Audioholics Reviews and News from Audioholics

Geneva Lab Model S Wireless Speaker Preview

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 -0000

The original Geneva Lab Model S was an award winning iPod dock. The new Geneva Lab Model S Wireless gets rid of the dock and adds Bluetooth 2.1 compatibility for use with all smartphones. Sure, you still need to plug it into a wall but it will connect to your device without you having to plug it in. Those without iDevices are sure to be glad to hear that Geneva Lab went with Bluetooth rather than AirPlay. We're interested to see how this new Model S Wireless speaker will sound. With a "we'll believe it when we hear it" specified response down the 75Hz, FM Radio with alarm, and 3.5mm input, there is something for everyone. Everyone looking for a $300 retro-chic clock radio that is.

Integra DTR-30.5 AV Receiver Preview

Tue, 21 May 2013 11:05:00 -0000

The $1000 Integra Audio DTR-30.5 Wireless AV Receiver is a first for the company. It is not only Wi-Fi compatible, but Bluetooth is supported. Marvell Qdeo upconversion and scaling to 4K, MHL, InstaPreview, and more should appeal to those that care more about features than power. But, of course, the Integra DTR-30.5 has power as well. With 95 watts per channel, a two-way RS-232 port, legacy video connections, and three 12 volt triggers, installers are going to love this receiver. At $1000, consumers aren't going to be afraid of the price. Add in the savings from having to run an Ethernet cable to you home theater, and the Integra DTR-30.5 may be a home run for the company.

Fluance XLBP Bipolar Surround Sound Speakers Preview

Tue, 21 May 2013 10:05:00 -0000

Surround channels present a tricky value proposition for audio lovers; on the one hand, their importance in immersing one in a movie or song is undeniable; on the other hand, they undeniably play second fiddle to the front stage. Priced at $200, the Fluance XLBP Wide Dispersion Bipolar Surround Speaker aims to deliver solid performance at a very reasonable price. How does it stand up to an initial inspection from Audioholics? Read on to find out.

M2Tech hiFace USB DAC Preview

Fri, 17 May 2013 05:00:00 -0000

What if you could fit an entire high resolution DAC into a USB thumb drive? That's what M2Tech's hiFace DAC promises and delivers. This DAC redefines compact. It's just 8.8" deep by 1.4" high and 2" wide (basically, the size of a USB stick). The hiFace DAC was designed to deliver hi-end equipment performance to budget-conscious audiophiles. And M2Tech claims to do it without compromising audio quality. The hiFace DAC costs $295, but with this little DAC you can turn your laptop, Mac Mini or even an iPad into a hi-end music file source—and you can do so for about the price of an overpriced active HDMI or premium speaker cable.

Sony BDV-N8100W 3D Blu-Ray Home Theater System Preview

Fri, 17 May 2013 02:00:00 -0000

Not to be outdone by rivals, Sony has updated its packaged home theater system lineup for 2013, with the BDV-N8100W Premium 3D Blu-Ray HT System leading the charge. Priced at $699.99, which is less than the cost of a foot of some snake oil infused speaker wire, Sony has packed a veritable cornucopia of features into their latest and greatest home theater package, including a 3D capable Blu-Ray player, 4K upscaling, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Of course with so many features packed in for the money, how good could the audio experience be? Read on to find out what we think.

Sony HT-CT660 46" Sound Bar with Wireless Subwoofer Preview

Fri, 17 May 2013 02:00:00 -0000

How far can you possibly squeeze $400 in the world of audio? Sony hopes to show this sum can deliver quite a lot with their HT-CT660 sound bar plus wireless subwoofer system. With a slim profile to complement a larger flat screen TV and a useful set of connectivity options including 3 HDMI inputs (which pass 3D and 4K content) and NFC (near field communication), the Sony HT-CT660 looks to be an interesting option for those who want an easy to set up system with minimal clutter. Read on to find out how it stands up to a little scrutiny.

