Yeah, I just listened to a live concert recording on YouTube that I've listened to numerous times with my 3801, and it REALLY sounds different; I don't like it as much. I said crisp earlier, but it's quite tinny (similar to what Audyssey does to my Axioms). The playback is also severely lacking bass.

I'm assuming the processing is on by default and thus the causation? I haven't touched the menu...

It requires you to run MCACC first to set the equalizer settings.

Cat, do you (or anyone else) know how Pioneer gauges it's volume? I have it set to -12, as I did with my 3801, but the output is much lower. -12 was the same loudness on my 3801 and 3808. It was really my threshold for both (the 3801 was connected to my computer, so I set the receiver to -12 and adjusted the volume on my computer), but as aforementioned, the Pio's output isn't even close at the same volume rating.

Thanks

The manual states that "phase control" is on by default. Yea or nay?

Not sure. Reading up on it says better sound with multiple speakers. Just try it on, them off, to see which you prefer.

Seems odd your not getting much power at -12. I get about the same decimal level with both Pioneer and Denon.

Edit: check to see if any dynamic volume control is on. That would do it.

Good idea. I'll test the phase control once it's hooked up where it belongs.

I went into the receiver menu and changed to default speaker settings. It was set to fronts and surrounds "on", as well as "yes" for a subwoofer (which I don't have in my bedroom). It now sounds MUCH better after amending accordingly.

I'll check to see if dynamic volume is on....

Thanks, Cat.

Just noticed its called auto level control on the Pioneer. Not dynamic volume as on Denon.

HA! I just came to state that, and also that there's no mention - that I can see - of ALC in the manual.

I'm looking at the online Manuel for the SC-65 and on the page that shows a picture of the remote it mentions a button called auto/alc/direct.

Also page 55 called Auto playback.

Also a mention on page 57 in Using Stream Direct.

Ah, yes, you're right. Thanks! When my caregiver comes in tonight, I'll get her to tell me what the display says, then I'll proceed with cycling through those settings via the remote.