AVR Recs

[revans5]

Looking for some feedback on a few AVRs I'm comparing. I'd be up for paying for more features if they are worth it but I'd like to keep cost down. I'd like to keep it below 600. I'm looking for refurbished and used as well as new. The models listed below I found for below $600.

I'll be running a home theater pc into the AVR. I also have network attached storage where I keep all my music. I'd like to avoid using an external amp at this point in time so a well powered amp is necessary. I'll be using Emptek E55ti floor standers and Emptek's big center. Adding a sub down the road when more funds become available.

A powered zone 2 would be nice but not a deal breaker.

What features should I be on the look out for in regards to getting the best sound quality?

Models I'm considering:

Denon AVR E-400

Sony STR DN 1040

Onkyo TX NR 626

Pioneer SC 1223 - K

 

[Jeff R.]

I would avoid the Sony. I would also get something with a little larger amp section to drive your towers.


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[afterlife2]

How about this: YAMAHA RX-A1020 7.2 Network AVENTAGE AV Receiver Airplay | Accessories4less

 

[Audioholics]

I have to say, you can't really go wrong with either the Denon or the Pioneer, but that's assuming you're planning to upgrade in the near future. I am all for slimming down the receiver to get a sub sooner...Eventually, though, your speakers will likely do better with a more robust amplifier driving them.

Powered Zone two puts you in a whole other realm.

I did a pretty cool Denon Receiver Step Chart for bad robot you may want to check out.

 

[BoredSysAdmin]

I would be choosing between these two:
MARANTZ SR5008 7.2 Network Home Theater Receiver with AirPlay | Accessories4less
DENON AVR-X3000 7.2 4K Ultra HD Networking Receiver w/ AirPlay | Accessories4less

but you could cut down on features and get AVR as low as Denon E300 as long as you understand it's limitations

 

[revans5]

Thanks for all your input. I'll let you guys know what I wind up going with!

 

[revans5]

Ok I've narrowed it down to the denon x2000 or the pioneer 1223k. What's everyone's take?

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

Ok I've narrowed it down to the denon x2000 or the pioneer 1223k. What's everyone's take?

If it's a local buy, you should try both and keep the one that sounds best (Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs MCACC).

I love what Audyssey DEQ does for me and I use it 100% of the time for both music and movies, but I can only speak for myself.

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

I would avoid the Sony. I would also get something with a little larger amp section to drive your towers.

Why?

The Sony has more power output.

Power Output @ 1% THD 2CH 8 ohms/ 2CH 4 ohms/ 5CH 8 ohms
$580 Denon 1913: 117.7/151.1/81.7
$550 Yamaha 573: 111.4/126.2/24.9
$500 Sony 1030: 134.7/167.7/90.4
$450 Pioneer VSX42: 118.2/157.8/79.9

Emptek E55ti is 88dB/w/m, 4 ohms around 6 kHz.

If listening distance is 10ft, max total volume is 94dB like me in 2.0 mode, it would require about 20W into 8 ohms and 40W into 4 ohms.

If max volume is 3dB higher than mine, it would require 80W into 4 ohms.

 

[Adam]

If it's a local buy, you should try both and keep the one that sounds best (Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs MCACC).

Agreed (or if you're buying from anyplace that will take them back for little to no fee). I've used both Audyssey and MCACC, and I prefer MCACC. I tried four Audyssey receivers last year (including the Denon AVR-E400 and Onkyo TX-NR626), and neither dethroned my 2009 Pioneer.

I think the Onkyo 626 that you listed originally is a good bang-for-the-buck receiver at normal prices, but I would pick the Pioneer because of MCACC.

 

[ReUpRo]

I remember on my Denon 3806 it was too aggressive and I did not like having Audyssey correction engaged. On the X4000, I love it. I feel Audyssey made huge improvements with XT32 processing.

Unfortunately, the price of entry for XT32 processing is high. Onkyo NR818 is probably the cheapest. I believe the street price is $700-ish. The next is X4000 at $800-ish.

 

[revans5]

The x2000 will be here Wed. I'll let you all know how I like it.

 

[TheHills44060]

The x2000 will be here Wed. I'll let you all know how I like it.

Niiice looking forward to your thoughts. Had my eye on this receiver for a bit and I really like it but i haven't had one in over 20 years so I'm just trying to decide if i really need one.

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

The X2000 is now on sale for $399 on Amazon.

Amazon.com: Denon AVR-X2000 7.1 Channel Integrated Network AV Receiver with AirPlay (Discontinued by Manufacturer): Electronics