Koss Fit Series KSC32 and KEB32 Headphones - Designed for Women, By Women

Wed, 15 May 2013 13:00:00 -0000

Koss's new Fit Series headphones with the KEB32 FitBuds and KSC32 FitClip earbuds are built in conjunction with Olympian Dara Torres just for women. If you're a woman that is looking for a headphone that you can wear while exercising, the FitBuds and FitClips are sweat resistant. They are smaller than normal earbuds for a perfect fit. They boast a number of colors and a price tag that will let you mix and match if that is your thing. While we think the market for smaller earbuds extends beyond women, for now, the KEB32 FitBuds and KSC32 FitClips are pretty much the only offering we know of. We look forward to seeing how these earbuds perform.

Boston Acoustics A360 Floorstanding Speaker Review

Wed, 15 May 2013 02:00:00 -0000

The Boston Acoustics A360 floorstanding loudspeakers are well built and look good at $800/pair. High quality parts are used in the cabinet construction and the drivers are decent quality. Although the measured sensitivity is on the low side and the midrange a bit recessed, the A360’s exhibit nice bass extension. I envision that Boston Acoustics designed this speaker to please the masses and I think it is excellent in that regard. This is our first review employing our new loudspeaker measurement standard so check out how we put the Boston A360’s through the wringer.

v-moda Crossfade M-100 Headphones Review

Tue, 14 May 2013 09:50:00 -0000

We reviewed the M-80's some time ago, but these v-moda Crossfade M-100 headphones are the bigger brother over-ear models and they're geared towards the user who wants audiophile quality that's stylish, portable and durable. Now, that's four very distinct design goals, and to pull it off is a tall order.

Emotiva XPA-200 Stereo Power Amplifier Preview

Mon, 13 May 2013 20:00:00 -0000

It’s difficult being the middle child, just ask Jan Brady. Stuck between the high value UPA-200 and the monstrous XPA-2 amplifiers; the XPA-200 seems to get lost in Emotiva’s plethora of offerings. Rated to deliver 150 watts into an 8 ohm load and 240 watts into a 4 ohm load (both at <1% THD), and priced at $499, does Emotiva’s midgrade stereo amplifier deliver a compelling value, or is it worth overlooking in favor of its superlative siblings? Keep reading to see our take.

B&W Z2 AirPlay Dock and Wireless Speaker Review

Fri, 10 May 2013 01:40:00 -0000

Over the last ten years, iPod docks have become ubiquitous, with offerings from ever major (and not so major) manufacturer and at every price point imaginable. However, over the last couple of years, AirPlay speakers have started to encroach and take their place as the iPod dock 2.0, so to speak. B&W has answered this call with their Z2 iPod dock and AirPlay speaker. The Z2 is B&W’s newest, smallest, and least expensive iOS-oriented product to date. A far cry from their original Zeppelin in terms of price and size, the Z2 is aimed at consumers demanding form as well as function. At $399, it isn’t a budget product, but falls nicely under B&Ws other offerings. For those keen on great looks and small size, the Z2 might just be your best friend. Read on for a full review

Scosche RH1060 Bluetooth Stereo Headphones Preview

Thu, 09 May 2013 10:00:00 -0000

The Scosche RH1060 Bluetooth headphones have all the modern stylings that you want with the Bluetooth and iDevice compatibility that you need. With an eight hour battery life, AAC and Siri compatibility, and the ability to collapse into a small storage case, the RH1060 headphones are for those on the go. At $200, you may not want to take them to the gym, but with a direct connection to your device bypassing the battery, you won't have to worry about losing power (and therefore your tunes) just when the guitar solo was really getting going. With an integrated mic and full controls on the ear cups, the Scosche RH1060s won't even slow you down when you get a phone call.

Divoom Bluetune-Solo Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Wed, 08 May 2013 10:05:00 -0000

I found a new portable Bluetooth speaker this week called the Divoom Bluetune-Solo. What I like about it (apart form the fact that it's priced right, at $50) is that it's a portable speaker that works as a standalone unit—but it also functions as a hands-free speakerphone. Plus you can daisy chain them together to get more sound. I imagined a banquet room with one of these on every table. I'm sure there are limitations, but you get the idea. It's innovative and tiny and it fits in your pocket. I just like the overall design.

