself am a consumer of the products I review. I believe as content, creators and reviewers, we all provide a different perspective and experiences and each can provide benefit to the Home Theater community.
One of the most your helpful and useful videos Thanks man for your time I have bought marantz av7706 and mm8807 power amp for my current 5.2.2 which I will add extra 2 for Atmos So far going from my onkyo ht695 which is really solid receiver under 500$ It's really a huugge step up in sound Thanks again 👍🏻
@@Youthman thanks man it is mind blowing experience especially in higher volume Really didn't expect this performance from my Kef q350 And I've noticed something important that maybe you can mention in your videos That when they connected to a receiver and i hit near max power the drivers of my q350 was rumbling and I thought that I've hit the limit capability of my speaker but now I've realised that was from the AV receiver clipping which can cause damage and make you sometimes think that this from your speaker But now it's all gone and I'm really impressed by how good clean power could change speaker movement and max SPL
@John Smith My AV7704, and his AV7705 can reverse the polarity by a setting in a menu, because of this reason. But still frustrating that USA have one standard, the rest of the world another...
Love your review on AVR -V- AV . I used to have AVR and now going to get the 8805 and monolith X11. Can’t wait to get this after I complete building my theater room. I’m running a 7.2.4 set up. B&W speaker with two 12” subs. 5030UB projector. My room size is 19’x20’ dedicated attic space.
Welp, after waiting months for the 7706 on backorder, it’s finally arrived. Time to ditch my SR7015. I sure hope it was worth it. I’m sitting on $5000.00 of front end.
Report back with your side by side experience if you don't mind. Am leaning towards a SR7015 purchase and using in processor mode but curious to hear if you can hear an improvement as well with the AV7706.
Just hooking external amps to the pre outs of a receiver helps a great deal, what I did after the great improvement of going to a seperate amp-preamp in my audio system, and now with those amps it will be easier to upgrade to an AV prepro
I did the same.. most don't realize you don't need to just get processor but instead combine AVR with seperates.. in my case I use QSC amps for the front stage and then let the AVR handle the surround speakers which is plenty of power.. it helps the AVR work less while drastically improving sound up front where needed
Don’t bother I just spent 13k on Marantz separates 8805 & 8077 to go with my Anthem’s and there’s no difference between them and my Marantz 8012 it’s all bs and hyp
@@romanlewandowski9616 I definitely would not do seperates for surround sound and depending on speaker and center being used most high end AV recievers can push them quite well.. I think the issue with some speakers is efficiency, as some require more power to sound good.. I had the RF2 speakers and they did not require much power but they are 97 db but sounded awesome with onkyo AV at 100 rms per channel.. in any case, the speakers bejng used will determine if amp is required for sure..
@@romanlewandowski9616 : I had the AV8801 and sold it because I wasn't impressed, I understand the AV8805 has more options, but I'll stay with my Krell S1200U-3D because it blows away any Marantz I've heard regardless of price. Your Marantz MM8077 7-channel power amplifier is rated at 150 watts per channel into 8 ohms, and 180 watts per channel into 6 ohms, that's your problem... no current. Try buying something used like a Simaudio Titan that delivers 200 watts into 8 ohms and 400 into 4 ohms (all channel driven), anything more that doubles to 2 ohms would be wasted for home theater already having sub-woofers.
I have the Marantz SR7011 with B&W 702 S2 speakers and 2 SVS SB 16 Ultra subs in a 20x20 room. Is it time to upgrade to the Marantz SR8015 or better to go with separates? If so, what do you suggest? I plan to at Atmos speakers. TV is a 75" Sony 4k. Will be upgraded soon as well.
This might sound like a silly question, but I’ll ask anyway. I can’t afford to buy a processor and a multichannel amp at the same time. But my AVR has unbalanced inputs for 7 channels. Would it be worth buying a processor for now and using those unbalanced inputs for amplification until upgrading to a separate amplifier in a year or two?
I've always preferred using separates. Using separates gives you a better listening experience overall. If you think about it - each component has a dedicated function with a single purpose. That way they can focus on better tech in their components. Where an AVR (albeit more convenient and more cost effective), they're having to do many functions - amplify, process those functions etc. Not to mention the heat they produce.
Hey Youthman! great video again, never really checked separates before. But since your SR8015 is fully powered by your 11 ch amplifier how come there is that much of a difference in sound when your Sr8015 is pretty much itself a separated since it dont have to power anything? Also both the AVR and the separates use the same Audyssey Xt32 for calibration. Thanks!!
I would’ve thought the same thing. As I shared in the video, I can’t say for certain what made the most difference. Maybe the 7706 uses better components.All I know is we both heard a distinct difference in detail, clarity and channel separation.
unfortunately, even with a blind test or even a double blind test, there will still be people that will say it’s not a valid test. All I can do is share my experience with my ears and my own home. My channel isn’t designed to be laboratory testing type videos. I share from a home theater enthusiast / consumers perspective
Unless you got a really large home cinema room, I don't think separates is needed. A well designed AVR with 100 to 150 watts per channel into 5.1/ 7.1 will do just fine. Separates may not necessarily give you better sound, but more power in a bigger room, which of course has the ability for more headroom and more dynamics.
My room isn’t really large (13’ x 19’ with 10’ ceiling) and it was a significant improvement. Not to say the SR8015 is a slouch...the 7706 just performs better.
Hi Youthman, I love your videos. I'm the proud owner of the Klipsch RF-7 series iii along with the matching center as well. One day I decided to put in a Marantz SR-7010 that was updated with the latest firmware DTS-X. When I ran that receiver through the Klipsch speaker package it transform my home theater into a home cinema. For some reason, when these Marantz receiver go through the updates, I think the overall performance is modified as well. Plus, I got to see how good the crossovers are in the Klipsch, and the Marantz too! It was really an amazing home theater experience.
Hi there! which one would you suggest between yamaha mx-a5200 and monolith 11x. Also, you think it is a good timing to buy Marantz 7706 at this time knowing they have issue with new xbox? Should I wait or get the 7705 instead. I am also thinking emotiva xmc 2. Thank you.
This video has me thinking of changing my upgrade path for my home theater. I am happy with my current AVR but it's too old to support atmos. Would you recommend buying a processor and connecting it to my old AVR for power if I knew I had plans to buy a dedicated poweramp later?
Good morning Commander Russell. Just about every comment you make is negative. You might want to add some fiber to your diet. Advertising deal with GLS? Interesting seeing that I don’t even have a contact for GLS. If I’m getting paid, I would certainly like to see the check. If a video is sponsored on my channel, I share it verbally at the very beginning of the video, mention it in the description AND I check the “this video contains paid promotion” box on RUclips. I shared in the video what I bought with my own money. But thank you for trolling. Be blessed
@@mikewinburn Yeah I appreciate the rainbow, mostly just messing with Youthman (he'll warm up to it). You can use colored tape on the ends also.. As a side note, actually the AV7707 isn't balanced, so if possible to ones amp I'd just use RCAs out of that rather than XLR rather than buy new cables. I think a lot of people assume that unit is balanced because of the XLRs when it really isn't.
@@commanderrussels2612 - that’s great info. I’ve been rather uncreative in my labeling... scotch tape and paper :) I didn’t know that about the XLRs being unbalanced... fortunately for me, I have a more recent model w balanced XLRs
Well, separates probably will sound better if you are having at home a dedicated small theater room with carpets on the floor and walls like youth man has and you also tend to hear at high volume levels .But if you have a system in a standard living room and you hear movies at medium volume - then I'm not sure that the diff will be noticeable. Maybe you will feel a slight diff… but you will have to pay 5000$ for 7706 + emotiva power amp instead of 3800$ for SR8015.
i am starting to regret purchasing my yamaha 3080 glad i didn't buy an emotive processor but the monolith you reviewed has peaked my interest by the time i get around to it on my list of new audio to purchase i am sure i will be able to grab it on the used market
Man I had the 3080 and it was an excellent receiver, only one I know of with XLR pre outs. Agree with @youthman here that the AVR still leaves something to be desired once experiencing separates. I jumped to the AV8805 and can’t go back to an AVR, especially after this video confirms what I initially thought. After a couple years of exchanging equipment, building different systems in my home, I finally concluded an AVR is for: 1.) if you never intend to buy separate amps, 2.) want to build a secondary system with moderate listening level habits, and 3.) if you’re not a critical listener, constantly looking for things which are wrong, that need to be corrected (which is totally fine by the way). And you can have a kickass system with an AVR - the flagship AVR’s are all amazing for what they do (they need to do a lot). There’s also something to be said about processors being targeted for specific end users. For example, it is NOT a minimalistic approach. There are boxes everywhere. So there’s a lot to consider. Anyway, just my .02 - there are awesome AVR’s, I’ve used many of them. There is a noticeable difference to step to a processor, though that difference is way more apparent, the further from the flagship AVR, you are. The 3080 is awesome - if you ever decide to go separates, I’d think about how you can repurpose the 3080, so you don’t have to miss it!! Enjoy!
@@HiFinest343 thank you for your input. Right now i think the biggest problem is i have way more power going to L and R compared to the other 5 channels once i purchase an emotiva amp to finish off the home theatre portion of my stereo i may not find an issue with the 3080 and as i was saying by then perhaps the new 16 channel monolith processor will be affordable on the used market by then. I have been a fan of yamaha receivers since the 80s and 90s I always thought yamaha was top of the line in bottom end audio
now with choosing is it the makers processing thats better because if i get a high end avr and separate amp will that make a difference or just getting a processor and amp is the way to go
Youthman, straight out from the marantz manuel it reads: By adding a power amplifier to each channel, the realness of the sound can be further enhanced. When setting the Assign Mode to Pre-Amplifier it stops operation of the internal power amplifier. The marantz SR-8015, SR-7015, SR-6015 and the AV-7706 all use the same Digital to Analog Converters (DAC). The chips are the AsahiKASEI AK4458 and all of the marantz units are using the same tuned specs: S/N 115dB, THD+N-107dB, PCM 768KHz and DSD256. So, are you saying that the marantz's (pre out) process mode is bogus?
I’m not sure what your question is. As I shared in the video, I initially did not think I would hear any difference between the SR 8015 and the AV 7706 in preamp mode. Both Derek and I felt the AV 7706 did a better job. But that could’ve been due to Audyssey calibrating differently.
@Youthman Thanks for replying sir! I was just curious as to how the SR-8015 and the AV-7706 could sound different with clarity/imaging. Both pieces of equipment run the same DACs/specs. I understand, that dedicated processors produce less heat, which is a good thing. Thanks for stating the Audyssey calibrating possibility. I do own a marantz SR8015 which is pre amp out to the marantz MM7055 and a MM7025. I am running 7.2. Klipsch RP. I stream alot of Netflix movies which are made in 5.1, DD+ and I love it! Thanks so much for taking the time to make such outstanding videos Youthman!
