Recommendation for new AVR, Pre/Pro

[parmodmehta]

I am running 5.1 system using Pioneer SC55. Watching TV, Movies, Music.

Center - Sierra Horizon (RAAL)
Left/Right - Sierra 2EX
Surround - Old Pyle in wall speakers.
Sub - PSA Audio F15SE.

I have no issues with the setup. I guess soon its time for a AVR upgrade. Here are the options:

Option1: Keep the Pioneer SC55, add an external amp, and upgrade the Pre later
Option2: Buy another AVR.

A couple of years ago my AVR stopped working with ue22 error. Onkyo fixed it for free.


Option1- Emotiva XPA5, Outlaw5000x, Monolith
Option2 - No idea yet

The equipment go into an enclosed space. For the airflow, I can open the door of the enclosed space, otherwise, no option. I never had any heating issue with Pioneer SC55. Nothing will be placed on top the the new equipment with at-least 5 to 6 inch of space above.

Thanks for the suggestions!

[racrawford65]

Budget for new AVR? What are you looking to improve?

My thoughts on the AMP - I'd place the Monolith as first option, Outlaw as 2nd, Emotiva last. Have you also considered class D? Some good options there (D-Sonic, VTV), although with RAALS, there have been recommendations to stay with a good A/B amp.

That said, I believe your Pioneer is based on Class D amplification. So, you may be fine with Class D and RAALs if it's not bothered you to date. Also, class D likely explains why no heating issue with the Pioneer. The 3 amps you listed will generate more heat.

[parmodmehta]

I guess the goal is to improve the overall dynamic. At times, while watching movies and listening to music, I feel the sound is overly bright. Over time, I got used to it, but now and then it feels tiring. I don't know if this is because of the particular receiver I use or class D characteristic in general.

The goal is to build a system that I can live with for another ten years, so the budget is flexible.

I don't think I will get a decent AVR under $3000.

With pre/pro, I guess I can stagger the purchase overtime to save the upfront cost.

The Outlaw5000x or 7000x looks very promising.

My only concern with heat if the thing is going to burn down the house or stopped working altogether.

I guess I can take a chance with Outlaw and return if heating becomes an issue, the return policy is 30 days, which is enough time to test the equipment.

Thoughts?

[curtis]

Do you use MCACC on the Pioneer? Have you compared the sound with it on vs off?

I would also recommend the Monolith. It is a solid A/B class amp built by ATI, and should last many years.

I have an ATI 1505, which is an ancestor to the Monolith amps. I bought it used about 15 years ago. Still solid as ever. I always think about replacing it, but don't have a good reason to. I will probably replace it with a Monolith when I finally go to Atmos.

[parmodmehta]

I have used MCACC. To be honest, it never worked for me. I ended up doing manual adjustments. How do you turn the MCACC off? I will give it a try.

Yeah, I like to invest in an amp that can last many years.

not now, but any suggestions on pre?

[curtis]

not now, but any suggestions on pre?

I love my Anthem AVM 60.

Like racrawford has been teasing me and saying, Anthem's new A/V receivers/processors look to be just around the corner, so a deal on the current stuff might possibly be available at good prices. I was able to get my Anthem during one of those 20% off sales.

[Qman]

Suggest you look at some cooling for your enclosed area. Something like this:
https://www.acinfinity.com/component...SABEgKH1_D_BwE

[Mag_Neato]

If you'd like to stick with a one box solution and can swing the budget, look at the new Arcam AVR10 & AVR20. I had a chance to hear the AVR20 and it is impressive. Built like a tank. Dirac live room correction.

[Qman]

Also, you CAN get a decent AVR for under $3k. The Denon AVR X3600H was tested as excellent. (but it seems no longer available. Other similar models may be as good, not sure)

[racrawford65]

I guess the goal is to improve the overall dynamic. At times, while watching movies and listening to music, I feel the sound is overly bright. Over time, I got used to it, but now and then it feels tiring. I don't know if this is because of the particular receiver I use or class D characteristic in general.

The goal is to build a system that I can live with for another ten years, so the budget is flexible.

I don't think I will get a decent AVR under $3000.

With pre/pro, I guess I can stagger the purchase overtime to save the upfront cost.

The Outlaw5000x or 7000x looks very promising.

My only concern with heat if the thing is going to burn down the house or stopped working altogether.

I guess I can take a chance with Outlaw and return if heating becomes an issue, the return policy is 30 days, which is enough time to test the equipment.

Thoughts?

You could always try the Outlaw for 30 days. Not a bad looking amp. Outlaw has changed their site quite a bit. I seem to recall the 5000 may have had an internal fan in pics on the old site. Not sure who makes the Outlaw model now. Kind of reminds me of the old UPA series from Emotiva (except for the fan question as the UPA's were silent).

I still like the Monolith better, though. A bit more money, but made by ATI, who are well regarded company for amps. also 30 day trial period and 5 year warranty (ATI branded are generally 7). Designed and assembled in the USA.