Thanks m_vanmeter
After my own exhaustive research, the decision is to just buy a new sub & be done with it. That will be a whole different discussion a little later.
Right...
Im mostly considering the Pioneer VSX-920K as it has the best featureset bang for buck including an ethernet port for streaming music (if I ever want to)
I am currently able to get one for 33% cheaper than usual retail - $600.
But the Yamaha 1065 has individual RCA 7ch audio inputs, so in case I want to ever plug in old dvd player, I have the flexibility, its a nice to have, but it doesnt have the ethernet ports then & its a hundred bucks dearer brand new & not in special price at the moment - $1100
Lastly, most agree Marantz is probably the better sound & also has the 7 ch RCA analog inputs. It doesnt have the ethernet port either. Currently, Im able to get a Marantz SR5005 for 40% cheaper - $1300
I choose to believe that the Marantz as a brand generally the best of the 3?
Considering presently I can get the marantz 200 more than the yamaha I might as well go Marantz, do you agree??
But how much better in terms of true music performance is the Marantz SR5005 or Yamaha 1065 potentially better than Pioneer 920?
I agree it comes down to personal taste, but still Ive never owned a Marantz.
Im really after a good deal of music perofrmance too, not just movies.
And to me, good sound doesnt just mean good thundering sub, I like a well balanced 'beautiful' sound.
Old Yamaha was good but ran pioneer speakers
So putting numbers to it
Pioneer VSX920K $650 VS Marantz SR5005 - $1200
Is it worth double?
I get the feeling that for $650 the Pioneer is too hard to beat.
Would appreciate any advice/experience
Have ruled out the denons & onkyos as no usb ports in this price range even at full price.
Cheers