People seem to just want HDCP 2.2 whether they need it or not. It is almost silly to worry about it now and pay premium for it when it may still not be 100% risk free. I would say by the time you need it, you may be ready to upgrade again anyway. For now, my HT room is too small for 4K anyway so I am almost sure I won't need it unless and until I move to a bigger house but the chance of that happening is about 0.01%.
Between the 6009 and 3100, if you don't need multichannel analog inputs (most people don't), you can save the $100 because the two is going to sound identical with identical settings or pure direct. They both have preouts, and the amp section is a little more robust than the X2200W.
I still think you should call Accessory for less to see if they have brand new ones coming soon, instead of buying the refurbished ones.
Edit: If you are going to call them, may as well ask about the SR5009, may be you can get one of those brand new for $499.99, you never know..
I am much closer now that I have been rather busy eliminating. Thus, I am no longer interested in the Sony STR-DN1060. Reason being, there just seems to be a lot of confusion about the unit itself. Reading through the reviews, it has become rather obvious that the instructions are NOT very helpful and/or poorly written. There is no doubt in my mind that the 1060 is an excellent receiver. That is, if one has the time and patience to get it tweaked properly. Personally, I prefer something that is much more straight-forward and easier to use.
On the higher end of my price range is the Marantz SR6009 coming in at $550. The Denon AVR-X3100W is essentially the same receiver for $450. However, many swear that the Marantz receivers has somewhat of a "warmer" sound to them. As such, the Marantz receivers are very popular among those that emphasize musicality. To be honest, I have never owned a Marantz myself. But, I have owned a Denon and I loved it! Not sure which way to go? I do, however, put a lot of emphasis on music.
Both the 3100 and the 6009 will allow me to experiment with adding front "height" or "width" speakers to my front-stage. I only have the room for 5.1./5.2 so adding a couple of speakers to the front-stage should enhance things somewhat. The questions is, however, should I add to the height or the width? Perhaps, my experimentation will answer that one.
Now that leaves me with the Yammie RX-A740 which can be had for only $320! I really like the price. The 730 according to S&V had some dismal video issues. There were some other things mentioned, but none of it concerned me. But, the dismal video issues sure do. I just hope the 740 took care of that. Most of the reviews I found on the 740 were highly favorable. If I go with the 740, I will have to give up the height or width experimentation. Not really a major issue or a deal breaker for me though.
Right now I am leaning towards the 3100 for $450 shipped. I don't mind to spend an extra $100 to get the Marantz if the sound of the Marantz is really that much better musically speaking? You know the "warmer" sound signature? The Yammie 740 sure has my attention as well. YPAO has worked well for me in the past and that was w/o RSC.
Lastly, this project has really turned into a challenge. By that, I mean I seem to be looking to get great sound/performance w/o spending a ton of money so to speak. So far, I have $294.25 invested in my front/rear stage speakers. I may plan to go get another set of the $50 Polks to use as the added height/width speakers. Even then, I will only be out $347.75. Not bad if you ask me. That is why I am highly considering getting the Yammie 740 over the Denon 3100. Kinda looks like I have it narrowed down to these two. Unless, someone here can convince me to opt for the Marantz 6009?
Quick Note: I am NOT concerned with the HDCP2.2 compliance nor do I even care about Atmos. Just do NOT have the room/budget for it. If I go with one of these refurbs from acc4less, should I get the extended warranty? It only adds $40-$50 more dollars to the cost. Just glad I did NOT snag that open box buy on the Onkyo 646 or come home with the Sony 1060. Thank YOU for YOUR time!
Cheers,
Phil
