Denon Receiver as Pre/Pro

RBFC

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Apr 20, 2010
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Does anyone have any opinions on the newest Denon receivers when used as a pre/pro? I currently use a 4806 as my pre/pro/surround amps (the weak link in my system...) and am considering various ways to upgrade the performance of this section. I've thought about the Denon AVP pre/pro, but would also need 3 channels of amplification = $$$ right now.

Are any of the new receivers equipped with a preamp section that would better the performance of the 4806?

Thanks,

Lee
 

audioguy

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I've thought about the Denon AVP pre/pro, but would also need 3 channels of amplification = $$$ right now.

While not free, there are some incredible amps available for three channels. I am using one that has three channels of 200 watts each. I'm using it to drive my rear channels and was using it to drive my center until I got a powered center channel. see http://www.emotiva.com/xpa3.shtm for about $500. Check it out!

I am stunned that this kind of quality and horsepower is available at this price point. There may be other options as well.
 

RBFC

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Chuck,

Thanks. I've looked at Emotiva, and they are good value. I was thinking the Krell KAV3250 when I made the $$$ comment. Since going from an all-Krell electronics chain in my two channel rig to the Denon for multichannel, this was the only piece I had to use to fill the gap. I'm also thinking of the top Integra pre-pro, etc. Still looking.

Lee
 

RBFC

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Sure. There are a number of features that have been developed since the 4806 although that one, imho, was probably the first of the modern line in many ways. Take a look at the 4311.

I'm familiar with the new line of receivers, but am primarily concerned with the 2 channel preamp performance in "Pure Direct". My local dealer says that only the 5308 may have a better sounding preamp section than my 4806, but I'm not sure. With inventory levels so low in this economy, it's hard to get a lot of home trials to examine things.

Lee
 

Nightlord

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I think Denons are great choices here. The internal amps has gone down a bit in quality but the preamp part is still great. Going for a 4520 rather than the Marantz prepro, which most likely is the same circuitry, is a good choice. I'm going to run a 2807 as prepro for a few years until stepping up to 11-channel (even if I have speakers abd cables ready for that already).
 

RBFC

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I have a 2807 in the system in my gym, excellent performer/value. I stepped up to the Krell S12003D for my main processor since I started this thread a couple years ago. Your suggestions are right on, though!

Lee
 

DonH50

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Jun 22, 2010
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Listening in Pure Direct with an external amp means you are using none of the features a new AVR would provide. Might as well stick with yours or look into a new preamp instead.

Edit: If you are looking to upgrade overall, then I agree with the 4311 or 4520, or any AVR/prepro (Marantz AV8801 comes to mind) that offer Audyssey XT32 -- huge step up in the number of filters and room correction capability. Plus you'd get the latest surround formats.
 
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Nightlord

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I'm familiar with the new line of receivers, but am primarily concerned with the 2 channel preamp performance in "Pure Direct". My local dealer says that only the 5308 may have a better sounding preamp section than my 4806, but I'm not sure. With inventory levels so low in this economy, it's hard to get a lot of home trials to examine things.

Given how good the preamp in 4806 is, I'd say you'd be wasting money trying to find more.
 

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