It's great to see an honest and genuine review of his experience. I know exactly what he experienced. When I did my switch to separates I also did a side by side comparison... was night an day. Worth the extra expense??? Well for me and my family YES! When your wife can notice a vast improvement makes it even more worth the money.
Oh, what about buying an AVR and upgrading the setup with an external amplifier, and ultimately having a complete external amplifier setup? I like the Denon sound, but they don't offer separate components, so if I go this way, won't I have the same result
Unless its a blind ABX type test, I don't believe it. I have amps ranging from 80 bucks to 10 grand, and its really hard to tell them apart in a blind test. Your expectation bias is making your brain tell you there is a huge difference, when really, there isn't one. To be clear, yes, you HEAR a difference, BUT, its all in your head :) If you measure the signal in and signal out, as long as both setups are not clipping and have reasonably low distortion ratings, then there is no difference. Schitt has a good paper out on the value of blind testing. My home theater is presently running the 110 Denon with outputs to Krell and Denon 110 amps that power Dynaudio Contour speakers in a 7.2.2 configuration. It is massive overkill and its just for fun. I have come to realize that basically, all good performing amps sound the same. I wish I had realized that before Krell :) Take care.
I’m certainly not asking you to believe me. Simply sharing our experience. We both went into it not thinking it would make much (if any) difference since I was using the SR8015 in preamp mode connected to the Monolith 11X. Needless to say it was a significant difference between the two.
@@Youthman i do believe you, but if i switched the equipment without you knowing it, you would likely still prefer the separates even though you were listening to the integrated :) in the end, just enjoy your toys, i know i do.
Am looking for a 7.2.2 configuration and am trying to decide between the separates route which includes the Marantz AV7706 @$2599 (vs) the Denon 4700H($1799)+Emotiva BasX A7($699). Why 4700H? Because it has Auro3D, Jitter Reduction, 32-Bit processing, Slightly better THD levels at 8Ohms. Please suggest.
I would suggest actually getting a good sound demo somewhere to get a feel for what you like and do not like. Would you really need an atmos system? Is 5.1 enough or 7.1. I would suggest getting to hear the different options with movies that you actually like. When dealers know that you really want a system they will have no problems showing you everything they have. A real good dealer should show you best bang per buck.
I’m getting ready to go separates for the first time when my anthem avm 70 finally comes in. I have 4 atmos speakers that will be installed at the same time. I can’t wait.. I will have a 5.1.4. I believe this would be more than enough for my theater room.
What made you choose Anthem Avm70? I am currently running 7.2.2 Atmos with Marantz Sr8012, running 5 main channel with Emotiva 5 channel amp. Looking to sell/trade in my Sr8012 for Anthem Avm70?
AVR is for the people that can't spend all that money at once. It's a lot easier to buy and AVR then slowly build up an army of amps for everything then once you get that switch it to pre-pro mode then when it's upgrade time again that's when you get a processor. I enjoyed hearing it from a different perspective. Good video!
@@Youthman audioholics , Gene said in test the 8015 a much better pre amp than the 7706 and that the balanced inputs on the 7706 are bias so not the real deal .but listening can tell a different story , plus the Dac,s in the 7706 are according to forums Old Dac ,s ??
I cannot tell you what Gene said or what his findings were. I’m simply sharing what we heard and experienced with our ears in my own home connected to my speakers.
If the 8015 is still powering the speakers instead of the monolith amp, but you still have the av7706 doing the preamp processing, would you still hear as much detail separation?
@@Youthman Agree to a certain extent, but more channels should provide better imagine and immersion. I haven’t tried front wides yet, but it’s one of the reason I decided on the SR8015. I have 4 of the same towers and matching center towers so it should create a wonderful front sound stage.
In my application I’m only running 5.1.4 so either one is enough processing for me. Room limitations prevent me from expanding past that (although I could and should add a second sub).
Hi from Calgary! Have a 7706 on the way. My friend Barrett got his last week. I was somewhat reluctant in ordering a Marantz 7706. I really like my Yamaha RXA2080 (5.2.4)as a pre using a 5 ch 200w amp. So I am adding another 5 ch for a total of 10 with the 7706. Great description, made me feel a lot better about my choice!!! Barrett had issues with gaming, bit I am not a gamer!! Too old lol. Now I can't wait for it to arrive, patience is not one of my virtues! Again great video, thanks fellas!!
I am curious, is there a way to adjust the subwoofer trim via the remote control on the 7706? The Yamaha RX A2080 has a dedicated subwoofer trim level control button on the remote which I really like, and use quite often with both movies and music. Much better than having to dive into the settings menu.
@@Youthman thank you very much for your response! Like everything there are always compromises to be made for better and new gear. You know. a guy needs his favorite remote button! lol I am looking forward to the Marantz
An Amplifier really SHOULDN'T change the sound at all. But I can see how in theory having a separate Amplifier could allow more area for better quality components and better power delivery. In reality it may not be enough to warrant the extra space and cost of needing 2 separate units for most people.
As a guy concerned primarily with 2-channel music listening, as a general rule, separates are known to be superior, all things being equal. Never thought much about this principle in AVR. You have piqued my interest now! When it’s time to move on from my old and trusty Denon X4100, I believe I will strongly consider AVR separates. Thanks so much, Mike! Love the channel and the attitude here.
I'm currently using a emotiva xpa 3 gen 3 for my front lcr and a outlaw model 5000 for my side and rear surrounds. My marantz sr6012 is basically being used as a preamp processor. Since I don't have atmos channels would I benefit or notice a big different getting a preamp?
I've had both seperates and intigrated and there is some differences between the 2 , however you can get the same thing between 2 different units of the same make as well. It's not always a placebo effect, but actual sonic differences due to the variances of each unit from multiple factors. You have a awesome theater bro..
Your assumption must be based on the cost of each unit and not an apples to apples comparison... improvements in the sound of a preamp costing the same as a receiver will always translate into better sound, this is because removing the cost of things like amplification translates into better internal components, the same goes for the amplifier, the cost of processing, software for decoding, volume controls, and anything needed to process the signal can be used for upgrades like running class A for the first 25 watts, or a better power supply. Most people who own a receiver have never seen a sine wave or heard of the term clipping, so they think that 300 watts at 8 ohms is huge, but it fails to hold a square wave and rolls off because lack of current, separates will always sound better because they reduce any clipping of the signal with current, that's why they sound cleaner, faster, and more transparent.
@@ronmurphy4234 No..it has nothing to do with the cost of each unit. As I said,there is a difference between them due to many factors and that it wasn't a placebo effect. I futher stated that there could be sonic differences between the same exact units due to variances within them. No assumption on my part, however you did explain it better than me 👍
@@ronmurphy4234 Production standards and quality control mainly. There is always the human factor that must be accounted for as well and I am not speaking of personal biases as a whole because we will always have our listening sessions be influenced somewhat,but to the actual physical variances within each of our hearing capabilities. This can and does have to be factored into any discussion. As to the former, QC can and does effect more units irregardless of the cost per unit then most reviewers or commentors are willing to concede. I have personally had to return top of the line AVR's and Pre Pro's far too often, and I am not speaking about cosmetics here although is a contributing factor often enough which can result in personal biases coming into the equation. There isn't a manufacturer today who can garantee their products to work 100% of the time.
@@Mac11700 I agree, that's why they have B-Stock... being both an audiophile and videophile for decades, I'm surprised by the number of snake oil salesman that pray on the "MP3" generation. They push products that sound as good as a box sub-woofer inside a car trunk, but they have base. But there's still hope, my nephew is a smart kid and has started collecting vinyl records and wants a good audio system to play them. He has already shown interest in separate's, but I'm looking at giving him my Marantz SR7009 because I've never used it and probably won't... it will at least get him into the game. You being a Mac guy, any thoughts on the MA12000?
So the AV 8805 came out in Dec 2018 and (if you can find one) still runs $4500 but does 13.2 channels of processing, The AV 7706 is brand new as of Oct 2020 and runs "only" $2500, seems newer and better in almost every way for $2k less, but only processes 11.2 channels. What am I missing? I know tech can get cheaper over time and all, but $2k more for only another 2 channels of processing, but an older unit in every other regard? I have to be missing something else in feature set or signal quality right? I mean why didn't they keep it at 13.2, is something else coming? I'm not sure I need another 2 height channels that bad...lol. Then to further confuse thigns there is the slightly older av7705, which can be had pretty (relativly) cheap, only $1800 on amazon right now, still a 2020 model, still 11.2, mostly the same feature set at least surface leval, but haven't found a direct comparision between the 2 yet, it's hard to know what to spend your money on where you wont have regret about spending too much or not enough.
From what I can tell, the current diffrence between the 7705 and 7706 is 4k vs 8k, and the 7706 has independent sub outs vs 2 mirrored sub outs on the 7705. Otherwise hardware and feature set seem identical.
Hi Youthman, I have a Marantz SR 7005 AVR. Had it for a while. I also have a pair of Klipsch RF series with dual binding posts made in USA. Recently, from watching a Steve Guttenberg video, I decided to bi amp the loudspeakers which the SR 7005 allows you to only by connecting the lower binding posts to the FRONT L and R inputs and the upper binding posts to the Surround Back Amp Assign inputs and change the setting on the AVR from normal to Speaker C. I listen to music in stereo with a sub on. Amazing transformation No kidding.. You can also enjoy 5 channels watching movies. But Audyssey is disabled but who needs this crap!! Cheers.PS You must remove the straps on the loudspeakers
Wonder what's actually making the tangible difference you can hear seeing as audioholics say the avr actually measured better than the processor, to be clear I ain't doubting as measurements never tell the whole story.
Yes there are often things that we can measure that our ears cannot hear. All I know is it was absolutely apparent that the AV7706 had more dynamics, clarity and better channel separation than the SR8015 in Preamp mode.
The reality is separates aren’t for everyone. There definitely is a much higher cost and everyone must decide whether or not the difference is worth it. I never try to decide that for anyone.
Wonder if it would make somewhat of a difference if you went form the 7706 first then to the 8015. Going from the Monolith processor to the SR8015 didn’t seems to make much of a notable impact. I’m sure the 7706 was better, but somewhat surprised it’s so noticeable/different.
There is nothing surprising about this result. People have been making claims of hearing all sorts of differences in different components like amplifiers, speaker wires, interconnects, power cords, etc, for 50 years. In an uncontrolled subjective comparison that is not conducted rigorously, people hear differences that are not in fact there, and cannot be duplicated in a blind comparison.
Watching your videos have been so helpful and just wanted to say how much I appreciate everything you do. Did you notice a large difference in the AVR going from the AVR internal amplification to an external amp? I have the SR7013 so not ready to upgrade for awhile but am considering a Monolith 9 channel amp. Then the next upgrade could go to true separates. Just didn't know if going to external amps on the AVR would be noticeable. And if this was covered and I missed it I apologize.
