"Official" Marantz 7400/7500/8400/8500 thread

[thosj]

I have a new, refurb, SR7500 from accessories4less.com. Seems to work great, sounds good, works on all my inputs.

My question is with regard to multi speaker. I can only get it to work with Tuner and CD inputs, both analog inputs. All my other inputs are digital, DVD, Cable Box, PC. I'd like to play on a set of speakers on my deck from the PC. I get NOTHING on any of the digital inputs. I select input from front panel or MENU, same thing. I change volume up and down, nothing.

Speaker setup has surround rears OFF (always, I have 5.1 setup.) Speaker C switch is OFF. Seeing as TUNER and CD play, wiring and speakers must be OK. Seeing as it won't play on digital inputs, but does play on analog inputs, is there something I don't know, some other setting somewhere, that effects digital inputs?

BTW, all these digital inputs play on main 5.1 speaker system just fine!!

Help!!

[thosj]

Ugh, I hate to answer my own post, but I found the answer over on audioholics.

Short answer, it can't be done, digital to multi. Analog only.

[patnshan]

Ugh, I hate to answer my own post, but I found the answer over on audioholics.

Short answer, it can't be done, digital to multi. Analog only.

Yep, I wish it wasn't like this either. I just run analog and digital from my DVD player and mediaplayer, and switch the inputs on the OSD when I want to use zone 2 and 3.

Pat

[thosj]

Yep, I wish it wasn't like this either. I just run analog and digital from my DVD player and mediaplayer, and switch the inputs on the OSD when I want to use zone 2 and 3.

Pat

Pat, do you know how "Speaker C" works? Does it have the same limitation or does it become like "B", use the multi outputs driven by another amp, to just power the second set of speakers from whatever input is selected for main speakers? That would work for me, don't mind it playing on main speakers and "C" at the same time.

I guess if I want to do it the right way I have to run analog from my HTPC to get multi to work. I think I'll need mini-stereo to 2 RCA type cables or something to do it.

I was hoping this multi would just work, putting front speaker output to the multi room speakers and be done, but alas, not so!!

[patnshan]

Pat, do you know how "Speaker C" works? Does it have the same limitation or does it become like "B", use the multi outputs driven by another amp, to just power the second set of speakers from whatever input is selected for main speakers? That would work for me, don't mind it playing on main speakers and "C" at the same time.

I guess if I want to do it the right way I have to run analog from my HTPC to get multi to work. I think I'll need mini-stereo to 2 RCA type cables or something to do it.

I was hoping this multi would just work, putting front speaker output to the multi room speakers and be done, but alas, not so!!

Not sure about the speaker C, I don't use it (or don't have it on the SR-8400).

I use an RCA to mini plug for my T-amp.

Good luck,

Pat

[thosj]

Well, I got my HTPC outputting analog to an input on the 7500, with a mini stereo to (2) RCA cable, and now, of course, Multi Speaker works great. I did hook up an analog out from my DVD player to another analog input on the 7500 and that works great, too. Happy about that as I can now play TV audio, MP3 CD's, HTPC, or tuner outside on my deck while something else is playing in the theater room!! I'd rather it just played the digital inputs out the two speakers on Multi, but hey......!!

I did experiment with Speaker C and it just uses the two surround back amps to power speakers with the same stuff that's going to the main speakers. I guess it's mostly for bi-wiring speakers that have two sets of inputs. Mine don't so I won't be using that right now.

By the way, this is a marvelous sounding receiver, so much better than my old Sony that it seems I got a whole new setup when I just got a new receiver!!

[patnshan]

Well, I got my HTPC outputting analog to an input on the 7500, with a mini stereo to (2) RCA cable, and now, of course, Multi Speaker works great. I did hook up an analog out from my DVD player to another analog input on the 7500 and that works great, too. Happy about that as I can now play TV audio, MP3 CD's, HTPC, or tuner outside on my deck while something else is playing in the theater room!! I'd rather it just played the digital inputs out the two speakers on Multi, but hey......!!

I did experiment with Speaker C and it just uses the two surround back amps to power speakers with the same stuff that's going to the main speakers. I guess it's mostly for bi-wiring speakers that have two sets of inputs. Mine don't so I won't be using that right now.

By the way, this is a marvelous sounding receiver, so much better than my old Sony that it seems I got a whole new setup when I just got a new receiver!!

Thanks for the info. Yeah, I have to just work around that analog input thing as well.

Pat

[fernando69]

Hello All.

I just installed my SR7500 and I'm very happy with the sound.
One of the reasons I upgraded from my old receiver was the option for the multizone.

The thing that is driving me crazy is the manual on page 35.

" To use this function a multi room remote unit and remote control signal receiver available from you Marantz dealer are necessary"

I have a Xantech ir receiver on my patio and I want to point the remote at it and be able to control ONLY the multizone. (my home theater takes care of itself with the harmony remote)

I assume there are some discreet codes for this but I wonder If there is such a thing as a whole different remote or is it just the same RC8500sr that comes with the unit.

On page 35 is shows operation of the multiroom outputs from the standard remote but this works on the screen so If I´m on my patio and want to chance sources without a screen then this is very ackward.

I know I can walk to the unit and press multi room button and select with the dial but I want to be able to use a simple remote to do this task from my patio.

Any help or comment will be very appreciated, Thanks.

[Fraoch]

BTW I looked but I don't think I mentioned this on this thread before...

HDCD decoding on the 8400 only works in Stereo or Pure Direct mode.

I'm assuming all the matrix decoders consume too much DSP resources.

The playback device doesn't seem to matter as long as it's connected digitally and as long as it doesn't mangle bits. I didn't test this with my DVD player but I strongly suspect it will work. I tested it with my Slim Devices Squeezebox and the Beck album Guero ripped in FLAC. (Too bad I don't like the album!)

I can't say I noticed any difference.:rolleyes:

[ChrisAG]

I just recently tried out HDCD on my 7300ose... I didn't notice a difference either.

I can definitely notice the increased quality from SACD (Sony SCD-C222ES) connected to the 5.1 (7.1) input though.

Off topic - I purchased the 7300 used in Feb. 2006 and it had that high-pitched hum that was reported on various forums, from all channels, loudest from the centre. D&M Canada replaced a capacitor, which reduced the noise to the point where I no longer notice it. :D

The OSE doesn't have DPLIIx, but the price was right!

[mark russ]

I wonder if the Marantz PM7200 integrated amp http://us.marantz.com/Products/584.asp would be an upgrade over the SR8400 (when in "direct" mode) for 2 channel stereo music listening?

I have a chance to pick up a RM7200 for a good deal and it does have a HT "pass-thru" feature.

[BlakeN]

I purchased a marantz sr7500 and I believe it is defective
It powers on but there is no sound. The unit was working fine but then stopped. I made no changes to the setup. Simply one day it worked and the next it didn't I have checked all of my speaker connections and tried different speakers. I also do not get any sound if I try using the headphones. I have tried using different sources dvd cd and tuner I have also tried using the speaker test function but still no sound. Currently I have the unit unplugged and I am hopping there is a reset feature that will fix this problem. Anyone else have any ideas.

Its not muted either btw.

[toniz]

Hi,
I`m looking for schematic diagram for SR7400/N1B. Any help is greatly appreciated.
Thx

[tsgrayson]

Anybody have a problem with the 8400 when you hook up your sub you get a loud hum (even with the 8400 turned off)?

[thosj]

I think hum is usually associated with some type of ground loop thing. You might try checking connections, unplugging/replugging checking to see if you can find which device/connection is causing it.

You might try searching here, and not necessarily just this thread, for "ground loop", as I remember reading quite a bit about it but have never had the problem so no personal experience!

Good Luck.

[tsgrayson]

It is my cable connection...any ideas on how to troubleshoot???

[thosj]

I don't have any suggestions, but I know it has been discussed here. Mr.Pibb, over in a thread on Powerstip has talked about this. You might try searching there or elsewhere here. I know I've read some about this.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=670840

Again, no personal experience troubleshooting this as I've not had the issue, sorry I can't be of more help, but the answer, or at least some suggestions, are here somewhere.

[vett93]

I have a SR8500 and cannot use the auto setup function to calibrate my speakers. I get "Ambi Noise Error". The room is very quiet and I don't know why it shows that error message. I tried it several times but could never get it pass that.

Any ideas? Thanks.

David

[diver90]

I have a SR8500 and cannot use the auto setup function to calibrate my speakers. I get "Ambi Noise Error". The room is very quiet and I don't know why it shows that error message. I tried it several times but could never get it pass that.

Any ideas? Thanks.

David

I had that happen too. I have a Sharp 12K projector and I think the fan noise was causing it. I don't know if this was a good way to work around it but I put the mic in my hand, closed it and this let the test start. Then I opened my hand and placed it quickly in the optimal spot.

[vett93]

Thanks, Diver90. However, it does not work for me by using your method. It still gives me "Ambi Noise Error". The room is very quiet already.

I tried another microphone (same Marantz microphone), and still got the same error message.

Any other ideas? Thanks.

David

[vett93]

The rear speaker indicator light does not seem to work with DD 5.1 EX. I have to manually turn on EX/ES by using the remote to get sound to the rear speaker. If I use "Auto" mode, it will only display DD. Is there something wrong with my newly purchase SR8500? I watched Star War I today and noticed that the rear speaker had no sound until I manually turned on EX/ES.

It works well with DTS ES though. The "S" in the channel status indicators does come on automatically.

David

[ekb]

The rear speaker indicator light does not seem to work with DD 5.1 EX. I have to manually turn on EX/ES by using the remote to get sound to the rear speaker. If I use "Auto" mode, it will only display DD. Is there something wrong with my newly purchase SR8500? I watched Star War I today and noticed that the rear speaker had no sound until I manually turned on EX/ES.

It works well with DTS ES though. The "S" in the channel status indicators does come on automatically.
DavidYou need a disk with the EX flag set to on. Even though some disks are DD EX, the flag is not set. I think that some of the Star Wars movies have this problem - there has been lots of discussion of that, but I just don't remember exact details. Try searching the forum threads or start a new thread to find a disk that is definitely flagged.

Ed

[BladeDK]

Vet93, I had the same problem. No matter what I did, I kept getting the same ambient noise error. And I had NO ambient noise in the room. All electronics were turned off, windows closed.

