Noob...which one of these is a better option? Denon vs. HK

[Wakko]

The local Best Buy has this set on clearance for $411 as an open box buy:

Denon 5.1Ch. Home Theater System DHT1513BA - Best Buy

They also have the HK AVR1700 on sale for $199

Harman Kardon AVR 1700 500W 5.1Ch. AV Home Theater Receiver AVR 1700 - Best Buy

And they price matched a Polk 10" powered sub for $79

Newegg.com - Polk Audio PSW Series PSW10 Black 10-inch Powered Subwoofer Each

I've been using an ancient 1999 Sharp 5.1 (passive sub and missing center speaker) for years and I've been happy with it. My new TV won't work with the Sharp, hence the replacement. I'm using a 50" Panasonic plasma and Panasonic bluray player. The room is large, L shaped, with vaulted ceilings and carpet. The TV is about five feet away from the TV at a 45 degree angle, and my "spot" is in the middle of the couch. I want to play music via an iPod and internet, and of course the radio. Wired internet access is available to the receiver, so the lack of wifi is not an issue.

My budget is about $400, so if I do the HK/Polk combo I will be able to get some forward speakers and will likely use the back speakers from the old Sharp set until I can come up with something better. I do know that the sub is lacking and has nothing below 35hz, but I'm limited by funds.

What do you guys think? Thanks.

 

[afterlife2]

Get the HK and get these 2x: Pioneer Andrew Jones SP-BS22-LR Bookshelf Loudspeaker - 2 Way, 55Hz-20kHz, 80 W, Gold 5-Way Binding Posts at TigerDirect.com
Center: Pioneer Andrew Jones Designed SP-C22 Center Channel Speaker - 55Hz-20kHz, 6 ohm, 9 Watt, 2 Way Configuration at TigerDirect.com
Price match with best buy they carry the 22's.
No polk save to get a good sub. I have this and like it: Amazon.com: OSD Audio PS10 High Powered 120W Premium 10-Inch Home Theatre Subwoofer: Electronics
I've never tried this sub, but some recommend it if you're on a budget: [url]http://www.parts-express.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?partnumber=300-628
[/URL]

 

[agarwalro]

If you liked the Denon packaged system, you can get it from Accessories4Less for about $350 shipped. This is a refurb, but, you have full warranty.

 

[monkish54]

First of all, scrap the Denon HTIB. BLEH.

We're gonna get you some real speakers!

One pair of these ($250):
Pioneer 514" Floor Speaker Each SP-FS52 - Best Buy

One of these ($130):
DENON AVR-1312 5.1 Channel A/V Home Theater Receiver | Accessories4less

One of these if you can swing ($99):
Newegg.com - Polk Audio PSW Series PSW10 Black 10-inch Powered Subwoofer Each

Like the others, I'd save for a better sub.

Scrap the center. Stick with the Floorstanding rather than the bookshelf and use phantom center!

 

[lsiberian]

Looks like they are using BA for their speakers now. That's definitely a nice speaker for a HTIB, but those are only good for surround sound not front duty. Get some real speakers and you'll be much happier

 

[Wakko]

Good tips so far...thanks guys. I wish I had the $700 to drop on everything suggested.

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

I would get HK AVR, Pioneer speakers, Pioneer subs.

 

[ImcLoud]

What is your actual budget?

 

[Wakko]

$400 total. I've got the Sharp system I can use the speakers from to build a 3.1 for now.

 

[hizzaah]

I'd go the route Monkish suggested. Start with a decent base and build up. Go to accessories for less.com and get either the Denon 1312 or 1513 5.1 receiver. Then have Best Buy price match the Pioneer FS52 floorstanders. Sometimes tiger direct has them as low as 100ea, so you might watch for that if you arent in a rush. Get two of those and go from there. Add surrounds, center and a decent sub as your income allows. You'll appreciate the system more if you save up and buy decent equipment as your budget allows.

Your other option is to watch craigslist.. great deals on used equipmemt can be had there!

 

[Wakko]

You think the Denons are better than the HK?

 

[afterlife2]

Both are good, but I'd go for the HK just for the price. I own a HK and love it.

 

[agarwalro]

You think the Denons are better than the HK?

Performance wise, you will not be able to differentiate them. Go with whichever has more feature you actually foresee using.