Swann HD PenCam 720p Camera Preview

Wed, 08 May 2013 03:30:00 -0000

Aside from video displays and televisions, we like to check out some other video gadgets. The Swann HD PenCam Mini 720p Video Camera & Recorder is a ballpoint pen that's like a real-life high-tech spying device. You can capture video and images with the push of a button. It's like walking around with an executive-quality black ballpoint pen that secretly houses a pinhole video camera. It's called a pinhole camera that's so small you almost can't see it. The HD PenCam shoots AVI video files at 720p (1280 x 720) resolution or JPEG still images at 1600 x 1200. The HD PenCam's memory card slot holds a swappable MicroSD card (not included), up to 16GB.

AudioControl Rialto 400 High Power Amplifier with Digital Audio Inputs Preview

Tue, 07 May 2013 10:00:00 -0000

While targeting custom installers and their clients, the AudioControl Rialto 400 has some real technology under the Sonos-esque enclosure. Pushing 100 watts into 8 ohms, 200 watts into 4 ohms, Wolfson DACs, multiple inputs, automatic input switching, bass boost, subwoofer pass-though, and more, it is clear that the $800 price tag isn't all profit. If you are looking for an upgrade to the sound of your second or third system, the Rialto 400 should give you what you want. Just don't look to us to explain to your wife why you "needed" a box that cost 2x's as much as the Sonos box you connected it to.

Emotiva XPR-1 Mono Amplifier Review

Mon, 06 May 2013 04:00:00 -0000

There is little not to like about the 1kwatt Emotiva XPR-1 Monoblock power amplifier. Although it lacks the snob appeal of some of the more expensive and prestigious brands, the Emotiva XPR-1 gives up nothing in the performance department, especially with regards to power. It's built well with all the proper engineering in place to ensure reliable, problem free performance for years to come. The XPR-1 truly lives up to the “Reference series” name that Emotiva has reserved for their very best products. This is a highly recommended purchase for the audiophile looking for an amplifier with equal doses of brawn and finesse. It is the Jedi Master of power amps that would make even an audiophile Sith Lord proud to own. Check out our comprehensive review where we attempted to smoke our power resistors by dumping over 2kwatts of power through them, which the XPR-1 happily provided. Barbecue anyone?

PLAiR Streaming Stick Solution Preview

Fri, 03 May 2013 08:25:00 -0000

The PLAiR streaming stick can receive video and audio content from your PC, Mac, Android, or iOS device with a push of a button. It will allow you to view nearly any Internet video source (sans Netflix and Hulu) on your big screen. For those that watch network shows on the network websites but hate doing it on their PC, the PLAiR is a godsend. At $99 it won't break the bank. But you are taking a $99 gamble. If the networks find a way to block the PLAiR solution (and you can bet they are trying to right now), you may have paid $99 for a device that will no longer do most of what you bought it for. Is it worth the risk? Only you can make that decision.

Denon AVR-X1000 and AVR-X2000 IN-Command Receivers Preview

Fri, 03 May 2013 03:00:00 -0000

The Denon AVR-X1000 and AVR-X2000 are the newest in the lauded IN-Command series of receivers from Denon. The AVR-X1000 is the least expensive at $500 but it is packed full of features, including 80 watts per channel (five channels), discrete amplification, Apple's AirPlay, app control, two zones, six HDMI inputs, and Audyssey MultEQ XT. The AVR-X2000 adds $200 to the price but increases the number of channels to seven, adds 15 watts, 1080p and 4k upconversion, Windows 8 compatibility, and more. Regardless of which receiver you choose, the AVR-X1000 or the AVR-X2000, you're going to have one of the most feature-packed receivers at their price point.

Pyle BlueReach PBTR70 Bluetooth Wireless Speaker Adapter

Thu, 02 May 2013 06:15:00 -0000

I don't have "Aha!" moments very often, but Pyle's PBTR70 Bluetooth wireless-based music interface did it. Lots of Apple-centric products have come out which feature the company's 30-pin connector (which works on everything prior to the iPhone 5). But not everything makes use of Apple's AirPlay or even Bluetooth audio streaming for that matter. So your iPhone needs to be tethered to the speaker in order to enjoy audio from your portable device. The new Pyle Bluetooth wireless-based music interface does away with that. Now, using this small device, you can untether yourself from the shackles of that connector and stream Bluetooth audio to your heart's content.

