Best Receiver to go with Harman Kardon HKTS14 system?

[BillT]

I'm trying to choose among 5 HT receivers - Yamaha HTR5890, Yamaha RX-V1500, Denon AVR2805, Denon AVR885, & Onkyo TX-SR702 - to power an HKTS14 surround speaker system I'm planning to buy. This will be my first (& possibly only) HT system.
I've decided on these speakers because I need fronts under 12" (these are 9+") to fit on an entertainment center shelf, & I need the rears to fit under a bar counter (they're just under 4" deep). But yes, while size does matter, they've also been rated quite highly every where I've looked online. My listening/viewing area will be approx. 18' x 18', with open space surround this room on 2 sides.

All the above-listed receivers seem to have good reviews as well. They're all pretty similar in their specs & features. From what I can tell (language & terminology is not always clear) they all will power a 2d set of speakers in another zone & send separate source material to that zone.
I'm leaning toward the Yamaha HTR5890 because I can get it for $475 plus shipping from an authorized online dealer. I can get a couple of the others at near that price, but only from unauthorized dealers. Then I'd have to buy that dealer's warranty or risk possibly not being covered. That's another thread, though.

Any thoughts on pairing one of these receivers with the HKTS 14s would be appreciated.

Bill

 

[Takeereasy]

That sounds likea great price on that 5890 and it will do everything you would want and more. It is very very close in capabilities to the 1500. There are some cosmetic differences and a couple of features missing but with that set up I don't think you'll ever notice. So in other words I'd take the 5890. I do know that Yamaha receivers pop up on UBid from time to time with full Man. Warranties, so you could keep an eye out. Right now they've got some 1500's going for $599 but I still like your deal on the 5890.

I do have one suggestion. Unless you are married to the idea of those HK speakers then I'd suggest you look at these Athena .5's as a speaker alternative. They fit your space needs and are IMO a better deal for you. I won't tell you what to buy, everyone's tastes are different, but those .5's get amazing reviews. Also getting the speakers only will allow you to get a nice 12" Bic Sub that has stats that may appear similar to the HK sub, but are in fact superior. Here's a link to where you can snag that Bic Sub for $209. There may be better deals out there so look around. Matching the brand of your speakers and sub doesn't make any difference soundwise. If you are still set on those Harmans don't pay any attention to my suggestion about the other speakers. Just enjoy your setup. Good luck with the purchase.

 

[BillT]

Athenas

Thanks, I'll check out the Athena Point 5s. The Athena Micra 6 system looks pretty good as well.

Bill