Marantz - new SR6004/SR5004 receivers add bluetooth/PLIIz/etc.

[dobyblue]

I don't know if they're the first, but Marantz' two new receivers, the SR5004 and SR6004 have added bluetooth capabilities to their receivers/remotes. Anyone familiar with using bluetooth as a remote (PS3) knows how much more kickass it is than IR. Pretty cool feature!

SR6004 - http://us.marantz.com/Products/2980.asp

• RX101 Bluetooth/IR Receiver included
• Front USB audio input for iPod/iPhone digital connection or USB Memory
• Dolby TrueHD/Pro Logic IIz, dts-HD Master Audio Decoder
• Audyssey Dynamic EQ, Dynamic Volume and MultEQ Auto Calibration
• Sophisticated aluminum/reinforced resin front panel with Front door design for Clean Panel
• HDMI (v1.3) Repeating: Four Inputs, Two Outputs
• Graphical User Interface
• 10% Improved 110 watts (into 8 ohms) x 7 ch Amps
• Analog, Digital Independent PWBs design to minimize mutual interference
• Component Video output for 2nd Zone
• Marantz Custom High Quality Block Capacitor
• Full 10-bit Video Processing
• M-DAX(Marantz Dynamic Audio eXpander)
• 2nd Zone Analog audio output (Individual source) w/discrete command
• 3rd Zone Digital audio output (for Digital input source)
• SIRIUS & XM Ready with discrete IR commands
• Bi-Amp Drive Capability
• RS-232C, DC Trigger out, Flasher In and Marantz D-BUS (RC-5) In/Out
• LCD Learning Backlight system remote
• Available Option Rack Mount Kit RMK6504SR

Here's an Audioholics "First Look" - http://www.audioholics.com/reviews/r...ooth-receivers

The SR6004 definitely gives you a lot for your money and the component video output for zone 2 for both receivers is definitely a plus. One thing that Marantz always seems to have going for them is looks, and on that alone, we'd like to spend some more time with their receivers.

Note the SR6004 comes with all the Bluetooth interfaces built-in, for the SR5004 you have to add a module ($130) which probably IS NOT worth it for most. Still, sexy as always.