Has Anyone Got Their Hands On Ca 650r Receiver?

[shmb]

Hi,

I just registered here as this seems to be the most active thread on the 650R anywhere on the web! I just bought one along with a 650BD and am using it with a Pioneer KRP500A plasma screen.

However, I've run into several of the issues mentioned here, and some even more severe ones.

First of all, I would like to say that I think it does sound very, very good for 2ch playback, which is probably its main selling point (for me as well). I plan to extend to a 5.1 setup shortly, but for the time being I'm running a pair of System Audio 1750 biamped in front. As has been mentioned though, the analog in does seem to be a touch brighter than running a digital output from the 650BD. I like the analog direct sound a little better as far as depth and dynamics, but it's also a little harder on the ears. Letting the amp do the D/A conversion, it sounds a little more relaxed, but with a little less depth. All in all, I think they're both viable alternatives. I'm curious though if a software upgrade affects the analog direct sound? I wouldn't expect it to, but since someone else said they heard a similar difference between analog and digital in, which then disappeared after resetting the amp, I was curious. I just reset mine, it has 1.4 firmware (sat on the shelf for a little while), so I do get some of the other issues mentioned:

1) The missed seconds at the beginning of tracks when starting playback over a digital connection. Very annoying, but it stil remains unclear whether a firmware update has fixed this? I also get (very) occasional dropouts. The gaps also appear whenever I change the track on a disc.

2) Major HDMI compatibility issues! The 650BD and 650R connect just fine (if you disregard the silent gaps), and the two units also connect fine to the Pioneer screen on their own, but if I try to run it 650BD-->650R-->Pioneer, nothing seems to work. Very occasionally I can get both picture and sound, but as soon as I break the connection (by switching to another amp input, or changing discs), the HDMI connection fails and never re-establishes. I get maybe a second of sound, then it switches off again, the TV flashes but never displays a proper image, and the HDMI signs are blinking. I've tried every possible setting I can think of, but it just won't work. I've talked to CA support, and they've suggested I take it in for a firmware upgrade and check, but I wanted to ask if anyone else has experienced the same issues (I did read something somewhat similar in a few posts, but not quite like this). FWIW, the TV has worked flawlessly before, the 650BD connects to it without any issues, same with a sattellite tuner.

3) With SACD playback, if I have the 650BD-->650R-->Pioneer setup via HDMI, I get "glitches", brief bursts of digital hi-frequency noise at regular intervals. This happens even if the TV is off!

It's really frustrating with these issues, as the amp sounds great as already mentioned. I'd really love to have an HDMI connection for MCh pplayback, but also for "alternative" stereo in on particularly bright discs.

Anyone else recognize these issues, and have they been fixed with the latest firmware?

All I can say is I've run a HD set top box through the AVR and then to the TV, all via HDMI, and it worked fine.

I don't have a Blu Ray player yet but I can't see it being any different. Its still HDMI.

So yes maybe a firmware upgrade will fix it.

Regarding the other delay issue, I'm running a dvd player audio through digital coaxial input and if there is a delay its not more than a second or so.

So once again an upgrade will possibly do the trick.

Good luck and let us know how you go.

By the way, I've had a lot more listening time over the last couple of days, (mainly 2 channel CD's)and I have to say the audio performance is fantastic.

Very delicate sound with plenty of depth, but also dynamic and fast when asked. But not harsh in any way.

[Battler009]

Hi,

I just registered here as this seems to be the most active thread on the 650R anywhere on the web! I just bought one along with a 650BD and am using it with a Pioneer KRP500A plasma screen.

However, I've run into several of the issues mentioned here, and some even more severe ones.

First of all, I would like to say that I think it does sound very, very good for 2ch playback, which is probably its main selling point (for me as well). I plan to extend to a 5.1 setup shortly, but for the time being I'm running a pair of System Audio 1750 biamped in front. As has been mentioned though, the analog in does seem to be a touch brighter than running a digital output from the 650BD. I like the analog direct sound a little better as far as depth and dynamics, but it's also a little harder on the ears. Letting the amp do the D/A conversion, it sounds a little more relaxed, but with a little less depth. All in all, I think they're both viable alternatives. I'm curious though if a software upgrade affects the analog direct sound? I wouldn't expect it to, but since someone else said they heard a similar difference between analog and digital in, which then disappeared after resetting the amp, I was curious. I just reset mine, it has 1.4 firmware (sat on the shelf for a little while), so I do get some of the other issues mentioned:

1) The missed seconds at the beginning of tracks when starting playback over a digital connection. Very annoying, but it stil remains unclear whether a firmware update has fixed this? I also get (very) occasional dropouts. The gaps also appear whenever I change the track on a disc.

