Best "Bang-for-the-Buck" 5.1 Receiver?

[dual6speeds]

I just purchased an AudioSource AST5.1GRP speaker system.

I realize it's not the greatest system available. But, I've heard this setup before and it sounds pretty good for the price. Now, I'm just looking for the best "bang-for-the-buck" receiver to power these. My budget is only $250-$300, and I don't mind buying on the net... What do you guys think?

 

[ParadigmDawg]

I just purchased an AudioSource AST5.1GRP speaker system.

I realize it's not the greatest system available. But, I've heard this setup before and it sounds pretty good for the price. Now, I'm just looking for the best "bang-for-the-buck" receiver to power these. My budget is only $250-$300, and I don't mind buying on the net... What do you guys think?

Yammy RX 659

 

[rnatalli]

Yammy RX 659

Second that.

 

[Seth=L]

Second that.

Third that...

 

[dual6speeds]

Wow, that Yamaha is pretty popular.

Any suggestions on where to purchase one? I see Crutchfield has them for $399 shipped. I'd like to get it for cheaper if possible. I see that eBay prices are $310 shipped for new ones, or $260 for factory-refurbs. Do you guys think its worth the extra savings? Or should I play it safe and buy it from an Authorized dealer? I know everyone has their own opinion on buying on the net, but if these thing's are pretty "bullet-proof" I would like to save a few bucks.

Thanks for your help.

 

[Seth=L]

Wow, that Yamaha is pretty popular.

Any suggestions on where to purchase one? I see Crutchfield has them for $399 shipped. I'd like to get it for cheaper if possible. I see that eBay prices are $310 shipped for new ones, or $260 for factory-refurbs. Do you guys think its worth the extra savings? Or should I play it safe and buy it from an Authorized dealer? I know everyone has their own opinion on buying on the net, but if these thing's are pretty "bullet-proof" I would like to save a few bucks.

Thanks for your help.

http://electronics.pricegrabber.com/home-audio-receivers/m/18611394/

Take your pick.

 

[Nomo]

http://electronics.pricegrabber.com/home-audio-receivers/m/18611394/

Take your pick.

Word of warning:
Not all these places are authorized dealers for Yamaha.
Check the Yamaha website for their list of authorized dealers. While I agree the 659 is a great deal for the money, at this price point, it may be worth an extra $50 to $100 to get the factory warranty.

 

[ParadigmDawg]

Most local dealers are letting them go for under $350.

 

[ChrisJam]

Third that...

I bought one a couple months ago, so I fourth that. I love it (I do not need HDMI).

If warranty is important to you, buy a Yammy 659 from an authorized dealer. i got mine from Crutchfield.

Chris