Do you have tested the pre-amp mode of SR8015 against 7706, with the same amplifier? Would be a nice comparison. Because you can buy 8015 first and update later with seperate amplifiers. Or is a seperate like 7706/8805 a lot better than 8015 in pre-amp mode?
@@Youthman Sorry, missunderstood. The difference in sound quality is such big? I'm very suprised, because other reviewer says that 8015 pre amplifier are almost at the same level as 8805. With almost no diffence to a seperat pre-amplifier.
I was considering an AVR, since I've always had them, but for my new home theater (still 1.5 yrs away in a newly built custom home), I am now sold on separates. Thanks for the push Youthman! I'm looking at the Yamaha AVENTAGE MX-A5200BL & CX-A5200 for my setup. Any thoughts vs Marantz?
I have not had the opportunity to review any Yamaha products so I’m not sure how they compare with Marantz. Many that own them seem to really enjoy them
Question for Mr. Youthman. I am considering going from a 6015 to a 7706. I am using the 6015 only as a pre-pro and using external amps. Would going to a 7706 make a difference? I'm assuming in your face off you were using the amps in the 8015 against external amps with the 7706?
That is one of the coolest home theaters I have seen. Very practical how you can pull out the cabinet and raise the screen to access the components. Anyway, I think for your setup running separates is close to a must. For smaller a bit more modest speaker setup I suspect it won't be quite as beneficial. And I disagree with your friend, most decent home theaters blow pretty much any cinema away sound wise. Thanks for the video.
Was it mentioned or explored to use the monolith as the amp for the SR8015, and then compare that to the AV7706 with the monolith. This would be a better comparison because you a relying on the same amp. If this wasn't done, I think the results are invalid. We don't know if the difference was because of the amp or the separate processor.
Interesting! Were both units running without (or with) room correction? Level matched etc? I am awaiting my first processor (AVM70) coming from an AVR (SR7010), glad to see it seems to be a good upgrade!
My sons 2 years ago bought me a used Marantz AV 7005 preamp for my 60th birthday. It replaced my aged Rotel pre-amp processor. All I can say is WOW the difference was amazing and I believe it was $350. I am powering it with a Carver av705x, and my speakers have 10" 250 watt subs in each tower
@@Youthman the 7005 was $1500 in 2011, you were thinking 7705. But I never asked for anything specific and 60 is a special birthday. They are great hardworking boys and I really appreciate it.
Sorry maybe I missed it, but what settings did you use? Audyssey reference, dynamic EQ off, dynamic volume off? Any limit on the multireq filtering range? Mid range compensation on or off?
separating the processor and power amps is about better power supplies, better power and hopefully processing capability DACs etc. The physical separation is IMO a small part of it. I run mono blocks per channel and the advantage is a power supply for each channel, no cross talk etc
@@Youthman What you guys explained, kinda sounds like what I experienced when I tried Dirac software on my computer setup. Same sound information, but Direct some how removed the “noise” between all the instruments. Perhaps there’s additional processing besides just XT32. I would think XT32 between the SR8015 and 7706 should be the same...
Hi Michael, quick ques. When you were running your old Marantz AVR and outputting via an external amplifier (before you went to the processor), was the Marantz running in full pre-out mode to disconnect the internal amps? Or was that before that feature existed in the firmware.
@@Youthman 👍 Just wondering as I know you mention in your video that you really heard a difference going to a full processor. I’ve always wondered how much of a step up full pre-out mode is on an AVR, (then again how much jump to a processor.)
I already knew that separates are better, because I've been running a Marantz AV8802A for about five years, but it's nice to have a video explaining the differences for the layman...
@Youthman - What your thoughts on connecting a Pre/Pro Balanced out (XLR) directly to Active/ Powered Speakers? I see some benefits. Cost, Fidelity and scalability and if something goes wrong with the amp on each then it possibly less painful to replace per speaker?
@@Youthman I think for the kicks I should experiment with it. If you use something like powered subs two-way studio monitors/ Hi-Fi drivers and due to them being pretty efficient with a really high half-space or free field sensitivity I think there could be some benefit. They also usually come bi-amped with crossovers built in. I think this could sound pretty amazing. Well that's in just Theory right.
Hello from France !! I've seen a post on FB sharing this video...and it did cost me €4,400 today ! My wife definitely hate you. So I'm updating my setup from an Onkyo TZ-RX900 + Focal Atmos 5.1.2 (focal aria 926 + CC 900, atmos and surrounds are embedded). I followed your suggestion and went for a Marantz AV7706 + Emotiva XPA-11 Gen3 11 channels. I hope I will really feel a significant improvement, we'll see in 2 days when they arrive.
I also had the Onkyo TX-RZ900 and switched to the Marantz SR7013. In my opinion, the difference was like day and night and i am very happy. In the near future, however, I will also switch to the AV7706.
Quick question Youthman, is the processor you reviewed and improvements more noticeable in home theater? Or can you fully expect to the same WOW factor for heavy music listeners as well? Thanks NickT
So question.. if you use an AVR.. but use the pre-outs (or in my case.. speaker outs with line level to rca adapters) fed to a separate more powerful amp.. will that give a similar experience to a separate processor.. or is it the higher quality/expense of processors like the Emotiva/Monoprice HTP1, etc that are just that much better at decoding/separating sounds in to specific speakers?
What about using the AV7706 preamp with the amplifiers in the SR8015, bypassing the integrated preamp (I am assuming the SR8015 has inputs for this)? This is an option if you already have an old integrated amp / receiver and want to upgrade the preamp section.
Which is better for a 2.1 system for both movies and music? I have a Denon 3805 AVR w/Klipsch RF-7 III and SVS SB16. It sounds amazing to me for both applications.
Curious as well. Kinda like dynamic picture setting on a TV. I don’t doubt the 7706 is better, but it seems like the SR8015 should be better than it performed.
No, a seperation is is just well defined sound, like a helicopter overhead is better than the sound of an helicopter, the more defined the sound is the better.
I want to do separates I’m my home theater. But I have no idea about what I’ll need to do. Like do I connect my current AVR to a separate amp and how I go about doing it. Or do I need a separate amp and AVR ?
I would love have that setup, I have Denon x6509h with 11.1.4 configuration. Have a Monolith 3x200 I am adding for front stage. So, I guess I am wondering how much benefit would be to using preouts to separate amps would compare to the dedicated processor and amps?
@@gamingingalaxy4011 I love it. Right away I noticed a nice difference with movies. With music had to make a few little tweaks. Now that sounds amazing also. Very satisfied with the upgrade. Not taking anything away from the Yamaha tho. That is an awesome receiver. I recommend it . But the marantz pre/pro just takes it up another level.
@@MrJjburgess11 thats nice! I just purchased yamaha rx a 3080 but i still have a time to change for something else. Like marantz sr8015 but again i dont care about 8k or 4k 120. My set up klipsch fronts rp8000f , rp504 center channel and rp600 for surrounds. Now after watching this video i wanna go separates lol
I moved and the previous speakers are not allowed to be installed in either the ceilings or walls. So I bought amplified speakers and have two more sets available for back surrounds plus subwoofer. I am not interested in Dolby Atmos yet.
YES! They do! I just replaced my Marantz SR7013 with a Marantz AV8805. The level of detail and clarity - especially in my surround speakers - is quite noticeable. Thanks for the helpful videos.
Glad you enjoyed the videos and thanks for sharing your experience.
But this is a big step. I would compare the AV8805 rather with the SR8015.
Combined with what amplifier?
@@yvesn58 Emotiva HC-1 monoblocks for l/r/c Emotiva XPA3 Gen 3 and XPA 7 for surrounds.
@@jamesjeffley4926 I’m interested in the same amp you’re using. Can you tell me what center and fronts you’re using?
I totally agree with you about separates. I'm currently running a Marantz AV-8805 pre/pro with Cherry Amps. The sound is just super 'Sweet'. Also, it's not that I'm dissatisfied at all with the Marantz, but just would like to try something different in my second theater space, which is currently running an older Yamaha AVR - which does sound good; just looking to step it up a notch or two to get better channel separation and detail. Knowing the separates are so much better, as this video stated, I also know that different processors sound different (better) than others - due to their internal hardware as well as software differences. And no I'm not looking to spend the crazy $$$ for one of those 'higher end' pre/pros, but certainly around the cost of the AV-8805 and even perhaps a little more. Nice video, Michael! Was nice to hear that others could also hear the difference too.
I used to do preprocessors and separate amps, but with the way the tech was advancing at the time, I decided to just to higher end AVR and switch them out every few years. I may have to revisit this. Love your channel and especially the enthusiasm you bring! Cheers from up here in the North
Flag ship AVR’s’s offer an incredible performance to value ratio. I was extremely impressed with the SR 8012 that I reviewed two years ago and also the SR 8015 that I recently reviewed. They both offer incredible performance.
@@Youthman absolutely love your reviews! As someone building a home theatre in India, your channel provides much needed inspiration!!!
I'm considering the MarantzSR7015 with B&W704S2s and a 5.1.2 Atmos setup (tiny room, don't need more). What are your thoughts on the 7015 and do you think it's better going with a 5015+Poweramp for 2 channel listening? I'm stretched on budget, hence can't do better. Thanks again!
@@shivanksarin6199 I'm considering the same setup. Did you go with it?
Same can be said for stereo setups. Separate the preamp from the amplifiers and you often get better components, less heat and more power.
But how many people in their home set up are going to have the space to really get to the volume levels with their music and movies.
It’s not about getting more volume. Think of it this way. I can bench press 265 lbs. but I can only do it once. A professional bodybuilder could easily bench press 265lbs 3 sets of 10 reps and not break a sweat.
Same could be said when comparing cars. My Ford Explorer can go 60mph in probably 10-14 seconds (I’ve never timed it). The new Tesla Plaid can too…except it gets there i 4 seconds.
When you have dedicated amplifiers, you can deliver the dynamics with ease regardless of what volume level you’re at. Do you have all the torque and high speed regardless of whether you’re listening to intricate music or a complicated soundtrack in a movie
@@Youthman yeah... I guess, but your explorer is a lot cheaper and still get you from point a to point b.
Absolutely. Separates are not for everyone. I happily rocked with an AVR for about 13 years. Nothing wrong with that.
@@Youthman
Many integrated systems can provide the clarity required for the space that most people have.
The key to the more expensive separate systems is that they can go much louder and still offer clarity for the larger spaces that people use.
A good quality integrated system can easily meet the demands for many people. My living room has an integrated system that is on par with any sperate system for the space that is used.
I could go a lot bigger and still would not get any extra quality for the space that I am using in the living room.
Well dang, now I have to get separates once I upgrade to ATMOS. My wife is going to start banning your videos if you keep up with your amazing reviews!
