marantz the mean machine
Written: Jul 05 '03
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Pros: 120 watts per channel, thx certified , quality sound processing,
Cons: the linear sound control.
The Bottom Line: excellent features and processing, all the modern surround sound features , full thx certification, clean power and high current amps, fine craftmanship, and excellent sound quality.
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| mikedobcol's Full Review: Marantz SR-8200 6.1 Channels Receiver |
The marantz sr-8200 is one of the finest a/v receivers that sells for under 2000 grand on the market. the model has been replaced (june 2003) by the 8300 which features 7 amps instead of the 6 of this model. however 7.1 is usually for larger rooms in that case it makes sense to divide the back channel. If your room isn't huge try to grab one of these instead. in fact I think its a mistake to only make 7.1 when most people just don't need it. both 6 and 7.1 should be offered. also this models circuitry is less crowded because there is only six amps. the 8200 has many features for movie processing. these can be easily chosen after you figure out the led screen remote , (if you push on the side buttons the screen changes.) this can utilize THX , Dolby Digital EX centre rear channel. It also features DTS-ES rear channel , Dolby Pro Logic II, SRS CS-5.1 Circle Surround. among other functions. the wattage per channel is 120 for 8 ohms and 130 for 6 ohms. the processing is top of the line it has 192-kHz/24-Bit DACs in all 6 channels. marantz and denon have merged so the technology is at the same level for that of the denon line at this price. which is 1700.00 ,however at this time, june 2003, many are selling for 1200.00 as the 8300 rolls in. run and grab this one before all you are left with is the new 7.1 model. this model is fully set up for sacd and dvd-audio with 7.1 direct inputs. it also has a communications port for interfacing with computers to download software. which most of us will never use, just like the seventh channel!. it also has filters that combine with the large amps to deliver clean and very non fluctuating power! just like a seperate power cleaner does. this model is rated very highly for frequency response and clarity. it doesn't color your music but rather presents it to your speakers quickly and whatever form they are presented. this is a high end a/v receiver with features and performance that matches a few models of other a/v receivers that cost over two grand. but certainly its in the top five of a/v receivers under 2000. I compared it with rotels, denons, b @ k , pioneer, kenwood . all in the similiar price range and they were all fine a/v receivers but this model just seemed to do everything right performance wise.
it features all the normal inputs 3 optical in, one out, 3 coax in, all the normal analog inputs too dvd, vcr, cd , tape, tv, etc, it has a full preamp section as well 7.1 if you have seven.one speakers with their own amps. the subwoofer output you will undoubtably use. it also features the a b switch for running two very large speakers in traditional two channel stereo.
the one down point is that the volume control isn't a traditional style. its the linear style. as you get toward 13 db the output rapidly jumps but at a slower level when you are at say 30db to 25db. the change isn't as direct. this is a mean machine for anyone who wants a a/v receiver that they shouldn't have to replace for at least five years or more lets hope! . it's that good and its even fully thx certified as well.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1120
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Epinions.com ID:
mikedobcol
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Reviews written: 3
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