Panasonic NE Series SC-NE1, SC-NE3 and SC-NE5 Wireless Speakers

Thu, 02 May 2013 05:05:00 -0000

Panasonic announced its latest foray into the world of desktop speakers with its NE (Network Era) Series of wireless speaker systems, including models SC-NE1, SC-NE3 and the flagship SC-NE5. AirPlay and Bluetooth speakers (along with headphones) seem to be the dominant emerging trend after the "fall" of 3D. It seems like companies are scrambling for these new products which we imagine provide a nice profit margin and are taking off like sausages at a pancake festival. The SC-NE1, SC-NE3 and SC-NE5 all feature full wireless connectivity and the NE5 and NE3 can be synced through DLNA and AirPlay (plus Bluetooth for other devices).

Denon AVR-X3000 and AVR-X4000 IN-Command Receivers Preview

Wed, 01 May 2013 14:00:00 -0000

The Denon IN-Command AVR-X3000 and AVR-X4000 receivers pack a lot of technology into their unassuming chassis. These are receivers that can send audio and video to more than one zone, are fully networked including AirPlay and many other streaming options, and have oodles of power. The AVR-X3000 will have nearly everything the average consumer could want to power a simple 7.1 home theater, but lacks some of the higher end features found on the AVR-X4000. The AVR-X4000 can handle a second or third zone, has full 9.2 pre-outs, and has Audyssey MultEQ® XT32, among a host of other features. When you are at this level of buying, it pays to make a list of what you need. If these receivers can't do it, it likely can't be done. At least, not at these price points.

Sanus ELM806 In-Wall Cable Management System Preview

Wed, 01 May 2013 09:35:00 -0000

Yes, wall plates aren't the sexiest of HT products but the Sanus ELM806 in-wall cable management solution looks to be one of the most useful. With an integrated, in-wall power run, for $100 you can get power to your display with a minimum of hassle. Recessed wall plates, dual power outlets behind the display, and low-voltage pass-through makes the ELM806 a one stop solution for you new flat panel display.

Rotel RA-1570 Integrated Amplifier Preview

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:00:00 -0000

The Rotel RA-1570 integrated amplifier is a complete "rewrite" of the company's RA-1520 integrated amp. This is no small model bump, but a total makeover—extreme style. Let's start with the input section of the RA-1570. It's substantially more flexible than what you find in most integrated amplifiers—there's even a rare (for these types of products) front panel USB input. That means Rotel is ready to go with iPods, iPhones, and iPads—not to mention all of the available Android devices.

AOC Q2963PM 29" 21:9 Super Wide Screen HD Monitor Preview

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 23:00:00 -0000

The AOC Q2963PM has a extreme aspect ratio (21:9) with a 29" diagonal measurement. But instead of just giving you a lot of screen space and letting you figure out what to do with it, AOC has really packed the Q2963PM with features. With their Screen+ software, you can do both PiP and PbP from different inputs. A MHL HD input mirrors your Android phone while charging it, and Display Port 1.2a allows you to daisy-chain multiple screens together as you see fit. With an IPS LCD screen, 5ms response time, and a 1000:1 (typical) 50,000,000:1 (dynamic) contrast ratio, this is a display that will do equally well with entertainment and work duties.

Rotel RCD-1570 CD Player Preview

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 20:45:00 -0000

Rotel just released their new RCD-1570 CD Player, which is a slight tweak to the existing RCD-1520 model (if you consider adding XLR outputs a "slight" upgrade). Rotel makes some excellent products. We've reviewed several of their amplifiers and such in the past and we continue to have an affinity for how they design and manufacture their A/V and hi-fi components. Their look has changed throughout the years, but their quality seems to be very consistent (and by that, we mean it remains a good value).

KEF M500 Headphones and M200 Earphones Preview

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 09:00:00 -0000

The KEF M500's are over-the-ear headphones that are made with durable, light-weight aluminum frames and roll with a full-range 40mm neodymium driver. The equally impressive-looking in-ear M200s use what KEF describes as its DDD (Dual Dynamic Driver) tech. It's a two-way system that uses a 10mm driver for the bass and a separate 5.5mm dynamic neodymium driver for midrange and high frequencies.

