Video Asylum: REVIEW: Arcam AVR-350 Receiver by webhammer

Model:	AVR-350
Category:	Receiver
Suggested Retail Price:	$2500
Description:	Best sounding receiver on the planet?
Manufacturer URL:	Arcam
Model Picture:	View

Review by webhammer ( D ) on July 07, 2006 at 08:22:55
IP Address: 68.255.117.214

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for the AVR-350

As a former "Linnie", where timing precision was everything, I can say that the Arcam AVR-350 has opened new vistas into what is possible with a receiver. Not only is the timing spot on, the noise floor drops to zero. I have never experienced such realistic size and body in instrumentation before, and the emotional presentation in vocals, from Patsy Cline to Cecilia Bartoli, makes me cry every time I listen. I had the Arcam AVR-300 for a year before this, and before that, an active Linn system with Kaber speakers, Kairn preamp and three 5105 amps. I have always preferred the British sound. Give this receiver a listen on music, even in a non-purist way as I do, in Dolby Pro Logic Music with no delays. I guarantee you will be surprised.

Product Weakness: None noted.
Product Strengths: Incredibly low noise floor, subtlety revealed on every emotional passage.

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Arcam Diva AVR-350
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	None
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Arcam FMJ DV29
Speakers:	Acoustic Energy AE1 MkIII
Cables/Interconnects:	Nordost throughout
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Pop and classical individual and group vocals
Room Size (LxWxH):	16 x 13 x 8
Time Period/Length of Audition:	3 weeks
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	REL Brittania 2 sub
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	None noted.
Product Strengths:	Incredibly low noise floor, subtlety revealed on every emotional passage.