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Advice for audio upgrade.

I recently moved into a new house with a dedicated game room. The room is 20ft x 40ft with 8 foot ceilings. I set up my system, level matching everything, and it sounds good, but now I’m looking for that next level. 
 

My current setup is a 12 year old Denon AVR-x2000 running Kef IQ-90’s and two Emotiva 12s powered subwoofers. I use a Roku connected to a projector for occasional movie watching and a Nintendo switch. It’s mostly used for listening to music through Tidal and is where I’m looking to achieve better sound. I run it through a Wimm Amp Pro Plus. 
 

I don’t want to add any more speakers. The options I’m looking at are:

1. Keep the existing Denon AVR and add a separate amp such as the Marantz mm7025.

2. Swap my existing receiver for the Marantz stereo 70s.

My budget is around $1500, but may be willing go a little more. My receiver just seems like it lacks a bit of depth and what I would describe as in your face loud. I want to explore what people say when they describe warm and immersive. My music preference is along the lines of Stevie Ray Vaughan, Clapton, Toto, the rat pack. 

Are either of those options a worthwhile upgrade? Any other suggestions? 

rv1890
parkergetdean
1,099 posts
 

You could get an SS integrated used in that price range, such as a Hegel, Primare, Simaudio, Classe, Creek or Audiolab. All great brands. You would need to figure out how much power you need for your big space, big but sensitive speakers.

rv1890 OP
5 posts
 

In those two mentioned situations what do I do as far as the projector? I still need at least two hdmi inputs. 
 

I’m assuming I would need two separate setups? One for video and another dedicated for hifi music listening? It’s kind of why I was was leaning towards the marantz stereo 70s. I’m just not sure how much of an upgrade that is from my current Denon avr 

parkergetdean
1,099 posts
 

you could order a  Marantz stereo 70s and return if you don't like it.

A 2-channel and a HT system are different beasts. Mixing the two are like 4 seasons tires, they will work in any condition, but inferior to summer or winter tires in their ideal environments.

maam522a
163 posts
 

@rv1890 

Not that I have done so - but many will tell you to fix the room first.  It has more impact on the sound than individual components.

tcutter's avatar
tcutter
416 posts
 

@maam522a  +1

OP, you have the opportunity with a room that size to have a marvelous listening space. I suggest you treat the room as best you can before you consider any equipment upgrades. You will be amazed at how good your current system sounds and will continue to be dazzled as you improve your gear.
 

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/room-treatment-a-primer

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