Lol thanks. Honestly there are some fantastic AVRs out there, the SR8015 being one of them. No matter what you buy, there Will always be something bigger and better out there that you could upgrade to. At some point you have to decide what do you need to satisfy your home theater needs.
@@Youthman honestly, this is like my car hobbies.. its never enough...lol
Hi there, I have become a follower of your videos and I have to say great! I have a question, rather a dilemma after seeing your video. Here he comes : I want to upgrade my 5.1 set. Current set up Marantz Av7701 connected to MM7055 and 2 MA6100 Mono amplifiers from Marantz. Speakers fronts, monitor audio silver 8, 4 ohms of which the woofers are driven by the Ma's6100. Center apex A 40, surround speakers A10 all 8 ohms and sub silver W12 all this from monitor audio. For the upgrade I doubt to connect the Sr8015 with the MA's 6100 for the fronts or the AV 7706 with my MM 7055 and the MA's. The Sr 8015 has of course a lot of power, but the same prossesor as the AV 7706. What do you think? regards

Hi there, I have become a follower of your videos and I have to say great! I have a question, rather a dilemma after seeing your video. Here he comes : I want to upgrade my 5.1 set. Current set up Marantz Av7701 connected to MM7055 and 2 MA6100 Mono amplifiers from Marantz. Speakers fronts, monitor audio silver 8, 4 ohms of which the woofers are driven by the Ma's6100. Center apex A 40, surround speakers A10 all 8 ohms and sub silver W12 all this from monitor audio. For the upgrade I doubt to connect the Sr8015 with the MA's 6100 for the fronts or the AV 7706 with my MM 7055 and the MA's. The Sr 8015 has of course a lot of power, but the same prossesor as the AV 7706. What do you think? regards
@@gaverstraat As I recall, the SR 8015 has two subwoofer outputs so you can run those wires into the mono amps.. I personally freed up space on my audio tower by buying SVS subwoofers where all that is needed is RCA wires from Marantz to SVS subs.. I also use amps for center and fronts, including self powered subs and I let the marantz handle the surround sound as the Avr has much power to deliver for atmos speakers, as they only need power to make sound in certain parts of the movie..
@@gaverstraat : So why would you want to go from separates to a receiver, what does your system lack?
If your just looking to add ATMOS, the Marantz AV7706, AV7705, or AV7704 would be a direct upgrade to your AV7701. Depending on your requirements and budget, you could always check the used market for people looking to upgrade... Audiogon was the place to go for used equipment, but the traffic has fallen off since their policy changes, but still a good place to check.
I assume your sub-woofers are not powered, but are they still big enough for your needs with your amps (70 watts @ 8 ohms)? Where adding powered sub-woofers is an option with a benefit of getting more power and less cables, there not free.
The real question is how many ATMOS channels you require, and if you want more power in your sub-woofers... you may only need to add another 5 or 7 channel amplifier and sell the MA6100 amplifiers to reduce the change, or keep what you have and add a 3 channel amplifier for the LRC channels, and move the sub-woofers to the MM7055 (140 watts @ 8 ohms) and use the MA6100 amplifiers for the .2 ATMOS channels.
Been doing separates for a long, long time. I would say probably 2 years after I got into HT. Parasound 5 channel amp has served me well for 20 years now. Processors come and go but that tank of an amp keeps kicking.
Parasound makes ROCK SOLID amps
@@Youthman oh yeah and excellent customer service. They sent me the feet when I moved that I lost for free. All the way from San Francisco to NJ.
I can confirm this from my own experience. I have the MK S300 setup in my room, full Atmos with two subs and it has never sounded great since I drop one amp and went with an AV. When I used to run separates it was miles better. Now I'm going back once the AVM 90 lands and dropping in an ATI Signature.
I had been using a Marantz SR6012 in my HT. I thought it sounded pretty good when connected to my Emotiva XPA-11 amp. Just yesterday I got an AV7706, set it up real quick using all the same connections as the SR6012, and noticed a substantial improvement in clarity even without running Audyssey. It was a pretty noticeable step up, especially in the center channel which I was never really happy with before.
I have been researching the Marantz 7706 and 8805. It was good to view your video about the 7706. Are these models both made in Japan? Have you compared the 8805 to any Anthem processors. Keep up the good work!
Just watched this as I am in the process of switching from a Denon x7200wa AVR to a Anthem avm 60 and two power amps. Looks like I am making the right choice. Thank you for all your videos as they help greatly with upgrades and decisions that are made doing a stereo amp for my towers and a Monoprice 7x200 for the rest for a 7.1.2 set up
I’m wondering, if there was a significant difference in performance if you used only RCA while connecting the SR8015 and AV7706 to the Monolith amp, instead of XLR in the case of AV7706 and RCA of the SR8015. If you ever have some time to do this comparison, I’d love to hear your thoughts on this. Even under this comment. 😊 So then we would be sure DAC and processing is really superior on a dedicated pre-amp and sound quality is noticeably better in every day use.
And if you definitely hear the difference, the blind test is unnecessary, as you’re not a student doing statistic homework at university. I get the point of view behind this methodology, but I honestly appreciate you do this already to us as your hobby and help us in these difficult times, when demoing is not really possible and available at all.
Thank you kindly. Some have shared in the comments that the 7706 doesn’t have fully balanced XLR. I’ve never heard a difference between XLR and RCA connections.
@@Youthman I've heard it only really makes a difference over really long cable runs where noise can effect RCA's compared to balanced XLR's which is the reason they are used in PA applications.
Yes long runs could definitely benefit from XLR.
This was the DECIDING video review for me. I had already ordered the SR8015 from Crutchfield and it was on back order. I was studying separates, but my main concern was whether there was enough difference to justify the additional money and also how I was going to power 11 channels when Marantz doesn't offer an 11 channel power amplifier. I just cancelled my SR8015 order and ordered an AV8805A and Monolith 11x amp. EDIT: BTW, I have Klipsch Cornwall II fronts, with a Klipsch Academy center, Klipsch Heresy II surrounds, and Klipsch RP 6000F rears with 4 Klipsch CDT-3800-C II Atmos overhead speakers.
Wow congrats! I have heard great things about the AV8805
@@Youthman BTW, I have Klipsch Cornwall II fronts, with a Klipsch Academy center, Klipsch Heresy II surrounds, and Klipsch RP 6000F rears with 4 Klipsch CDT-3800-C II Atmos overhead speakers with a 85" Samsung QN85Q80TAFXZA QLED Quantum 4K UHD HDR Smart TV. I'm replacing a 2008 model Yamaha RX-V3800 AVR. I just added an SVS PB2000 Pro sub and the Klipsch RP 6000F rears. I can't WAIT to see how much difference the separates make, and also how much the ceiling speakers are going to add.
Similar situation - We just replaced our Denon 3600H with the Marantz 8805A. Now waiting patiently for the additional 7ch power amp (ordered) to pair with our existing DR3. This is our first time experimenting with separates and we are loving the experience.
My budget 5.1.4 setup is pretty cool...but yeah...can’t wait until I can make the jump to separates!!! Thanks for this discussion
Interesting. I didn't realize there was a difference in channel separation. I've been looking at switching out my old Marantz SR5010 AVR for an Emotiva processor + amp stack.
I just upgraded my speakers all around to the Revel Concerta2 series (The F36 towers are incredible!) plus two SVS PB-3000 subs. Level matched it all and fine tuned everything, it sounds AMAZING but you just sold me on separates to bring it to the next level.
Be nice to see the Marantz 8805 thrown into this comparison mix as well
I really enjoyed your video comparing the AVR to the Dedicated Separate Processor.
I really enjoyed the fact that you took the time to test the AVR driving the separate amps. You produce an amazing show.
Appreciate the kind words. Glad you enjoyed it
Question on your separates setup how did connect your subwoofers? Did you add another power amplifiers if so what brand?
Most subwoofers have their own internal amplifier. This video should help ruclips.net/video/dUzqJCcRe0Y/видео.html
Here is a video discussing how to connect multiple subwoofers - ruclips.net/video/4A87H0DqKZE/видео.html
I still prefer AV receiver over separates because of simplicity. Works well for me! Thanks! Awesome video! Thanks for sharing!
Absolutely. There are some great AVR’s on the market
How much of it was placebo effect? I would like to see a video where you get some other home theater enthusiasts and repeat the test as a blind test.
Also, according to Audioholics, most processors do not actually have real balanced xlr connections on them (until you get to really high price points) so it shouldn't make much difference whether you use xlr or rca cables.
All I can share is what we both experienced. I have compared a lot of amps and do not hear a difference. I have added amps to AVR’s and. It heard a significant difference. This was very noticeable.
I agree on RCA vs XLR. I have never heard a difference in sound quality between the two. You do get a higher gain with XLR so that’s a positive.
@@Youthman I'm not saying that you didn't hear a difference or even that there isn't a big difference in fact. It's just that there are a lot of claims made within the high end audio community and I would like to understand what is happening from a scientific, measurable perspective.
Since you are playing audio from the same source at the same volume but one scenario is with an AVR and one is with a separate processor and amp, what do you attribute the difference to? Assuming that both scenarios have sufficient amplifier power and that the AVR is not just lacking enough power for the volume you were using. Do you think the actual processor is just that much better quality in the dedicated processor compared to the AVR? I would think that both devices have pretty basic computer hardware inside (compared to an actual PC) and that if there is a big difference in how well they work, it is probably an artificially created gap to drive sales towards more expensive solutions.
As mentioned in the video, I am not certain what is the biggest contributing factor. We were not using the internal amps in the SR8015. SR8015 was in preamp mode which disconnects the internal amplifiers. Both SR8015 and AV7706 were connected to Monolith 11X.
SR8012 was connected with RCA.
AV7706 was connected with XLR.
I don’t think the XLR made the difference in dynamics and detail.
My guess is it simply does a better job processing the data it’s given.
@@Youthman XLR does not mean anything is balanced. Its just a 3 pin connector. In order for the cable to be balanced, all 3 pins must be used. 2 for signal and one for ground. Its true that most cables that are terminated with xlr connectors are balanced. Most components with xlr connectors are not balanced, even if they say they are. The only way you can take advantage of balanced operation is to have both components that actually run balanced. Otherwise, its a regular single ended rca connection.
Gotcha. Appreciate the info
Separates do sound cleaner, more dynamic with better separation of sounds. Your descriptions weren’t technical but spot on.
If you get great amplification and speakers, (I’m using a Cinepro amps and legacy audio speakers) you can keep them for many years and just upgrade the processor every now and then as technology dictates.
Yes my reviews are not super technical. I share from a consumers perspective
Have you done a blind test to verify your conclusions.
@@Youthman "Not super technical" is a funny way of saying wrong. Gene at Audioholics measured the SR8015 pre-outs and they are measurably superior to the AV7706 (which isn't even balanced, it just has XLRs so it can LARP as pro gear). This whole video is more of a powerful example of how psychological biases can make you hear things that aren't there.
