Hey Shane. This amplifier is for $1,279 right now. Would you buy this one or the Emotiva A5 or A7? Happy holidays. Greetings from Houston. I have a Costco Klipsch 5.0.2 system. I added two subs, two Klipsch atmos speakers, and two SVS elevation speaker. I can barely hear my atmos and surround speakers. My AVR is the onkyo tx-rz50. Any imput would be appreciated.
i had slight hiss from my speakers too /Denon AVR + Parasound power amp/ but surprisingly all noise was gone after using cheap - "CS947 Tacima 6 Way Mains Conditioner" .. really recommend it - its cheap to just buy & try it u might be surprised like me !
I would love you to review the Buckeye Amps... Custom channel configuration from 2-8 channels as well as 2 different power levels that can be mixed and matched within the same case. They are supposed to sound amazing and a more than fair price
I bought a ToneWinner 7300 2.0 Version to pair with my Marantz sr 6011 and there is absolutely no hiss . Spec of Tech did a review of the first 7300 and stated he had a hiss coming through .Since then ToneWinner have fixed that hiss with the 7300 2.0 version ....maybe that is why Starke is putting them on sale...but class D should be nice...but if you have a 110 watt receiver ..you should double that to at least 220 watts amp to hear a 3db increase.
I was initially quite worried about Tonewinner's hiss as well, using an older Marantz avr here too with 7300 2.0. I can confirm, the amp is absolutely dead silent, even with Klipsch speakers.
Most of the sound signature is from the preamp section so not surprised there wasn’t that much of a difference. I agree, the internal amps are pretty good.
Great review Shane! I'm a bit torn on the Cinema 50. I find it too expensive for my 5.1 especially since I have another Marantz that has a toroidal. But it sounds like it's somehow not missing much compared to separates and the 8015. If that's the case, then it might be a possible upgrade path but I just wish it had 180 watts for 2 channel and could bi-amp my LF with the same conviction. Maybe it can but I'd love to have that peace of mind before I bought it 😄 I know your stereo speakers are amazing and probably the perfect size for your room but I wish you had towers that dip into the 30-40hz range to compare them. I would have also bi-amped them as that would add more separation.
Shane, did you try using a preamp or processor with XLR outs? I'd like to know if you still had any hum or hiss if you switched to balanced connections.
@@therealshanelee Sorry, I wasn't aware. It is very confusing, though. You have an entire section of this video showing you hooking the amp up to what I believe in the Denon 4700x via RCA cables. But you have the 4700x listed as "entry level system" in your Deescrption. Then you have the Trinnov listed under "review equipment" in your Description but you make no mention of it during your video. Just be aware that to me (and perhaps others,) the video makes it look like you conducted this entire review using the Denon with RCA interconnects. So if you did at one point use the Trinnov with XLR interconnects, did you really not notice any difference whatsoever with the hum/buzz issue? (If so, I guess the Starke doesn't actually utilize a fully balanced input mechanism?)
@@joes3800 it's very confusing how you came up with me hooking up the starke to a 4700? You did see the video as well as the title and thumbnail? And my review system is listed below as well. Just take out whatever amp is listed and drop the starke in there. All amps were mentioned in the video also 🤷🏻♂️
@@therealshanelee A few things: 1. First, I like your videos and I will continue to watch them. Not looking to pick a fight or have an argument. If you're interested in some feedback read on. If not, it's all good. 2. I just re-watched the video. It's my mistake in that you never mentioned the Denon; I got confused because it was in your Description, but you clearly mentioned and showed the Marantz Cinema 50. So I will refer accurately to the Cinema 50 from here on out rather than make any mention of a Denon product. 3. That all said, I still have no indication from the video itself that you used a processor or preamp with XLR outs. In your replies and your Description you say you did, so I get that. But you make no mention in the video that you used any preamp other than the Cinema 50, you spend an entire minute of this 10 minute video showing that you hooked it up with RCA cables starting at 2:45, and while you make mention at 4:10 that you also used your 2-channel set up, you only mention what speakers you have in your 2-channel setup and from the shot at 4:19 as well as the background shots starting at 4:42, it looks to me like you're also using the Cinema 50 (which only has RCA pre-outs) in your 2-channel setup. Furthermore, you still have yet to indicate in any of your replies whether or not you heard or measured any difference in noise floor when using different preamp with different interconnects, so your lack of any information/verification in that regard still makes me a bit suspicious about whether or not you actually used anything other than the Cinema 50 as a preamp with the Starke amp. 4. I don't want to come off like I'm throwing shade your way, so it's worth repeating point #1. I appreciate your hard work in getting information to the community of which I am a part and will continue to be a part. I'm just trying to get a little more information/clarification and maybe provide some constructive criticism to help make your videos and/or Descriptions more clear and informative. I apologize if I am conveying any of my thoughts in a manner that is unclear or inappropriate or not constructive.
