A little advice on upgrade

[JJMP50]

I'm thinking about upgrading my budget HT with a new reveiver. I currently am using an entry level Pioneer 514. For speakers I have a 5.1 configuration using Athena Audition Series (1st gen) F1, Center, B1 rears with an older 200w Sony sub. I've seen the Yamaha 659 on the internet for as little as $309. I like the idea of "presence" speakers. I have a pair of Mirage Micros that are not being used although they are setting on top of my F1s, mainly to keep the cat off of the speakers. The pioneer is a good entry level receiver and works well for HT use, but it is a little weak in the music department. This could be the receivers fault or the speakers. My question is will I get a noticable return on my upgrade?

I would have liked to buy the yama at the Audioholics store, but they are only have the 661 in stock.

 

[bandphan]

http://forums.audioholics.com/forums/showthread.php?p=70471

take a read

 

[brulaha]

with an older 200w Sony sub.

I would upgrade the sub before the receiver. I think you will notice a much larger difference with the new sub than the new receiver.

 

[JJMP50]

Pulled the trigger

Well, I pulled the trigger on the discontinued 659. I should have it in about a week. I have an old Yamaha hooked up to a pair of vintage JBL L1's that I use as a stereo amp in my listening room and I love it. I hope the the new one will be as good. I'm a little nervous about buying it from a company I've never heard of (Total Electronics), but we'll see.

Now I have to see if I hook up my old school Rotel turntable (Grato cartridge) to the new one or leave it in my listening room.

Thanks to the responders. As far as the "presence speakers", I will try my Mirage Mircos and see if their "omni" properties lend themselves to that application.

And yes, I do need a new subwoofer, but they not as much fun to set up. Next time.....