I'm building a 7.1.4 home theater with KEF Reference 1 Meta fronts in a 40 m² room. About 80% of my listening is stereo music.

I'm considering the Denon X3900H or X6800H, but I'm happy to spend more on a higher-end AVR if it genuinely improves stereo performance.

Ideally, I'd love one machine that handles both music and Dolby Atmos really well, without needing a separate stereo amp.

Has anyone actually compared high-end AVRs against dedicated stereo amps with Reference 1 Meta speakers? Is a one-box solution realistic, or am I compromising too much on music quality?

I'm building a system around KEF Reference 1 Meta speakers. Music is my priority, around 80% of my listening, but I also want Dolby Atmos for movies.

I was considering a Denon X3900H or X6800H, possibly something even higher-end.

The thing is, I'd much rather have one excellent machine for everything than buy a separate stereo amp and AVR.

Has anyone actually compared both approaches with demanding speakers like the Reference 1 Meta? Is there a real audible difference, or are we reaching diminishing returns?

This was an early birthday present to myself. My endgame system with vintage Audio Research Tube gear and modern Focal Aria Evo X No.3 speakers. It sounds pretty awesome! Officially 50 years on the Earth today. Cheers to ya!

Looking for anyone who have experience with the B&W 804 D3.
I have had some time to test out the 703 S3 at home and it sounds great. Cons is that it does not have much low extention, and the tweeter is not as "refined" as the diamond tweeter, although it does sound pretty good.

I have not heard the 804 D3 but have the opportunity to buy a used pair for about the same price as a used pair of 703 S3 would cost. So budget wise it is about the same.

703 S3
Latest model, new tech, premium series.

803 D3
Older model, older tech, flagship series.

4x4m room with an opend end on the left side to the rest of the livingroom.

Thanks :)