Thanks for the review, was completely unfamiliar with Starke, never heard anyone mention them and yet they have a full line of HT gear. I have an X4700 and added Emotiva BAS X3 for the LCR. Considered getting an 8 channel (there aren't many that under $3K+). Do I really need to power the 4 surrounds and 4 heights - probably not. Would I like to take advantage of the $300 discount - sure... but now the question.... this line was announced in July - why the quick price reduction??? The Audioholics review they did was not a real deep dive (on the Fiera4), but was recommended. I have looked at the less powerful 8 channel from Monolith.... Frankly I'm not sure with my mild hearing loss at 3.5-6K I'd hear any difference. Frankly for $1400 I could likely sell the X4700 and pick up the new X3800 and have $$$ left over! Oh the need to upgrade disease!
Surprised to see no ventilation on 5 of the 6 surfaces shown with the bottom of the case being the 6th that is not shown. Of course you don't need to be a rocket surgeon to understand that ventilation on the bottom of the case alone is ineffective. Yes it's Class D but Class D amps are not 100% efficient. I assume the output devices are (thermally) mounted to the case with it being used as a heat sink. It would be good to know how hot the case gets when all 8 channels are being driven for an extended period of time at levels where the amplifier is less efficient.
The trend with significant others I assume is to show the modality of the home theater build out "Hobby" and the other half the time the "Entertaining" phase of the experience with home theater and friends and loved ones. My kids are my best audience.
Just bought the fiera8 on black Friday 4 $1259, than I noticed OSD had their Nero XA7180 4 $764 damn. Which do you recommend is better amplifier. Thanks
Hi, Shane How would you say the Fiera 8/4 compares to the RMB 1555/1585? It would be driving Arendal 1723 large LCR with 1961 monitors as surround and heights.
Thanks, but I would appreciate comparing it also with the mcintosh or trinnov power-amps. Mainly to see if the difference is tide with the mediocre internal amp or with the cleaner pre-outs when are the internal amps deactivated. Piece
Those sound better. That's why I didn't compare them. The people buying those are likely not interested in this. Made more sense as a receiver add-on since it doesn't cost that much.
Always run in full range. But then only recently I added a sub. Previously all the LFE went through my mains with no issues. Certainly goes lower now but otherwise found it to sound very good.
Shane, I need 8 channels of amplification for surrounds and Atmos. For around the same money would you pick this Starke 8-channel or (2) Outlaw Audio 5-channel amps? Those are 120WPC @ 8 ohms so fairly comparable in specs and price.
Hi shane, I need your help I am upgrading my system ive had kef reference speakers for 30years love them but had to get rid of them because parts are getting hard to get and didn't want to be left with speakers that couldn't get parts for , I now have b&w ct 7.3 x3 up front and 7.4s x4 side and rear was thinking 7.4s for atmos or could get 7.5s for atmos. Sold my amps so was wondering 2x yamaha mx-a5200 using one for LCR and side's to keep the power up and the 2nd for the rest rear and atmos they are on offer at £2000 each or just wait for denon avr-a1h you should be reviewing soon.
