Hands down, your fav receiver for <$1000

[Klipschnut]

I've been out of the audio game for a few years due to a sudden move, and having to leave all my toys in storage. My last receiver kicked the bucket, so I'm in the market for a new unit. I'm now living in a medium-sized apartment with a fairly large living-room.

I live a little out of the way from the larger stereo and hifi shops, and I unfortunately don't have the time or resources to drive around auditioning units.

My system is comprised of older and newer Klipsch speakers, including the Forte II's for mains, the KSB 3.1's for surrounds, and I plan on purchasing the Academy or RC-7 center shortly after the receiver. In addition, I'm running a DIY sub system utilizing a pair of 4 ohm 12" drivers in a sealed cabinet, running on a Hafler DH-200 amp accompanied by the GAS Thalia preamp.

I listen to music in stereo and watch movies in surround close to 50/50. I'm not too concerned with practicality or looks (no ball and chain here), nor ease of use and bells and whistles. I'm simply looking for the best sounding receiver for under $1000 within reason (meaning it has at least some functionality for A/V switching and a good selection of setup options).

My speakers are all highly efficient, but I'd like something with some muscle behind it. I would prefer 7.1 capability for future upgrades, but I would sacrifice it for a much nicer 5.1 unit. I may even opt for separates before long, and use only the preamp/processor functions. I assume all the receivers in my price range have more than enough inputs for my sources, so that is a non-issue. I like to tweak settings constantly, so things like bass management and sound shaping are a must.

Some of the units I've been looking at are the Denon AVR-3805/3803, Pioneer Elite VSX-45tx, Yamaha RX-V2400, and the NAD T-763. All of these units seem to be well liked in the audio community, so I would probably be more than happy with any of of them, I'm just looking for opinions on which is best, especially from people who have compared units side by side.

I should also add that when I say under $1000, I'm thinking in terms of B-stock, auctions, online retailers, and that sort of thing. I'll shop around and compare for the lowest price, but if you find a sweet deal, post a link. If you would like me to clarify anything or if you have any questions, let me know, and I'll try to stay up to date on my finds.

[hershon]

JVC RX-DV31SL dvd/receiver (handles 500 watts) , 5 orb audio mod1 satellite speakers (www.orbaudio.com) and Acoustic Research ARS108PSB subwoofer, monster cable/wire Total on sale is around $1,000 and produces great sound and picture for both cd's and dvds. You can get the JVC receiver at a great price at Amazon.com or EBay, the subwoofer online between $150-$250, monster cable/wire EBAY and the Orb Mod 1 speakers direct from Orb Audio online- they're no sold in stores.

[Klipschnut]

JVC RX-DV31SL dvd/receiver (handles 500 watts) , 5 orb audio mod1 satellite speakers (www.orbaudio.com) and Acoustic Research ARS108PSB subwoofer, monster cable/wire Total on sale is around $1,000 and produces great sound and picture for both cd's and dvds. You can get the JVC receiver at a great price at Amazon.com or EBay, the subwoofer online between $150-$250, monster cable/wire EBAY and the Orb Mod 1 speakers direct from Orb Audio online- they're no sold in stores.

First of all, this sounds like an advertisement. I've seen you post the same response to others in this forum. I'm looking for opinions, preferably ones from those with experience in audio, and not those who claim a receiver "handles 500 watts," nor those who would recommend JVC as a $1000 receiver choice.

Second, I'm not looking for an entire system. I explained in my post that I have everything but the receiver, and I'm sure that most here would strongly disagree with your choices in gear.

I appreciate your response, but I don't feel it answered my question.

[richieb]

First of all, this sounds like an advertisement. I've seen you post the same response to others in this forum. I'm looking for opinions, preferably ones from those with experience in audio, and not those who claim a receiver "handles 500 watts," nor those who would recommend JVC as a $1000 receiver choice.

Second, I'm not looking for an entire system. I explained in my post that I have everything but the receiver, and I'm sure that most here would strongly disagree with your choices in gear.

I appreciate your response, but I don't feel it answered my question.

I am in the same boat. I have decided to spend my money on the Pioneer VSX-55txi. Most retailers online sell the unit for $900-$1000 although the MSRP is $1500. It is a very nice sounding receiver.

You could also look at the Yahama's like the RX-V3300 which is more powerful. You cannot go wrong with Yamaha as they are classy across the board.

I would actually steer clear of brands such as JVC. I do not consider them in the same league as the two recievers I mentioned above.

Bare in mind that the two receivers I posted were quite close to $1000, I figured you wanted the best for your money. There are some very nice receivers in the $500-$750 price bracket also

Hope this helps.

