expirediconian | Staff posted Dec 13, 2024 08:37 PM
Item 1 of 3
Item 1 of 3
expirediconian | Staff posted Dec 13, 2024 08:37 PM
Integra DRX 3.4 100W 9.2-Channel 8K Network AV Receiver
+ Free Shipping$579
$1,500
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I finally got the 3.4 set up. For context I'm coming from an Onkyo TR-NX 818. It had 130 watts per channel vs this at 100. My first day setting it up and playing around with it I was underwhelmed. I purchased the Klipsch RP 1200SW at the same time to pair with my KSW 15. I've had my KSW 15 for over 24 years and it has served me very well. Switching to a two subwoofer system has been amazing. At first that was the only thing that had impressed me. I was really second guessing the purchase of the Integra.
This morning I got up early, moved some furniture around, and played with the sub woofer placement. Then I ran Dirac for the first time. I did the full placement testing with the supplied mic. WOW … everything came alive. I can't wait to try Dirac with my laptop, then I'm going to buy the minidsp UMIK-1 mic.
I wasn't expecting to be wowed this much, especially coming from an Audyssey XT32 set up on my old TX-NR 818. I know it will progressively get better redoing it with the laptop, than the new minidsp mic. The bass has really tightened up. Original I didn't have both subs parallel from each other, so that helped also, at least with some standing waves. I don't feel the need to invest in an Emotiva Basx A3, or an Outlaw amp anymore. I probably will once I upgrade to 5.2.4, but for now I'm set and satisfied.
There is no reciever at this price with 9 channels, pre outs, HDMI 2.1 on all ports, and Dirac built in. Also higher grade components compared to similar Onkyo and Pioneer models.
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I finally got the 3.4 set up. For context I'm coming from an Onkyo TR-NX 818. It had 130 watts per channel vs this at 100. My first day setting it up and playing around with it I was underwhelmed. I purchased the Klipsch RP 1200SW at the same time to pair with my KSW 15. I've had my KSW 15 for over 24 years and it has served me very well. Switching to a two subwoofer system has been amazing. At first that was the only thing that had impressed me. I was really second guessing the purchase of the Integra.
This morning I got up early, moved some furniture around, and played with the sub woofer placement. Then I ran Dirac for the first time. I did the full placement testing with the supplied mic. WOW … everything came alive. I can't wait to try Dirac with my laptop, then I'm going to buy the minidsp UMIK-1 mic.
I wasn't expecting to be wowed this much, especially coming from an Audyssey XT32 set up on my old TX-NR 818. I know it will progressively get better redoing it with the laptop, than the new minidsp mic. The bass has really tightened up. Original I didn't have both subs parallel from each other, so that helped also, at least with some standing waves. I don't feel the need to invest in an Emotiva Basx A3, or an Outlaw amp anymore. I probably will once I upgrade to 5.2.4, but for now I'm set and satisfied.
I made my buddy pick this up since it had Dirac Live and we're very satisfied. He's got some very old crappy speakers and it brought them to life. I almost want to trade him so I can have line outs. I run KEF speakers and even though they sound good they really get to a limit in terms of loudness so I'm guessing their dynamic range is effected a bit with the lower power, but else sounds great.
I will note that I've had to fuss with the subwoofer a few times as well to get the calibration to work. It sometimes says it's too loud. We turned some noisy things off in the room and that seemed to help, but eventually had to turn the sub down a bit to get it from shutting off.
I made my buddy pick this up since it had Dirac Live and we're very satisfied. He's got some very old crappy speakers and it brought them to life. I almost want to trade him so I can have line outs. I run KEF speakers and even though they sound good they really get to a limit in terms of loudness so I'm guessing their dynamic range is effected a bit with the lower power, but else sounds great.
I will note that I've had to fuss with the subwoofer a few times as well to get the calibration to work. It sometimes says it's too loud. We turned some noisy things off in the room and that seemed to help, but eventually had to turn the sub down a bit to get it from shutting off.
It relies on the AVRs bass management for that.
Calibration in your case with the miniDSP is highly recommended prior to running Dirac.
As far as the Dirac calibration process, it can be confusing.
Imo thee best process to follow is this video!
He worked directly with Dirac and covers pretty much all major questions/confusion and misconceptions.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gjWZUZ1
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Here is a full comparison of them.
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https://www.zkelectroni
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It relies on the AVRs bass management for that.
Calibration in your case with the miniDSP is highly recommended prior to running Dirac.
As far as the Dirac calibration process, it can be confusing.
