Which home cinema receiver to match my pair of Martin Logan Purity speakers?

[admin_exported]

Hi!

I have read and listen to the June '09 AV receivers Group Test. According to the testers the winner, Sony STR-DA5400ES, could have some troubles when paired with bright speakers.

Do you think that I should buy the Sony or one of the others in the test, e.g. the Pioneer LX-81?

 

[Anonymous]

Considering the Martin Logan Purity's are active speakers and Martin Logan themselves recommend you run them as such, I suggest you don't buy an A/V receiver at all. Instead buy an A/V processor. You'll get better performance for your money whilst utilising the internal amps of the Purity's.

ÿSuggest you look at something like the Marantz AV8003. Failing that the Integra DHC 9.9 or the Onkyo PR-SC886ÿ(probably very similar boxes considering they're made by the same people).ÿÿThe Rotel RSP-1570 could be worth a look in.

ÿLastly, don't rely purely on the What HiFi reviews to make your decision. I suggest you go to the dealer you purchased the MLs from and ask them for a demo with any of those processors, if they have them. At the end of the day it's your opinion that counts.

Having said that, I will give you my highly suspect and subjective opinion. I have not heard your speakers, nor any of the processors I have mentioned. However, if you are concerned with 'brightness' and would like a more musical sound, I would recommend you go with the Marantz. From experience with other Marantz products, they tend to have a smoother 'flavour' than the other brands mentioned. But - of course - I could be entirely wrong....ÿ

 

[Frank Harvey]

If you really have to go for an AV receiver, I'd be looking at the Arcam AVR600, which is one of the few AV amps that can pretty much drive anything.

 

[Anonymous]

I know I WILL sound stupid but what is the difference between an AV processor, receiver and amp?

Does the processor not have any amplification inside the box?

Does the fact some "amps" offer tuner/radio make a difference in the classification or nomenclature?

Pls forgive my newbie-sounding questions.