What to use for A/V processor?

[eddiemeddiem]

I'm looking to upgrade the old Denon 1906 that I'm currently using as a pre/pro to run my video/audio, and push a Sunfire Cinema Grand II. The reason I'm looking to upgrade is because the 1906 doesn't handle HDMI at all, so switching sources with my little HDMI switcher has become a pain... especially for my wife, who complains every time she uses it.

So, I'm in the market for a reciever / pre/pro with the following capabilities:
- switching multiple video sources, including 3D
- audio pre-outs to tun to the amp
- Pandora/Ipod compatibility would be nice

Things I'm not necessarily concerned about:
- amplifier section or watts per channel - like I mentioned above, I'll be using a dedicated amp
- remote (I'll use a RF universal)
- looks (it's behind a wall in the utility room)
- a second video output
- 7.1 or 2 (I'm only running a 5.1 speaker system)

Obviously, since I'm going to use it as a pre/pro, I'm looking for the absolute best video and audio processing I can get for my money. Use is about 67% video and 33% audio. I've found a few receivers factory refurbished for $600 or under... I'd be willing to spend up to $1000 if it would get me tons more processing capability.

I looked at the Emotiva UMC-1, but it doesn't do 3D.

So, here's what I'm currently considering:
- Denon 3311CI - $600
- Onkyo 708 - $600
- Onkyo 709 - $600
- Onkyo 808 - $600
- Marantz 5005 - $400
- Marantz 6005 - $540

Is there anything else I should consider and add to my list? I realize that I probably can't go wrong with any of the ones I've already listed, but is there any that folks strongly recommend above the others?

Thanks!

 

[Adam]

You may want to consider Pioneer Elites, as well. I really like my Pioneer Elite VSX-23, and I liked my Pioneer VSX-1015 before that. Unfortunately, it appears that they've removed pre-outs from their non-Elite and lower Elite models this year, which is disappointing.

Last year's VSX-33 might be a good fit, and it can be had in the ~$550 range on Amazon from sellers with very good ratings.

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

You may want to consider Pioneer Elites, as well. I really like my Pioneer Elite VSX-23, and I liked my Pioneer VSX-1015 before that. Unfortunately, it appears that they've removed pre-outs from their non-Elite and lower Elite models this year, which is disappointing.

Last year's VSX-33 might be a good fit, and it can be had in the ~$550 range on Amazon from sellers with very good ratings.

The 2 Pioneer Elites I saw reviewed on HTM had awesome Crosstalk numbers - I mean high-end pre-pro crosstalk numbers, which PENG and I really like.

So I would also recommend Pioneer Elite along with Denon & Yamaha.

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

I'd be willing to spend up to $1000 if it would get me tons more processing capability.

So, here's what I'm currently considering:
- Denon 3311CI - $600
- Onkyo 708 - $600
- Onkyo 709 - $600
- Onkyo 808 - $600
- Marantz 5005 - $400
- Marantz 6005 - $540

I don't think anything $1,000 will give you any more processing capability than the Denon 3311.

The Denon 4311 is an awesome unit, but the lowest prices I've seen is $1,500 shipped authorized dealer.

So from your list, I would take the Denon 3311.

 

[damobetta]

It's been a long time since I was in the market for a processor. I own an ATI 3005 which I love. I am looking for a solid processor. I don't need every bell and whistle just seamless setup, and sonic fidelity. My short list is Marantz 7705, DENON, or EMOTIVA. Any help to identify something to compliment my ATI would be great. My speakers are Deftechs

 

[PENG]

If you really must (no need in my opinion) have the best video processing for the dollar you can't beat an Onkyo model that still offer HQV, such as this http://www.eu.onkyo.com/downloads/2/2/4/0/4/ONKYO_TX-NR1010_datasheet_EN.pdf.

If you keep the unit cool, and can get it for under 1K with a 3 year warranty then I wouldn't worry too much about the perceived reliability issue with some of their models in recent years.

If you want to go with try and true unit then as ADTG suggested, the Denon 3311/3312 are good but I am not sure about their 3D capabilities and their video processing are probably just average. Again, video processing in an AVR in most cases are not as important any more because the latest TV and BDP's internal video processing are often so good that they don't need help from the AVR. In my case I find going directly from the fibre TV box and the BDP is preferred.

 

[PENG]

It's been a long time since I was in the market for a processor. I own an ATI 3005 which I love. I am looking for a solid processor. I don't need every bell and whistle just seamless setup, and sonic fidelity. My short list is Marantz 7705, DENON, or EMOTIVA. Any help to identify something to compliment my ATI would be great. My speakers are Deftechs

With those speakers, I am sure ADTG will offer his opinions. IMO AVR is the way to go, though currently I am using a prepro.

 

[Steve Pitbull Potenziano]

Well Im back... And I will Still Say the Yamaha AX 3040 or better Or at least the 3020 Both INCREDIBLE AVR's with my Emotiva UPA 500 Amp

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

With those speakers, I am sure ADTG will offer his opinions. IMO AVR is the way to go, though currently I am using a prepro.

I don't call myself AcuDefTechGuy for nutt'n. Those BP7000SC towers were my first favorite towers.

As long as the speakers sound great and work flawlessly, it is all good.

I think AVR like the X4000 & X4100 (when prices drop to about 40-50%) would be great too.