Great review. Shane as a former owner of the rotel rmb-1585 can you help me to make a decision? I'm debating between the rotel rmb-1585 and the anthem mca-525. One of them will be connected to the lyngdorf mp-40 and my speakers are svs ultra full set and svs pb16 subwoofer. I'll appreciate if you help me to make the best decisions
Hello Shane, like the video about Starke, was thinking about upgrading my subwoofer from my Klipsch Spl-150 to the Starke sub SW15,is it worth it, IDK. saw your video on the Starke SW 15,I like it but just don't know if it's worth upgrading over my SPL150. THANKS
I got impressive infrasonic response with the starke. I’ve never heard the klipsch in my place so I can’t say if it’s worth the switch. I doubt it’ll reach as low as the starke though.
@@therealshanelee Starke Sound is a just a great audio company. They produce a range of high-end and there amazing popular line of Fiera amplifiers and there subwoofers are truly amazing. I hope Emotiva and SVS don't take this the wrong way; but Starke Sound product just look better and perform above their price. I don't work there; I just think you can't go wrong with Starke Sound for the holidays.
I wish you have reviewed Cinema 40. I heard Cinema 40 uses even better parts, it is made in Japan, same factory where Denon flagship is made. Also it has metal front panel and more power.
Shit man, the Marantz buzzing has a defect. And what’s the point of getting an integrated receiver that is underpowered…your are paying for the whole amp stage…And by adding rca interconnects you are loosing definition…less contacts is better.
Are you really testing Starke products after the huge fuckup last year? I guess this one is also giving out 1/4 of its rated powers? This brand should be buried and forgotten. Bad choice guys. :(
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Hey Shane. This amplifier is for $1,279 right now. Would you buy this one or the Emotiva A5 or A7? Happy holidays. Greetings from Houston. I have a Costco Klipsch 5.0.2 system. I added two subs, two Klipsch atmos speakers, and two SVS elevation speaker. I can barely hear my atmos and surround speakers. My AVR is the onkyo tx-rz50. Any imput would be appreciated.
It would be great to know what DAC's are in the Cinema 50?
i had slight hiss from my speakers too /Denon AVR + Parasound power amp/ but surprisingly all noise was gone after using cheap - "CS947 Tacima 6 Way Mains Conditioner" .. really recommend it - its cheap to just buy & try it u might be surprised like me !
I would love you to review the Buckeye Amps... Custom channel configuration from 2-8 channels as well as 2 different power levels that can be mixed and matched within the same case. They are supposed to sound amazing and a more than fair price
I'm thinking about adding a 3 channel Buckeye purifi to the Marantz Cinema 50.
Will you be doing a full review on the cinema 50?
Eventually
I bought a ToneWinner 7300 2.0 Version to pair with my Marantz sr 6011 and there is absolutely no hiss . Spec of Tech did a review of the first 7300 and stated he had a hiss coming through .Since then ToneWinner have fixed that hiss with the 7300 2.0 version ....maybe that is why Starke is putting them on sale...but class D should be nice...but if you have a 110 watt receiver ..you should double that to at least 220 watts amp to hear a 3db increase.
I was initially quite worried about Tonewinner's hiss as well, using an older Marantz avr here too with 7300 2.0. I can confirm, the amp is absolutely dead silent, even with Klipsch speakers.
@@KashKhatana Yes the newer 7300 eliminated that problem and the ToneWinner is doing excellent driving my 4 ohm Linn Majik 140s!
Most of the sound signature is from the preamp section so not surprised there wasn’t that much of a difference. I agree, the internal amps are pretty good.
I did not know that. So your saying since Marantz has this special "Marantz" sound it will retain this even when using a power amplifier? Thx
this vs the monoprice 8125x Class D/8250x class D?
Would like to know too.
@Shane Lee , try NAD M28
The amps in the Marantz are really good. Great comparison. Completely relative to who would be in the market for the Starke. Thanks!
Marantz doesn't last. Had an amp and BD player fail on me shortly after warranty expired.
@@clasvirhodes4969my SR5010 has been working flawlessly for 11 years now.
