NEW RECEIVER

mantis · June 14

Hello everyone,
I have been going through just about every model on the market trying to figure out what would make my life better, what would enhance what I like to do with my system and so on and so forth.

So I had Denon, Marantz , Sony ES Looked into the Yamaha line deeply, spent some time with the 4 and 6, but honestly it was when I started to play with the Integra line is when I knew I found it.

So I own a DRX4 which I wanted to test and see if the sound quality , feature set and setup of this older model receiver could stand up to the beasts I have been bringing home and really digging in. Well I felt this moderate more entry level to me AVR had a sound quality that was open, dynamic and very inviting.

I installed the Integra into my system and I have been living with it for probably a few months testing every aspect of what it offers. Yes it's outdated but damn does it sound good.

A DRX5.4 Almost made a permeant home here. That one down from flagship AVR is stupid good. It's everything I needed , it was powerful , clear and OH SO damn nice. It did everything I wanted it to do and more. It check all check boxes all but one, it was not the flagship of the line anymore.

Enter the Mighty DRX8.4, the newest baddest and most satisfying AVR I have owned in a very very long time. I installed it, set it up very fast, not really going deep on details, room correction with DIRAC or even ACCU EQ. I did a quick manual calibration, setup my system currently as a 5.2.2 system which is going to change to 5.2.4 system. I'm gonna install 2 more Atmos in ceiling speakers soon.

Anyway. I put some music on, just 2 channel with my Focal main speakers and I gotta be straight and honest, the dynamic range and reserve power this Avr is breath taking. It has this HUGE sound strange. It's like my speakers got some new super tweeters that fill the entire wall of my room with wrap around sound. You would have to hear it to understand exactly what I'm saying. It made my speakers sound WIDER TALLER and DEEPER.

I'm excited to dig into DIRAC and go the distance with this beast which by the way weighs in at 49 LBS. I'm totally in guys.

Years ago I was very exciting to own Pioneer Elite ICE amps and all the craze those models came with especially my SC-68 which to me was one of the all time very best AVR's ever built. This new Integra DRX 8.4 tickles me as that did. Differently but similar.
Honestly , I was looking at the New Flagship Pioneer Elite which is VERY similar to the 8.4 BUT is missing a few cool features I couldn't live without.

Here are just a few quick picks for you to check out this awesome masterpiece.

mantis · June 14

Oh one thing you guys might like is the fact this is an AVRand it has Balanced Subwoofer, Left , Center and Right channels and A CD player In, how many AVR's do you know have balanced in or outputs?

Emlyn · June 14

Very cool to have added the balanced outputs where they matter!

mantis · June 15

At 150 watts per channel, it seems to have limitless power reserves. There is no sign of strain, lack of dynamic reserve power or stuggle with any content I threw at it. I listened to a ton of songs, played a few games, and watched a few things to see how it would hold up under load. I'm not running any external amps. I do from time to time as I have 2 channel and multi channel amps I like to swap in and out at times. This thing I don't see the need which is nice. I cranked it up and I gave up before it showed any signs of dynamic limitations.

So really so far, very impressed , very happy and today I plan on spending some time digging into DIRAC and ACCU EQ to first off compare to my manual calibration technic's and to each other. I know DIRAC is all the craze right now and most people say it's the best in the business , but I think they all offer something great, even Yamaha with YPAO calibration works pretty well.

Emlyn · June 15

I'm wondering how much Onkyo and Pioneer products now share development costs and technology. My guess is a whole lot although there are cosmetic differences. May be similar to the Marantz/Denon relationship. I still have two Pioneer Elite receivers in daily use from their Class D amp days.