2) Major HDMI compatibility issues! The 650BD and 650R connect just fine (if you disregard the silent gaps), and the two units also connect fine to the Pioneer screen on their own, but if I try to run it 650BD-->650R-->Pioneer, nothing seems to work. Very occasionally I can get both picture and sound, but as soon as I break the connection (by switching to another amp input, or changing discs), the HDMI connection fails and never re-establishes. I get maybe a second of sound, then it switches off again, the TV flashes but never displays a proper image, and the HDMI signs are blinking. I've tried every possible setting I can think of, but it just won't work. I've talked to CA support, and they've suggested I take it in for a firmware upgrade and check, but I wanted to ask if anyone else has experienced the same issues (I did read something somewhat similar in a few posts, but not quite like this). FWIW, the TV has worked flawlessly before, the 650BD connects to it without any issues, same with a sattellite tuner.

3) With SACD playback, if I have the 650BD-->650R-->Pioneer setup via HDMI, I get "glitches", brief bursts of digital hi-frequency noise at regular intervals. This happens even if the TV is off!

It's really frustrating with these issues, as the amp sounds great as already mentioned. I'd really love to have an HDMI connection for MCh pplayback, but also for "alternative" stereo in on particularly bright discs.

Anyone else recognize these issues, and have they been fixed with the latest firmware?

Try turning off any CEC type links on the pio and in your AVR / Blu-ray players. I think the pioneer call it KuroLink or something along those lines. All this does is help use one remote across the devices, but really just causes issues

[shakti]

Try turning off any CEC type links on the pio and in your AVR / Blu-ray players. I think the pioneer call it KuroLink or something along those lines. All this does is help use one remote across the devices, but really just causes issues

Thanks for all the suggestions. All HDMI CEC has been turned off, I've tried to keep it as simple as possible. I'll keep you all updated when I get the firmware upgrade.

[Wheel366]

I took my in to get a firmware upgrade last week. I was having issues where I am watching a DVD on my BD player and the sound and video cut out and don't come back unless I pause it and then play again or I'm assuming turn back on. Now, this could be an issue with the BD player but I also have an issue with my DVR. When I fast forward or rewind sometimes the audio cuts out and won't come bakc on unless I do either again. So, my shop talked to them and they told me to send it in for the firmware upgrade. if that doesn't fix it, they said that they will repair it.

I think in the future (can afford it now) I am going to get Anthem separates. Supposedly great for the money and have enormous sound. I'll move this upstairs to my other TV that just has stereo.

[shakti]

Quick update: Mine was sent in for upgrade and repair...turns out the HDMI board was toast, and I'll be getting a brand new amp. Unfortunately not in stock, so I'll have to wait until next month.

In the meantime I'm borrowing a CA 650A stereo amp. It's sounding real nice...

[Wheel366]

Well, it's been a month since I sent my receiver in. I heard yesterday that it is on its way back. Took long enough. Over a month is way to long! Don't know what was done yet other than firmware upgrade.

[simon62731503560075]

Well, it's been a month since I sent my receiver in. I heard yesterday that it is on its way back. Took long enough. Over a month is way to long! Don't know what was done yet other than firmware upgrade.

They probably put the latest version of the mainboard into your unit - to make it compatible with the latest version of the firmware. At least that's what happened to my unit when I sent it for firmware update. In all fairness, the technology has become so complex, nobody fixes an amp with a soldering iron these days .. it's like fixing laptops - they chuck out the whole mobo and put a new one in.

A few weeks ago I decided to try out the new Yamaha A3000. The front right channel was shot (distorted like hell) right out of the box, 2ch stereo was bleeding into the surrounds, and the unit was shutting down at -15bd. It took Yamaha 4 weeks to acknowledge the fault and to send a replacement unit to the retailer. But I took a refund straight away. Same "efficiency" applies to Audio Group with their Denons and NADs, and everybody knows the issues with Arcam AVRs .. the list goes on Atm my 650R works like a tank. The more bells and whistles you get in a modern AVR - the more flaky and un-serviceable it potentially becomes.

I would suggest you find out the turn-around time for servicing Anthem products, before you dive in. I doubt the distributor keeps stock of all parts, so you'd have to wait till they ship spares from the US.

[shmb]

I'm still very happy with mine. Sound quality is awesome. Loving it.

[Wheel366]

OK. As far as I know only the firmware update was done. This is what I have noticed since I got it back. The delay using optical on my CD player is gone along with the little clicks that I was hearing. I'm still getting a delay when switching chapters on a DVD or BD. Also, it still takes time to re-acquire the codec sometimes reaching into the 3 - 5 second range. I have had the sound and picture go out twice in one sitting but this time the screen was dark and there was no static. When watching From Paris with Love everything was fine exept that 15 minute intro before the movie which re-acquired the codec about 5 times in that 15 second period. Gonna talk to my store and see what they say.

[simon62731503560075]

OK. As far as I know only the firmware update was done. This is what I have noticed since I got it back. The delay using optical on my CD player is gone along with the little clicks that I was hearing. I'm still getting a delay when switching chapters on a DVD or BD. Also, it still takes time to re-acquire the codec sometimes reaching into the 3 - 5 second range. I have had the sound and picture go out twice in one sitting but this time the screen was dark and there was no static. When watching From Paris with Love everything was fine exept that 15 minute intro before the movie which re-acquired the codec about 5 times in that 15 second period. Gonna talk to my store and see what they say.