[nick4433]

Klipschnut, if you can find a Pioneer VSX2012 then by all means go for it. I think it is a rebadged Pioneer Elite 45TX and offers very robust amplification and room EQ featires. I like the < $1000 receivers such as the Denons and Yamahas and Onkyos but feel they lack power when it comes more to DTS movies.
One awesome receiver would be the HK AVR7200 now being offered at a discount for much less than $1000 at onecall.com. Hope this helps buddy!

[lynn2c]

I sure wouldn't count the denon 3805 out. I just got one of these and it sure has impressed me and can be had for less than $1,000. Excellent sound and features.
The manual sucks and the remote is cheezy, but that is the only two things I've found I haven't liked.

[s dog]

I got the denon 4800 2 years ago for $999.00 it has been a real good receiver

[skeptic]

I would say my all time "hands down favorite receiver" by far would be....a two channel model.......

Marantz 2600. OK, I'd be just as happy with the 2550.

[sandiegostone]

I've been very happy with my Denon AVR-1082, it's not 7.1, but while I was searching on ebay for mine, I saw several 7.1's for sale, but they were out of my budget. My experience with Denon (my 3rd unit) is that the sound is very clean throughout 20-20,000Hz. If they do clip, it must be beyond the point when your ears start bleeding. Before digital I used to own McIntosh but that's way beyond the budget, just so you know my standards are quite high. Hope this post warrants further research.

I've been out of the audio game for a few years due to a sudden move, and having to leave all my toys in storage. My last receiver kicked the bucket, so I'm in the market for a new unit. I'm now living in a medium-sized apartment with a fairly large living-room.

I live a little out of the way from the larger stereo and hifi shops, and I unfortunately don't have the time or resources to drive around auditioning units.

My system is comprised of older and newer Klipsch speakers, including the Forte II's for mains, the KSB 3.1's for surrounds, and I plan on purchasing the Academy or RC-7 center shortly after the receiver. In addition, I'm running a DIY sub system utilizing a pair of 4 ohm 12" drivers in a sealed cabinet, running on a Hafler DH-200 amp accompanied by the GAS Thalia preamp.

I listen to music in stereo and watch movies in surround close to 50/50. I'm not too concerned with practicality or looks (no ball and chain here), nor ease of use and bells and whistles. I'm simply looking for the best sounding receiver for under $1000 within reason (meaning it has at least some functionality for A/V switching and a good selection of setup options).

My speakers are all highly efficient, but I'd like something with some muscle behind it. I would prefer 7.1 capability for future upgrades, but I would sacrifice it for a much nicer 5.1 unit. I may even opt for separates before long, and use only the preamp/processor functions. I assume all the receivers in my price range have more than enough inputs for my sources, so that is a non-issue. I like to tweak settings constantly, so things like bass management and sound shaping are a must.

Some of the units I've been looking at are the Denon AVR-3805/3803, Pioneer Elite VSX-45tx, Yamaha RX-V2400, and the NAD T-763. All of these units seem to be well liked in the audio community, so I would probably be more than happy with any of of them, I'm just looking for opinions on which is best, especially from people who have compared units side by side.

I should also add that when I say under $1000, I'm thinking in terms of B-stock, auctions, online retailers, and that sort of thing. I'll shop around and compare for the lowest price, but if you find a sweet deal, post a link. If you would like me to clarify anything or if you have any questions, let me know, and I'll try to stay up to date on my finds.

[htfan14]

One vote for Denon 3805 here! I have the 3802 and love it. Although the H/K 7200 kicks arse as well.

[HiEdCOACH]

Hey All!

I'm writing from BFE Timbuk3 Thailand. I am the proud original owner of a 1977 system long dormant:

A Great American Sound GAS Thalia Integrated Pre-amp + 80 watt GAS Son of Ampzilla amp AND a killer pair of 8 ohm I.M. Fried speakers.

The set has not vibrated a note since 1991. Plus I'm now living in a 220v country...

Q1: What speaker wire should I use to connect the IMFrieds to a modern Samsung 5.1 Home Theater player?
Q2: How can I supply power to the GAS pre-amp & amp w/o blowing them up and or introducing distortion from whatever 110 transformer/converter I need to light em up?
Q3: How can I best feed MP3 files to the Thalia? Meaning, what is the best (lowest cost!) interface from the MP3 files on my PC to the AUX input on the Thalia? Clueless 1970's AudioDinosauer here! (P.S. I still try to "dial" my mobile!)

Hope this finds some kind guru!

Best wishes & God bless good sounding ****!

G!

[auau]

Will appreciate a comment on this newer receiver from Nakamichi, RE-10

[GMichael]

Is it "raise a thread from the dead" day?

[kelsci]

I heard the Denon 3805 in a store many years back. I did not care for the unit in stereo sound but it was a delight playing surround sound movies; defintely first rate surround processing in this receiver.

