Long-time Lurker seeks Upgrade

[dean_martin]

Thanks for the suggestions. I intend to upgrade the system that I have, and keep it as my main music and movie system. Unfortunately, I do not have another room that I could dedicate to music listening.

RGA, I most likely will not be able to upgrade to the Jolida (although I would love to). Would you recommend upgrading the Marantz to a more capable a/v receiver? If so, any suggestions?

By the way, the Kef's are great.

Thanks again.

It sounds like 1) you're leaning toward a new sub, 2) you're not too sure if you should upgrade the Marantz, and 3) you like your speakers.

You might try splitting your budget between a sub and a 2 channel amp to drive your mains. I'm not that familiar with the KEF sound, but you should be able to ask around and find out what amps others recommend for KEF speakers. A $500 2 -channel amp will probably help bring out the best from your front speakers.

[Olivertmc]

That is a very good idea. Would I need some kind of switcher to run the same front speakers for 2 channel and multichannel applications?

[topspeed]

As long as your Marantz has pre-outs on the back, you'll be able to drive your mains with an outboard amp and the rest with the Marantz. This will also free up the power supply of your receiver so it will be able to drive your center and surrounds with more reserves. I wouldn't look into replacing your Marantz unless it doesn't have the current decoding programs (i.e. DTS, DD, etc.). A new receiver at this price point will likely sound very similar to what you already have.

For my money, I'd add an amp first if 2 channel was my priority. However, if your system is bass shy, a new sub makes a lot more sense and will give you a more readily apparent upgrade.

[Olivertmc]

Thank you for all the great ideas. I think my best option is to go the new sub/2 channel amp route. Does anyone have a recommendation for a decent two-channel amp at approximately $500-600? Even a couple of manufacturer names would help - I am not that familiar with separates.

[NickWH]

You can definitely find a good 2-channel power amp on the used market for that kind of cash. Look for names like NAD, Rotel, Adcom, Parasound, B & K...there are many more but you would have to increase your budget.

Or, you could buy online direct:
http://www.outlawaudio.com/products/200.html

You'll need two, but I can't think of a better deal, watt-per-dollar.

[dean_martin]

That is a very good idea. Would I need some kind of switcher to run the same front speakers for 2 channel and multichannel applications?

I wouldn't think so. Check your Marantz for preamp outputs and amp inputs for each cnannel. If you have preamp outs you can run interconnects (standard rca audio cables) from the Front L & R preamp outputs to the new power amp's L & R inputs. You may need to do some level adjusting among your fronts, center and surrounds because your fronts will be getting more power (and probably better quality power). Hopefully, your Marantz allows you to adjust levels.

P.S. According to a review I just found at www.ecoustics.com, the SR-5000 has preamp outs that allow for connecting external power amps. After you select your power amp, you should be in business. The Marantz may drive your center and surrounds a little easier once you've relieved it of driving your fronts.

You may discover a new upgrade path that leads you to a 3-channel amp for center and surrounds and a seperate A/V preamp/processor.

Again, I'm not sure what sonic characteristics your KEFs have, e.g., bright, laid back, forward, etc., but you might start looking at amps from Rotel, Parasound, Adcom, B&K, and NAD. You should be able to find something from these manufacturers for around $500. If you want more bang for your buck, you might look at some used amps. I think checking the reviews of KEF speakers on this site and others might give you some hints as to which amps mate well.