Hello all, I need some expert advise on this. I had my my set on Marantz SR7500 or SR8500 to go with my Kef's. They seem to be a pretty good match. But I just saw a Pioneer Elite VSX-54TX on sale at a very interesting price. My room is about 12 x 20. What do you guys think? (also would like to know if it's musical) Thanks in advance and happy holidays.
System is : 2 x Q3 2 x Q9C 2 x Q-Compact HSU VTF3-MKII sub.
I had the possibility to compare Monitor Aduio RS8 and KEF IQ7/9 (newer version of your Q's)yesterday with Pioneer VSX AX2, which I believe is similar to the Elite VSX 54TX. To my ears this is a fantastic combination, the KEF IQ being rather warm sounding and the Pioneer very straight forward, really gives a very pleasant and overall warm sound without being over the top. The Pioneer really has a lot of power and drives the KEF's very well.
The major differences between Q and IQ are the airiness of the overall sound stage and the bass ability (better with IQ). To me, definitly a very good sounding combination!
If you want better sound quality go with the Marantz (8500) if you want more gadgets and gizmos go with the Pioneer.
However what you are building quite a bit of power for a small room. You can probably go down a bit and still get a lot of power. For example are you sure you need a VTF3? I have an STF-2 that I can't even pump up in a 25x30 room because it rattles the walls.
Stof Thanks for your reply, I agree for the Marantz, but it is more expensive than the Elite, which is why I'm researching these models. I already have the VTF-3 and love it, I did demo both the STF and VTF side by side, and the VTF won. Also got it for almost the same price as the STF. And figured in the long run, if I'm going to spend that kind of money, might as well go for the bigger one, also it would avoid me of getting another bad case of "upgradidis" in a couple of years.
Eric I also agree with you on what I have found out so far on the Elite, heard it with some Paradigm Studio 100, very good. A local dealer did agree to lend me an Elite to demo at home when I'm ready, so I'll give you my impressions then.
When I bought my Kefs, I audiotioned them with NAD and HK. The NAD was a clear winner for stereo. And I've heard the Marantz with the Kefs at another dealer too, sounded great. The Elite is the only one I haven't heard yet.