Measurements are great and I believe Gene’s measurements to be accurate. But Gene himself has said not everything you measure can be heard.
My question is have you personally (or Gene for that matter) listened to them both side by side with your own ears or are you just relying one some else’s data?
As far as bias, your argument would make much more sense if I went into it thinking separates were superior. I assumed I would not hear a difference since the SR8015 has preamp mode which in theory, should make it the same as a dedicated process.
@@Youthman Placebo effect actually still works regardless of assumptions. In a lot of research, when people are aware of the placebo effect it is even more profound, ironically. When you get into these sort of situations, measurements are really what we can rely on because our ears and brains lie to us, and something as simple as the levels being off 1dB or slight setup configurations being different can dramatically change results as well. The takeaway most are getting, judging by the comments on this video, is separates are superior which in many cases simply isn't true. Most times it's just a waste of money, hardly a "Youthman Deal" lol. Gene is absolutely right that not everything you hear can be heard. Should people buy separates that are no better (or in this case the separate is objectively worse than the integrated) because their psychology is playing tricks on them? Maybe that's acceptable, but what we really need in audio is to break these myths so that people spend money in the right places instead that will make an objective and much more profound difference in their theater.
You call me a troll but I'm trying to help the channel. The fact is you have great potential but you're starting to make content that is promoting inaccurate beliefs when you have an opportunity to really help people in an industry that is full of snake-oil. A lot of these people have no idea and are getting sold a bag of lies often, so my hope was your channel would help out with that similar to the ethos of early Audioholics.
AWESOME video Michael! This really helped me with my decision to wait for the new Marantz AV 10 and Marantz Amp 10. I initially considered upgrading to the Anthem AVM 90 with 3 Emotiva XPA amps to power my LCR's, surrounds, and atmos channels separately. However, I really like the simplicity of just the AV Processor and the all in one power amp. I know there's not a ton of reviews on them yet but what's your thoughts on the new Marantz AV10 with AMP10 setup vs lets say... the Anthem AVM 90 processor + 3 separate power amps?
I feel you on the simplicity brotha. I havr a Denon x4700h. Got my first A5 then got an A7. Now I'm like maaan all I use this AVR is to power my 7.2.4 with the 11 pre outs. Now I want to sell my avr for $1200
you should do a test were you don't know if its seperate or AVR. i feel that most of it is Placebo effect
It very well could be. I do not believe it was as I actually thought I would not hear any difference being that the SR8015 had preamp mode and I was using the same amplifier with both units.
With these many speakers… even the power reserve of separates gives the edge. There is a limit how much intregrate can push to each channel clean power.
Is the processor the same in the 8015 and the 7706, or are the different?
I’m not certain what components they share.
So Marantz is crippling their sound processing unit in their flagship product? I can understand that the amplification stage is not up to par in the AVR vs dedicated amp, but I find it troubling that their flagship AVR cannot process the sound to external outputs in a similar fashion (where it's indistinguishable to a listener) to a dedicated processor.
Considering the SR8015 uses the same dac, dsp, etc. it is a let down. The SR8015 even has extras like copper chassis, etc. Curious if anything is software related else just related to the hardware implementation...guessing hardware since even pure direct seems to lack some. I will say it sounds pretty decent with Audyssey flat enabled.
I'll just leave it here - Audioholics post from this video: ruclips.net/video/0CH29SuaYaM/видео.html
"I go with measurements and controlled listening tests over feelings or opinion. The 8015 has the best preamp section of ANY Marantz AV product right now. We measured both the 7705 and 7706 and it's not nearly as good as the 8015. It is at least on par with the AV8005 and I even confirmed this with Marantz engineering directly. Most budget processors like the 7706 are fake balanced. They use a phase splitter to derive a balanced output as opposed to a truly differential circuit path like what you see in the Emotiva RMC-1. That said, it's possible audibility of the better preamp of the 8015 is not detectable compared to the AV7706 depending on many factors such as room acoustics, source material, speaker quality, and hearing acuity."
Can you please translate this for those of us who might not be as savvy? Is this saying that the SR8015 is technically better than the 7706 according to the engineers?
@@Smellslikegelfling
Yes. 8015 is better, especially if you use it as preamp
and if you need more info: www.audioholics.com/av-receiver-reviews/marantz-sr8015/conclusion
@@Smellslikegelfling Here is another quote from Audioholics "given the choice between the AV7706 vs 8015, I'd choose the 8015 and add a 2 or 3ch amp if you need more power up front. The 8025 does a solid 100wpc with 7ch driven."
This was an answer to this question, Some guy:
"exactly the statement I was looking for after Michael comparison, so in simple words it makes no sense that the HARDWARE on the 7706 produce a better sound quality that the hardware on the 8015? A part from what you mention of variables like room and accostics.
And one last question according with your measurements running the 8015 on pre Amp mode with a good Amp makes a improvement on sound quality?
Thank you so much Gene"
All I do is share what I hear and experience with my own ears in my own home connected to my own gear. The SR8015 is a fantastic AVR. In my setup, the AV7706 simply outperformed it.
Sound is not science. It is subjective. It is based on feelings and opinions not measurements. People like different sound characteristics and whilst on paper one thing might outperform something else, that is not necessarily what your ears think.
Think of speakers. There are bright speakers, more dark and deep speakers and there are more balanced speakers. Just because someone likes the sound of a bright speaker it doesn't mean it's better on paper, and likewise, just because something seems better on paper, it doesn't mean you're going to like the sound of it and think it sounds better.
My xlr cables will be here tomorrow, can't wait!!
I'm back to Marantz after pushing them away 30 years ago. Now, when the pre-amp has a physical switch to throw, to change between balanced and unbalanced cables, can a man leave all the cables hooked up and just throw the switch? That would make an a/b test pretty straight forward.
But, I'm gonna ask someone about this before I experiment with my pride and joy.
What say you?
I just gotta add, I sure wish I still had that CRT tuner! Thanks for being there for us, pretty addictive programming!
Please carry on!
Awesome video Youthman, I had no clue 🤯
Glad you enjoyed it Hector
Well what you say about av7706 is what im hear with my denon avr-x6500h when i turn off loud management in surround parameter in audyssey turn off dynamic volume and audyssey LFC multEQ xt32 set to flat but i could be wrong maybe it does Sound better with the av7706🤔
Very helpful! I was considering getting an AVR that can be a pre-pro and buying AMPs later, but now I'll just wait until I can afford the full separate setup.
Either way would be a fantastic option. I have thoroughly enjoyed the SR8015 over the past two months. The AV7706 just takes it up a notch.
A blind test conducted under strict scientific standards would expose the inability for humans to remember relatively insignificant audio differences. I've listened to the Marantz AVR vs. the equivalent separates. Yes, there's a difference, but other than scale/power, it's not even close to significant enough to remember unless you're switching back and forth with an a-b router.
Unless the power of the AVR wasn't enough for your application, I hope you were wise and saved a lot of money.
@@kenhiett5266like I said, it's the amps.
Yeah I just got the AV7706 and the MM7055 amp, after setup I was amazed how good it sounded compared to my previous Arcam AV40 that was riddled with problems. I also ordered the SR8015 which was backordered and I forgot to cancel so it shipped. It will arrive today so
I wanted to compare the two however, I fear between demo’s I won’t notice a difference... opinion- go
With an AVR like the SR8015 or separates like the AV7706/MM7055. Running 805D3’s and HTM2D3 center
SR8015 can process 13 channels vs 11, not sure if you plan on going to a 13 channel setup though...
Hows the experience ? Big difference?
Thanks Youthman for the comparison video! When comparing the AV7706 vs the SR8015 being used as a pre-amp, it's the opposite conclusion that I expected hearing what Gene at @Audioholics measured on the bench. He notes in a video that the SR8015 pre-amp measurements were better than the AV7706. Link to that video and timestamp: ruclips.net/video/0CH29SuaYaM/видео.html. Were you able to run any bench tests and measurements in your review and experience with these units that compare to Gene's?
Hi @tmori19, no I do not have any bench testing equipment. Nothing wrong with buying something that measures better than something else. Just keep in mind, not everything that can be measured can be heard.
The problem with Gene's reviews is that it's more from a technical perspective using measuring equipment. He comes put with stuff the average consumer won't care about nor understand. His reviews are more for the manufacturers and consumers who dive very deep into measurements the human ear cannot pick up. Youthman like most reviewers on the other hand explain from a consumer perspective which I find far more enjoyable and engaging...
That is correct, my reviews are not as “the expert”, but rather from a consumer perspective, because I myself am a consumer of the products I review. I believe as content, creators and reviewers, we all provide a different perspective and experiences and each can provide benefit to the Home Theater community.
One of the most your helpful and useful videos
Thanks man for your time
I have bought marantz av7706 and mm8807 power amp for my current 5.2.2 which I will add extra 2 for Atmos
So far going from my onkyo ht695 which is really solid receiver under 500$
It's really a huugge step up in sound
Thanks again 👍🏻
Awesome and congrats on the upgrade!
@@Youthman thanks man it is mind blowing experience especially in higher volume
Really didn't expect this performance from my Kef q350
And I've noticed something important that maybe you can mention in your videos
That when they connected to a receiver and i hit near max power the drivers of my q350 was rumbling and I thought that I've hit the limit capability of my speaker but now I've realised that was from the AV receiver clipping which can cause damage and make you sometimes think that this from your speaker
But now it's all gone and I'm really impressed by how good clean power could change speaker movement and max SPL
I got Marantz av7705 connected to Emotiva xpa 7 gen 3 running the surrounds and two Outlaw Audio model 2220 for the Fronts. Sounds great!!!!
@John Smith My AV7704, and his AV7705 can reverse the polarity by a setting in a menu, because of this reason. But still frustrating that USA have one standard, the rest of the world another...
Love your review on AVR -V- AV . I used to have AVR and now going to get the 8805 and monolith X11. Can’t wait to get this after I complete building my theater room. I’m running a 7.2.4 set up. B&W speaker with two 12” subs. 5030UB projector. My room size is 19’x20’ dedicated attic space.
Congrats Juan. Looks like you’re putting together a first class home theater
Yes Spend it once not twice. Thanks for your response.😎👍👍
Any way I can show you some pictures of the progress. To see if you can give me some input??
Feel free to email me at michael@youthmanreviews.com
Welp, after waiting months for the 7706 on backorder, it’s finally arrived. Time to ditch my SR7015.
I sure hope it was worth it.
I’m sitting on $5000.00 of front end.
Report back with your side by side experience if you don't mind. Am leaning towards a SR7015 purchase and using in processor mode but curious to hear if you can hear an improvement as well with the AV7706.
A little late but any updates?