Imo thee best process to follow is this video!
He worked directly with Dirac and covers pretty much all major questions/confusion and misconceptions.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gjWZUZ1
I'm well aware of the Marantz line and what they sound like with various speakers since I visit a local dedicated higher end audio store every few years for listening sessions on newer equipment/speakers. I considered getting the Cinema 70s for $675 directly from Marantz (recertified with 25% off code). But that unit is inferior to the Integra DRX 3.4 since it's a 7.2 AVR, doesn't come with Dirac, and only provides 50 watts per channel (low reusability factor). Same applies to the Yamaha RX-V6A you mention since it's a 7.2 AVR and doesn't come with Dirac. It also doesn't have a full set of pre-outs which excludes it as an option since I use a parasound amplifier.
I don't know why you focus on the weight of the AVR. IMHO, the best use of the Integra DRX 3.4 is as a processor with an external amplifier. One can get a new Behringer A800 (class D, fanless, and weighs 7.1 lbs) or used two channel amplifier for $200. That combo is similar in price to an RZ50 on sale without external amplification and is the better deal unless one needs the two extra channels (surround or extra zone - requires external amplification) and/or Dirac Live Bass Control.
My 5.1 speakers are nothing special... but solid. Polk RTI8's fronts, csi5 center, fx45 surrounds, and a 15" 1000w velodyne sub.
My 5.1 speakers are nothing special... but solid. Polk RTI8's fronts, csi5 center, fx45 surrounds, and a 15" 1000w velodyne sub.
I recommend finding a dedicated higher end audio store in your area and audition the AVR. It might be hard to find places that carry the Integra line so you could audition the Onkyo RZ30 or RZ50 since their sound will be very similar. You'll also be able to hear the difference an external amplifier makes when used with comparable speakers. Just don't blame me if you end up also upgrading your speakers in the process.
My 5.1 speakers are nothing special... but solid. Polk RTI8's fronts, csi5 center, fx45 surrounds, and a 15" 1000w velodyne sub.
I assume you're considering this because of Dirac & cost.
If it's the top priority, pretty hard to beat.
You lose subwoofer correction/integration & any future proof though.
If Marantz is high priority, a great thing is you now can get Dirac with it!
Marantz gets the option to both Dirac RCs(DL & DLBC) & highly rumored to get their new ART in the near future.
This does not get any of it.
You also gain 4 independent sub outs(dual mono here)& an RC to take advantage of them, 11 channels, all assignable, all independent preamp mode.
The Cinema 50 is the lowest model that offers this and has been down to $1399 refurb, new $1999.
The great thing is the new A1EVO for Audyssey.
People are quickly finding out it's a game changer!
It pretty much gives you all Dirac results & you don't lose subwoofer correction/integration.
All for the cost of the $20 Editor app!
Yes it's more expensive but you get much more for that cost.
Makes it a much better pre amp imo.
If you're a Marantz fan, it is no contest!!!
As they say you get what you pay for imo.
I am willing to bet very few people -- if any -- are cross-shopping this Integra AVR with a $2k new or even a $1400 refurb Marantz. I know I certainly wasn't! It just seems odd that you and that other guy keep bringing up an AVR that costs at least 2.4x more. All that said, I myself appear to have settled on an open-box Onkyo RZ50 for $530 from Best Buy to drive my forthcoming 5.1.4 home theater. So far I have been happy with my 12ish year old Onkyo HT-RC560 although it's only ever driven a 3.1 setup. Prior to that Onkyo, I had a couple different Sony ES receivers.
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I am willing to bet very few people -- if any -- are cross-shopping this Integra AVR with a $2k new or even a $1400 refurb Marantz. I know I certainly wasn't! It just seems odd that you and that other guy keep bringing up an AVR that costs at least 2.4x more. All that said, I myself appear to have settled on an open-box Onkyo RZ50 for $530 from Best Buy to drive my forthcoming 5.1.4 home theater. So far I have been happy with my 12ish year old Onkyo HT-RC560 although it's only ever driven a 3.1 setup. Prior to that Onkyo, I had a couple different Sony ES receivers.
I was giving both sides of the arguments, there always is.
We each have our own priorities & preferences so there is no universal " this is the best" imo.
Even in your own case you debated/compromised.
You sacrifice new with a 5 year warranty for a OB that offers an extra 2 channels, 20 more watts & access to DLBC.
With a forthcoming 5.1.4 home theater in mind, it's for "a just in case" scenario since this is capable of providing that also.
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