Been waiting for this review as I think Starke provides a high level performance at a very affordable price
Great review Shane! I'm a bit torn on the Cinema 50. I find it too expensive for my 5.1 especially since I have another Marantz that has a toroidal.
But it sounds like it's somehow not missing much compared to separates and the 8015. If that's the case, then it might be a possible upgrade path but I just wish it had 180 watts for 2 channel and could bi-amp my LF with the same conviction. Maybe it can but I'd love to have that peace of mind before I bought it 😄
I know your stereo speakers are amazing and probably the perfect size for your room but I wish you had towers that dip into the 30-40hz range to compare them. I would have also bi-amped them as that would add more separation.
It's got Dirac soon and 4 independent sub outs. Looks nicer too I think.
@@therealshanelee but do the newer ones sound any better than the ones they are replacing?
I like how you review unique and new stuff that others don't!
thanks Shane, always good to hear about other brand names,
Shane, did you try using a preamp or processor with XLR outs? I'd like to know if you still had any hum or hiss if you switched to balanced connections.
Yes I did. My review equipment is in the video description.
@@therealshanelee Sorry, I wasn't aware. It is very confusing, though. You have an entire section of this video showing you hooking the amp up to what I believe in the Denon 4700x via RCA cables. But you have the 4700x listed as "entry level system" in your Deescrption. Then you have the Trinnov listed under "review equipment" in your Description but you make no mention of it during your video. Just be aware that to me (and perhaps others,) the video makes it look like you conducted this entire review using the Denon with RCA interconnects. So if you did at one point use the Trinnov with XLR interconnects, did you really not notice any difference whatsoever with the hum/buzz issue? (If so, I guess the Starke doesn't actually utilize a fully balanced input mechanism?)
@@joes3800 it's very confusing how you came up with me hooking up the starke to a 4700? You did see the video as well as the title and thumbnail? And my review system is listed below as well. Just take out whatever amp is listed and drop the starke in there. All amps were mentioned in the video also 🤷🏻♂️
@@therealshanelee A few things:
1. First, I like your videos and I will continue to watch them. Not looking to pick a fight or have an argument. If you're interested in some feedback read on. If not, it's all good.
2. I just re-watched the video. It's my mistake in that you never mentioned the Denon; I got confused because it was in your Description, but you clearly mentioned and showed the Marantz Cinema 50. So I will refer accurately to the Cinema 50 from here on out rather than make any mention of a Denon product.
3. That all said, I still have no indication from the video itself that you used a processor or preamp with XLR outs. In your replies and your Description you say you did, so I get that. But you make no mention in the video that you used any preamp other than the Cinema 50, you spend an entire minute of this 10 minute video showing that you hooked it up with RCA cables starting at 2:45, and while you make mention at 4:10 that you also used your 2-channel set up, you only mention what speakers you have in your 2-channel setup and from the shot at 4:19 as well as the background shots starting at 4:42, it looks to me like you're also using the Cinema 50 (which only has RCA pre-outs) in your 2-channel setup. Furthermore, you still have yet to indicate in any of your replies whether or not you heard or measured any difference in noise floor when using different preamp with different interconnects, so your lack of any information/verification in that regard still makes me a bit suspicious about whether or not you actually used anything other than the Cinema 50 as a preamp with the Starke amp.
4. I don't want to come off like I'm throwing shade your way, so it's worth repeating point #1. I appreciate your hard work in getting information to the community of which I am a part and will continue to be a part. I'm just trying to get a little more information/clarification and maybe provide some constructive criticism to help make your videos and/or Descriptions more clear and informative. I apologize if I am conveying any of my thoughts in a manner that is unclear or inappropriate or not constructive.
I’ve never been concerned about hiss and noise floor. Some of the very best amps I’ve listened to have some hiss. But if it’s buzzing… no good!
you got power issues somewhere in your house. it's not the audio amps causing that hiss ... don't blame them 😉
No I don't.
Shane, thanks for video! What is the best for and film and music as 1 component - Marantz AV10 or Arcam AV41?
