Advice on a 5-channel amplifier or possibly a 3-Channel/2-Channel Combo Upgrade


Hello,

I am seeking advice on a 5-channel amplifier or possibly a 3-Channel/2-Channel combo.

I have the following components today:

  • RX-A1070 ADVENTAGE Yamaha
  • UDP-205 OPPO 4K
  • Parasound P 7
  • Outlaw 7200
  • Paradigm Prestige 95F, 55C, & 25S

My budget is up to $3700+/- . I don’t mind buying refurbished with some form of warranty, but I want to avoid a used private party purchase. I don’t intend to audition, though a good return policy would be of benefit. In other words, I don’t have to demo/try before I buy. I travel a lot and honestly don’t feel like I have great ears for music. So I mostly rely on extensive reading of reviews and on-line communities for purchases. I try (as best I can) to have a balanced system in terms of component costs/quality. In other words, over time I like to ensure that I invest in individual components that are all generally in the same zone of quality/workmanship/performance of the other components in my system.

I am redeploying my Outlaw 7200 to my secondary sound system.

I primarily listen to classic rock and like my system to be optimized/oriented to surround music. I have a lot of classic rock SACD, SACD Surround, DVD-A, and 5.1 Blu-ray Music. I also like 5.1 Sci-Fi movies. This system is my main sound system but not used heavily, roughly several times a month. 2 channel is typically just for SACDs or CDs. Later, I likely will do some high-resolution 2-channel streaming.

I think I like neutral sound. I do have an interest in an amp that is “quiet”. But as I mentioned before, I don’t think I have great ears for being able to pick out what’s missing or wrong in sound or how it might be improved. The best I can do is I know when things are all working well and sounding well when I sit back and listen to Dark Side of the Moon in 5.1 SACD or Sea Change in 5.1 DVD-A.

My initial research suggests Anthem A5, Anthem MCA 525, Emotiva XPA, or Parasound A51. However, I am not married to these brands and would very much welcome other ideas.

I’m looking for multi-channel amplication (5) that you believe works well for the type of speakers I have and the type of music I listen to and of course, any other suggestions you might have.  Thank you!!


Leadercrat

leadercrat
I would seriously look at the Anthem stuff they seem to be entrenched in hi quality HT, add to that their outstanding room correction software its easy to like.  

I've only heard their 2 channel stuff recently so no experience with HT but from what I heard from their 2 channel with room correction it was outstanding. 

the other brands I have no experience with sorry . 
Leadercrat,

I have the exact same speaker configuration as yours. I also had a Yamaha. It was a CX-A5100 processor fed to a 7 channel Sunfire THA-7401. It was a good setup, but I upgraded to an Anthem MRX-1120 AVR and I haven’t looked back since. It’s well within your budget. I actually made a little money selling my separated. I did do an AB and also ran the preouts of the Anthem to the Sunfire. I didn’t notice any difference. The Anthem AVR amplification was just that good. Good luck with your search!
Adcom GFA-5705 is another good option.  Built like a tank at around 90 lbs.  They sell direct, Adcom.com