Rotel RMB-1585 and RMB-1555 Power Amplifiers Preview

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:30:00 -0000

This time, Rotel has got something for your home theater. The RMB-1555 is a five channel, 120 watts per channel, offering that should please all but the most demanding of users. For them, there is the 200 watt RMB-1585. The biggest change from the last generation of home theater amps from Rotel? The switch back from Class D to Class A/B. In our opinion this was a good move as linear amps tend still provide the most reliable amplification for the widest range of loudspeakers. Even if you don't have the money for these babies, you probably want to see what they came out with. Check them out at your local Rotel dealer if you can and have a listen.

SpeakerCraft Profile In-ceiling Speakers Preview

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 08:05:00 -0000

We're willing to bet most Audioholics haven't actually seen one of SpeakerCraft's Profile line of speakers. That isn't to say the Profile line is brand new (although it is being expanded), but the speakers are ostensibly invisible, being in ceiling and in wall models. New to the lineup are the Profile A6 in ceiling speaker, the Profile Cinema Sub10 subwoofer, and the Profile AIM8 DT Three, which SpeakerCraft refers to as a single point stereo in ceiling speaker. Read on to see what we think of these new additions.

Harman Kardon AVR 3700 Wireless Networked A/V Receiver Preview

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 02:00:00 -0000

The AVR 3700 has a lot of technology that many users clamor for. With built in wireless networking, pre-outs for those with external amplifiers, two zones of audio, eight HDMI inputs and two outputs, 4k upscaling, and much more, Harman has touched on all the right bases. At $1000, the AVR 3700 will have a lot of competition. Time will tell if this feature set mated with the Harman name will prove to be a winning combination.

Sony BDP-S790 Blu-ray Player Review

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 11:20:00 -0000

Blu-ray player reviews, like this one for the Sony BDP-S790, are a strange thing. It used to be that we tested all manner of video and audio quality characteristics using test discs and calibration gear. Well, some of us still do... When it's appropriate. Most of our readers already know who the big dogs are in that high-end market and if they want to pay $400 or more for a player, they're free to do so. But what about the rest of you - the rest of US? Well, the video quality is pretty much a done deal with HDMI. It's generally very good. That pretty much leaves features and aesthetics. Now, despite what I just said, I really do care about quality. But once we determine that the video and audio quality are excellent, as they are with this Sony BDP-S790, well, then I want to see what I get for my $230.

Elite Screens Quickstand Portable Projector Screen Review

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 11:05:00 -0000

Superbowl parties have changed the way I entertain. Well, really, my job as a home theater reviewer changed the way I throw Superbowl parties. Or maybe I just like big screens and rowdy outdoor gatherings. In either case, this year saw the debut of the Elite Screens QuickStand Portable Screen. With this screen came the standard CineWhite screen material as well as the Wraith rear projection screen material we had spec'd to use for this year's game. I expected big screen entertainment. I expected ease of setup. I expected a product that was durable and which could handle many years of use in various venues and indoor/outdoor viewing opportunities. So, did I get what I expected?

Yamaha RX-A830 AVENTAGE 7.2 Channel Network AV Receiver Preview

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:05:00 -0000

The most exciting thing about the new Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A830 is the price. At under $900, it has enough features to please even the most ardent audiophile and feature-phile. A full suite of networking, iDevice compatibility, MHL, 7.2 inputs, 100 watts per channel, Burr-Brown 192 kHz/24-bit DACs for all channels, Pure Direct mode for bypassing any unnecessary circuitry, YPAO with multi-point measurements, 4k upconversion...the list goes on. At this price point, it is hard to believe that there is much more that could be offered.

Yamaha YSP-4300 Sound Bar Review

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:00:00 -0000

The Yamaha YSP-4300 soundbar seems to be designed with two goals in mind. The first is to give you everything that you would get from a standalone AV receiver in a more simple, compact unit. This includes the obvious like HDMI video switching, decoding of advanced audio codecs like Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio, and iPod control, but also includes less obvious features like an FM radio and an IR blaster option. Yamaha's YSP-4300 really comes across as a hybrid technology products, compact and powerful, yet designed with quality audio in mind.

Sherbourn SR-8100 7.1 Channel Receiver Preview

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 14:00:00 -0000

Sherbourn has taken a stand with the SR-8100. They have said, "We will create a receiver and it will sound AWESOME!" It may not connect to your computer or stream cat videos from YouTube but that's not what you want is it? The Sherbourn SR-8100 has can push 80 watts into 8 ohms all channels driven, it has three zones of audio, and can stream CD quality bluetooth audio from your phone. With an integrated room correction system and three banks of 11 bands of parametric EQ for each channel and 3 bands for the sub, even the most dedicated tweaker will be happy. At $800 MSRP, this is an audiophile-quality receiver at consumer-level prices.