I would suggest talk directly to CA customer service - I've posted the URL a few posts ago.

[shmb]

For those that have posted on there, how long does it take to get a reply?

I posted there a couple of days ago, so i'm curious.

Thanks

[SDL]

For those that have posted on there, how long does it take to get a reply?

I posted there a couple of days ago, so i'm curious.

Thanks

I got an answer on a query overnight from them. Shouldn't take long depending on the issue.

[betty boop]

Not sure on URL, but I just rang the distributor up, spoke to a human and got an instant answer,

My query re Cambridge tuner, which mine needed an update. I had choice to drop off to them pick up same day. But not being able to get there during the week. Dropped off at my retailer picked up couple of days later. So service from ca pretty good.

[shakti]

OK,

I got my brand new replacement unit a few days ago.

Good things first: the HDMI switching noises and digital glitches are gone. It sounds great. I even tend to feel that this unit doesn't sound as bright on the direct in signal as my previous unit did, though this may be a burn-in issue. Plus, I haven't had time to sit down and evaluate it thoroughly...but that's my immediate impression. There seems to be less difference between the HDMI and analog direct signal as far as brightness...but do take that with a grain of salt.

The bad thing is that this ***## still won't establish a proper HDMI link between the 650BD and my Pioneer KRP500A plasma. I can usually get sound, but no picture. On one occasion only I got both sound and picture, but the sound was badly distorted and the picture completely messed up both in colour and resolution. I have tried different video settings on the 650BD to no avail. Again, hooking up the 650BD and 650R individually to the KRP500 is no problem, I get a perfect picture, but as soon as I try to pass video through the 650R all hell breaks loose.

I'm about ready to send this back and just demand a refund and go stereo instead (that 650A really did sound nice), but I'm willing to entertain any suggestions on how to make this work...

[Wheel366]

I posted a question to them about my sound and picture going out when watching DVDs and blu-rays and the sound going out when changing channels on my DVR or even just fast forwarding and they told me that I would have to have a tech look at it. My newest problem is that it now turns itself off. I was watching a DVD the other night, had the AVR on for about 10 - 15 minutes and it just turned off. 5 minutes later it turned off again and then not even 5 minutes after that the sound and video went out. Now, I'm looking at options. Don't know what yet though.

[shmb]

I posted a question to them about my sound and picture going out when watching DVDs and blu-rays and the sound going out when changing channels on my DVR or even just fast forwarding and they told me that I would have to have a tech look at it. My newest problem is that it now turns itself off. I was watching a DVD the other night, had the AVR on for about 10 - 15 minutes and it just turned off. 5 minutes later it turned off again and then not even 5 minutes after that the sound and video went out. Now, I'm looking at options. Don't know what yet though.

Please keep us posted on the outcome of this. I'm very interested.

[Wheel366]

Please keep us posted on the outcome of this. I'm very interested.

I'm returning it to my dealer. They are gonna send it back for repair and sell it as a refurbished unit. I'm getting an Anthem MX700 instead.

[liverbird]

Just bought a cambridge 650r today but cant get the OSD up on the tv so not able to set anything up!! anybody have any set up tips

[AaA1]

Just bought a cambridge 650r today but cant get the OSD up on the tv so not able to set anything up!! anybody have any set up tips

Mate, how its going with your CA 650R? I'm planning to get one this weekend.

[betty boop]

Mate, how its going with your CA 650R? I'm planning to get one this weekend.

if you can help it...dont !

cambridge has just released an updated lower model.

http://www.carltonaudiovisual.com.au/?q=node/view/1599

which I dare say be a lot less buggy, and also indication a 651r updated receiver would soon be out

[AMCNAD]

I took my in to get a firmware upgrade last week. I was having issues where I am watching a DVD on my BD player and the sound and video cut out and don't come back unless I pause it and then play again or I'm assuming turn back on. Now, this could be an issue with the BD player but I also have an issue with my DVR. When I fast forward or rewind sometimes the audio cuts out and won't come bakc on unless I do either again. So, my shop talked to them and they told me to send it in for the firmware upgrade. if that doesn't fix it, they said that they will repair it.

I think in the future (can afford it now) I am going to get Anthem separates. Supposedly great for the money and have enormous sound. I'll move this upstairs to my other TV that just has stereo.

I believe this is a very common problem with the 650R

Mine has been doing this recently and I have the latest firmware.

I believe it is an HDMI card fault that has existed since they brought it out!

Called Synergy and they do not want to know about it as it is out of warranty.

Call the 3rd party repairer and they said it was likely the HDMI board or the power supply, but either way it would be $600 to repair.

Seriously I can buy one second hand for that!!

Bottom line this product was not fit for sale from the beginning

And never purchase a Cambridge product again (if it goes wrong after 2 year warranty may as well throw it out)

Edited May 11, 2015 by KEF Ci2000