After a couple of tries, I decided to give up. I turned on the tv and then the speakers (not the tv speakers) started to produce white noise and the auto calibration started !?

I've tried a couple more times after that, and most of the time I get ambient noise errors, but sometimes it works. So I guess you just have to keep trying.

[vett93]

Can I direct the on screen display through the DVI interface? Currently, I use the "monitor out" S-video interface. I have to switch TV's input before I can set up the SR8500. This is not user friendly. So I am wondering if I miss something?

Please comment. Thanks.

David

[vett93]

Has anyone used the remote control that comes with SR7500/8500 to control Denon DVD player? I cannot make it work. Its user manual only states one code "0517" for Denon DVD player. It does not work with my Denon 2910. I took it to Magnolia and they cannot control any Denon DVD player. I also used the "seek" function. But none of the code worked at all.

I used this remote control to control my Samsung TV. So it is able to control other devices.

Thanks in advance.

[mike092604]

I've had my SR8500 for 11 months and it has worked great up until today. When I turn it on nothing happens except for a clicking sound, nothing shows on the display either. Anybody have any ideas what is happening?

Thanks in advance,
Mike

[nmo]

If you've tried everything else... Sounds like maybe the power supply board is dead.

Send it to the Service Wide center if you have to send ot off to get it fixed. Their turnaround is within 5 days most of the time.

[Daniel Tonks]

I'm guessing you've unplugged EVERYTHING from it to test?

[1-fsu]

Interesting. My SR8400 , which I purchased about a year ago from UBid, just experienced the same problem - both the clicking and loss of display. I will be shipping it off to Service Wide Technologies Service Center tomorrow. This is Marantz's authorized repair center for those who don't live closeby to any other authorized repair center.

I've had my SR8500 for 11 months and it has worked great up until today. When I turn it on nothing happens except for a clicking sound, nothing shows on the display either. Anybody have any ideas what is happening?

Thanks in advance,
Mike

[ssumner]

Hello,

I recently purchased a Marantz SR8500 and I'm planning to install it in my new house within the next month. I've read the manual cover to cover but I still have a few questions I'm hoping people in this thread can answer.

Question 1:
My primary display will be a NEC 50XR5 plasma and I'm planning to run an DVI-to-HDMI cable from the SR8500 to the 50XR5. But, will I also need to run either an composite video or s-video cable between the SR8500 and 50XR5 to utilize the On Screen Display (OSD)?

Question 2:
My goal is to only use the DVI output to drive my 50XR5 with the exception of when I need to use the OSD, assuming the answer is yes to the first question. Will this be possible even if some of my A/V sources connect ot the SR8500 using s-video, composite, or component? For example, lets say I connected my Tivo Series 1 (SVR2000) using s-video to my SR8500 will I be able to output this through the DVI output? Basically, does the SR8500 have some sort of internal Analog to Digital Converter?

Question 3:
Another goal I have is to utilize the multi-room feature to drive my family room's 5.1 system and my master bedroom's stereo system. By understanding is that the SR8500 allows either room to control any of the sources at a given time. In my configuration I will have four sources: two DVRs and two DVD players. So I envision that one person in the family room can use DVR1 while another person is using DVD1 in the master bedroom, is this correct?

Question 4:
To use this multi-room feature the manual mentions you need two additional items. The multi-room remote unit and the remote control signal receiver. And it mentions contacting a Marantz dealer. I see no mention of these items on Marantz website. I'm asumming what they are saying is you need some sort of IR emitter and a secondary RC1400 remote control, is this correct? Or is there some or item you need to use the multi-room feature?

Question 5:
Am I correct in understanding that the second zone in a multi-room configuration can only use composite or s-video as its video source? Whereas the first zone can use component and DVI source also?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Scott

[welsh3]

Hi Scott,

I have the SR8500 and the NEC 50XR5. Because my home theater system was installed professionally I cannot answer all of your questions, but I'll tell as much as I know.

First of all, this is a great system. The Marantz and the NEC work flawlessly together.

We are using composite from the 8500 to the NEC and DVI-HDMI from the Marantz universal player to the NEC. The onscreen display works fine, but I do not know if that is because we have the composite connection.

I have a 5.1 system in the media room and am using the two unused channels to run two speakers in the living room. There is no video there. We can listen to one source in the media room and a different source in the living room. The volume in the living room is controlled by a Russound Autoformer volume control in the living room wall. We have a Universal remote (the MX-950) that can use RF to change CD tracks while in the living room, but because of the Russound control we can only change the volume at the wall control.

I'm sorry I can't provide more specific answers to your questions. You made good choices, and once you get everything hooked up you should really enjoy your system.

Bob

[welsh3]

The September 2006 issue of Home Theater magazine has a very positive review of the SR8500 using the new PSB VisionSound VS 300 onwall speakers. I am using the 8500 with two PSB VisionSound VS 400 tower speakers and one VS 300 as the center channel.
Home Theater gives the Marantz an overall rating of 94 and the PSB speakers an overall rating of 93.

Based on my experience since June, when my system was installed, this review is accurate. The 8500 is a superb piece of equipment, and it works very, very well with the PSB speakers.

The review isn't available online yet, but it should show up on the Home Theater website eventually. www.hometheatermag.com

Bob

[Fraoch]

Has anyone used the remote control that comes with SR7500/8500 to control Denon DVD player? I cannot make it work. Its user manual only states one code "0517" for Denon DVD player. It does not work with my Denon 2910. I took it to Magnolia and they cannot control any Denon DVD player. I also used the "seek" function. But none of the code worked at all.

I used this remote control to control my Samsung TV. So it is able to control other devices.

Thanks in advance.

I've had to learn some of the functions one-by-one for some of my devices. Doesn't take that long.

[mht]

Interesting. My SR8400 , which I purchased about a year ago from UBid, just experienced the same problem - both the clicking and loss of display. I will be shipping it off to Service Wide Technologies Service Center tomorrow. This is Marantz's authorized repair center for those who don't live closeby to any other authorized repair center.

I have the same problem with my SR5600. I sent it to be repaired. Well yesterday got it back with a note that there is nothing wrong with it! Connected the device and it worked for about 10min. Then yet again the display goes and no signal out of the video connections either... Again.

Has anybody got any idea what could be causeing this?
Guess I'll just have to send it back again. Damm I hate this...

[ger rooney]

I purchased a marantz sr7500 and I believe it is defective
It powers on but there is no sound. The unit was working fine but then stopped. I made no changes to the setup. Simply one day it worked and the next it didn't I have checked all of my speaker connections and tried different speakers. I also do not get any sound if I try using the headphones. I have tried using different sources dvd cd and tuner I have also tried using the speaker test function but still no sound. Currently I have the unit unplugged and I am hopping there is a reset feature that will fix this problem. Anyone else have any ideas.

Its not muted either btw.
have you checked to see if the 7.1 setting was pressed as that will turn of your speakers,its on the remote and on the front panel,

[ger rooney]

i dont have any questions,well i do i have loads,but do not know how to deciepher the answers yet,but am delighted to see this thread and will be looking in a lot,i have the sr7500 with jamo 7.1 speakers,from reading this tread a lot more is making sence to me nowkeep it up this is great.

[d-unknown]

You need a disk with the EX flag set to on. Even though some disks are DD EX, the flag is not set. I think that some of the Star Wars movies have this problem - there has been lots of discussion of that, but I just don't remember exact details. Try searching the forum threads or start a new thread to find a disk that is definitely flagged.

Ed

Ahh, lucky i found this thread! I've been going through my SR7500 manual, DVD manual, swapping DVD players around etc.. For a moment I thought my SR7500 was faulty just like vett93.

The DD EX movies I have tried that don't flag are Star Wars Ep 1-3 (Region 4) and LOTR 1-3 (Region 4).

[JonBH]

I have a qucik question about the multi-speaker function of the 7500.

If you set it for multi-speaker and then turn off the receiver in the main room, the signal still goes to the speaker in the remote room. You need to manually turn off the multi-speaker setting. Is there any way to have multi-speaker be a default so it starts when the receiver in the main room is turned on and stops when the receiver in the main room is turned off?

[ssumner]

I have a SR8500 and I utilize the multi-room feature. Here is what I've learned about this feature:

1. If you turn off the main room the multi-room continues working.
2. You can have multi-room turned on by default
3. Multi-room only supports RCA (Yellow, Red, White)
4. Volume can be turned up and down in either room without inpacting the other
5. If you use multi-room you can only do 5.1 in the main room.
6. SDIF or Co-axial sound is not supported by multi-room (pointless anyway since you only have stereo for multi-room)

I have it setup at my house where main room is my family and multi-room is my master bedroom and its works absolutely great. Of course you have to use some sort of IR receiver/emitter configration to accomplish. If you want more details send me a private message.

[ssumner]

Has anyone gotten their Marantz A/V Reciever to play nice with the Motorola 3412 using HDMI/DVI? I keep getting those stupid HDCP errors when trying to go through my Marantz SR8500.

Here is a brief description of how my system is configured:

1. I'm running a HDMI-to-DVI and SDIF cable from my Motorola 3412 to my SR8500.
2. From my SR8500 I'm running DVI-to-HDMI to my NEC 50XR5 plasma
3. Within the Menu setting on Motorola 3412 I've tried DVI and HDMI mode.

I either get white snow or a blue screen saying something about copy protection error switch to component cables.

[Daniel Tonks]

Many cable boxes incorrectly do not see HDCP-compliant "repeaters", as the Marantz properly reports itself as, well, HDCP compliant. Happens with my Scientific Atlanta cable box, but my Sony DHG-HDD500 HDTV receiver works perfectly and does report HDCP mode when going through my SR9600.

[dougotte]

Further to the discussion about multi-room: I turned it on once by mistake. When I shut down the receiver, it was still actually powered up. The little red multi-room indicator on the display is your only clue.

I discovered mine was on all weekend in a closed armoire, and it was quite hot. Beware.