Pioneer's top of the line LX805 receiver also has a couple balanced pre-outs for the front main channels and appears to use the same 11 channel amp section as the top of the line Onkyo.

https://pioneerhomeusa.com/pioneer-elite/vsx-lx805-av-receiver

mantis · June 15

Correct. They are voiced slightly different but share many things. All of the Flagships are awesome. Onkyo, Pioneer Elite and the Integra. I picked the Integra out of the bunch for the fact it's the most featured packed model and I really enjoy the sound of the Integra which is different then the Pioneer and Onkyo offerings.

treitz3 · June 15

When it comes to sound? That's all that should matter at the end of the day....at least in my world. I don't do HT but I applaud your efforts for finding the latest and greatest......even if it means stepping back on technology.

Kudos.

PS.....I hate autocorrect.

Tom

tophatjohnny · June 16

I’m in the market for a great pre! Anything but Marantz after my 8805 took its 3 rd dump
On me! This stuff is getting out of control!

msg · June 16

I always liked Onkyo stuff, but never got a chance to get an AVR. I'd never heard of Integra until @Geoff4rfc got his years ago. Then I saw that Onkyo used the Integra badge on some of their older 2ch gear when I was going through my vintage obsession phase, though it said both Onkyo and Integra, like it was a particular line/level.

For me, it's a combination of sound, ergos, and aesthetics, though, if it sounds like crap, the other two don't matter. I've always preferred Onkyo's displays and controls, though. Least liked is Marantz's porthole thing. Are they still doing that? I've not been paying attention.

I'm still using an old Parasound Halo C2 processor. No sure what I'll do when the time comes to replace it. The display is starting to dim in some areas, and it doesn't have HDMI or current codecs, but it's a nice sounding combo use piece.

Now that I think about it, the C2 and B&K's AVRs and processors also have minimal displays, like the Marantz porthole. I don't know, just something off-putting to me about the Marantz builds of that time.

Kex · June 16

tophatjohnny wrote: »

I’m in the market for a great pre! Anything but Marantz after my 8805 took its 3 rd dump
On me! This stuff is getting out of control!

Yoiks! 😱

mantis · June 16

msg wrote: »

I always liked Onkyo stuff, but never got a chance to get an AVR. I'd never heard of Integra until @Geoff4rfc got his years ago. Then I saw that Onkyo used the Integra badge on some of their older 2ch gear when I was going through my vintage obsession phase, though it said both Onkyo and Integra, like it was a particular line/level.

For me, it's a combination of sound, ergos, and aesthetics, though, if it sounds like crap, the other two don't matter. I've always preferred Onkyo's displays and controls, though. Least liked is Marantz's porthole thing. Are they still doing that? I've not been paying attention.

I'm still using an old Parasound Halo C2 processor. No sure what I'll do when the time comes to replace it. The display is starting to dim in some areas, and it doesn't have HDMI or current codecs, but it's a nice sounding combo use piece.

Now that I think about it, the C2 and B&K's AVRs and processors also have minimal displays, like the Marantz porthole. I don't know, just something off-putting to me about the Marantz builds of that time.

That's what is so great about todays AVR's, you can absolutely use them as a preamp and get all the features you want, no noise floor, ,strong Line level out puts etc. This was not possible many years ago. using a AVR as a preamp kinda sucked, not anymore and haven't for years now.
This new Integra has anything your going to need for any surround system. It does it all. You can use some of the internal amps for surrounds, Atmos even power passive subwoofers. It's very strong the amp section is like having separate amps. The reserve power seems so far limitless and it's only 150 watts per channel which will drop every channel you add.

billbillw · June 16

I miss my Integra DTR50.5 receiver. Sold it to upgrade to a 4K Sony ES receiver. Sound hasn't been as good since.

mantis · June 16

billbillw wrote: »

I miss my Integra DTR50.5 receiver. Sold it to upgrade to a 4K Sony ES receiver. Sound hasn't been as good since.