Snake oil or not? Just ordered an av7705 to replace my sr6013 I was using as a “pre/pro”.....
My "cable management" resembles a pit of angry snakes.
Mike, as a person who can't afford a premium 11 channel home theater, is there a separate vs.AVR configuration for those that run with a 5.1 theater?
Just hooking external amps to the pre outs of a receiver helps a great deal, what I did after the great improvement of going to a seperate amp-preamp in my audio system, and now with those amps it will be easier to upgrade to an AV prepro
I did the same.. most don't realize you don't need to just get processor but instead combine AVR with seperates.. in my case I use QSC amps for the front stage and then let the AVR handle the surround speakers which is plenty of power.. it helps the AVR work less while drastically improving sound up front where needed
Don’t bother I just spent 13k on Marantz separates 8805 & 8077 to go with my Anthem’s and there’s no difference between them and my Marantz 8012 it’s all bs and hyp
@@romanlewandowski9616 I definitely would not do seperates for surround sound and depending on speaker and center being used most high end AV recievers can push them quite well.. I think the issue with some speakers is efficiency, as some require more power to sound good.. I had the RF2 speakers and they did not require much power but they are 97 db but sounded awesome with onkyo AV at 100 rms per channel.. in any case, the speakers bejng used will determine if amp is required for sure..
@@romanlewandowski9616 : I had the AV8801 and sold it because I wasn't impressed, I understand the AV8805 has more options, but I'll stay with my Krell S1200U-3D because it blows away any Marantz I've heard regardless of price.
Your Marantz MM8077 7-channel power amplifier is rated at 150 watts per channel into 8 ohms, and 180 watts per channel into 6 ohms, that's your problem... no current.
Try buying something used like a Simaudio Titan that delivers 200 watts into 8 ohms and 400 into 4 ohms (all channel driven), anything more that doubles to 2 ohms would be wasted for home theater already having sub-woofers.
I have the Marantz SR7011 with B&W 702 S2 speakers and 2 SVS SB 16 Ultra subs in a 20x20 room. Is it time to upgrade to the Marantz SR8015 or better to go with separates? If so, what do you suggest? I plan to at Atmos speakers. TV is a 75" Sony 4k. Will be upgraded soon as well.
Do you recommend someone getting denon avr-x8500h as receiver? How does sound or issues to consider
This might sound like a silly question, but I’ll ask anyway. I can’t afford to buy a processor and a multichannel amp at the same time. But my AVR has unbalanced inputs for 7 channels. Would it be worth buying a processor for now and using those unbalanced inputs for amplification until upgrading to a separate amplifier in a year or two?
I've always preferred using separates. Using separates gives you a better listening experience overall. If you think about it - each component has a dedicated function with a single purpose. That way they can focus on better tech in their components. Where an AVR (albeit more convenient and more cost effective), they're having to do many functions - amplify, process those functions etc. Not to mention the heat they produce.
But on the plus side is the AVR cost and no additional cables required, this becomes a bigger issue the more channels driven.
Hey Youthman! great video again, never really checked separates before. But since your SR8015 is fully powered by your 11 ch amplifier how come there is that much of a difference in sound when your Sr8015 is pretty much itself a separated since it dont have to power anything? Also both the AVR and the separates use the same Audyssey Xt32 for calibration. Thanks!!
I would’ve thought the same thing. As I shared in the video, I can’t say for certain what made the most difference. Maybe the 7706 uses better components.All I know is we both heard a distinct difference in detail, clarity and channel separation.
A blind test would be nice. People seem to think things sound better when they think it SHOULD sound better.
unfortunately, even with a blind test or even a double blind test, there will still be people that will say it’s not a valid test. All I can do is share my experience with my ears and my own home. My channel isn’t designed to be laboratory testing type videos. I share from a home theater enthusiast / consumers perspective
@@Youthman Yeah. Still fun to watch! Thanks
Glad you enjoyed the video
Unless you got a really large home cinema room, I don't think separates is needed. A well designed AVR with 100 to 150 watts per channel into 5.1/ 7.1 will do just fine.
Separates may not necessarily give you better sound, but more power in a bigger room, which of course has the ability for more headroom and more dynamics.
My room isn’t really large (13’ x 19’ with 10’ ceiling) and it was a significant improvement. Not to say the SR8015 is a slouch...the 7706 just performs better.
Nice to get that fair side-by-side feedback comparison using the same amps and speakers -Jon
Thanks Jon
Hi Youthman, I love your videos. I'm the proud owner of the Klipsch RF-7 series iii along with the matching center as well. One day I decided to put in a Marantz SR-7010 that was updated with the latest firmware DTS-X. When I ran that receiver through the Klipsch speaker package it transform my home theater into a home cinema. For some reason, when these Marantz receiver go through the updates, I think the overall performance is modified as well. Plus, I got to see how good the crossovers are in the Klipsch, and the Marantz too! It was really an amazing home theater experience.
That’s fantastic! Congratulations and thanks for sharing
Hi there! which one would you suggest between yamaha mx-a5200 and monolith 11x.
Also, you think it is a good timing to buy Marantz 7706 at this time knowing they have issue with new xbox? Should I wait or get the 7705 instead. I am also thinking emotiva xmc 2. Thank you.
Awesome video now that I've seen it all the way through. Now I'm leaning towards the anthem avm70
Anthem makes great gear.
This video has me thinking of changing my upgrade path for my home theater. I am happy with my current AVR but it's too old to support atmos. Would you recommend buying a processor and connecting it to my old AVR for power if I knew I had plans to buy a dedicated poweramp later?
The colors are cool. I just label both ends to identify each channel, though. I like that monolith 11 channel. I'll watch the review on it.
thanks
Youthman just has some advertising deal with that company, those interconnects are overpriced.
Good morning Commander Russell. Just about every comment you make is negative. You might want to add some fiber to your diet.
Advertising deal with GLS? Interesting seeing that I don’t even have a contact for GLS. If I’m getting paid, I would certainly like to see the check.
If a video is sponsored on my channel, I share it verbally at the very beginning of the video, mention it in the description AND I check the “this video contains paid promotion” box on RUclips.
I shared in the video what I bought with my own money. But thank you for trolling.
Be blessed
@@commanderrussels2612 - thanks for the reply. (I wasn’t actually “interested” in the interconnects, just loved the color coordination :) )
@@mikewinburn Yeah I appreciate the rainbow, mostly just messing with Youthman (he'll warm up to it). You can use colored tape on the ends also.. As a side note, actually the AV7707 isn't balanced, so if possible to ones amp I'd just use RCAs out of that rather than XLR rather than buy new cables. I think a lot of people assume that unit is balanced because of the XLRs when it really isn't.
@@commanderrussels2612 - that’s great info.
I’ve been rather uncreative in my labeling... scotch tape and paper :)
I didn’t know that about the XLRs being unbalanced... fortunately for me, I have a more recent model w balanced XLRs
Well, separates probably will sound better if you are having at home a dedicated small theater room with carpets on the floor and walls like youth man has and you also tend to hear at high volume levels .But if you have a system in a standard living room and you hear movies at medium volume - then I'm not sure that the diff will be noticeable. Maybe you will feel a slight diff… but you will have to pay 5000$ for 7706 + emotiva power amp instead of 3800$ for SR8015.
i am starting to regret purchasing my yamaha 3080 glad i didn't buy an emotive processor but the monolith you reviewed has peaked my interest by the time i get around to it on my list of new audio to purchase i am sure i will be able to grab it on the used market
You can save a lot on the used market.
@@Youthman do you have any screen suggestions i am not satisfied with my ES
i get sparkle
I have been completely satisfied with my DIY Seymour
Man I had the 3080 and it was an excellent receiver, only one I know of with XLR pre outs. Agree with @youthman here that the AVR still leaves something to be desired once experiencing separates. I jumped to the AV8805 and can’t go back to an AVR, especially after this video confirms what I initially thought. After a couple years of exchanging equipment, building different systems in my home, I finally concluded an AVR is for: 1.) if you never intend to buy separate amps, 2.) want to build a secondary system with moderate listening level habits, and 3.) if you’re not a critical listener, constantly looking for things which are wrong, that need to be corrected (which is totally fine by the way). And you can have a kickass system with an AVR - the flagship AVR’s are all amazing for what they do (they need to do a lot).
There’s also something to be said about processors being targeted for specific end users. For example, it is NOT a minimalistic approach. There are boxes everywhere. So there’s a lot to consider.
Anyway, just my .02 - there are awesome AVR’s, I’ve used many of them. There is a noticeable difference to step to a processor, though that difference is way more apparent, the further from the flagship AVR, you are. The 3080 is awesome - if you ever decide to go separates, I’d think about how you can repurpose the 3080, so you don’t have to miss it!! Enjoy!
@@HiFinest343 thank you for your input. Right now i think the biggest problem is i have way more power going to L and R compared to the other 5 channels once i purchase an emotiva amp to finish off the home theatre portion of my stereo i may not find an issue with the 3080 and as i was saying by then perhaps the new 16 channel monolith processor will be affordable on the used market by then. I have been a fan of yamaha receivers since the 80s and 90s I always thought yamaha was top of the line in bottom end audio
now with choosing is it the makers processing thats better because if i get a high end avr and separate amp will that make a difference or just getting a processor and amp is the way to go
to be honest separates do sound better but the difference is not worth the price
“Is it worth it” is always subjective. Everyone has to make that decision on their own
Youthman, straight out from the marantz manuel it reads: By adding a power amplifier to each channel, the realness of the sound can be further enhanced. When setting the Assign Mode to Pre-Amplifier it stops operation of the internal power amplifier. The marantz SR-8015, SR-7015, SR-6015 and the AV-7706 all use the same Digital to Analog Converters (DAC). The chips are the AsahiKASEI AK4458 and all of the marantz units are using the same tuned specs: S/N 115dB, THD+N-107dB, PCM 768KHz and DSD256. So, are you saying that the marantz's (pre out) process mode is bogus?
I’m not sure what your question is. As I shared in the video, I initially did not think I would hear any difference between the SR 8015 and the AV 7706 in preamp mode.
Both Derek and I felt the AV 7706 did a better job. But that could’ve been due to Audyssey calibrating differently.
@Youthman Thanks for replying sir! I was just curious as to how the SR-8015 and the AV-7706 could sound different with clarity/imaging. Both pieces of equipment run the same DACs/specs.
I understand, that dedicated processors produce less heat, which is a good thing. Thanks for stating the Audyssey calibrating possibility. I do own a marantz SR8015 which is pre amp out to the marantz MM7055 and a MM7025. I am running 7.2. Klipsch RP. I stream alot of Netflix movies which are made in 5.1, DD+ and I love it! Thanks so much for taking the time to make such outstanding videos Youthman!
