SA-CD.net - Onkyo TX-SR705 vs Marantz SR7001 for sacd & DVD-a playback?

Post by cocopc May 16, 2008 (1 of 3)	reply
I am considering the two above to be used with the OPPO DV980H, and how the receivers handle stereo is of no concern hence I am using a Sugden A21a with a AN DAC for that purpose! Which of the receivers deliver the best sacd & DVD-a sound quality?

Post by amatala May 16, 2008 (2 of 3)

cocopc said:

I am considering the two above to be used with the OPPO DV980H, and how the receivers handle stereo is of no concern hence I am using a Sugden A21a with a AN DAC for that purpose! Which of the receivers deliver the best sacd & DVD-a sound quality?

Both are good receivers which are able to provide decent results with SACD (as far as receivers go, of course).
However it also depends on the type of sound you prefer - the Marantz receivers sound more relaxed, more natural and open, rather on the warm side.
The Onkyo sound is more rapid and more bright less analogue-like when compared to the Marantz.
I would personally go for Marantz, but this is me, many people are very pleased with the Onkyo sound.

Post by rammiepie May 17, 2008 (3 of 3)

I can't comment on the Marantz but I do own the Onkyo TX-SR705 and have used it with the Oppo DV-981HD. I connected the OPPO to the ONKYO through the 5.1 analog outputs using Transparent Cables and most importantly, upgraded the OPPO's supplied power cord with a PS Audio Power Punch C-7 (at $49 a definite upgrade). What I love about the Onkyo (especially as the price keeps going down), is that I find it VERY analog-sounding. I am using B&W satellites and a B&W powered sub in my bedroom and I'm never been aware of any shrillness nor distortion (unless it exists at the source). Playing my Direct TV through the HDMI connection of the Onkyo has yielded similar results. I have both blu-ray and hd-dvd and utilizing again the HDMI through the Onkyo has been VERY satisfying. As with ALL audio equipment, interconnects, the power coming into your house and power cords (I've upgraded not only the OPPO, but the HD-DVD and BLU-RAY players) and have noticed a significant upgrade. By the way, the Audyssey room correction, which is one of the Onkyo's features, works flawlessly, is simple as pie to implement and is, in itself, worth the price of admission. Hope this info is of help......