Marantz MCR610 with active speakers and a subwoofer

[steve_1979]

Hi guys.

I looking for a multi-function source to use with a 2.1 active speaker system. I see that the MCR610 has analogue pre-outs for stereo speakers and a subwoofer output. But I'm not sure if these will be appropriate for my needs so I have a few questions:

1. Is the volume from the analogue outputs affected by the pre-amp or are they just fixed gain?

2. When used in a 2.1 configuration do the stereo analogue outputs have the options of being both full range and also able to use a filter to act as a crossover between the speakers and the subwoofer?

3. Does the subwoofer output have an adjustable volume and crossover frequency and can this be easily changed using a remote control.

 

[ID.]

Hi guys.

I looking for a multi-function source to use with a 2.1 active speaker system. I see that the MCR610 has analogue pre-outs for stereo speakers and a subwoofer output. But I'm not sure if these will be appropriate for my needs so I have a few questions:

1. Is the volume from the analogue outputs affected by the pre-amp or are they just fixed gain?

2. When used in a 2.1 configuration do the stereo analogue outputs have the options of being both full range and also able to use a filter to act as a crossover between the speakers and the subwoofer?

3. Does the subwoofer output have an adjustable volume and crossover frequency and can this be easily changed using a remote control.

My understanding is that they are fixed gain.

 

[steve_1979]

My understanding is that they are fixed gain.

Shame. If it wasn't for that it would be ideal. Small, neat and lots of functionality.

I'll probably end up getting an AV reciever which do all that I need but I'd prefer something a bit smaller and smarter looking.

 

[davedotco]

My understanding is that they are fixed gain.

Shame. If it wasn't for that it would be ideal. Small, neat and lots of functionality.

I'll probably end up getting an AV reciever which do all that I need but I'd prefer something a bit smaller and smarter looking.

No CD player but look at the Marantz NR1504 (£250) or the Onkyo TX 8050 (£400).

Plenty of functionality and the all important pre-outs, though the features are different for each model, they will live or die by the quality and usability of their control apps.

 

[steve_1979]

No CD player but look at the Marantz NR1504 (£250) or the Onkyo TX 8050 (£400).

Plenty of functionality and the all important pre-outs, though the features are different for each model, they will live or die by the quality and usability of their control apps.

I'm not too bothered about the CD player because I only use digital files and Spotify. The slim Marantz NR1504 (or any other suitable second hand AVR) is currently at the top of the list. I'm looking around to see what other options are available at the moment and something that's small and stylish would be a nice bonus over a big AVR.

All I really want is something that has all of the following functions in one smart looking box: DAC, pre-amp, adjustable subwoofer output, remote control, a graphic equalizer, wifi and is able to play MP3's from a USB stick. Built in Spotify and internet radio would be nice too but these wouldn't be a deal breaker if it doesn't have them.

 

[crang]

I second Onkyo TX8050 fantastic unit!

good luck

 

[davedotco]

I second Onkyo TX8050 fantastic unit!

good luck

Will suit many users, but the lack of Airplay and Spotify connect rule it out for me.

The Yamaha R N500 has both but lacks the requisite pre-outs.......*dash1*

All in all the Marantz NR1504 gives the most for the money in that it does everything bar Spotify Connect. Easy enough to use regular Spotify or even 'computer' Spotify over Airplay.

The new NR1605 does everthing, including more amplifier channels than you could reasonably need, but it is getting expensive, around £600.

 

[Overdose]

If you can find one, try the Denon Cara. If you need Airplay, just add an AEX.

 

[steve_1979]

If you can find one, try the Denon Cara. If you need Airplay, just add an AEX.

That's an interesting alternative to the usual AVR's.

 

[Overdose]

If you can find one, try the Denon Cara. If you need Airplay, just add an AEX.

That's an interesting alternative to the usual AVR's.

Other options are the more expensive Blu-Ray players. The Oppo 105 is a good example.