AV123 x-sub $200 vs. Infinity PS-12 $300

[Adam]

There's a number of good receivers out there for $500 or under. I suggest looking at the new line of Onkyos (either the 505 or 605) as you do your shopping around.

 

[velcrometer]

With a $500 budget on the receiver, it would be pretty tough to beat this:

http://www.secondact.biz/product/AVR2307CIRB

althought I would personally go more with something less "integrated" and a little more beastly (but slightly over the budget)..

http://dakmart.com/itemdetails/28983/173/

Leprkon,
Sorry I'm so limited, I don't know the meaning of "integrated". But, I'm guessing, "A little more beastly" is a good thing, right?

My experience with refurbs (not electronics) has been very bad. Is it different w/electronics? You personally feel okay about buying a refurbished receiver?

 

[Leprkon]

integrated means you can tie it into the video system pretty easy. beastly is more solid, more power, but fewer video features. I personally don't run video to the receiver, so I'd rather spend money on power than fluff.

some people need what I call fluff and are willing to take less power at the same cost. It just depends on your priorities.

I have two refurb Denons and a refurb Phillips 37 inch LCD. I have had good luck with them. I buy new sometimes too.