Arcam AVR350 for 2-channel

[milanlad]

I'm wanting both good movies sound and top quality (audiophile) music sound from my potential purchase of the AVR350.

Just wondered what standard 2-channel amp (arcam or other) would be loosely comparable to using the AVR350 in 2 or 2.1 mode?

Thanks

[mlilliman]

I think the general concensus on these forums is that the AVR350 in stereo mode compares favourably to a good £500 integrated amplifier. Using the rear channels to bi-amp the front L+R channels will bring further gains.

I've not made the comparison myself yet so am blissfully happy with my A80

[Crustyloafer]

Originally Posted by milanlad

I'm wanting both good movies sound and top quality (audiophile) music sound from my potential purchase of the AVR350.

It depends on your defintion of top quality. Good though the AVR350 is, it is nowhere near top quality for movies or music. I would stick another '0' on the end of your budget if you want "top quality".

[fuel2000]

I've just sold my hifi amp a cyrus 7 and a psxr to fund my purchase of the avr350. The cyrus 7 was in a different leauge compared to the avr350 with 2 channel music!

[milanlad]

Originally Posted by Crustyloafer

It depends on your defintion of top quality. Good though the AVR350 is, it is nowhere near top quality for movies or music. I would stick another '0' on the end of your budget if you want "top quality".

Well, i'm a previous user of an Arcam Alpha 9/9P Bi-amped to Linn Tukan speakers, and an Arcam Alpha 8SE CD Player.

But, I understand that the AVR350 sounds completely different to the Alpha 9.

[Noobie Here]

Originally Posted by Crustyloafer

It depends on your defintion of top quality. Good though the AVR350 is, it is nowhere near top quality for movies or music. I would stick another '0' on the end of your budget if you want "top quality".

Hi

Perhaps I may ask a similar related question here. I too have been considering a 350, I currently have a 200 for movies though for two channel I use an A90/P90 bi-amped arrangement. My main preference is music with the 200 driving centre & rear for movies which is broadly acceptable for me but I am being pressured to reduce the box count by my partner.

I know it's a subjective opinion largely but I just wonder whether you would consider the A90/P90 bi-amp for two channel can be matched or indeed bettered by the 350 in 2 channel mode for music.

I use Quad 22Ls as main speakers if that helps.

Thanks

[Crustyloafer]

Originally Posted by Noobie Here

I know it's a subjective opinion largely but I just wonder whether you would consider the A90/P90 bi-amp for two channel can be matched or indeed bettered by the 350 in 2 channel mode for music.

No, I wouldn't have said so. You'd be far better off keeping what you have for two channel duties.

That said, the AVR350 is very good in stereo, it might be worth your while having a listen for yourself and then deciding if it meets your required level of performance in stereo.

[Noobie Here]

Originally Posted by Crustyloafer

No, I wouldn't have said so. You'd be far better off keeping what you have for two channel duties.

That said, the AVR350 is very good in stereo, it might be worth your while having a listen for yourself and then deciding if it meets your required level of performance in stereo.

I appreciate that it does need the experience of your own ears to make an informed decision but my overall feeling has been that I'm very happy with the A90/P90 arrangement and a possible compromise of that presentation doesn't appeal. As I said I know the limitations of the 200 but for me presently it does a decent job but 2 channel predominates 90% in our house so that I think I will maintain my current arrangement for the moment.

Cheers for the reply

[gballan@mac.com]

Originally Posted by Noobie Here

I appreciate that it does need the experience of your own ears to make an informed decision but my overall feeling has been that I'm very happy with the A90/P90 arrangement and a possible compromise of that presentation doesn't appeal. As I said I know the limitations of the 200 but for me presently it does a decent job but 2 channel predominates 90% in our house so that I think I will maintain my current arrangement for the moment.

Cheers for the reply

To reduce the box count get an A22 (with Dave) /P25 (3). I've said this a lot on these forums now. That combination wipes the floor with the AVR250/300 and almost certainly the 350 too. Second hand it's probably less than £700. Huge improvement for stereo music and much better than you'd expect for 5.1 film sound.