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Of these three receivers/integrated amps, which one should I get?

C

Carlo1208

Active Member
So thanks to all the people answering my other question and for the recommendations. I narrowed it down to these 3 that fitted my budget and that were strongly recommended by users on my threads, and other threads as well.
Harmon Kardon 730 for $315 - Has been serviced
Marantz 2230 for $380 - Has been serviced as well
Kenwood KA-7100 Integrated Amp for $220

Which ever I buy, I will be using it exclusively for my vintage turntable, which a Kenwood KD-550.
Which of these will be perfect for me? I listen to death/black/thrash metal music. I care about detail, clarity, and bass. Loudness isn't too important. I mean I don't want low volume, but I definitely don't want earth shaking volume haha.

What should I do? Buy the Kenwood and save the rest of my budget for speakers (which I'm also upgrading)? Are the other two receivers better enough to spend those extra $100-160 dollars. (I don't mind spending the extra money).
 
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Get the HK 730....

The stereo imaging is fantastic with tower speakers especially ! The phono stage is awesome, but best of all is the range of frequencies the FM Tuner reproduces. Get some JBL D7's four at least !

Harmon Kardon is renown for the frequency response of their tuners. The 730 is a dual ampliphier and creates a stereo effect unlike the usual 2-channel stereo.

I'd say you lucked out if you were to actually purchase this receiver and it helps that it's been serviced !! Get a list of what work has been done....
 
Another vote for the Kenwood. I love my 70's Kenwood receivers (I also have a Kenwood turntable - KD-5066). Definitely good for rocking out. :rockon:

What speakers are you using now? If you're looking to upgrade your speakers, then you definitely want to have the most money available to go to them.
 
All are respectable. Listening habits may dictate the decision. The price for the Marantz and HK are top heavy, and the 7100 are plentiful, and can be found at that price and even cheaper. I have a HK330c, and it sounds wonderful, so, I'd say, go for the HK. Even though my 330c IS a receiver, I never use it, but it's there in case...
 
I'm of mixed opinion. I've had the Marantz 2230, and with the right speakers, it sounds great. But it is a little too underpowered for my tastes. I have a bias for 70s Kenwood integrated amps as they are excellent value for the buck. Good bass, and detailed Mids and highs without being unbalanced across the range. However I've never had the KA-7100 so I wouldn't know until I checked it out. The HK would tempt me because it is twin powered and I've found the vintage HK to be good quality with good bass and detail. Never tried one though.

I would look closely at the servicing side of things. Many times, all that means is that the contacts were cleaned. Some sellers are reputable, and if you can validate that, it might be the deciding factor. Whatever you decide on, you will be end up with a great sounding system if no work needs to be done and you choose your speakers well. Once you get one, I would recommend you bring the amp/receiver with you to audition speakers. If the seller won't let you test his speakers with your amp, then move on to the next.
 
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Normally I'd say the Kenny. But I have a 730. It's one awesome receiver, and I've had a lot of them. Dozens.
 
Sophie's choice here between the Kenwood and HK.

The Kenwood has the most power at 60wpc, which may contain.d in handy given your musical preference. Great looks, decent build quality and lack of a tuner is a non issue.

The HK, while slightly lower powered at 45wpc, is a very nice sounding receiver. With dual power supplies it should be able to keep up with your music. Very well built and the black and brushed finish is rather good looking IMHO.

Tough Choice!!!!
 
I tend to like the Kenwood integrated amp myself,though admitedly I'm a bit biased.
I say that as I already have a KA-7300 integrated as the core my vintage/silverface rig,this unit uses a dual P/S configuration as well.
Also have the matching KT-7300 tuner too,and that unit is top notch,it's a very highly respected tuner.

And the piece-de-resistance for that rig are the D7 carrying handles for both units.
Well those and the SA-90 spectrum analyzer & the LS-408b speakers.
Now all I need to really finish that rig off is a nice Kenwood DD ~ TT like that KD-550,,,LOL...

Same destination more-or-less,I just took the opposite route to get there.

Bret P.
 
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I ended up going for the Kenwood, and boy do I love it. It's sexy as hell, and the somehow the double bass on drums sounds are more powerful even on my low end speakers. :)
 
Carlo1208 said:
I ended up going for the Kenwood, and boy do I love it. It's sexy as hell, and the somehow the double bass on drums sounds are more powerful even on my low end speakers. :)
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Good choice. :thumbsup: I'm biased, but I do love the Kenwood look. Plus, they do sound really sweet in the low end and not in a bad way - just clean, powerful bass. Even my mid-end KC-105 preamp has really sweet bass. I much prefer the sound of my KR-5030 to the sound of my 1989 TOTL JVC RX-1001V, which goes to show that the biggest, most expensive receiver isn't always the best.
 
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