Doug

[bbelin]

I’m new to this forum, I own an 8400 two questions: 1. Can I use my 8400 to switch and HD signal into the component inputs, HD in HD out. 2. I use the multi room SPEAKER feature, once the speakers in the remote room are on, there does not seem to be a way to adjust the volume without going into the main menu, or am I missing a short cut some where?
Thank

[patnshan]

I’m new to this forum, I own an 8400 two questions: 1. Can I use my 8400 to switch and HD signal into the component inputs, HD in HD out. 2. I use the multi room SPEAKER feature, once the speakers in the remote room are on, there does not seem to be a way to adjust the volume without going into the main menu, or am I missing a short cut some where?
Thank

1. As far as I know, you can

2. No there is no other way to adjust volume unless you are using a separate amp for zone 2. I use the internal amp for zone 2 and an external amp for zone 3. I like being able to run them all at the same time, but don't like just what you describe, having to adjust in the main menu. A way to alleviate that would be to put an inline volume know between the amp and the zone 2 speakers. That way you could put the receiver output to the maximum you'd ever want, then use the separate colume know to control it.

Pat

[patnshan]

Further to the discussion about multi-room: I turned it on once by mistake. When I shut down the receiver, it was still actually powered up. The little red multi-room indicator on the display is your only clue.

I discovered mine was on all weekend in a closed armoire, and it was quite hot. Beware.

Doug


Yeah, and the sound coming out of the zone 2 speakers:D

I like this feature when I am out on the patio. I can shut off the unit and still listen.

Pat

[ssumner]

I'm not sure if there is a big difference between the SR8400 and SR8500 but I have the SR8500 and I can control volume in either zone from my remote without using a second amp.


1. As far as I know, you can

2. No there is no other way to adjust volume unless you are using a separate amp for zone 2. I use the internal amp for zone 2 and an external amp for zone 3. I like being able to run them all at the same time, but don't like just what you describe, having to adjust in the main menu. A way to alleviate that would be to put an inline volume know between the amp and the zone 2 speakers. That way you could put the receiver output to the maximum you'd ever want, then use the separate colume know to control it.

Pat

[ssumner]

Has anyone gotten their Marantz A/V Receiver to work with MovieBeam via HDMI? I've connected a HDMI-to-DVI cable to my SR8500 then a DVI-to-HDMI cabke to my HCMP supported Plasma. All I get is a bunch of garage on the screen. It looks like the exact same problem as my Comcast DVR.

This HCMP is making it impossible to get any thing working through my SR8500 receiver.

[morpheus6d9]

Has anyone gotten their Marantz A/V Receiver to work with MovieBeam via HDMI? I've connected a HDMI-to-DVI cable to my SR8500 then a DVI-to-HDMI cabke to my HCMP supported Plasma. All I get is a bunch of garage on the screen. It looks like the exact same problem as my Comcast DVR.

This HCMP is making it impossible to get any thing working through my SR8500 receiver.

do you mean hdcp ?

i have my 8500 hooked up with dvi to my cable box and i get no garbage on the screen are u sure that ur plasma is compliant ?

[ssumner]

I have a NEC Plasma which is brand new and support HDCP. What mode of cable box are you using?

do you mean hdcp ?

i have my 8500 hooked up with dvi to my cable box and i get no garbage on the screen are u sure that ur plasma is compliant ?

[bbelin]

1. As far as I know, you can

2. No there is no other way to adjust volume unless you are using a separate amp for zone 2. I use the internal amp for zone 2 and an external amp for zone 3. I like being able to run them all at the same time, but don't like just what you describe, having to adjust in the main menu. A way to alleviate that would be to put an inline volume know between the amp and the zone 2 speakers. That way you could put the receiver output to the maximum you'd ever want, then use the separate colume know to control it.

Pat

Pat;

thanks for the info, i'll try that. This past monday I received my new Dish HD box to connect to my Pioneer 5071, I'm running the component cables through my 8400, the results are very good, the tech from Dish said that by running the HD signal through any switch (AV Receiver) that I will diminish the the signal a bit so I may try running the component wires direct from the HD Dish box to the display and see what it looks like.
Bill

[Angel L.]

I have a question about multiroom setup.
I have an old sr7000 that still ROCKS, I love this AVR.
I want to add a second zone for outdoor to the AVR, and I have an old yamaha stereo amp.
How do I get fm or any other source if the second zone amp is just an amp?

Please excuse my ignorance if this question has been beaten to death.

[dlipter]

The SR7500 is $200. more than the SR5600.

Is the auto calibration worth the extra $200.?

I can't find any reviews of the marantz MRAC calibration system.

Thanks,

dlipter

[GregoriusM]

If all you want the 7500 for is auto cal, then I wouldn't bother. You can do it yourself with a Radio Shack meter and Avia, which you should get anyway. What is the name of the other setup disk?

If there is another feature or two that you'd like to have, then the auto cal is pretty good.

I don't think it is quite the same as the 8500, but I haven't been able to verify this.

I know that the 9600 does to frequency EQ along with the rest of the setup, and allows manual changes in the frequency adjustments.

I really should send an email to Marantz and ask...... which is what I'm going to do right now.

[GregoriusM]

If all you want the 7500 for is auto cal, then I wouldn't bother. You can do it yourself with a Radio Shack meter and Avia, which you should get anyway. What is the name of the other setup disk?

If there is another feature or two that you'd like to have, then the auto cal is pretty good.

I don't think it is quite the same as the 8500, but I haven't been able to verify this.

I know that the 9600 does to frequency EQ along with the rest of the setup, and allows manual changes in the frequency adjustments.

I really should send an email to Marantz and ask...... which is what I'm going to do right now.

[jacks80]

My SR7400 (purchased 2004) recently started to power off (not protection mode) during video output. I'm using video component connection in from a HD Direct TV receiver, and component connection output to a plasma TV monitor.

It’s been running fine in the current configuration, but recently, the unit began experiencing a distinct clicking sound coming from the power on/off button during TV viewing, and the SR7400 unit clicks off, then back on AT A LOWER VOLUME LEVEL. After a while, it just goes off completely, and continues clicking from the power switch until I un-plug the unit.

It began with no changes to any of the hook-ups, and I've checked all connections for shorts, etc.

I now have it with an authorized Marantz service center, but they are unable to replicate the problem. I've seen similar problems raised by contributors to this forum (“Tokerblue”, “NMO”, “mike092604”, “1-fsu”, and “mht”), but no clear solutions to the problem.

Does anybody have any suggestions? This is a real pain.

Thanks

[mattburk]

I have a question about multiroom setup.
I have an old sr7000 that still ROCKS, I love this AVR.
I want to add a second zone for outdoor to the AVR, and I have an old yamaha stereo amp.
How do I get fm or any other source if the second zone amp is just an amp?

Please excuse my ignorance if this question has been beaten to death.

there should be a rca out that says multi room, just run an rca wire to the new amp & make sure the multi room feature is turned on.

[Jay_WJ]

I am very interested in this Marantz flagship. I have some questions to ask before giving it serious consideration. I'd really, really appreciate it if you would answer any of the questions below.

1) It has two HDMI ver 1.1 inputs. Have you used it to connect any compatible player (e.g., Toshiba HD-A1 or Oppo DV-970HD)? Does the receiver have any problems in processing DD and DTS bitstreams, and stereo and multichannel PCM signals over HDMI? Particularly, does it correctly apply bass management to multichannel PCM coming through HDMI? I think this is important if I want to use it to play future lossless audio formant of HD and BR, which may be decoded to multichannel PCM.

2) Another connection issue. How about i.Link? Does it work for DD, DTS, SACD, DVD-A, and PCM transmission with no problem? Have you connected an i.Link device of other brand (e.g., Pioneer DV-59AVi)?

3) Generally, does its bass management work well for various input signals as intended?

4) Finally, what's your verdict on this receiver? Do you take pride in its ownership? Do you think it's worth keeping for a long time?

Thanks in advance,

Jay

[gonzalc3]

Hi,

Some Answers:


1) It has two HDMI ver 1.1 inputs. Have you used it to connect any compatible player (e.g., Toshiba HD-A1 or Oppo DV-970HD)? Does the receiver have any problems in processing DD and DTS bitstreams, and stereo and multichannel PCM signals over HDMI? Particularly, does it correctly apply bass management to multichannel PCM coming through HDMI? I think this is important if I want to use it to play future lossless audio formant of HD and BR, which may be decoded to multichannel PCM.

Yes. It does correct bass management and sounds pretty good.

2) Another connection issue. How about i.Link? Does it work for DD, DTS, SACD, DVD-A, and PCM transmission with no problem? Have you connected an i.Link device of other brand (e.g., Pioneer DV-59AVi)?

I used it with an Onkyo DV SP1000 and simply sounds outstanding.

3) Generally, does its bass management work well for various input signals as intended?

Yes

4) Finally, what's your verdict on this receiver? Do you take pride in its ownership? Do you think it's worth keeping for a long time?

It is a very solid receiver with outstanding sound. I really like the receiver. I would keep in until I get separates....

[Jay_WJ]

Thank you so much for your reply!

[mitcharf]

Hi everyone,

I've owned and enjoyed the SR7500 for a couple of years now. I recently moved into a new home, and have set up a different speaker configuration. I have a 5.1 set of speakers I am using for home theatre, and a 2.0 set of speakers for music. I've got the 5.1 as my "A" speaker set, and the 2.0 as my "B" speaker set.

Here's the problem -- while I am able to switch between them by pushing the button on the main unit, I don't see how to switch between A and B via the remote.

Also, and somewhat related, I noticed that a given input doesn't remember which speaker set I last used with it. For example, when I'm using DVD input, I want the A speaker set. For my CD player (actually a Squeezebox2*), I want the B speaker set. When I first set it all up, I switched to DVD input and selected the A speakers. Then I switched to CD player and selected the B speakers. But when I went back to DVD, it stayed with the B speakers. I found this odd, since it remembers other things, like whether I am in pure direct mode or not.

Anyway, I'm willing to manually switch between A and B when I switch inputs, but ideally I'd like to be able to do this from the remote control. Anyone have any insights into this?

Thanks a lot in advance for any help.

* - I highly recommend the Squeezebox to everyone. It plays digital music from your PC. Prior to using it I was considering getting a 100 CD changer just because I spent so much time swapping out different CDs. Now I never use my CD player -- the Squeezebox is higher quality audio and FAR more convenient. And Slim Devices (the company which makes the Squeezebox) is bar none the best company I've ever had the pleasure of dealing with -- a quality product, excellent support, active user forums, open source server software with lots of great user-created plugins, and more and more and more. So although it's not related to my problem, if anyone is reading this, I *highly* recommend you go to their web site (which the forum software won't let me post, since I am a new user, but you can easily find them via google). They recently came out with an audiophile grade player, The Transporter. I'm saving my pennies for that one, but I'm still very very happy with my Squeezebox (and my Squeezebox2 and my Squeezebox3).