It's great to see an honest and genuine review of his experience. I know exactly what he experienced. When I did my switch to separates I also did a side by side comparison... was night an day. Worth the extra expense??? Well for me and my family YES! When your wife can notice a vast improvement makes it even more worth the money.
Oh, what about buying an AVR and upgrading the setup with an external amplifier, and ultimately having a complete external amplifier setup? I like the Denon sound, but they don't offer separate components, so if I go this way, won't I have the same result
Unless its a blind ABX type test, I don't believe it. I have amps ranging from 80 bucks to 10 grand, and its really hard to tell them apart in a blind test. Your expectation bias is making your brain tell you there is a huge difference, when really, there isn't one. To be clear, yes, you HEAR a difference, BUT, its all in your head :) If you measure the signal in and signal out, as long as both setups are not clipping and have reasonably low distortion ratings, then there is no difference. Schitt has a good paper out on the value of blind testing.
My home theater is presently running the 110 Denon with outputs to Krell and Denon 110 amps that power Dynaudio Contour speakers in a 7.2.2 configuration. It is massive overkill and its just for fun. I have come to realize that basically, all good performing amps sound the same. I wish I had realized that before Krell :) Take care.
I’m certainly not asking you to believe me. Simply sharing our experience. We both went into it not thinking it would make much (if any) difference since I was using the SR8015 in preamp mode connected to the Monolith 11X. Needless to say it was a significant difference between the two.
@@Youthman i do believe you, but if i switched the equipment without you knowing it, you would likely still prefer the separates even though you were listening to the integrated :) in the end, just enjoy your toys, i know i do.
Am looking for a 7.2.2 configuration and am trying to decide between the separates route which includes the Marantz AV7706 @$2599 (vs) the Denon 4700H($1799)+Emotiva BasX A7($699). Why 4700H? Because it has Auro3D, Jitter Reduction, 32-Bit processing, Slightly better THD levels at 8Ohms. Please suggest.
I would suggest actually getting a good sound demo somewhere to get a feel for what you like and do not like.
Would you really need an atmos system?
Is 5.1 enough or 7.1.
I would suggest getting to hear the different options with movies that you actually like. When dealers know that you really want a system they will have no problems showing you everything they have.
A real good dealer should show you best bang per buck.
I’m getting ready to go separates for the first time when my anthem avm 70 finally comes in. I have 4 atmos speakers that will be installed at the same time. I can’t wait.. I will have a 5.1.4. I believe this would be more than enough for my theater room.
That’s awesome Lentz!
What made you choose Anthem Avm70? I am currently running 7.2.2 Atmos with Marantz Sr8012, running 5 main channel with Emotiva 5 channel amp. Looking to sell/trade in my Sr8012 for Anthem Avm70?
@@savan28 hi I am looking at doing the same please let me know how you go when you get it set up
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What kind of amp are you running with it?
AVR is for the people that can't spend all that money at once. It's a lot easier to buy and AVR then slowly build up an army of amps for everything then once you get that switch it to pre-pro mode then when it's upgrade time again that's when you get a processor. I enjoyed hearing it from a different perspective. Good video!
Thanks. Yes separates tends to be quite a bit more expensive than an all in one AVR.
Run the 8015 in pre amp and compare ?
My thoughts as well. Interested to know how the 8015 in preamp mode with the Monolith compared to the 7706/Monolith
He did that.
Yes it was compared in Preamp mode connected to the same amplifier.
@@Youthman audioholics , Gene said in test the 8015 a much better pre amp than the 7706 and that the balanced inputs on the 7706 are bias so not the real deal .but listening can tell a different story , plus the Dac,s in the 7706 are according to forums Old Dac ,s ??
I cannot tell you what Gene said or what his findings were. I’m simply sharing what we heard and experienced with our ears in my own home connected to my speakers.
If the 8015 is still powering the speakers instead of the monolith amp, but you still have the av7706 doing the preamp processing, would you still hear as much detail separation?
Thanks for another great video! AV 7706 it is!
Thank you Jason. Glad you enjoyed it
7706 technically has less processing, 11 vs 13, so curious how the SR8015 would fair with all it’s processing utilized.
Adding more speakers would not provide better channel separation
@@Youthman Agree to a certain extent, but more channels should provide better imagine and immersion. I haven’t tried front wides yet, but it’s one of the reason I decided on the SR8015. I have 4 of the same towers and matching center towers so it should create a wonderful front sound stage.
In my application I’m only running 5.1.4 so either one is enough processing for me. Room limitations prevent me from expanding past that (although I could and should add a second sub).
Hi from Calgary! Have a 7706 on the way. My friend Barrett got his last week. I was somewhat reluctant in ordering a Marantz 7706. I really like my Yamaha RXA2080 (5.2.4)as a pre using a 5 ch 200w amp. So I am adding another 5 ch for a total of 10 with the 7706. Great description, made me feel a lot better about my choice!!! Barrett had issues with gaming, bit I am not a gamer!! Too old lol. Now I can't wait for it to arrive, patience is not one of my virtues! Again great video, thanks fellas!!
Thank you and congrats!
I am curious, is there a way to adjust the subwoofer trim via the remote control on the 7706? The Yamaha RX A2080 has a dedicated subwoofer trim level control button on the remote which I really like, and use quite often with both movies and music. Much better than having to dive into the settings menu.
Not directly from the remote but there is an Option button that is a shortcut
@@Youthman thank you very much for your response! Like everything there are always compromises to be made for better and new gear. You know. a guy needs his favorite remote button! lol I am looking forward to the Marantz
Hiyas, Im from calgary as well, just curious, where did you buy the 7706 from? Im looking to possibly get one in the future. And thanks
An Amplifier really SHOULDN'T change the sound at all. But I can see how in theory having a separate Amplifier could allow more area for better quality components and better power delivery. In reality it may not be enough to warrant the extra space and cost of needing 2 separate units for most people.
As a guy concerned primarily with 2-channel music listening, as a general rule, separates are known to be superior, all things being equal. Never thought much about this principle in AVR. You have piqued my interest now! When it’s time to move on from my old and trusty Denon X4100, I believe I will strongly consider AVR separates. Thanks so much, Mike! Love the channel and the attitude here.
Thank you kindly. Glad you’re enjoying the content
When I went from AVR to separates (AV7705) it not only blew me away but all my family could tell the difference.
It was pretty obvious to us as well
I'm currently using a emotiva xpa 3 gen 3 for my front lcr and a outlaw model 5000 for my side and rear surrounds. My marantz sr6012 is basically being used as a preamp processor. Since I don't have atmos channels would I benefit or notice a big different getting a preamp?
I've had both seperates and intigrated and there is some differences between the 2 , however you can get the same thing between 2 different units of the same make as well. It's not always a placebo effect, but actual sonic differences due to the variances of each unit from multiple factors.
You have a awesome theater bro..
Your assumption must be based on the cost of each unit and not an apples to apples comparison... improvements in the sound of a preamp costing the same as a receiver will always translate into better sound, this is because removing the cost of things like amplification translates into better internal components, the same goes for the amplifier, the cost of processing, software for decoding, volume controls, and anything needed to process the signal can be used for upgrades like running class A for the first 25 watts, or a better power supply.
Most people who own a receiver have never seen a sine wave or heard of the term clipping, so they think that 300 watts at 8 ohms is huge, but it fails to hold a square wave and rolls off because lack of current, separates will always sound better because they reduce any clipping of the signal with current, that's why they sound cleaner, faster, and more transparent.
@@ronmurphy4234
No..it has nothing to do with the cost of each unit. As I said,there is a difference between them due to many factors and that it wasn't a placebo effect. I futher stated that there could be sonic differences between the same exact units due to variances within them.
No assumption on my part, however you did explain it better than me 👍
@@Mac11700 : So did your comment have more to do with production standards then cost of the components used, or the tiers within a product family?
@@ronmurphy4234
Production standards and quality control mainly.
There is always the human factor that must be accounted for as well and I am not speaking of personal biases as a whole because we will always have our listening sessions be influenced somewhat,but to the actual physical variances within each of our hearing capabilities. This can and does have to be factored into any discussion.
As to the former, QC can and does effect more units irregardless of the cost per unit then most reviewers or commentors are willing to concede. I have personally had to return top of the line AVR's and Pre Pro's far too often, and I am not speaking about cosmetics here although is a contributing factor often enough which can result in personal biases coming into the equation.
There isn't a manufacturer today who can garantee their products to work 100% of the time.
@@Mac11700 I agree, that's why they have B-Stock... being both an audiophile and videophile for decades, I'm surprised by the number of snake oil salesman that pray on the "MP3" generation. They push products that sound as good as a box sub-woofer inside a car trunk, but they have base.
But there's still hope, my nephew is a smart kid and has started collecting vinyl records and wants a good audio system to play them. He has already shown interest in separate's, but I'm looking at giving him my Marantz SR7009 because I've never used it and probably won't... it will at least get him into the game.
You being a Mac guy, any thoughts on the MA12000?
So the AV 8805 came out in Dec 2018 and (if you can find one) still runs $4500 but does 13.2 channels of processing, The AV 7706 is brand new as of Oct 2020 and runs "only" $2500, seems newer and better in almost every way for $2k less, but only processes 11.2 channels. What am I missing? I know tech can get cheaper over time and all, but $2k more for only another 2 channels of processing, but an older unit in every other regard? I have to be missing something else in feature set or signal quality right? I mean why didn't they keep it at 13.2, is something else coming? I'm not sure I need another 2 height channels that bad...lol. Then to further confuse thigns there is the slightly older av7705, which can be had pretty (relativly) cheap, only $1800 on amazon right now, still a 2020 model, still 11.2, mostly the same feature set at least surface leval, but haven't found a direct comparision between the 2 yet, it's hard to know what to spend your money on where you wont have regret about spending too much or not enough.
From what I can tell, the current diffrence between the 7705 and 7706 is 4k vs 8k, and the 7706 has independent sub outs vs 2 mirrored sub outs on the 7705. Otherwise hardware and feature set seem identical.
Separates are more dynamic in sound. It's night & day.
That’s EXACTLY what we heard. Absolutely a significant improvement, even with the SR8015 in preamp mode.
Hi Youthman, I have a Marantz SR 7005 AVR. Had it for a while. I also have a pair of Klipsch RF series with dual binding posts made in USA. Recently, from watching a Steve Guttenberg video, I decided to bi amp the loudspeakers which the SR 7005 allows you to only by connecting the lower binding posts to the FRONT L and R inputs and the upper binding posts to the Surround Back Amp Assign inputs and change the setting on the AVR from normal to Speaker C. I listen to music in stereo with a sub on. Amazing transformation No kidding.. You can also enjoy 5 channels watching movies. But Audyssey is disabled but who needs this crap!! Cheers.PS You must remove the straps on the loudspeakers
Wonder what's actually making the tangible difference you can hear seeing as audioholics say the avr actually measured better than the processor, to be clear I ain't doubting as measurements never tell the whole story.