The DTR 50.5 was a great AVR. I installed many of them back then. The direct replacement for that model today is called the DRX5.4, it's a beast and the one I was going to get before I decided to go with the 8.4.
I think the Sony ES models sound pretty damn good especially the current models, I had the STRZA5000es and then got the new STRAZ5000es which is current now. I only got rid of it because I didn't like the Volume control. The last ZA model had an issue with ramping volume up or down. What happened is if you press Volume up, it went slow then extremely fast. Same went for volume down. It was annoying and I wanted Sony to fix that on the new AZ models, they didn't. But they made a lot of other improvements so I got one and like it for about a year. Sold it and now I got the Integra.

msg · June 16

mantis wrote: »

That's what is so great about todays AVR's, you can absolutely use them as a preamp and get all the features you want, no noise floor, ,strong Line level out puts etc. This was not possible many years ago. using a AVR as a preamp kinda sucked, not anymore and haven't for years now.
This new Integra has anything your going to need for any surround system. It does it all. You can use some of the internal amps for surrounds, Atmos even power passive subwoofers. It's very strong the amp section is like having separate amps. The reserve power seems so far limitless and it's only 150 watts per channel which will drop every channel you add.

That's awesome, Dan, glad you're diggin' it. Now you just need white speakers.
cough SVS cough

Yeah, I think I might have to make a solid investment when the time rolls around.

After seeing @billbillw 's thread with his recent acquisitions, I found myself wondering why I haven't seriously gone with ceilings or rear in-walls for my surround channels in my open space where stands would be a nuisance.

You guys are inspiring me to get more serious next go-round. I've just been using 3.1 in my main space combo system.

I'm not sure which speakers I'll be running. Right now my L800s are parked and I've been happily enjoying Wharfedale Lintons for over 2yrs now, I think? Took a look on Crutchfield earlier to see which brands are available as ceilings and in-walls that might be decent for use with the Lintons. I have to say, the LSiM706c I use doesn't sound off when I'm watching TV, so I could prob go Polk.

billbillw · June 17

mantis wrote: »

billbillw wrote: »

I miss my Integra DTR50.5 receiver. Sold it to upgrade to a 4K Sony ES receiver. Sound hasn't been as good since.

The DTR 50.5 was a great AVR. I installed many of them back then. The direct replacement for that model today is called the DRX5.4, it's a beast and the one I was going to get before I decided to go with the 8.4.
I think the Sony ES models sound pretty damn good especially the current models, I had the STRZA5000es and then got the new STRAZ5000es which is current now. I only got rid of it because I didn't like the Volume control. The last ZA model had an issue with ramping volume up or down. What happened is if you press Volume up, it went slow then extremely fast. Same went for volume down. It was annoying and I wanted Sony to fix that on the new AZ models, they didn't. But they made a lot of other improvements so I got one and like it for about a year. Sold it and now I got the Integra.

I think I had some amount of drool when I saw the DRX5.4, but the price was more than I could stomach last fall/winter when I was contemplating a move to a 4K projector setup. I ended up getting a used ZA5000ES for under $400 and that seemed like a good option for my bank account.
I agree with the volume control issue. I try to slowly press the remote. Overall, it sounds pretty good, but I'm not sure the Auto Calibration does as good of a job with the EQ compared to Audyssey. The bass from my sub doesn't seem to hit as hard. I prefer the option to test in 6-8 locations and let the computer calculate. The Sony only measures 1 spot.

mantis · June 17

billbillw wrote: »

mantis wrote: »

billbillw wrote: »

I miss my Integra DTR50.5 receiver. Sold it to upgrade to a 4K Sony ES receiver. Sound hasn't been as good since.

The DTR 50.5 was a great AVR. I installed many of them back then. The direct replacement for that model today is called the DRX5.4, it's a beast and the one I was going to get before I decided to go with the 8.4.
I think the Sony ES models sound pretty damn good especially the current models, I had the STRZA5000es and then got the new STRAZ5000es which is current now. I only got rid of it because I didn't like the Volume control. The last ZA model had an issue with ramping volume up or down. What happened is if you press Volume up, it went slow then extremely fast. Same went for volume down. It was annoying and I wanted Sony to fix that on the new AZ models, they didn't. But they made a lot of other improvements so I got one and like it for about a year. Sold it and now I got the Integra.

