Pioneer Elite SC-37 vs. other $1500 receivers

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I see your point and agree to an extent.

After all, I've been guilty of plopping down almost $1,500 for receivers in the past and feeling as giddy as Angelina Jolie's first lover after buying them; I experienced zero buyer's remorse.

And I've also gone the mid-tier "receiver as pre/pro + separate amp" route and had no complaints. It was definitely cheaper on the wallet than buying the matching separates pre/pro and multichannel amp.

And finally, the fact that I'm currently using a receiver, even though I can now afford separates (or an audiophile grade receiver) probably reveals as much about my appreciation of receivers as it does about my fiscal sense.

However, having said that, I still think that given the budget and current offerings, he/she should consider the separates route first before going with a receiver costing $1500. It doesn't hurt to become familiar with the standard point of reference (separates) that is most often trumpeted by audio enthusiasts. Otherwise they'll often wonder how their receiver measures up. I've heard quite a few flagship receiver owners in my time wrestle with that same nagging question.

The most I EVER paid was 1200$, and it was pretty good, but that is the last time I will
pay that much for such a compromised choice as a receiver.
I have one now, but the left/right channels have extra ommp with an external amp.
Always living in a smaller place, thought a receiver was fine for the job, but they just don't have the "push" that a decent amp does.
Nowadays a vocalist sounds like they are in the room, none of that "running outta gas" feeling with difficult passages. AND ALL FOR 250 BUCKS ON SALE.
I was skeptical of Emotiva at first, but their gear is truly first rate. The receiver can handle
the other three channels, for now at least.