I am in the hunt for a marantz receiver right now myself and just auditioned the 5600 the other day. The store had it paired with paradigm speakers (that was the only brand they sold) and I listened to the receiver on everything from floor standing to bookshelf paradigms. Compared to the integra receiver they had in the same price range I liked the marantz myself. Sounded very natural and open on vocals. As far as with your speakers, I am not familiar with how those sound, so my advice would be to try and listen to both receivers on the same speakers and compare.
Appreciate the advice guys. Looks like the Pioneer is on back order in most places, and the model itself is discontinued. So I may end up getting the Marantz.
Both are good units. I don't think there is a lot of difference between them and you won't go wrong either way. I don't know your front three speakers, so I would suggest you take them in to the dealer and try them with the Marantz to be sure (or get an agreement for a home trial period).
That is disappointing news about the Pioneer being discontinued, though. I hope its replacement is as good.
The Era speakers are very good though I would not use the sub standard B&W sub with them. The Era sub runs circles around it. I would also try to use Era rears if you can.
Neither receiver that you suggest does justice to the Era speakers but given the choice I would take the Marantz without hesitation.
Edster922: I guess it's going to be phased out and replaced with something else, don't know the new model number though.
Art: I understand your point, but unfortunately I have real world considerations that take precedence over ideal audio setups. I'm building the HT now, and there was really no way I could afford the Era sub (which I know is better) but was also $500 more than the B&W.
Considering I was originally planning on getting all JBL speakers, I think my setup is going to be decent, relatively speaking. Also, I'm moving from a 19" CRT with just built in speakers to a 50" plasma and 5.1 audio. It's going to be a quantum leap in terms of quality. Now at some point in the future I may upgrade components, but I just can't justify that kind of financial expenditure presently.
Dennis have you considered 2.1 or 3.1 HT for awhile. It may be a way to get the better components without losing money in the trade up business later on. Perhaps an NAD T743 receiver (I know, I don't want to hear it Hawk...lol) with the Era sub and fronts (perhaps even the center now), then perhaps add the center and rears later. That way you lose no money later as you go to upgrade. Just a thought.