I think I had some amount of drool when I saw the DRX5.4, but the price was more than I could stomach last fall/winter when I was contemplating a move to a 4K projector setup. I ended up getting a used ZA5000ES for under $400 and that seemed like a good option for my bank account.
I agree with the volume control issue. I try to slowly press the remote. Overall, it sounds pretty good, but I'm not sure the Auto Calibration does as good of a job with the EQ compared to Audyssey. The bass from my sub doesn't seem to hit as hard. I prefer the option to test in 6-8 locations and let the computer calculate. The Sony only measures 1 spot.

I think you might be use to having your Subwoofer to loud. Most who get a professionally calibrator like myself to come out and calibrate their system, they usually say 2 things 1 the bass seems lighter and not as hard hitting and the surround speakers I can't notice them.

Both of which you shouldn't IF you want a accurate system.

As far as using more points of calibration, you are entering a strange position. On one side , you will have a little more even sound in more seats but you lose your KING seat in favor of such calibration.
Neither is wrong or right, it comes down to personal preference.

The Sony Microphone is stereo . The New AZ models take the measurements further than any other EQ system I have seen.

billbillw · June 18

mantis wrote: »

I think you might be use to having your Subwoofer to loud. Most who get a professionally calibrator like myself to come out and calibrate their system, they usually say 2 things 1 the bass seems lighter and not as hard hitting and the surround speakers I can't notice them.

Both of which you shouldn't IF you want a accurate system.

As far as using more points of calibration, you are entering a strange position. On one side , you will have a little more even sound in more seats but you lose your KING seat in favor of such calibration.
Neither is wrong or right, it comes down to personal preference.

The Sony Microphone is stereo . The New AZ models take the measurements further than any other EQ system I have seen.

I don't think that's it. I've always set up my AVR/Surround systems by the book using a tape measure, a sound meter, and some minor tweaking to balance everything. I only trust the software to apply some EQ to correct room response or variations in speaker response. I don't like the bass too hot and the surrounds never stand out.
I've used several versions of Audyssey going back to Onkyo's outstanding SR805 through the previously mentioned Integra. I've used YPAO on an Aventage, MCACC on a Pioneer Elite SC model, and now finally with the Sony ES flavor. The bass should be felt in a gunshot or explosion. The ground should tremble in Dune when Shai-Hulud approaches. I wasn't getting that. I upped my gain on the sub and it was too much (things creeping off the shelves at the bar).
Something with the Sony just doens't seem quite right. I'm comparing what I experience in a Dolby Cinema vs home. I know my home will never be quite as dynamic, but the sound should have at least 3/4 of the same experience. I did re-run the calibration this past weekend after changing my front 3 speakers and it seemed a little better.
The issue with only one sample point (for me) is that I don't have a King seat. I have a 3-spot sofa and I tend to sit on either side, not always the same side. The center is not enjoyable for me except for short periods.
I may run the calibration again and try some of the other options like Engineer mode instead of Front Reference and maybe enable the feature that does "calibration matching", which I had previously read was a messy feature and advised to leave off. Who knows. One of the reviewers did say they had to run the auto-cal several times to get it right. Overall, I'm still happy with the receiver, especially for the used price. I also really like the built in network switch.

mantis · June 18

Ok,
DO this.
Re run calibration but put the microphone dead center of your listening area no matter if anyone sits there or not.
Then go into the setting and change all channels to small and use an 80 hz crossover point.
Turn the subwoofer trim level down -2db from wherever Sony sets it.

I assume you got some room issues with placement of your subwoofer, are you only running 1 or 2? I Don't remember.

