AVReview test: Midrange AV receivers £500-£1,000

[Marcel_T.]

Competition is fierce among AV receivers at this price point, where you should expect nothing less than great quality sound. Compared to less expensive models, these midrange receivers also boast impressive build quality, powerful seven-channel amplification and a full range of advanced connectivity and features - including automatic calibration systems, HDMI video switching, video upconversion, multi-room facilities and even iPod compatibility.

We've found four of the best models on the market to help decide which is the best home cinema hub for you.

Cambridge Audio Azur 640R



Denon AVR-2807



Marantz SR7001



Yamaha RX-V1700



Final verdict
In truth, there's very little to separate the performance of these four first-class receivers. All of them have impressive but varied sonic merits that will appeal to different listening preferences - so it's worth having a listen of all of them to decide which sound suits you.
However, there has to be a winner and after careful consideration it's Yamaha's RX-V1700 that claims top spot. Its limited HDMI connectivity might sway serious high-definition users towards the Marantz but it's the only compromise in an otherwise impressive specification. And the powerful but poised presentation is exactly what you want from an AV receiver.

Marantz's SR7001 comes a close second with a similarly commanding delivery that's comfortable with both movies and music - but a slight lack of detailed expression and a comparatively high price tag go against it.

Cambridge Audio's Azur 640R is unbeatable value for money, especially considering the build quality and exciting performance. Its limited features and basic set-up are ideal for home cinema newcomers but dedicated enthusiasts will want more.

Finally, if you prefer a more articulate sound to dynamic depth then Deonon's AVR-2807 is beautifully cohesive and insightful but fails to enliven film scores with as much intensity as the others.


Lees de volledige test op:
http://www.avreview.co.uk/news/article/mps/UAN/1113/v/3/

[boekhour]

Op zich een aardige test echter ook eentje die binnen een maand al weer gedateerd is omdat er juist in deze periode een nieuwe generatie recievers (oa Onkyo Denon) aan zit te komen met hdmi 1.3. En deze nieuwe recievers schijnen de lat qua mogelijkheden en geluidskwaliteit erg hoog te leggen.

[greetoz]

Leuke test uitslag heb de Yamaha RX-V1700 net gekocht, nog niet kunnen gebruiken (afgelopen weekend gekocht en ben de hele week niet thuis maargoed). Ik had een versterker nodig en deze was gustig geprijst .

Ik laat nog wel bevindingen weten als daar interesse naar is.