Yes there are often things that we can measure that our ears cannot hear. All I know is it was absolutely apparent that the AV7706 had more dynamics, clarity and better channel separation than the SR8015 in Preamp mode.
Yeah as I said I'm not doubting you, if the 8015 was actually better the 7706 would be obsolete
The reality is separates aren’t for everyone. There definitely is a much higher cost and everyone must decide whether or not the difference is worth it. I never try to decide that for anyone.
Agreed, over the years I've spent more than I'm comfortable divulging publicly, someone might tell the wife 😂
@@Youthman Did you use the same Monolith with the SR8015 in preamp mode
Wonder if it would make somewhat of a difference if you went form the 7706 first then to the 8015. Going from the Monolith processor to the SR8015 didn’t seems to make much of a notable impact. I’m sure the 7706 was better, but somewhat surprised it’s so noticeable/different.
There is nothing surprising about this result. People have been making claims of hearing all sorts of differences in different components like amplifiers, speaker wires, interconnects, power cords, etc, for 50 years. In an uncontrolled subjective comparison that is not conducted rigorously, people hear differences that are not in fact there, and cannot be duplicated in a blind comparison.
They look cooler, and sometimes that's all we need!
Nice lol
Watching your videos have been so helpful and just wanted to say how much I appreciate everything you do. Did you notice a large difference in the AVR going from the AVR internal amplification to an external amp? I have the SR7013 so not ready to upgrade for awhile but am considering a Monolith 9 channel amp. Then the next upgrade could go to true separates. Just didn't know if going to external amps on the AVR would be noticeable. And if this was covered and I missed it I apologize.
I didn’t notice any major difference with and without preamp mode while connected to the Monolith 11X.
Would you still get all the advantages 5.1 only? I don't have the set up for atmos.
Good question. I'm wondering the same.
It’s hard to say. I can only share what I experienced I. My room with a Dolby Atmos setup.
Do you have tested the pre-amp mode of SR8015 against 7706, with the same amplifier? Would be a nice comparison. Because you can buy 8015 first and update later with seperate amplifiers. Or is a seperate like 7706/8805 a lot better than 8015 in pre-amp mode?
As mentioned in the video, the SR8015 was in preamp mode when compared to the AV7706. Both were connected to the Monolith 11X amplifier.
@@Youthman Sorry, missunderstood. The difference in sound quality is such big? I'm very suprised, because other reviewer says that 8015 pre amplifier are almost at the same level as 8805. With almost no diffence to a seperat pre-amplifier.
I was considering an AVR, since I've always had them, but for my new home theater (still 1.5 yrs away in a newly built custom home), I am now sold on separates. Thanks for the push Youthman! I'm looking at the Yamaha AVENTAGE MX-A5200BL & CX-A5200 for my setup. Any thoughts vs Marantz?
I have not had the opportunity to review any Yamaha products so I’m not sure how they compare with Marantz. Many that own them seem to really enjoy them
Question for Mr. Youthman. I am considering going from a 6015 to a 7706. I am using the 6015 only as a pre-pro and using external amps. Would going to a 7706 make a difference? I'm assuming in your face off you were using the amps in the 8015 against external amps with the 7706?
That is one of the coolest home theaters I have seen. Very practical how you can pull out the cabinet and raise the screen
to access the components. Anyway, I think for your setup running separates is close to a must. For smaller a bit more modest speaker setup I suspect it won't be quite as beneficial. And I disagree with your friend, most decent home theaters blow pretty much any cinema away sound wise. Thanks for the video.
Was it mentioned or explored to use the monolith as the amp for the SR8015, and then compare that to the AV7706 with the monolith. This would be a better comparison because you a relying on the same amp. If this wasn't done, I think the results are invalid. We don't know if the difference was because of the amp or the separate processor.
I think the answer to your question is at 14:30 in the video.
@@carywatson1146 it was. Thanks. I missed it
Interesting! Were both units running without (or with) room correction? Level matched etc? I am awaiting my first processor (AVM70) coming from an AVR (SR7010), glad to see it seems to be a good upgrade!
Both running Audyssey, same settings, level matched.
@@Youthman Thanks for the video!
My sons 2 years ago bought me a used Marantz AV 7005 preamp for my 60th birthday. It replaced my aged Rotel pre-amp processor. All I can say is WOW the difference was amazing and I believe it was $350. I am powering it with a Carver av705x, and my speakers have 10" 250 watt subs in each tower
That’s fantastic. You have some really generous sons as the 7005 was $2100 just a year or two ago.
@@Youthman the 7005 was $1500 in 2011, you were thinking 7705. But I never asked for anything specific and 60 is a special birthday. They are great hardworking boys and I really appreciate it.
Oh my bad, I got the model numbers mixed up. That’s still awesome of your son hooking you up. Wish my Dad appreciated good equipment
@@Youthman no biggie, I brought all 3 boys up and explained the importance of good sound reproduction to musical enjoyment
Sorry maybe I missed it, but what settings did you use? Audyssey reference, dynamic EQ off, dynamic volume off? Any limit on the multireq filtering range? Mid range compensation on or off?
separating the processor and power amps is about better power supplies, better power and hopefully processing capability DACs etc. The physical separation is IMO a small part of it. I run mono blocks per channel and the advantage is a power supply for each channel, no cross talk etc
Did you do any room measurement to see if you could tell what the processor is doing different than the AVR?
I do not have any measurements. Typically the only thing I measure on my channel is the occasional frequency response of subwoofers.
@@Youthman What you guys explained, kinda sounds like what I experienced when I tried Dirac software on my computer setup. Same sound information, but Direct some how removed the “noise” between all the instruments. Perhaps there’s additional processing besides just XT32. I would think XT32 between the SR8015 and 7706 should be the same...
Honestly I could t tell you what is in the 7706 that made the difference
Hi Michael, quick ques. When you were running your old Marantz AVR and outputting via an external amplifier (before you went to the processor), was the Marantz running in full pre-out mode to disconnect the internal amps? Or was that before that feature existed in the firmware.
Yes it was in preamp mode with my Monolith 11X.
@@Youthman 👍 Just wondering as I know you mention in your video that you really heard a difference going to a full processor. I’ve always wondered how much of a step up full pre-out mode is on an AVR, (then again how much jump to a processor.)
I didn’t hear much if any difference using preamp mode
I already knew that separates are better, because I've been running a Marantz AV8802A for about five years, but it's nice to have a video explaining the differences for the layman...
@Youthman - What your thoughts on connecting a Pre/Pro Balanced out (XLR) directly to Active/ Powered Speakers? I see some benefits. Cost, Fidelity and scalability and if something goes wrong with the amp on each then it possibly less painful to replace per speaker?
Active speakers could work for a 2ch system but I do not see any benefit when you have 7, 9, 11 or more speakers.
@@Youthman I think for the kicks I should experiment with it. If you use something like powered subs two-way studio monitors/ Hi-Fi drivers and due to them being pretty efficient with a really high half-space or free field sensitivity I think there could be some benefit. They also usually come bi-amped with crossovers built in. I think this could sound pretty amazing. Well that's in just Theory right.
Hello from France !!
I've seen a post on FB sharing this video...and it did cost me €4,400 today ! My wife definitely hate you.
So I'm updating my setup from an Onkyo TZ-RX900 + Focal Atmos 5.1.2 (focal aria 926 + CC 900, atmos and surrounds are embedded).
I followed your suggestion and went for a Marantz AV7706 + Emotiva XPA-11 Gen3 11 channels.
I hope I will really feel a significant improvement, we'll see in 2 days when they arrive.
I also had the Onkyo TX-RZ900 and switched to the Marantz SR7013. In my opinion, the difference was like day and night and i am very happy. In the near future, however, I will also switch to the AV7706.
Quick question Youthman, is the processor you reviewed and improvements more noticeable in home theater? Or can you fully expect to the same WOW factor for heavy music listeners as well?
Thanks
NickT
I’m probably 90% Hone Theater and only 10% Music so I probably am not the best to answer that question.
So question.. if you use an AVR.. but use the pre-outs (or in my case.. speaker outs with line level to rca adapters) fed to a separate more powerful amp.. will that give a similar experience to a separate processor.. or is it the higher quality/expense of processors like the Emotiva/Monoprice HTP1, etc that are just that much better at decoding/separating sounds in to specific speakers?
What about using the AV7706 preamp with the amplifiers in the SR8015, bypassing the integrated preamp (I am assuming the SR8015 has inputs for this)?
This is an option if you already have an old integrated amp / receiver and want to upgrade the preamp section.
I have heard of people doing this, my only issue is you have two volumes to contend with. It’s not ideal but certainly can work.
Which is better for a 2.1 system for both movies and music?
I have a Denon 3805 AVR w/Klipsch RF-7 III and SVS SB16. It sounds amazing to me for both applications.
Question... Is there such a thing as "too much separation" wher the soundtrack starts sounding artificial?
You know, like "too much CGI"?
Curious as well. Kinda like dynamic picture setting on a TV. I don’t doubt the 7706 is better, but it seems like the SR8015 should be better than it performed.
No, a seperation is is just well defined sound, like a helicopter overhead is better than the sound of an helicopter, the more defined the sound is the better.
I want to do separates I’m my home theater. But I have no idea about what I’ll need to do. Like do I connect my current AVR to a separate
amp and how I go about doing it. Or do I need a separate amp and AVR ?
I would love have that setup, I have Denon x6509h with 11.1.4 configuration. Have a Monolith 3x200 I am adding for front stage. So, I guess I am wondering how much benefit would be to using preouts to separate amps would compare to the dedicated processor and amps?
It really depends on how large your room is, volume you listen to and do you prefer power or detail.
I just ordered the 7706. Coming from a Yamaha rx-a2080 that I been using for about 2½ years . Can't wait to hear the difference with the marantz.
Hows the experience so far?
@@gamingingalaxy4011 I love it. Right away I noticed a nice difference with movies. With music had to make a few little tweaks. Now that sounds amazing also. Very satisfied with the upgrade. Not taking anything away from the Yamaha tho. That is an awesome receiver. I recommend it . But the marantz pre/pro just takes it up another level.
@@MrJjburgess11 thats nice! I just purchased yamaha rx a 3080 but i still have a time to change for something else. Like marantz sr8015 but again i dont care about 8k or 4k 120. My set up klipsch fronts rp8000f , rp504 center channel and rp600 for surrounds. Now after watching this video i wanna go separates lol
@@gamingingalaxy4011 thats what did it for me also. Watching these videos made me wanna make the switch lol .
Glad to hear you had a similar experience as I did
I moved and the previous speakers are not allowed to be installed in either the ceilings or walls. So I bought amplified speakers and have two more sets available for back surrounds plus subwoofer. I am not interested in Dolby Atmos yet.