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I am using a Onkyo 5509 pre pro right now. I have amps for all channels right now (7.2). I plan to keep using these amps but need to upgrade to something with 4K ability as I recently bought a 4k projector. I also may setup atmos heights. I have been looking at the 3 AVR’s listed. If I am only going to use the amp section to possibly drive the atmos heights, is there any benefit to getting one of the higher tier models?

Thanks!
Ray
 

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I am using a Onkyo 5509 pre pro right now. I have amps for all channels right now (7.2). I plan to keep using these amps but need to upgrade to something with 4K ability as I recently bought a 4k projector. I also may setup atmos heights. I have been looking at the 3 AVR’s listed. If I am only going to use the amp section to possibly drive the atmos heights, is there any benefit to getting one of the higher tier models?

Thanks!
Ray
Possibly better audio quality using Denon's AL32, but primarily would depend on whether you want any of the additional features offered on the two higher models (eg. Zone 3, Auro 3D, Dialog Enhancer (X6500H only), Made in Japan (X6500H only), 2nd 12V trigger, Custom 2CH Stereo/Direct settings).

Note the X3600H does offer two features not found on the either the X4500H/X6500H: HDCP 2.3 and Bluetooth transmit to Bluetooth headphones (via future firmware update).
 

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I am using a Onkyo 5509 pre pro right now. I have amps for all channels right now (7.2). I plan to keep using these amps but need to upgrade to something with 4K ability as I recently bought a 4k projector. I also may setup atmos heights. I have been looking at the 3 AVR’s listed. If I am only going to use the amp section to possibly drive the atmos heights, is there any benefit to getting one of the higher tier models?



Thanks!

Ray


Ray,

You didn’t mention the X3500. Reason why?


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Discussion Starter · #4 ·
Ray,

You didn’t mention the X3500. Reason why?


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Hi - I thought that could only do 2 height channels, is that incorrect?

Also - if I am going to spend the money on the 6500 I may look into the Arcam 390 since that has Dirac Live.

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I'm using a Denon X4300 in a 7.2.4 configuration with external amps driving all channels and am very happy using it in that manner. A group of us tried a Marantz 7703 and 8802 vs the X4300 in blind testing on two different systems using the same amps and could not hear any audible differences in pure direct mode. I'm using a JVC X790 / RS540 4K projector with it. It's been a very solid setup for me. You may want to do a quick price search for the X4300 as it might suit all your needs less expensively than an X4400 as I don't think there were any substantial differences between model years.
 

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That is correct. The 3600 is the first year that they dropped the capability to do 4 overhead speakers down to the 3xxx series.
That's pretty awesome. Imo, the value Atmos leader has gone from the X4000 series to the x3000 series meaning, in theory, you can have a full 7.x.4 Atmos amp/preamp for about $750 next year when the x3600h should go on clearance, along with an inexpensive stereo amp.

That being said, you might want to throw the x4400h into the mix, as it's still available at clearance pricing.
https://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-X3...uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl
 

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need to upgrade to something with 4K ability as I recently bought a 4k projector.
Question: why don't you wire direct to the display? That's what we did with my friend's setup and saved him literally $1000 by NOT buying a new receiver. Plus, his wife doesn't have to mess with the stereo remote, she just uses the TV remote (and watches with sound from just the TV because hey, The Cooking Channel or whatever doesn't really need to be in room-corrected 11.6.5 Atmos THX IMAX ha ha)
 

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Love the X4400H. Half of MSRP about two months ago at Amazon(new, authorized dealer). I use a 2ch amp for front L/R. Two more 2ch's power Zone 2&3. Very open ranch style house. Also, I am 75% music. Running four subs. Being able to go from two channel to 15.4 whole house, and make it sound any way you want is really amazing. Good luck.:)
 

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Discussion Starter · #12 ·
Question: why don't you wire direct to the display? That's what we did with my friend's setup and saved him literally $1000 by NOT buying a new receiver. Plus, his wife doesn't have to mess with the stereo remote, she just uses the TV remote (and watches with sound from just the TV because hey, The Cooking Channel or whatever doesn't really need to be in room-corrected 11.6.5 Atmos THX IMAX ha ha)
Hi - I do have my X700 Sony going straight to the 4k projector and the 2nd hdmi (audio only) going to the Onkyo. I actually have 2 projectors hooked up. An optima UHD51ALV for 4k and 3D and a Sony 45ES for 1080P.

I was thinking I could simplify my wiring and add atmos with a new receiver. I may wait until the 3600 comes down in price although the Arcam 390 is high on my list as I really like Dirac.
 

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Discussion Starter · #13 ·
That's pretty awesome. Imo, the value Atmos leader has gone from the X4000 series to the x3000 series meaning, in theory, you can have a full 7.x.4 Atmos amp/preamp for about $750 next year when the x3600h should go on clearance, along with an inexpensive stereo amp.

That being said, you might want to throw the x4400h into the mix, as it's still available at clearance pricing.
https://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR-X3...uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl
I don’t see the 4400 at this link.
 

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IME the X4x00 series is a bit better than the X3x00 series, sonically. As preamps I don't believe there is a difference between the X4x00 and X6x00. The AV770x is based on the x4x00.
Also - if I am going to spend the money on the 6500 I may look into the Arcam 390 since that has Dirac Live.
Ray, since I know you value your bass I suggest you wait until after CEDIA to decide.

https://www.dirac.com/news/2019/8/21/dirac-live-bass-management-at-cedia-2019
Arcam, JBL Synthesis, NAD Electronics and StormAudio become the first manufacturers to feature Dirac Live Bass Management in their AV products.
 

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Discussion Starter · #16 ·
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