Do I "need" a high-end receiver?

[zoltar]

Okay, how about these:
Receiver: Pioneer A/V Receiver (VSX-816-K) $250
Sub: Either JBL ($349) or Boston 12"($449)
The front speakers at this store that sounded the most like a live concert to me were made by "Monitor." Never heard of them, but for $399 per pair I thought they did well. I would spend more, if necessary, but I would have to A/B them.
Center, rear: Don't know yet.

[markw]

Okay, how about these:
Receiver: Pioneer A/V Receiver (VSX-816-K) $250
Sub: Either JBL ($349) or Boston 12"($449)
The front speakers at this store that sounded the most like a live concert to me were made by "Monitor." Never heard of them, but for $399 per pair I thought they did well. I would spend more, if necessary, but I would have to A/B them.
Center, rear: Don't know yet.

First off, as for subs, I suggestyo ustick with people who mainly make subs. SVS, Hsu, Velodyne atrea few that come to mind, particularly since you seem willing to drop 450 on a Bahston. Trust me on this one or, better yet, see what others say. The better the sub, the better your overall satisfaction will be.

As for receivers, any of the major brands are good and ones choice has more to do with personal preferences and brand loyalty than actual technical differences.

As for your choices, you might want to lok at these. Considering these are guaranteed by the manufacturer, you can get a great deal on some fine stuff. Remember, just because they have seven channels, you don't have to use all seven. I've got six but am running happily with five.

http://www.accessories4less.com/cgi-...ory/AVReceiver

I've dealt with these guys and have not been burned yet.

IMNSHO, If you can, I'd go to at least what you would have alollocated on your Pioneer but, as you can see, you can rally, really cheap out is you choose. I'd rather err on theside of caution and get more for my money. I've dealt with these guys and have not been burned yet.

(pssst... c'mere, kid.... I like Marantz but don't tell anyone else.)

Just what you needed, eh? More choices! You really didn't think we would let you off that easy, did you?

Oh, one last hint. When shopping speakers I suggest you being music to judge them by. Speakers that sound good on music wiil sound at least as good on movies. It son't wortk the other way. Lots of people who buy speakers for movies wind up not being totally happy when they finally play music on 'em.