bo_knows
Addicted to Fun and Learning
You failed to mention resistors and copper plate under the transformer. Just kidding.The A110 has unique windings, caps and uses a different manufacturing method for the boards. I would assume none of this is audible but could affect long term reliability. I owned one and it didn't sound any better then the X4700 I owned before it but my current RMC-IL sounds better than both. I agree with the thought they would be a bit more exclusive and there wouldn't be a .2 (so to speak) model.
Yeah, without underplaying, or underestimating the Sound Master(s) at Denon/Marantz, I'm wondering how much these 250-plus parts can change the sound. Going from elna silmic to elna silmic 2 cap, does it make it audible? Also, it appears to me they don't practice any double-blind tests and everything depends on one man's ears (can you say golden ears). I personally would prefer the panel of listeners (Revel, KEF) to be used in hearing tests since each one of them may be listening for different things and combined input will result in a more complete product.
That being said, if I had a chance to exchange my 8500H for A110, would I do it? In a heartbeat, cause Denon marketing has me convinced, and a 5-year warranty doesn't hurt. LOL