Yeah baby, early in the morning unboxing vid
🍻
@@therealshanelee I just clicked your link, $1499 at the moment, and 8 channels would compliment my 5 channel Rotel.
Hmmmm, early Xmas gift.
@@HomeTheaterCommish didn’t realize it’s cheaper than the screenshot in the video.
@@therealshanelee is it your commission link, because I want to give you credit for the find.
@@HomeTheaterCommish yes it is 👍
Thanks for the review.
Thanks for the review, was completely unfamiliar with Starke, never heard anyone mention them and yet they have a full line of HT gear. I have an X4700 and added Emotiva BAS X3 for the LCR. Considered getting an 8 channel (there aren't many that under $3K+). Do I really need to power the 4 surrounds and 4 heights - probably not. Would I like to take advantage of the $300 discount - sure... but now the question.... this line was announced in July - why the quick price reduction??? The Audioholics review they did was not a real deep dive (on the Fiera4), but was recommended. I have looked at the less powerful 8 channel from Monolith.... Frankly I'm not sure with my mild hearing loss at 3.5-6K I'd hear any difference. Frankly for $1400 I could likely sell the X4700 and pick up the new X3800 and have $$$ left over! Oh the need to upgrade disease!
Thanks for the review. I would be severely upset having invested over $10k in audio equipment and be hissing. Would a power conditioner fix this?
How would you compare this amp with the emotiva XPA gen3
How does this Starke compare to a monolith class d which I know uses Hyphex modules? Trying to see which to go with.
Surprised to see no ventilation on 5 of the 6 surfaces shown with the bottom of the case being the 6th that is not shown. Of course you don't need to be a rocket surgeon to understand that ventilation on the bottom of the case alone is ineffective. Yes it's Class D but Class D amps are not 100% efficient. I assume the output devices are (thermally) mounted to the case with it being used as a heat sink. It would be good to know how hot the case gets when all 8 channels are being driven for an extended period of time at levels where the amplifier is less efficient.
When are you going to review anthem products?
He has, search the video history
@@neilhansen3025 I mean, the new anthem processors and amplifiers.
@@Cerim112 they reviewed them on Audiohaulics channel. I own the avm 70! I love it so much im selling it to upgrade to the 90!
@@Cerim112 Gene from Audiohaulics you tube channel has bench test reviews of the 740 and 1140
What DAcs does the new line of Marantz AVR’s and processor have? Marantz hasn’t disclose this information on the website?
Could you pop the top and let us know what Dac's are being used in the Cinema 50? Thanks
The trend with significant others I assume is to show the modality of the home theater build out "Hobby" and the other half the time the "Entertaining" phase of the experience with home theater and friends and loved ones.
My kids are my best audience.
Just bought the fiera8 on black Friday 4 $1259, than I noticed OSD had their Nero XA7180 4 $764 damn. Which do you recommend is better amplifier. Thanks
Starke
I have an emotiva xpa2 Gen 2 in my system and I have no hiss like zero
Hi, Shane
How would you say the Fiera 8/4 compares to the RMB 1555/1585? It would be driving Arendal 1723 large LCR with 1961 monitors as surround and heights.
Did you ever get an answer to this question? I'm curious too.
So this review is a Marantz Cinema 50 vs a Marantz Cinema 50 (pre-amp mode) + Starke Sound Fiera 8?
I guess you could look at it that way.
Nice to see a power amp review ! 👍🏽
I've got several on the channel.
Thanks, but I would appreciate comparing it also with the mcintosh or trinnov power-amps. Mainly to see if the difference is tide with the mediocre internal amp or with the cleaner pre-outs when are the internal amps deactivated. Piece
Those sound better. That's why I didn't compare them. The people buying those are likely not interested in this. Made more sense as a receiver add-on since it doesn't cost that much.
Excuse my lack of knowledge but why would you only have 8 channels and not 9, 11 or more?
Most of the high count avr/ processors are 15/16 channels. You can get 2 and have the right amount.
He can do reference levels on all channels?