Mitch

[CORVETTEZ06]

Hi everyone,

I've owned and enjoyed the SR7500 for a couple of years now. I recently moved into a new home, and have set up a different speaker configuration. I have a 5.1 set of speakers I am using for home theatre, and a 2.0 set of speakers for music. I've got the 5.1 as my "A" speaker set, and the 2.0 as my "B" speaker set.

Here's the problem -- while I am able to switch between them by pushing the button on the main unit, I don't see how to switch between A and B via the remote.

Also, and somewhat related, I noticed that a given input doesn't remember which speaker set I last used with it. For example, when I'm using DVD input, I want the A speaker set. For my CD player (actually a Squeezebox2*), I want the B speaker set. When I first set it all up, I switched to DVD input and selected the A speakers. Then I switched to CD player and selected the B speakers. But when I went back to DVD, it stayed with the B speakers. I found this odd, since it remembers other things, like whether I am in pure direct mode or not.

Anyway, I'm willing to manually switch between A and B when I switch inputs, but ideally I'd like to be able to do this from the remote control. Anyone have any insights into this?

Thanks a lot in advance for any help.

* - I highly recommend the Squeezebox to everyone. It plays digital music from your PC. Prior to using it I was considering getting a 100 CD changer just because I spent so much time swapping out different CDs. Now I never use my CD player -- the Squeezebox is higher quality audio and FAR more convenient. And Slim Devices (the company which makes the Squeezebox) is bar none the best company I've ever had the pleasure of dealing with -- a quality product, excellent support, active user forums, open source server software with lots of great user-created plugins, and more and more and more. So although it's not related to my problem, if anyone is reading this, I *highly* recommend you go to their web site (which the forum software won't let me post, since I am a new user, but you can easily find them via google). They recently came out with an audiophile grade player, The Transporter. I'm saving my pennies for that one, but I'm still very very happy with my Squeezebox (and my Squeezebox2 and my Squeezebox3).

Mitch


Hope your enjoying your SR7500 as much as I am. I use it for 5 hours a day and love it to death.

To switch between Speakers A and B and such using the remote, press the Amp button at corner bottom right and then go up and press the number 6 which is has the label "SPK-AB" above it. That button 6 will do the switching just like the button on the main amp. There is no way for the receiver to remember which speakers you liked with which input. You'll just need to get a little more friendly with the remote--one thing I highly recommend is to get to know all its features (even the Macros which could do everything you want it to do with the push of a button!).

Hope that helps you out a bit,

Ryan

[bclements3]

Hi All,

Hope this is the right forum to be posting in. I'm having trouble with the audio configuration - not getting the thunderous bass like I should be getting watching "Stealth" on my samsung blu-ray player.

Here's my setup:

Receiver: Marantz SR7400
Speakers: Def Tech BP 2004s, BP2x for the rears, and a pro center speaker. No separate subwoofer.
DVD Player - Samsung Blu-Ray


Here's my Configuration:

I have speaker level inputs going to the marantz, as well as the LFE inputs. I have LFE cables from each bp2004 that go into a y-connector which is subsquently plugged into the marantz.


I have analog cables going from the samsung blu-ray player to the 7.1 analog inputs on the marantz. When watching blu-ray, I hit the "7.1' button on my marantz remote.

In the Marantz, I typically set the speakers to Large, & subwoofer=yes. I use the 80hz hp/lp setting.

On the samsung blu-ray player, I have the speakers set to large as well. When I do the test tones, everything works. Though the testtone for LFE is substantially quieter than for the Left right or surrounds. BUt its there.

The problem:

When watching the uncompressed PCM soundtrack, I don't here the rattling, wall-shaking bass during the movies that I hear if I'm using the digital output and bitsteram mode. There is bass, just no where near as much. I thought the uncompressed PCM soundtrack should be even better, so I'm quite dissappointed. In Sound and vision and other magazines, the editors rave about the sound quality on the uncompressed pcm tracks.

Any ideas? Is something wrong with my configuration? Or is this normal?

Thanks for any help!

[Fraoch]

The LFE has been separated out from the soundtrack by the Blu-Ray player. In order to get the LFE, you have to somehow instruct the Blu-Ray player to mix the LFE in with the mains.

In a receiver this wouldn't be too hard, but this will have to be done in the player - you'll have to tell it you have no sub.

The 7400 can't do this - it has no access to the 7.1 external inputs and can't do anything with it. You can set the mains to large, small or none or the bass mix to LFE, LFE + Main, it doesn't matter, it won't make any difference because the 7.1 is just passed through without any processing whatsoever. Each signal gets passed to each speaker, with only amplification and volume control. I'm not sure if you can even get tone controls in that configuration.

[ssumner]

Has anyone ran into an issue where turning the volume up or down on your SR8500 takes abnormal amout of time?

I have my SR8500 configured where I sharing it between two rooms. In one room I'm using a 5.1 speaker configuration, with Xantech IR receivers/emitters. In my other room I'm using the "zone 2" feature with stereo configuration and Xantech IR receiver/emitters.

I have no problem during the volume up and down in my "zone 2" room but when I try to turn up the volume in my main room it takes a abnormal amount of time.

At first I thought it was something to do with my Xantech IR receiver but why does it work normal in my second zone?

Anyone have any suggestions?

[robfix]

Hi everyone,

The Perfect Vision's Winter 2007 Home Theater Buyers Guide features the 7500 and the 8500 as part of the AVR recommendations. There are not too many units listed, so it's pretty selective. Nice to see the focus of this forum touted so highly.

Cheers,

Rob

[newfan]

I have my 7500 connected via component to an aging (but still awesome) Toshiba TW40x81 CRT RPTV. I would like to replace my old Toshiba DVD player (SD 5109).

My questions are:

What type of scaler is in the 7500? It seems to do a great job.

Would I get an improvement over the scaler in the 7500 if I use a DVD player that upconverts over component (getting rare these days) or should I just find a good progressive scan player and let the 7500 continue to do its work?

and no, I cannot afford to fork out some big bucks for a DVDO scaler.

Any help would be appreciated.

[BlakeN]

As far as I know there is no scaler in the 7500. It converts but does not change the resolution. On my display (benq pe7700) I have my cable box connected to the 7500 via s-video and then the 7500 is connected to my pj. In real mode the resolution is standard tv size I have to use my pj to upscale it.

[newfan]

So I guess the 7500 upconverts to component, but doesn't have a scaler. I get those terms confused.

I guess the scaler (line doubler?)in the Toshiba rptv is doing the job.

Thanks

[BlakeN]

As an off topic there is a mini review/guide of your tv here http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/volume_7_1/toshiba-tw40x81-dtv-3-2000.html

Finding an upscalling dvd player over component will be hard but will probably be worth the search.

[ekb]

So I guess the 7500 upconverts to component, but doesn't have a scaler. I get those terms confused. Why aren't you just using the component out on the 5109?

BTW I still use the 5109 and love it - the 2 disk carriage and the timing displays are irreplaceable.

Ed

[newfan]

My 5109 is becoming unreliable, I am using the component out to my 7500, which is then connected (by component) to my TV. The TV has a horrible video switching menu, and this configuration saves quite a few steps.

[teknoguy]

Hi folks. Need some feedback on a question...

I'm thinking down the road a bit and I'm wondering what issues I'll have if I were to add another set of speakers to upgrade from my current 5.1 setup to 7.1. If the new set does not match the impeadance of the current speakers, will this cause problems with my 7400?

-t

[Fraoch]

Hi folks. Need some feedback on a question...

I'm thinking down the road a bit and I'm wondering what issues I'll have if I were to add another set of speakers to upgrade from my current 5.1 setup to 7.1. If the new set does not match the impeadance of the current speakers, will this cause problems with my 7400?

-t

As long as the impedance does not go below the receiver's rating, should be no problem.

However this statement seems to imply that these new speakers don't match your existing speakers. This means their tonal balance will be different and panning effects won't be very smooth.

[teknoguy]

As long as the impedance does not go below the receiver's rating, should be no problem.

However this statement seems to imply that these new speakers don't match your existing speakers. This means their tonal balance will be different and panning effects won't be very smooth.

I see.
I haven't purchased any speakers yet. Just wondering what I should be aware of when I'm looking. I had a feeling that if I didn't buy within the same manufacturers product line then I would have tonal differences but I hadn't thought of what you mentioned about panning. Good to know...
I'm sure this is a loaded question but will the difference be obvious on panning?
-t

[Fraoch]

I see.
I haven't purchased any speakers yet. Just wondering what I should be aware of when I'm looking. I had a feeling that if I didn't buy within the same manufacturers product line then I would have tonal differences but I hadn't thought of what you mentioned about panning. Good to know...
I'm sure this is a loaded question but will the difference be obvious on panning?
-t

It depends HOW different. :)

The panning effect could sound smooth and seamless to your ears..or it could sound very disjointed, with you thinking "original speakers, original speakers, NEW SPEAKERS, NEW SPEAKERS, original speakers".

That may sound silly but subconsciously that's what you may be aware of.

Panning effects particularly from the front to the rear should be smooth and seamless, not drawing attention to themselves. You want to be immersed in sound, not hearing sharp, distinct sounds from very localized areas. Sure, a system should be capable of directed sound effects, but you'll find the majority of rear-channel information is either as part of a pan or as background sound. Very rarely do you get a distinct point sound from directly behind you.

This is why many people prefer bipoles/dipoles back there, for a more diffuse sound.

[Chapdog]

I received a Toshiba HD A2 HD-DVD player for Christmas. Woo Hoo!
I also have a Marantz 8500 and a JVC 56MX196. I can't seem to figure out how to hook it up at all digitally.
I tried going HDMI direct to the JVC TV for digital video and got nothing so resorted to component cables and, while I don't maybe know what I am missing, the component cables produce a picture like none other I've seen on a DVD before so I am happy with that.

As an audiophile I saw this as an opportunity. I hooked up an HDMI / DVI cable to the Marantz from the HD-DVD player and can't get any sound out of it. When I go to menu/inputs and set the DVI 1 to VCR and then set the Marantz to VCR I get nothing. Here I resorted to an optical cable but I really hoped for more.

How do I get the supposedly great audio from my HD-DVD player to the Marantz?

Chapdog

[Chapdog]

Anybody?

