panasonic sa-xr45 vs marantz sr-5400

I second Reubent's positive review of the SA-XR45. In my system, it really shows its capability when a digital signal is fed directly into the SA=XR45's digital input rather than an analog signal into its analogue input. The SA-XR45 will accept/read a 192 digital signal, e.g. a Phillips 963. Also, a good aftermarket powercord is essential, and the better the digital interconnect,the better the sound. BTW, I found the best price at J&R Music at $299, but I do not know if they have any left.

Just a note of correction. I believe the SA-XR50 is the replacement for the SA-XR25, the SA-XR45 will be replaced by the SA-XR70.

go for the marantz,,i prefer nad myself i have the t-761 ,,hence review here, http://www.hifichoice.co.uk/review_read.asp?ID=1879,,forget about panasonic,,,mass produced crap is what it is,,crap..v

Vm8444,

What rock did you crawl out from under?!! Have you heard of the digital amp revolution that is coming? Obviously not, or you wouldn't make comments like that.

The Panasonic SA-XR45, 50, etc. are a new bred of receiver that are very inexpensive to build/purchase, but offer excellent sonics. There have been more than a few posters at this and other audio sites that have given up their seperates in favor of an inexpensive digital amp and a decent DVD player as the source.

BTW, I wouldn't bet on your NAD actually sounding better than the Panny. It may have more power, but who cares if you choose a speaker with relatively high sensitivity? BTW, the Panny sold for about $300 new.

BTW, I owned the $2800 B&K AVR-202 previously and I own a big dollar 2-channel rig.

You might want to do some homework!

Enjoy,

TIC

Most of the people that I hear agaist the new Digi amps are those that have a vested intrest on using conventional or have synergy issues with them.

They are remarkable value compared to what has come from Japan\orient in the way of A\AB receivers or other cheaply priced gear.

They act more like a Passive setup to me and there are always better things out there ,but at what cost?How many have the $$ to swap to get the best synergy. Many spend years. Till I find what I need for my particular setup then I will not lose out by using the Panasonic 45.

Remarkable as to how many discount them or do not do the proper setup and tweeks in order to get them to sing and do not really give them a chance. I really do not care that those that slam them as they lose.Money and quality sonic attributes for less.

While they can be sensitive to what is used with them they can sing given the right speakers. I found they work better with my 2-ways then my 3-ways.

Good luck on the hunt!