Toshiba SBX4250 Sound Bar Speaker System Review

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 10:05:00 -0000

When you shop for sound bars like the Toshiba SBX4250 speaker, you've got a lot of products to consider. And you have to consider what your needs are. For most, you're looking for a replacement to those increasingly awful TV speakers. Others will want something that matches their aesthetics, say a truly flat product that's wall-mountable and wont stick out beyond your new super-thin flat panel. And some will want particular features. The Toshiba SBX4250 is heavy on that last one.

Polk Audio LSiM703 Bookshelf Speaker Review

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 20:20:00 -0000

Over the past decade or so Polk Audio has slowly shifted their focus from mid/upper tier audio to mid/lower tier products, which might make some wonder, "Do they still know how to make a knockout audiophile lineup?" As Polk has brought down the price points of their speakers, their reputation in the audiophile community has also steadily lessened as well. The Polk Audio LSiM series is their answer to the high end crowd. In the LSiM series there is only one bookshelf speaker, the 703, and at $749/ea it is well below what some consider "high end". So, I requested a pair of LSiM703's for review to see if the company still had it in them to make a truly audiophile grade product, but at a price the general public could afford (with a little time spent saving up, of course). In short, they've still got it. The LSiM703 is a great sounding and looking speaker, but it's size and bright presentation mean it isn't for everyone. Read on for a full review.

Samsung PN51F4500 & PN43F4500 Plasma TV Comparison

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 18:25:00 -0000

Samsung’s F4500 series of plasma TVs rounds out their entry level offerings and consists of only two models, the PN51F4500 and PN43F4500. As you might be able to tell from the models numbers, the two sets are 51” and 43”, respectively. The F4500 series is one of the least expensive plasma TV lines you are going to find. That’s because it’s only 720p and lacks any smart features, like WiFi or internet apps. However, it still retains Samsung’s Clear Image panel for better use in well-lit areas and a nearly flawless 178 degree viewing angle. It also has two HDMI inputs, a USB port for viewing photos/movies, and 600hz Subfield Motion.

Legacy Audio Focus SE Floorstanding Speaker Review

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 23:40:00 -0000

When the Legacy Focus SE loudspeakers came in, the debate raged once more in my mind: How influenced should I be by build quality? How much should I allow myself to get excited by the sound of a truly full-range speaker that can play low enough to make a pipe organ sound authentic? Or should I be more impressed and excited about speakers with enough dynamic headroom to handle the delicacy of a five piece jazz ensemble as well as a full orchestra? Legacy Audio's Focus SE speakers aren't exactly new, but Bill Dudleston's 25th anniversary edition adds the dual Air Motion tweeter (AMT) and super tweeter to make this something special indeed. At just under $10k/pair there is a lot of speaker in the Focus SE. So, read the review and find out if these are the right speakers for you.

Triad InWall Bronze/4 SlimSub Preview

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 09:30:00 -0000

If you are looking for a quality in-wall sub, your options aren't extensive and they aren't cheap. At $1400 a pop, the Triad InWall Bronze/4 SlimSub is promising extension down to around the 25Hz mark from an enclosure that is only 4" deep. That means that not only will the Triad InWall Bronze/4 SlimSub fit in a new construction, but it can be retrofitted into an existing wall without much problem. With Triad's grille matching program promising you a perfect match to your wall color, a DSP amplifier with integrated room correction and the Triad name behind it, the InWall Bronze/4 SlimSub is sure to sell.

Marantz NR1504 NR1604 Slim AV Receivers Preview

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 02:05:00 -0000

We've long been fans of the Marantz NR line, and the new NR1504 and NR1604 have done nothing to change that. Sporting high end audio components, discrete amplification, Apple AirPlay, Audyssey MultEQ, and much, much more, there is a lot to like. At a starting price of $500, the NR line isn't going to break the bank either. With a low profile design, potential customers don't have to sacrifice audio quality, features, and style just because they have limited space.