[ecrabb]

It sounds like you're trying to get digital audio from the A2 into the Marantz via a HDMI-DVI cable/adapter. As far as I know, you can't take audio from the DVI input on the Marantz, or any other DVI receiver for that matter since there's no audio on DVI.

So, the only way to get the high-res audio into a non-HDMI receiver is via analog connectors. In their infinite wisdom (note sarcasm), Toshiba dropped the analog outputs from the A2... a big mistake in my opinion.

So, if I understand what you're trying to do, without changing to a model of HD-DVD player with analog outputs or upgrading to an HDMI receiver, you'll have to live with the converted digital audio via coax or optical.

SC

[mark russ]

So, the only way to get the high-res audio into a non-HDMI receiver is via analog connectors. In their infinite wisdom (note sarcasm), Toshiba dropped the analog outputs from the A2... a big mistake in my opinion.

I agree. What were they thinking? :mad:

[Chapdog]

It sounds like you're trying to get digital audio from the A2 into the Marantz via a HDMI-DVI cable/adapter. As far as I know, you can't take audio from the DVI input on the Marantz, or any other DVI receiver for that matter since there's no audio on DVI.

So, the only way to get the high-res audio into a non-HDMI receiver is via analog connectors. In their infinite wisdom (note sarcasm), Toshiba dropped the analog outputs from the A2... a big mistake in my opinion.

So, if I understand what you're trying to do, without changing to a model of HD-DVD player with analog outputs or upgrading to an HDMI receiver, you'll have to live with the converted digital audio via coax or optical.

SCWow, very clear answer but of course not what I was hoping to hear. I'd forgotten that DVI was only for video. :(
Not only does the A2 not have analogue outputs, it also does not have Coax either. Not that coax would make the kind of difference I'm looking for.

That really sucks. I love my high rez audio and really was looking forward to getting it with HD movies too. Would have to trade in my almost new 8500 to get the HDMI.

Watched Miami Vice (via optical) last night and it still was really wonderfull.

Always striving for more...

[jaybeech]

Hi folks,

Several people on this forum have described the problem that I'm having: the receiver switches itself off and on, off and on, until all you get is a barrage of clicking sounds and have to pull the plug. No crossed wires, and the vents aren't hot. So far, the problem only occurs when the machine has been on for a few hours.

The folks at Marantz advised me to reset the unit by pressing and holding the SELECT and S-DIRECT buttons simultaneously for several seconds. I was skeptical. Intuition tells me there's something's wrong with the power supply.

(I was going to write that the solution worked, but the dang thing clicked off and on again just now.)

Can anyone else vouch for this simple fix?

Thanks!

[ChrisAG]

Sounds like the power switch rather than the power supply, but I could be wron. Is it still within the three year warranty? Even if it isn't, it may be a fairly inexpensive fix. Marantz is usually pretty good about warranty repairs (though I don't have any experience with any of their 3rd party authorized service centres).

[jaybeech]

Thanks, ChrisAG, for the quick response. I'm still covered by Marantz's 1 year warranty for refurbs. I just hope they don't send it back with a "nothing wrong with it" note, which was the experience of at least one other person on this thread. Maybe the moral is, don't buy refurbs?

[wolfgaze]

Thanks, ChrisAG, for the quick response. I'm still covered by Marantz's 1 year warranty for refurbs. I just hope they don't send it back with a "nothing wrong with it" note, which was the experience of at least one other person on this thread. Maybe the moral is, don't buy refurbs?

Marantz does not have a Factory Service Center so whomever sent it back to that person with the "Nothing Wrong With It" note is more so an indication of that Service Center's practices than it is a product of Marantz itself...


See if there is an authorized Service Center in your area, maybe you can speak to one of the technicians there about that and possible causes of the problem:

http://us.marantz.com/162.asp

If you give me your model #, I can check to see if there were any Service Bulletins issued for your model specifically addressing the problem you are experiencing...

[tundrSQ]

Not a noob by any means...but i AM very busy. I just bought a SR-7500 and an HD-a1 to update my HT into this decade. I will be watching on a 56" 1080p samsung DLP and also have a comcast HD STB. My plan is to hook the HD-dvd player via HDMI to the TV and 5.1 analog out to the receiver. I will also hook a SD dvd player via compenent and optical to the TV and reciever. As well as hooking the STB to the TV via HDMI and coax digital to the reciever. So far thats the easy part. I have a harmony 880 to run the show.

Now forthe noob questions.

1. is 5.1 anlog enough for eveything i will play on my HD-dvd player? Or will some formats require optical or dig coax as well?
2. Can someone point me to an easy set up instruction for the SR-7500? I fell that as busy as i am I will not have time to research this for weeks and I would like to set all this up this weekend.

thanks!!!

[blackacex2]

[QUOTE=

Now forthe noob questions.

1. is 5.1 anlog enough for eveything i will play on my HD-dvd player? Or will some formats require optical or dig coax as well?
2. Can someone point me to an easy set up instruction for the SR-7500? I fell that as busy as i am I will not have time to research this for weeks and I would like to set all this up this weekend.

thanks!!![/QUOTE]

That sounds like a great setup. I believe I had your same television, it's a beautiful set.. great choice. 5.1 analog is great for everything through the HD-DVD player, unless you want to your receivers DACs instead. You're ready to rock and roll with lossless audio on HD-DVD with some 1080p deliciousness!

[blackacex2]

My marantz 4001 is freaking amazing. Powers my B&W 704s to full glory, it's a sonic orgasm of delight. The amp is like a warm blanket on my penis. I can hardly believe the details and dynamics that thurst forth from my tweeters of glory. Marantz in my pants is comparable to briana banks, with better mids and lows. The video upconversion is like a dog-biscuit from heaven. I can hardly describe the glory of the on screen display. It is simply beyond the words given to mortal man. Only God himself can tell you the refinement and greatness of this receiver. When i listen to my Marantz it's like getting the finest head. If only I was sober enough to write a poem about the pure fidelity that is my marantz 4001. It is a sonic treat, like feeding the poor with filet mignon and corn-bread from cracker barrel. Ah Diana Krall sounds like a warm breeze on a sunny day upon my face.

Marantz shalt rule my world with glory, nothing shall replace its warmth and hotness.

[tundrSQ]

Just realized those two posts were from the same person... :eek:

um...thanks?

:D

[JOHNnDENVER]

Blackacex2,

Now that is what I would call a spirited review. :)


I can attest my 7001 sounds better most notice-able on music, as a pre/pro than my Denon 4802 it replaced. Aamzing in and of itself as the MSRP desparity is pretty high between the two pieces.

[tundrSQ]

OK..I am struggling a bit with the initital set-up here. I have the STB and SD-dvd player under control. But i am struggling with the HD-dvd player. Its and HD-a1 and i am running the 5.1 analog outs from the player to the 7.1 analog inputs of the AVR. But I get no audio? Video is going HDMI direct to the TV....and i do get a nice picture. I have confirmed with toshiba that the analog outputs are always active...so its a setting with the SR7500 i am missing.

[JOHNnDENVER]

Most AVR's no matter what input you one, will have a separate button for the analog multi-channel input.

On many it is called Ext-in, some it is called 5.1 / 6.1 / 7.1 input. You have to hit the button to get sound from these inputs.

[tundrSQ]

Most AVR's no matter what input you one, will have a separate button for the analog multi-channel input.

On many it is called Ext-in, some it is called 5.1 / 6.1 / 7.1 input. You have to hit the button to get sound from these inputs.


Thanks!!

I found that 7.1 button on the front last night....i WAS hitting it during the beginning preview of the Eagles DVD and still no sound was coming out. But then I hit play and i got sound. Go figure.

[tundrSQ]

next stupid question s

In the OSD when i am making "input" selections. I have the following choices

Dig.1 thru dig.6 - I know these are the 3 optical and three coax inputs

Then I have what seems to be repeats called D1-AT thru D6-AT these i am clueless about and I did search the manual

Then I have one called ANA whihc I am taking to be ANALOG...is this the 7.1 analog inputs? Or somethign else? I am trying to set up my harmony remote and I would like to select a source for my HD-A1 which I am playing thru the 5.1 analog.

EDIT: never mind...found it in the manual...what is it they say? AT is auot detection for when you have both analog and digital for that souce...it will auto detect the digital first

[johnniek]

I have an SR8400 that's about 1-1/2 yrs old, and has worked just fine until now. Recently, the unit goes into PROTECT when anything other than low volume is used. I haven't done the recommended reset yet, but I'm wondering what is causing this. Any help on this issue? Thanks.

[Fraoch]

I have an SR8400 that's about 1-1/2 yrs old, and has worked just fine until now. Recently, the unit goes into PROTECT when anything other than low volume is used. I haven't done the recommended reset yet, but I'm wondering what is causing this. Any help on this issue? Thanks.

Check your connections and speakers. Any stray cable strands bridging across terminals?

Does it happen with the speakers and cables disconnected? If so then yes, it's an internal problem in the receiver.

[dougotte]

I have an SR8400 that's about 1-1/2 yrs old, and has worked just fine until now. Recently, the unit goes into PROTECT when anything other than low volume is used. I haven't done the recommended reset yet, but I'm wondering what is causing this. Any help on this issue? Thanks.

The same thing happened to my 7400 a few weeks ago, after I moved some furniture around. I was playing Beethoven Symphony #2, and wondered why it happened only for a few seconds during dramatic loud sequences, then came back on until the next burst of fortissimo, etc. It turned out the two speaker leads on one speaker were touching, thus causing a short when enough voltage (higher volume) went through.

Doug

[KK20]

Comparing the sr8500 to a Rotel 1067 (I can still get the 8500 for $900 and Rotel for $1500 at local dealers).

I can't hear the units side by side but individually they both sound great, not sure if it's a $600 difference.

Wondered if anyone knows if the Marantz unit will autoplay (digital) input material in a 7.1 mode. I currently have a Yamaha 1500 with external amps, but any time I want to hear 5.1 input material as 7.1, I have to manually select PLIIx or EX. i know the Rotel has the capability to set a source with a select surround mode, can the marantz accomplish a similar task?

Thanks!

[dougotte]

KK20, I have the 7400, not the 8500, but I'm sure if the 7400 has this feature (and it does), the 8500 will as well. I have my DVD input set as Direct, Satellite as DTS Cinema, and Tuner as DTS Music.

