[ats314]

So I just picked up a Marantz 2215B for $135 shipped (hope thats a good deal) which I will be pairing with some Senn595's. Could i hook a xbox360 in to this receiver using analog and get good sound, or would I be better of buying a new receiver at a comprable price that has an optical input and DAC? My assumption is that is its better to go straight analog rather than going from digital and converting back to analog.

 

[justhavingfun]

Since your Marantz receiver is vintage kind (but very good one), it will only do two channel stereo from your Xbox360. If that is ok, analog sound through the Marantz will be excellent including your headphone out. But if you want the latest surround sounds likes of PLIIx, DD, DTS, etc., you need more modern surround sound receiver to take the advantage of digital sound. Of course, then you need more speakers and non-issue if you are going to use headphone only.

 

[ats314]

ok, so which of these two options would anyone recommend:

1. Xbox360 analog output --> Marantz2215B---> Sennheiser595's
2. Xbox360 optical output-->Creative Audigy 2 ZS platinum--->Sennheiser595's

price for marantz, $135 shipped
price for zs platinum, $100 + tax, local pickup, Frye's (good deal)

p.s. If i go with the audigy, i plan on adding a pa2v2 amp in the near future, but this will also add to cost, something to consider

 

[fwojciec]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ats314 ok, so which of these two options would anyone recommend: 1. Xbox360 analog output --> Marantz2215B---> Sennheiser595's 2. Xbox360 optical output-->Creative Audigy 2 ZS platinum--->Sennheiser595's price for marantz, $135 shipped price for zs platinum, $100 + tax, local pickup, Frye's (good deal) p.s. If i go with the audigy, i plan on adding a pa2v2 amp in the near future, but this will also add to cost, something to consider

Definitely go with option 1. Those vintage Marantz receivers are very capable. Digital would be only superior if you planned on using 5.1 sound (I don't have an xbox360, but I assume it does 6 channel audio) - but then again you wouldn't be able to use your headphones for that.

 

[augustwest]

Congatulations on the new Marantz! You will soon realize that this is the best $135 you ever spent. I am eager to learn your reaction, keep us poted.

- augustwest

 

[justhavingfun]

ats314,

I would definitely recommend option #1. You will find out that Marantz's 15 watts power rating is nothing like today's power amp rating when you listen through your a pair of speakers. Do let us know how you like the Marantz receiver.

 

[kramer5150]

Yes please post your impressions.

Im thinking about a starter vinyl rig, with a marantz receiver at the hub. Supposedly the phono stage and headphone amp are very good.

Garrett

 

[mattigol]

kramer, where did you read about the phono stage of the Marantz receivers? I am interested....

 

[kramer5150]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mattigol kramer, where did you read about the phono stage of the Marantz receivers? I am interested....

I think it was Jahn who PM'd me... PM him he has a 2225

 

[Matro5]

i'm running a my computer ( Turtle Beach Santa Cruz ) and a Denon record player through a recently purchased vintage Marantz 2218 to Senn 595s.

Suffice it to say, I was thinking of replacing my 595s, but 50 bucks later, they sound amazing. ( Thanks, David! ) I may still replace the 595s, this is Head-fi, after all, but I don't see how you can go wrong with Marantz.

Are their better amps out there? Sure, but not for the money.

As others have mentioned, if surround sound is a consideration, you've got more to think about.

 

[fwojciec]

Overall I'm very happy with my Marantz (2238 model). Plenty of power to drive my Paradigm Monitors and the headphone section is very competent (my M^3 is more detailed and refined, but the Marantz is enjoyable nonetheless). The preamp section is somewhat colored - it exaggerates the bass and muffles the treble quite a bit - but it's possible to bypass it altogether and use the receiver as a power amp only (this is the way I'm using it right now - with Zhaolu as a preamp). If you want to use it with a turntable you're unfortunately stuck with the preamp and you'll have to adjust the sound to your liking using bass/treble knobs in the front - not a huge problem, I guess.