Is there a stereo receiver with video switching?

[jazzyjez]

I'm trying to find out whether there are any stereo receivers (or separate pre/power amps) that have video switching capabilities (including HDMI and component). This is for a living room where I'm never going to have surround speakers and so obviously don't need 5.1 or more channels, but still would find it convenient to switch between the sat box, CD, DVD, etc. using the receiver as the central point.

I'm looking at spending up to $1k, so something like the Denon 2807 would fulfill my needs in terms of its switching and power output, but I'm effectively wasting 5 channels of amplification -- something that just doesn't jive with me. So could I get a 2 channel system with better quality audio for similar money? Any suggestions greatly appreciated.

 

[Seth=L]

You would not be wasting the power. LOL

Receiver amplifiers when it stereo use the capacitors in their entirety. Receivers are usually rated with only two channels driven (mid-fi receivers, lower end sometimes only use one channel). There would be no wasted power. The Denon would work very good for what you would need. If you need to add a sub the Denon has a very affective and adjustable x-over.

There are no stereo only receivers that have HDMI or Component video switching.

The last thing you could is get a AV preamp (or use a receiver as a preamp), and a stereo amplifier.

 

[stratman]

I'm trying to find out whether there are any stereo receivers (or separate pre/power amps) that have video switching capabilities (including HDMI and component). This is for a living room where I'm never going to have surround speakers and so obviously don't need 5.1 or more channels, but still would find it convenient to switch between the sat box, CD, DVD, etc. using the receiver as the central point.

I'm looking at spending up to $1k, so something like the Denon 2807 would fulfill my needs in terms of its switching and power output, but I'm effectively wasting 5 channels of amplification -- something that just doesn't jive with me. So could I get a 2 channel system with better quality audio for similar money? Any suggestions greatly appreciated.

Try the new Panasonic SAXR 700 (under 600.00) it has hdmi switching( 2 in 1 out) and whatever channels you don't use the power is redirected to those that are. Amazon has them, I bought one and I really like it's performance for the money.

 

[jcPanny]

Stereo receiver

For that kind of money, check out the Emotiva Reference Series sepaerates:
http://www.emotiva.com/rsp1.html
The Pro-pro does not include any video features, but it does have a sub output.

For video switching, get a good URC or Harmony Remote control. Connect the video sources directly to your TV and audio to the Receiver. You can use macros to switch the Audio source (receiver) at the same time as the video source (TV inputs). If necessary, you could add an HDMI switch for $1-200.

 

[Seth=L]

Try the new Panasonic SAXR 700 (under 600.00) it has hdmi switching( 2 in 1 out) and whatever channels you don't use the power is redirected to those that are. Amazon has them, I bought one and I really like it's performance for the money.

Pretty much any receiver does this. The output stages for each channel should be able to handle the full power that can be taken from the power supply and capacitors at any given time.

 

[jazzyjez]

Thanks to all for the feedback and the interesting comments. I think I'll try the Harmony remote first, since I was going to get one of those anyway for my other entertainment area. However, I think it likely that I will ultimately go the Denon route since that will also provide other useful functions such as audio delay control and a convenient iPod connection.

(BTW: it is annoying that the US model of the 2807 doesn't offer RDS on the tuner section - it is there on the 2807 UK model - why do so many pieces of equipment sold to the US market have reduced features compared to their European equivalents? Just an on-going gripe of mine!)

 

[Seth=L]

RDS isn't a common feature on home theater receivers in this country and I am not sure why. Maybe people don't care.

 

[jcPanny]

2 channel system

Here is an idea for your 2 channel system.

Receiver: $500
Pick up a Yamaha RX-V661 or similar receiver w/ HDMI, video switching, ipod doc, etc.

Amp: $500
Add a stereo amp or a couple of monoblocks to power your speakers.

You will get the video pre-amp features and more power for your 2-channel system.

 

[Seth=L]

Here is an idea for your 2 channel system.

Receiver: $500
Pick up a Yamaha RX-V661 or similar receiver w/ HDMI, video switching, ipod doc, etc.

Amp: $500
Add a stereo amp or a couple of monoblocks to power your speakers.

You will get the video pre-amp features and more power for your 2-channel system.

This is a good idea.

 

[jazzyjez]

2 ch.

Here is an idea for your 2 channel system.

Receiver: $500
Pick up a Yamaha RX-V661 or similar receiver w/ HDMI, video switching, ipod doc, etc.

Amp: $500
Add a stereo amp or a couple of monoblocks to power your speakers.

You will get the video pre-amp features and more power for your 2-channel system.

Yes, I agree too that it's an interesting idea. Let me take a little more time to compare the specs...

 

[Seth=L]

Yes, I agree too that it's an interesting idea. Let me take a little more time to compare the specs...

Don't get to wrapped up in specs. I would make sure the amplifier you purchase will work with the speakers intend to purchase or already have, meaning do the speakers demand large amounts of current (low impedance). I is always best to select the speakers first, then pre/pro and amplification to mate with the speakers.