Doug

[jaybeech]

Like several other people on this thread, after 6 months of use my SR8400 acquired an annoying habit of shutting itself off and on, off and on, until functionality is completely lost in a barrage of clicking sounds, at which point your only choice is to pull the plug. It usually takes a couple hours for the problem to arise.

I shipped it off to an authorized service center a couple months ago but--my worst fears realized--they've been unable to replicate the problem.

They suggested that one of my other components might be faulty. I know the problem occurs with TiVo, DVD, and CD, so that can't be right. But come to think of it, all those components are connected to my 8400 via optical cable.

So there's my theory: The problem is triggered by some malfunction in the 8400's optical audio inputs. Service centers fail to detect it because they probably just switch on the tuner and let it run, or else use RCA plugs.

Sound plausible?

[BlakeN]

Like several other people on this thread, after 6 months of use my SR8400 acquired an annoying habit of shutting itself off and on, off and on, until functionality is completely lost in a barrage of clicking sounds, at which point your only choice is to pull the plug. It usually takes a couple hours for the problem to arise.

I shipped it off to an authorized service center a couple months ago but--my worst fears realized--they've been unable to replicate the problem.

They suggested that one of my other components might be faulty. I know the problem occurs with TiVo, DVD, and CD, so that can't be right. But come to think of it, all those components are connected to my 8400 via optical cable.

So there's my theory: The problem is triggered by some malfunction in the 8400's optical audio inputs. Service centers fail to detect it because they probably just switch on the tuner and let it run, or else use RCA plugs.

Sound plausible?


In my experience something that doesn't happen for a while but does happen consistently is usually attributed to heat. It is possible that the repair shop has the unit sitting open on a bench top so the necessary heat to cause the problem isn't building up. What kind of air flow do you have around your receiver?

[jimbofoxman]

Thinking of getting a refurb'd 7500 or 8500 from ac4l.com..........not sure which one yet. But what about the extra protection plan they offer for 3 or 5 yrs?

[jaybeech]

BlakeN,

I agree that it's heat-related: the longer I leave the unit shut off, the longer it tends to work before the clicking starts. But it sits alone on a coffee table, so ventilation isn't a problem. And the unit is still cool to the touch when the trouble hits.

Thanks for your suggestion.

[Fraoch]

Like several other people on this thread, after 6 months of use my SR8400 acquired an annoying habit of shutting itself off and on, off and on, until functionality is completely lost in a barrage of clicking sounds, at which point your only choice is to pull the plug. It usually takes a couple hours for the problem to arise.

I shipped it off to an authorized service center a couple months ago but--my worst fears realized--they've been unable to replicate the problem.

They suggested that one of my other components might be faulty. I know the problem occurs with TiVo, DVD, and CD, so that can't be right. But come to think of it, all those components are connected to my 8400 via optical cable.

So there's my theory: The problem is triggered by some malfunction in the 8400's optical audio inputs. Service centers fail to detect it because they probably just switch on the tuner and let it run, or else use RCA plugs.

Sound plausible?

It does sound related to heat, or possibly the short-circuit protection circuit kicking in.

Are your speakers 4 ohm? In good working order? How are they connected to the terminals - is there any way a wire strand or two could be bridging the terminals?

To determine if it is heat or speaker protection circuit related, run it for a few hours listening to the tuner at your usual volume in some multichannel mode. If it trips then, you know it's not an optical input.

My 8400 is not especially sensitive to heat. It gets warm but not hot and it's never tripped. (Oddly, my 7400 had one heatsink that got VERY hot. But even it never tripped.)

[jaybeech]

Fraoch,

Thanks for your ideas. I just have a standard pair of bookshelf speakers. No crossed wires visible. I disconnected one of the channels but it made no difference. And once the unit gets into its clicking frenzy, unplugging absolutely everything won't set it right, it has to "cool down" for a spell.

I'll try running the tuner when I get the unit back.

[patnshan]

Fraoch,

Thanks for your ideas. I just have a standard pair of bookshelf speakers. No crossed wires visible. I disconnected one of the channels but it made no difference. And once the unit gets into its clicking frenzy, unplugging absolutely everything won't set it right, it has to "cool down" for a spell.

I'll try running the tuner when I get the unit back.

I have the same exact problem with my SR-8400. It seems to happen to me most when I am running zone two along with the main zone. It has happened when I hit the multispeaker button on the front. I have never had it happen when I am just using the 5.1 in the main room regardless of the input. It happens rarely, and the unit always works fine after i reset it by pulling the power cord out. I just deal with it until someone posts that Marantz has a fix for it:(
Otherwise, the thing rocks! I am actually looking at a 7100 for my downstairs HT.

Pat

[jaybeech]

I spoke to someone else who had the same problem. The display eventually stopped working. It was successfully repaired. Apparently a power supply issue.

So it looks like the symptoms become more "robust" over time.

[jaybeech]

Dang. I got my 8400 back from the service center on Saturday, and it works flawlessly. They insist that no repairs were made. Maybe it was all just solar flares?

This is a very useful discussion board. Thanks again for your help.

[justpete]

For some reason, my analog volume is MUCH lower than my digital volume. I'm talking -26 for digital, and I have to put the volume at +3 or +4 for analog. This is inputs for my TV, as well as other inputs (I use the VCR channel for my Ipod). Is this by design, or is something wrong? it's a pain in the butt to continually have to adjust the sound.

[dougotte]

For some reason, my analog volume is MUCH lower than my digital volume. I'm talking -26 for digital, and I have to put the volume at +3 or +4 for analog. This is inputs for my TV, as well as other inputs (I use the VCR channel for my Ipod). Is this by design, or is something wrong? it's a pain in the butt to continually have to adjust the sound.

My analog inputs are lower than others, but only a few notches. If I'm playing a DVD and switch between analog and digital, as far as I remember, it's only maybe 3-5 notches lower.

I assume the difference is, maybe, that the player does some preamplification prior to sending the signal to the receiver, while with a digital input, the receiver does all the amplifying. Because it's more powerful than the player, the digital input is louder.

Doug

[kjbreen@verizon.]

with my 7500, I would like to distribute audio via cat-5e, A-bus type system to individual room amps. On the back of the 7500 is Multi-out (L-R) and Multi Room remote (out), I assume the audio L-R will go to the audio (in) of the encoder of the a-bus system then to the room amp. The IR connection will go from the encoder as well to the room amp. Assuming these connection are correct, will I have to teach the room remote to control the 7500? Thanks!

[Nick1947]

I have an SR 7500. The two front speakers are 20 year old Thiel 03a speakers. The receiver shuts down from time to time. When I disconnect the right speaker the problem disappears. Any ideas?

[ekb]

I have an SR 7500. The two front speakers are 20 year old Thiel 03a speakers. The receiver shuts down from time to time. When I disconnect the right speaker the problem disappears. Any ideas?Usually that happens when there is a "small" short in the speaker connections. It could be a single thin strand. Check both the receiver and speaker ends.

Ed

[Nick1947]

I have checked the wires but there is no short. Any other suggestions? Could there be a short in the speaker that I could test with an ohm-meter? What should the resistance be?

[psyopwak]

I recently picked up a new SR7500. So far, I do like the unit.
I have a Marantz DV6500 DVD/SACD player connected to it and I play
SACDs.

My question is- When I turn the power OFF (on both SR7500 and DV6500) the multi light or display stays on (RED). Is this normal? Does anyone else have display lights that stay on when you power down the unit??

It's a mystery. Any clues why this happens?
Thanks

[dougotte]

I recently picked up a new SR7500. So far, I do like the unit.
I have a Marantz DV6500 DVD/SACD player connected to it and I play
SACDs.

My question is- When I turn the power OFF (on both SR7500 and DV6500) the multi light or display stays on (RED). Is this normal? Does anyone else have display lights that stay on when you power down the unit??

It's a mystery. Any clues why this happens?
Thanks

I have a 7400, and I don't use the multi-room function, but I've switched it on by mistake before. I noticed the light stays on, and actually the power is still on for the amp (check the heat on top). I guess this is so you can otherwise have the receiver switched off while using it to amplify speakers in another room.

Doug

[thosj]

My SR-7500 does the same as above, if MULTI is operating when POWER is switched off, the MULTI diaplay stays lit, power is still on, Standby light does NOT light. I think this is normal behavior.

[patnshan]

Yes it's normal. You have to physically press the multi or the multi speaker button to turn that off. That is so you can leave the other zones on without having the unit turned on. Kind of a nice feature if you think about it. I use it a lot when all of us our outside, I have no reason for the main amp to be on.

Pat

[Paradox-SJ]

Has anyone hooked up there XA2 analog out to the analog in on their 8500?

[ckh_nba]

Does anyone has this combo of a sr8500 and an infinity center beta c250 speaker? What is your experience on this combo?

Mine is strange: the center is always weak, almost inaudible if set at 0dB and I have to up it to +4dB. My infinity primus 360 fronts are set at -3dB.

The local distributor for infinity speakers told me that sr8500 didn't have high current hence don't have the power to drive beta speakers? Is this true?

[psyopwak]

Thanks to those who posted the answer to my MULTI light question. It was the correct answer and I have turned it off now.

[en2ec]

I bought the extended warranty. I usually roll the dice and not get an extended warranty, but the price wasn't bad: 70 for 5 years. Especially considering the cheap price for the SR8500 itself.

Before I ordered I bought an SR4001 from a local shop and thought it sounded really good, but was thinking of upgrading to a 5001. They don't haggle, so I was looking at paying the same for a 5001 as an 8500. With all of the handshake issues with HDMI anyway, I thought I wasn't loosing much by giving up HDMI. In my case, I am building DIY HD LCD projector that will have a DVI connection. My cable box has DVI. And if I get an HD DVD player, I can always simply get an HDMI to DVI adapter.

I am assuming that there will be a noticeable difference in sound quality between the 4001 and 8500. I should get it this Friday and will post my thoughts on the comparison.

[psyopwak]

en2rec

I will be interested in your opinions about the SR8500. I have an SR7500 and considered the SR8500 because it had a better transformer. What kind of speakers will you be using? I am running 4 Paradigm mini-monitors, a LCR -350 center and a very bid SVS sub.

[en2ec]

psyopwak,

I am using Polk RT16 (not to be confused with RTi6) as mains. A Polk CS350-LS for center, and Polk Monitor 7 for surrounds.