My brother recently bought a Denon 3311 for under a grand. Very good sound overall and excellent surround processing. It has excellent video processing as well. The main thingy about this unit is the dynamics that you get with the movie tracks that tells me that the power amplifier system is pretty darn good for a receiver.

I bought a Sherwood 6095R some years back too. It was manufactured before DPL 2 was out. I did not care for its DPL processing but its surround processing was first rate. I understand the unit had a Yamaha chip. Though not a high powered receiver, its sound quality for D.D. and DTS was fine. It also worked well in plain stereo too giving something close to an audiophile grade sound. This unit did quite good in reviews.

I currently use a PIoneer VSX-516 which ran me about 90 dollars on E-bay refurbished. Its sound quality is good, its surround quality is good but not in the league with the Sherwood. It does have the DPL2 and DTS Neo features but I only found the DPL2 movie mode to give the correct imaging on 2 channel movies and cds. There is some goofy phasing going on in DPL2 music mode. The DTS Neo stuff is nothing to crow about.

[jjp735i]

Hands down for me would be any of the new Yamaha Advantage line.

Just bought a RX-A810 and it is awlsum.

Just my opinion.

[bobsticks]

Hands down for me would be any of the new Yamaha Advantage line.

Just bought a RX-A810 and it is awlsum.

Just my opinion.

Not just your opinion...I've read nothing but positives about the Aventage line and the ones I've heard have meritted the praise. I can't wait to get my hands on one for a in depth test drive.

[rightaway]

i have used and love denon for years now

[GMichael]

i have used and love denon for years now

Denon makes good receivers. In most cases you can't go wrong with one.

[recoveryone]

Is it "raise a thread from the dead" day?

I'm with you Michael, I open up this thread to see that it was started back in 06 or something.

[Poultrygeist]

I have the recently released Marantz SR-6006. I enjoy it's direct "Pure" sound feature which bi-passes all the non-essential circuits and outputs a very tube like sound. The set up wizard takes only minutes and hard wiring it to the internet makes for trouble free high rez audio streaming.

[winston]

Originally Posted by GMichael
Is it "raise a thread from the dead" day?

oh man i've owned a few "But there's something about the Pioneer Elite Vsx- 94 that I love over all the others I've owned.

recoveryone, I have a question for you?? have up dated your Pioneer BDP-320 recently with the latest firmware? ...if you did, please give a heads up!!

I've downloaded the zip file name "BDP30A_V372.zip" from Pioneer's site, but when ever time I attempt to double click the file name, in order to burn it to a CD (it sends my Windows Vista into a (loop) which left me no choice but to restart or shut the Computer down) the BDP-320 is a well built unit, that has great sounds.

if anyone else have any idea what I'm dealing with here, please feel free to chip in.

[bobsticks]

oh man i've owned a few "But there's something about the Pioneer Elite Vsx- 94 that I love over all the others I've owned.

recoveryone, I have a question for you?? have up dated your Pioneer BDP-320 recently with the latest firmware? ...if you did, please give a heads up!!

I've downloaded the zip file name "BDP30A_V372.zip" from Pioneer's site, but when ever time I attempt to double click the file name, in order to burn it to a CD (it sends my Windows Vista into a (loop) which left me no choice but to restart or shut the Computer down) the BDP-320 is a well built unit, that has great sounds.

if anyone else have any idea what I'm dealing with here, please feel free to chip in.

You have to extract the info using 7Zip. Download the free file from the site and run the setup wizard. Next, click on the icon and look to the upper left corner and hit "Extract". Choose the appropriate file and, viola...

Cheers,
sticks

[winston]

You have to extract the info using 7Zip. Download the free file from the site and run the setup wizard. Next, click on the icon and look to the upper left corner and hit "Extract". Choose the appropriate file and, viola...

Cheers,
sticks

thanks Bro. sticks, the link works wonders!! now just name your "poison" Brewski,Cerveza,Barley pop,puke fuel, or loudmouth soup, the next one 's on me

thanks a bunch Sticks, (stay strong)

[bobsticks]

thanks Bro. sticks, the link works wonders!! now just name your "poison" Brewski,Cerveza,Barley pop,puke fuel, or loudmouth soup, the next one 's on me

thanks a bunch Sticks, (stay strong)

Lolz, you're welcome Winston...glad to be of service. Next time I'm in Miami you can buy a round at your favorite watering hole and we'll have a good ol' time

[s dog]

Just got this receiver for less than $400.00 DTSHD DDTRUEHD AUDYSSEY AUTO SETUP. I really like this receiver easy to use sounds great ready for blue ray hdmi hookup, got rid of a mess of wiring .It does have 7.1 but i only use 5.1 for blue ray.