If you lived close to me , I would come over and see what the actual issues are and we could address them together. The software program Sony used back then is very good but it's not the be all end all of calibration. I always "tweak" after a calibration especially Speaker crossover levels. All these calibration tools try to use to much of the speakers capabilities . Bass is dependent on your room , not the abilities of each speaker. The less they have to do, the more control over your actual expericence you can have. Moving subwoofer or woofers to better placements usually makes a huge difference. And cutting your speakers crossovers higher then you think you should also frees up dynamic range and your system will actually sound clearer and more detailed.

billbillw · June 18

I'm not sure there is an issue with the room. I do only have one sub and I don't recall exactly why I put the sub there. It is a fairly small room that is wider than deep and it has a stairwell to the right. It is possible that (I vaguely recall) I might have tried the sub in the far left corner, but it was creating vibrations in the walls and ceiling too much. Not a custom built theater...
I'll try your suggestions this weekend. It does seem kind of against common thinking to set the crossover on the RTiA7 at 80Hz when it has those twin 7" woofers.

mantis · June 19

Common thinking is what holds us back from achieving a better performing system. Remember , it's not the single speaker, it's the whole system working together to create greatness.

mrloren · June 29

I'm still digging the RZ50. I got a wife free day and reran both DIRAC and ACCuEQ, still sounds best with room correction off.

I do hope Onkyo and Integra keep it up as these are fantastic AVR's.

mantis · June 30

Again, I think the RZ50 is wonderful. It's the baby brother of the Integra DRX5.4 which is also wonderful and has more features.

The DRX8.4 is something else. I'm totally loving this thing.

treitz3 · June 30

mantis wrote: »

Common thinking is what holds us back from achieving a better performing system.

You nailed that one!

Tom

mantis · November 13

Hello everyone,
Well its been a nice 5 months now I have owned the Integra DRX 8.4 and I liked it when I demo'd it, I liked it more when I installed it and today I'm still on board with this awesome unit.

What's nice about it is the fact it always works. Yeah low expectations but in todays world of failing Sonos and many other products that where great then and are not so great now it's refreshing to have something that does exactly what they say it's supposed to do.

Another nice thing about it is it has power for days. I run out way before it runs out. It's very dynamic , very powerful and handles my Focal Speakers very well. They go together very well and that new designed amp they are using in this thing is remarkable. The clarity and control is incredible especially for a AVR. I gotta be honest , AVR's over the years have been getting so much better and able. Not with just features but is quality amps and control over difficult load speakers. Not to say Focal is hard to drive, they are not. They are actually easy to drive but very clear and revealing so you should be some what careful when selecting a head end for them.

Anyway No failures, no issues , nothing to talk about to avoid other then it's price tag and how heavy the damn thing is.

pearsall001 · November 14

Hey Dan,
It's nice to hear that you're very pleased with the DRX 8.4. The more complex these AVR's become they are definitely prone to running into issues. It sounds like Integra nailed it with their new line up. Definitely on my list when it's time to look for a new AVR.

Emlyn · November 14

A decade ago it took some of the manufacturers a while to figure out the audio/video processing circuits needed proper heat management inside the metal box when they went to 4K switching capability. But I still have a couple of Pioneer Elite receivers from that era that never have failed.

la2vegas · November 14

Emlyn wrote: »

A decade ago it took some of the manufacturers a while to figure out the audio/video processing circuits needed proper heat management inside the metal box when they went to 4K switching capability. But I still have a couple of Pioneer Elite receivers from that era that never have failed.

Same here, fingers crossed...

mrloren · November 17

Great!

I'm still digging my RZ50, watched DP3 last nigh, just amazing what they have done with these new AVR's. I'm still running it with all room correction off.

mantis · November 17

mrloren wrote: »

Great!

I'm still digging my RZ50, watched DP3 last nigh, just amazing what they have done with these new AVR's. I'm still running it with all room correction off.

The RZ50 is an awesome AVR. I suggest using the DIRC or ACCU EQ. When done properly, it will help with room reflections, timing and EQ curves that need to be adjusted depending on your room.

At first it might not sound right as without running room EQ, your listening to reflections, most likely bass that is to heavy and certain frequency boosted or canceled.

NEW RECEIVER

Comments