[en2ec]

I got the SR8500 today and hooked everything up, but it isn't working. It powers on and appears work. Component video passes through, but there is no sound, not even in speaker set up. Also no sound through headphones. I've checked my speaker cable connections, and they are fine. If anyone knows the problem, please help. Thanks.

[teknoguy]

I got the SR8500 today and hooked everything up, but it isn't working. It powers on and appears work. Component video passes through, but there is no sound, not even in speaker set up. Also no sound through headphones. I've checked my speaker cable connections, and they are fine. If anyone knows the problem, please help. Thanks.

Are your inputs set right? Do you have indication of Dolby/DTS streams?
If so...
You may want to check the owners manual to see how you can do a "system reset" of the unit.

-t

[en2ec]

I finally got it to work. Once I selected a surround mode rather than leave it on auto, it worked. Then after that the setup produced sound. Strange to me that the setup depended on selecting a surround sound option. But I'm just glad it is working. And it sounds great.

It is hard to compare to the SR4001 that I had just because it was several hours between listening to the two. But my initial impression is that the SR8500 has an even warmer, more natural sound.

[en2ec]

OK. So there is something wrong with my SR8500. When I power it on, it picks up a digital signal (either coax or optical) only about 20% of the time. So I have to keep powering on and off until it sees the signal. I'm going to send it back.

[jaitailor]

im new to this forum, i notices alot of people are having a 'clicking' error with their units.

I am also experiencing this, when i turn it on it fails to power up and instead i only recieve a clicking noise - i have a 5.1 setup with my front speakers bi-wired using the speaker c function.

the only thing i can do is when it is in standby i can turn multiroom on/off other then that i am faced with a blank screen!!

Please help if you can

thank you

[jaybeech]

jaitailor,

I've spoken with a couple people who had this problem but got their receivers successfully repaired under warranty. One said it was a power supply issue, another said it was a faulty video chip.

My receiver has worked fine ever since I got it back from the service ctr, but they could find nothing wrong with it. If I were you I would unplug all the speakers from the unit and see if it still clicks, just to be sure there isn't a short there.

[patnshan]

Thanks to those who posted the answer to my MULTI light question. It was the correct answer and I have turned it off now.

You are welcome. My wife leaves it on all the time, drives me crazy ;)

Pat

[patnshan]

im new to this forum, i notices alot of people are having a 'clicking' error with their units.

I am also experiencing this, when i turn it on it fails to power up and instead i only recieve a clicking noise - i have a 5.1 setup with my front speakers bi-wired using the speaker c function.

the only thing i can do is when it is in standby i can turn multiroom on/off other then that i am faced with a blank screen!!

Please help if you can

thank you

I have it. It is random for me. I cannot tell when it will happen. I just have to take the power plug out of the back of the receiver and put it back in and it works perfectly.

I plan to send it in when the summer is over and I don't needs the extra zone for the patio. I need it now as I do not have a dual zone receiver as a substitution for it.

Pat

[claude02118]

Very helpful forum. I have a Marantz SR7400. Im stuck with a problem with my unit that I cant figure out. The unit has worked great for the 3 years Ive had it. Recently got a comcast HD box. When an HD channel is broadcasting in dolby 5.1, the indicator on the amplifier indicated a 5.1 signal with all the channels lighting up on the indicator screen on the 7400 unit. The unit is set to AUTO and yet there is no output to the surround or center speakers, only to the left and right front. With the same settings on the unit (AUTO), a DVD encoded in dolby 5.1 and the indicators on the unit say it is recieving a 5.1 signal, it DOES output to all the speakers including the back and center channels.
What am I missing?
Thanks in advance for your help.

[ChrisAG]

The station may be broadcasting in 5.1 but the material may only be in 2.0. In that case you can apply DPL-II to get surround.

If the source material is in 5.1 and you're only getting 2.0, maybe the Marantz is not recognizing the flag for some reason. Try taking it out of Auto mode and use DD.

[claude02118]

Tried putting the marantz off auto and in DD, and it doesnt change a thing, still only playing on the front 2 channels. The indicators on the marantz indicates it is recieving and recognizing a 5.1 signal, just like it does when a 5.1 DVD is played. Yet when the input comes from the cable box it refuses to send output to the surround channels. Any other ideas?

[morpheus6d9]

Very helpful forum. I have a Marantz SR7400. Im stuck with a problem with my unit that I cant figure out. The unit has worked great for the 3 years Ive had it. Recently got a comcast HD box. When an HD channel is broadcasting in dolby 5.1, the indicator on the amplifier indicated a 5.1 signal with all the channels lighting up on the indicator screen on the 7400 unit. The unit is set to AUTO and yet there is no output to the surround or center speakers, only to the left and right front. With the same settings on the unit (AUTO), a DVD encoded in dolby 5.1 and the indicators on the unit say it is recieving a 5.1 signal, it DOES output to all the speakers including the back and center channels.
What am I missing?
Thanks in advance for your help.

change the sound setting in the main menu of the cable box

[dougotte]

Claude, another possibility is that Comcast's signal is encoded as 5.1, but they have some problem on their end and are only actually sending 2 channels of content. I have DirecTV, and recently noticed that their HBO is being broadcast as regular stereo, not DD5.1 as it used to be. It's not the same problem as yours, but illustrates how the provider might be messing up the signal they're sending.

Doug

[juancmjr]

Hi all. Since this is an official Marantz thread I'd like to ask if anyone has broken off any of their Toslink input covers? My DVR has an optical digital out only so I have to use them & have broken 2 so far. Is this something that I could fix myself or would I have to send it to an authorized service center? I have the SR8500.

[Fraoch]

The 7400 I had was missing an optical cover right from the dealer.

I believe there was a thread here several years ago where someone reattached the cover using needlenose pliers, but I had to take mine in for service - apparently they had to replace the whole input?

[juancmjr]

Fraoch, how much did that cost you? I'd like to get an idea of how much to deduct in case I sell the receiver.

[Fraoch]

It was done under warranty, so I'm not sure. Sorry.

[juancmjr]

Thanks for responding Fraoch. Anyone else have any suggestions for fixing broken Toslink covers? I can't use the originals because the tiny tabs on the sides where they attach to the input have broken off. Shipping the receiver off to the service center will be the last resort.

[teknoguy]

Thanks for responding Fraoch. Anyone else have any suggestions for fixing broken Toslink covers? I can't use the originals because the tiny tabs on the sides where they attach to the input have broken off. Shipping the receiver off to the service center will be the last resort.


I'll ask since I don't know....

What's the reason that you want to fix these? Is it aesthetics ?
Or without the covers causes problems?

Never used the ones on my 7400.

-t

[ecrabb]

Why on earth are the toslink covers such a concern that you'd spend the money and take the risk of shipping the receiver for service? If you're that worried about covering them up, RAM Electronics has a bag of 50 of the non-flush variety for $8.

Personally, I wouldn't lose any sleep over it.

SC

[juancmjr]

To technoguy & ecrabb--
You actually need the flap to be able to use the toslink input. These aren't the pull off covers with the square head. Without it, the input is useless because the cable won't even snap in. The flap itself makes it fit snug into the input (maybe that's part of the problem. a little too snug?). Aesthetics are of no concern to me because 1 of the broken inputs is on the back, & the front one is covered by the smoke colored plastic cover so they won't be seen. Read my first post above for the reasons.

[bclements3]

Hi All,

I own an SR7400 model Marantz Receive (yes, a couple of years old, but great quality, haven't been able to justify the upgrade yet!).

I also have comcast cable with the standard motorola DVR (6412 I think?), and I've noticed that when watching SD content, many times the commercials seem louder than the volume of the rgular program. So at night, when I'm watching a program, I often am startled by the loudness of the commercials and am hurredly searching for the mute button on the remote.

Is there any type of volume normalization feature on the Marantz receiver I could employ to combat this annoyance?? Or any alternative suggestions?

Thanks a bunch,

-Bill

[dougotte]

Hi All,

I own an SR7400 model Marantz Receive (yes, a couple of years old, but great quality, haven't been able to justify the upgrade yet!).

I also have comcast cable with the standard motorola DVR (6412 I think?), and I've noticed that when watching SD content, many times the commercials seem louder than the volume of the rgular program. So at night, when I'm watching a program, I often am startled by the loudness of the commercials and am hurredly searching for the mute button on the remote.

Is there any type of volume normalization feature on the Marantz receiver I could employ to combat this annoyance?? Or any alternative suggestions?

Thanks a bunch,

-Bill

Use Night mode. It's one of the options on the LCD on the remote, and info can be found in the manual. Good luck.

Doug

[nyindallas]

I just noticed my faily new Marantz SR7500 gets hot even when it has been powered down for a long time. That does not seem right and it never happened on my SR5200 which I have owned for many years. ANy thoughts? It is still under warrenty. Also, I hear what seems to be a power on/power off clicking when the unit is not in use. Could it be a bad power controller? I will call Marantz Monday.

Update: I found a post in this thread that helped. I think multi-room was on. THANKS!!!!!!

fyi - this is my second 7500. The first refub came in really bad shape and after escalation Marantz sent me one that looked new. Nice receiver. It does a wonderful job driving KEF Q7's on A, KEF REF 102/2 B, KEF Q9C, Martin Logan Dynamo (most muscial sub I ever heard) and Wharfedale 4ohms in the back.

[ckh_nba]

Hi Guys, I have a question:

Since SR8500 is able to decode HDCD, do I need a HDCD CD player to enjoy HDCD playback or just a normal good quality CD player?

As always thanks in advance.

[ekb]

Hi Guys, I have a question:

Since SR8500 is able to decode HDCD, do I need a HDCD CD player to enjoy HDCD playback or just a normal good quality CD player?

As always thanks in advance.I think that any CD/DVD player that outputs a digital bitsream will do. Is there a light or on-screen display on the 8500 that indicates HDCD? If so you'll easily know whether it's working. BTW, you do need an HDCD encoded CD.

Ed

[ckh_nba]

I think that any CD/DVD player that outputs a digital bitsream will do. Is there a light or on-screen display on the 8500 that indicates HDCD? If so you'll easily know whether it's working. BTW, you do need an HDCD encoded CD.

Ed

Thank you for valuable advice. I haven't got any HDCD encoded CD but are they really better than ordinary?

[ekb]

Thank you for valuable advice. I haven't got any HDCD encoded CD but are they really better than ordinary?
I don't think any CDs sound good. I only used to listen to vinyl critically.