Always run in full range. But then only recently I added a sub. Previously all the LFE went through my mains with no issues. Certainly goes lower now but otherwise found it to sound very good.
Same here, I recently added a sub after 20 years without one. I have towers for my LF. It's not a clear win even if you crossover at 45hz.
Shane, I need 8 channels of amplification for surrounds and Atmos. For around the same money would you pick this Starke 8-channel or (2) Outlaw Audio 5-channel amps? Those are 120WPC @ 8 ohms so fairly comparable in specs and price.
Starke
@@therealshanelee why? Please describe your reasoning.
Great video more class d amps review please like the new monolith and the nad m28
NAD has a new amp? 🤔
Hi shane,
I need your help I am upgrading my system ive had kef reference speakers for 30years love them but had to get rid of them because parts are getting hard to get and didn't want to be left with speakers that couldn't get parts for , I now have b&w ct 7.3 x3 up front and 7.4s x4 side and rear was thinking 7.4s for atmos or could get 7.5s for atmos.
Sold my amps so was wondering 2x yamaha mx-a5200 using one for LCR and side's to keep the power up and the 2nd for the rest rear and atmos they are on offer at £2000 each or just wait for denon avr-a1h you should be reviewing soon.
Always go separates.
Thanks shane what should I do about my speakers
Can you make a video which best 3D Blu-ray player? Bcoz Black Friday is coming 😊👍
Panasonic
@@therealshanelee what model? 😊
Great review.
Shane as a former owner of the rotel rmb-1585 can you help me to make a decision?
I'm debating between the rotel rmb-1585 and the anthem mca-525.
One of them will be connected to the lyngdorf mp-40 and my speakers are svs ultra full set and svs pb16 subwoofer.
I'll appreciate if you help me to make the best decisions
Can't say for sure. I've never heard the Anthem.
@@therealshanelee is the rotel rmb-1585 good enough to pair it to the lyngdorf mp-40 processor and to my svs ultra speakers?
More than good enough.
Hello Shane, like the video about Starke, was thinking about upgrading my subwoofer from my Klipsch Spl-150 to the Starke sub SW15,is it worth it, IDK. saw your video on the Starke SW 15,I like it but just don't know if it's worth upgrading over my SPL150. THANKS
I got impressive infrasonic response with the starke. I’ve never heard the klipsch in my place so I can’t say if it’s worth the switch. I doubt it’ll reach as low as the starke though.
@@therealshanelee Thanks Shane for response
@@therealshanelee Starke Sound is a just a great audio company. They produce a range of high-end and there amazing popular line of Fiera amplifiers and there subwoofers are truly amazing. I hope Emotiva and SVS don't take this the wrong way; but Starke Sound product just look better and perform above their price. I don't work there; I just think you can't go wrong with Starke Sound for the holidays.
@@chebrubin sounds like a pitch 😆
We want Nancy, we want Nancy, we want Nancy 😂 JK
Monday
@@therealshanelee jk bro, cool review. Keep em coming
I wish you have reviewed Cinema 40. I heard Cinema 40 uses even better parts, it is made in Japan, same factory where Denon flagship is made. Also it has metal front panel and more power.
I have the 40 and love it. Would like too see a review on it by experienced Hi-Fi reviewers. I love the copper screws used on the 40!
请问你怎么看待 斯塔克AD4后级功放实际测试只有69瓦的问题
Shit man, the Marantz buzzing has a defect. And what’s the point of getting an integrated receiver that is underpowered…your are paying for the whole amp stage…And by adding rca interconnects you are loosing definition…less contacts is better.
Are you really testing Starke products after the huge fuckup last year? I guess this one is also giving out 1/4 of its rated powers? This brand should be buried and forgotten. Bad choice guys. :(
What happened last year?
The new ones have been measured to exceed their spec from what I've seen.
Yeah, I am curious as to what happened? This isn’t saying much. I am looking at getting an A8.350 power amp from them and a Fiera 4ch for my atmos.
you mean the fuckup with asr ?
@@therealshanelee Measured by whom? Do you have a source you can post here?