Do I need Pro Logic IIx?

Duane, I have a B&K 200.7 S2 amplifier. Extra two channels can be used for bi-amping. Right now I have B&W DM580's and B&W CC6 in the front and Design Acoustincs PS-55 in the back, but I'll be updating the speakers next.

I would reccomend that you use the processor in the Marantz. The SR7000 sounds very good. I don't know what kind of amplifier you picked up but I would reccomend that you use the surround and middle channel amps in the Marantz and use a nice two channel amp for the fronts. You should be crossing those channels over around 100hz to your sub so the Marantz's amps should easily handle the load. This set up will also eliminate 6 interconnects.

Rad -

It may be an option to future proof. Although you may not be interested in PLIIx or other 7.1 variations, before long these formats will become more available on forms of media. Besides, you can also use the extra 2 channels for biamping until then.

IMO, If the prices are relatively the same between components you're looking at, then it wouldn't hurt to spend a few extra bucks for the extra channels.

The option is yours.

Hello again,

It would be cost effective to use the Marantz as the pre-amp but don't worry about the extra channels.

If you can sell the Marantz, the first real jump in performance with the B & K amps and B & W speakers would be an Arcam. The Arcam with B & W's along with the B & K amps will sound much better than a B & K pre-amp for example. The B & K pre-amp doesn't sound much better than the Marantz once you’re not using the Marantz amps.

An unbelievable upgrade would be to pick up an older Classe SSP-25 or SSP-30. This would be twice as good as the Arcam and 5 times better than the Marantz or B & K pre-amp.

Good Luck,
Duane

Raduray,

I have a different perspective, and it is that 7.1 has a far superior surround envelopment compared to 5.1, and for me is highly preferrable. I started with 5.1, then expanded to 7.1, and now I have no desire to ever go back to 5.1.

Since there are no 7.1 sources at the present time, AFAIK, you need DPLIIx and / or Logic 7 to drive a 7.1 speaker system. Both do a very creditable job.

Sometimes, there are room layout constraints that make 7.1 an untenable choice, primarily when your listening position is against the back wall and you don't have room to place the pair of rear surround speakers behind the listening area. Other than that, I would urge you to try 7.1.

Bruce