Certainly with casual listening you probably would hear no difference. Maybe with critical listening you might notice a difference. But then you won't have a reference because you won't have a non-HDCD version of the CD and it might sound better simply because it's recorded better. In fact, one might speculate that an engineer that wants his CD HDCD encoded also takes better care to record better too. Hence the correlation of HDCD CD's sounding better (if they do) might be for completely diffferent reasons!

Ed

[d-unknown]

Hi, I just have a quick question regarding the SR7500 analog 7.1 inputs.

If I buy a Blu Ray player and send the sound signal to the analog 7.1 inputs, will there be any problems?

I assume that the signal will be PCM for the 7.1 formats, the manual for the SR7500 only lists PCM as being L, R so is this going to be a problem? Will I need to buy a new AVR?

If some one could educate me on the situation it would be great.

Thanks

[ekb]

Hi, I just have a quick question regarding the SR7500 analog 7.1 inputs.

If I buy a Blu Ray player and send the sound signal to the analog 7.1 inputs, will there be any problems?

I assume that the signal will be PCM for the 7.1 formats, the manual for the SR7500 only lists PCM as being L, R so is this going to be a problem? Will I need to buy a new AVR?

If some one could educate me on the situation it would be great.

Thanks
The signal to the analog 7.1 inputs is analog! That is, it can't be PCM which is digital. I'm not familiar with the 7500 but I doubt that it digitizes the 7.1 input signal which means that you cannot do bass management or speaker distances in the receiver on that input. That might be a problem because the BM and distances will have to be done in the player. A lot of times there is much less flexibility in the player.

Ed

[ckh_nba]

Hi guys

Anyone knows that if night mode works or don't work on divx movie with audio encoded 2-channel stereo.

I was trying to cut out the booming bass from 1 movie using night mode but it didn't seem to work. The indicator light didn't light up.

Thank you in advance for any comment or advise.

[dougotte]

Hi guys

Anyone knows that if night mode works or don't work on divx movie with audio encoded 2-channel stereo.

I was trying to cut out the booming bass from 1 movie using night mode but it didn't seem to work. The indicator light didn't light up.

Thank you in advance for any comment or advise.

See pg. 23 of the manual:
"Selecting the Night Mode ON is effective in Dolby
Digital only, and it compresses the dynamic range.
This softens loud passages such as sudden
explosions, to help prevent disturbing others late
at night."

You don't indicate if the 2-channel source is DD, but if it is, Night mode should work.

Doug

[ekb]

I was trying to cut out the booming bass . . .
On some receivers, night mode will increase the bass since it applies a loudness contour. Don't know whether Marantz is one of these or not.

Ed

[ckh_nba]

See pg. 23 of the manual:
"Selecting the Night Mode ON is effective in Dolby
Digital only, and it compresses the dynamic range.
This softens loud passages such as sudden
explosions, to help prevent disturbing others late
at night."

You don't indicate if the 2-channel source is DD, but if it is, Night mode should work.

Doug

Thanks for info. Now I know why it didn't work — it was mp3 and not DD.

[haggisbingo]

Just did a comparison between analog outs and optical out with Casino Royale blu-ray disc listening to the opening song on both. BD Player settings: PCM, No compression, No downsampling.
<7.1 Ch. Input>
PCM 5.1 analogs: coming in loud over all 5.1 speakers
<switch to optical out>
Receiver says it's coming in 2 channel PCM
<PLIIx is applied for 7.1>
<THX post Processing is applied>
Wow! big difference - fuller and much more pleasant sounding!!
----
Maybe the analog lpcm track is coming over too raw and absolutely needs adjustments via crossovers, etc. I know the THX processing on my Marantz SR8500 is doing some of this in digital/optical mode (THX button is on the receiver).
----
Anybody else seeing these results? Which do you honestly prefer at this point? LPCM over analogs still? Have you tried the lpcm track over optical/digital with post-processing applied??
For anybody that's listening and is trying to configure a HD player for HD audio thru the analogs:
Go into 7.1 ch input
Select SW channel
Boost db +10
>Made a big difference for me!

[teknoguy]

For anybody that's listening and is trying to configure a HD player for HD audio thru the analogs:
Go into 7.1 ch input
Select SW channel
Boost db +10
>Made a big difference for me!

I'm listening! Thanks for the hint....

Just hope Santa was listening when I hinted about HD-player!!

-t

[haggisbingo]

More on this:
I'm connecting the Samsung BD-up5000 blu-ray/hd-dvd player to the SR8500 with both Spdif and 7.1 analogs.
Here are some observations as of Jan 1, 2008 (future Samsung firmware for the player may change things):
1.)DTS-MA/DTS-HD - Hairspray BD better audio on analogs than regular DTS on spdif
2.)LPCM 5.1 - Casino Royale BD over spdif surprisingly better than analogs with LPCM coming in over spdif 2 channels and then applying PLIIx and THX!! I'd like to compare and confirm this with others, if possible.
3.)Dolby TrueHD - the player currently limits decoding to 2 channels. DD+ seems to be the better alternative right now over spdif with PLIIx and THX applied.

[dougotte]

More on this:
I'm connecting the Samsung BD-up5000 blu-ray/hd-dvd player to the SR8500 with both Spdif and 7.1 analogs.
Here are some observations as of Jan 1, 2008 (future Samsung firmware for the player may change things):
1.)DTS-MA/DTS-HD - Hairspray BD better audio on analogs than regular DTS on spdif
2.)LPCM 5.1 - Casino Royale BD over spdif surprisingly better than analogs with LPCM coming in over spdif 2 channels and then applying PLIIx and THX!! I'd like to compare and confirm this with others, if possible.
3.)Dolby TrueHD - the player currently limits decoding to 2 channels. DD+ seems to be the better alternative right now over spdif with PLIIx and THX applied.

Thanks. I've got a 5000 shipping, and I own the 7400. Right now, I'm running SACD from my Oppo 980 through analogs to the 7400, and I'll keep doing that. So, I'll only be hearing the regular DD or DTS via coax for HD. In a few months, I'm going to replace the 7400 w/ a newer Marantz model with HDMI. Still, it's nice to read your experiences.

Doug

[akada]

I have a Marantz SR8500 that I recently purchased on E-Bay. I can't get any test tones when trying to set up the speaker levels on the 7.1 Multichannel analog inputs. The test tones for the digital input works just fine. I'm wondering if its designed not to output test tones for analog input and you are supposed to use a test disk for analog.

I'd appreciate any response.

Thanks.

[haggisbingo]

I played with these settings last night and discovered the flaw that is causing my problem. The setting stays until, when that input is active, I press the 7.1 button (for SACD listening). That causes the setting for the active input to revert to "Auto." So, I have to remember to switch to another input before activating the 7.1 button, or reset the surround option afterward if I forget. This is a minor issue, but bothersome nonetheless.

Regards,
Doug
Dougotte,

This is the same problem I'm now having connecting my Marantz sr8500 to a brand new Denon 3800BD blu-ray player via 7.1 analogs. Switching back from 7.1 analogs causes the sr8500 to go into auto-surround and looses my original memorized settings. Are you saying there is a workaround for this???

[dougotte]

Dougotte,

This is the same problem I'm now having connecting my Marantz sr8500 to a brand new Denon 3800BD blu-ray player via 7.1 analogs. Switching back from 7.1 analogs causes the sr8500 to go into auto-surround and looses my original memorized settings. Are you saying there is a workaround for this???

My post that you quoted has the workaround. Before turning on the 7.1 analog, I switch to another input on the Marantz. I don't use the CD input for anything, so I switch to it, then activate the 7.1. Thus, I don't care if the Marantz is resetting the defaults for the CD input because I don't use it.

In my case, I don't want the surround settings to be changed for my DVD input. When I want to use the analog inputs, I first switch to my CD input, then press the 7.1 button.

Let me know if you have more questions.

Doug

[rio203]

i just got the marantz sr7001 i want to know is this a good avr

[biffva]

i just got the marantz sr7001 i want to know is this a good avr

There's a thread specifically for the x001 models:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=734000

Try posting your question there.

Be aware, you'll be asked what your criteria is for determining that an AVR is "good."

FWIW, I own a 7001 and I'm very happy with it but that doesn't mean that you will be happy with your 7001.

[haggisbingo]

My post that you quoted has the workaround. Before turning on the 7.1 analog, I switch to another input on the Marantz. I don't use the CD input for anything, so I switch to it, then activate the 7.1. Thus, I don't care if the Marantz is resetting the defaults for the CD input because I don't use it.

In my case, I don't want the surround settings to be changed for my DVD input. When I want to use the analog inputs, I first switch to my CD input, then press the 7.1 button.

Let me know if you have more questions.

Doug
For some reason or because of the way I'm doing it, it's not quite working.

Here's the problem:
1.) Switch back from 7.1
2.) Remote's macro turns off 7.1, turns on PLIIx MV and THX (since it will revert to auto-surround otherwise)
3.) Whatever the DVDs menu audio track is (typically dd 2.0) will work fine with PLIIx MV and THX applied
4.) The movie comes on and, if it's different audio format (typically dd 5.1) it reverts back to auto surround!?

Any ideas? Just looking to totally automate this.

[dougotte]

For some reason or because of the way I'm doing it, it's not quite working.

Here's the problem:
1.) Switch back from 7.1
2.) Remote's macro turns off 7.1
3.) Switch from CD input to DVD input
4.) Whatever the DVDs menu audio track is (typically dd 2.0) will work fine with PLIIx MV and THX applied
5.) The movie comes on and the AVR plays at whatever surround setting you previously set up for DVD input.

Any ideas? Just looking to totally automate this.

I changed your steps above based upon how it works for me.

7.1 is really a separate input, like DVD, CD, etc. The way they designed these Marantz models, instead of just having it as another input (like switching from a digital input such as CD or DVD), it overrides whatever current digital input you last selected, and removes any surround settings you had on that input. That's why I only turn on 7.1 after I selected a digital input (CD in my case) that I don't use. Thus, I don't care that it resets the surround settings on that digital input. However, it doesn't affect my DVD input because I didn't enable/disable 7.1 when I was on the DVD input.

I hope you understand and that it works for you too. I don't know how else to explain it.

Doug

[haggisbingo]

I changed your steps above based upon how it works for me.

7.1 is really a separate input, like DVD, CD, etc. The way they designed these M