Harman Kardon AVR235 or Onkyo TXSR602 HELP!!!!

[Starbound]

I am new to the A/V world. This will be my first system. I have narrowed my search for a reciever down to the Harman Kardon AVR235 and the Onkyo TXSR602. I would like some opinions on the two. Does anyone know if there was ever a head to head comparison done on these recievers or any reviews that I could read. I almost feel like it is a toss up. I am planning on going with the Infinity TSS-750 speaker package in a 6.1 set up by adding an additional satilite speaker. Please give me some feedback.

Thanks,
Starbound

 

[soundsfine]

I can think of two features that may be important to you:

• The HK has pre-outs in case you add an external amp in the future
• The HK has delay settings to sync with video

 

[Starbound]

An external amp is not really something that I will worry with, but I don't know about the delay. How important is the adjustable delay? I have found the Onkyo TXSR602 reconditioned for $225.00 and the Harman Kardon AVR235 new for $326.45 after rebate. I know the HK will have a 2 year warranty vs. the 1 year on the Onkyo. Is the HK really worth the extra $100.00??

 

[Takeereasy]

I'd have to go with the Harman if money were no issue, but it is a personal preference in either case, and you will be able to get by with that Onkyo without any problem. I think both are very solid entry/mid-level receivers that represent a good value in the receiver market. I would stay away from that speaker package if I wre you. While this is strictly a personal preference on my part I really don't think those little sat speakers put out decent sound. If you need to go with small speakers that represent a great value I would suggest the following: HSU ventriloquist system with an STF2 (www.hsuresearch.com), total cost about $600 plus shipping, Athena micra 6, $300 at onecall.com and IMO a better product than the infinity, and finally athena .5 setup runs $200 for the speakers from one call and you can throw in any sub you want to round out the lows. I'd suggest you look at the Cadence X-sub for about $250 shipped or maybe a closeout of a different model. Good luck and keep us posted as to the final decision/outcome.

 

[WndrBr3d]

Well, you -could- get a factory refurbished HK AVR235 from Harman/Kardon directly (Link) for $298 with a One Year warranty as well.

 

[Ron Temple]

Get the 235 from HKDirect on ebay. They auction 2 refurbs a day. You should be able to snag one for < $250 if you're patient.

 

[Starbound]

I have been watching the HK on ebay but most have been going for around $300.00 Is the HK really worth $100.00 more than the Onkyo? I always thought Onkyo was supposed to be good quality. As for the speakers I want to hear the speakers before I buy them. I have heard the Infinity TSS-750's and I thought they sounded very good. The others mentioned in the post above may also be good but none of the stores around me carry those. I really don't want anything bigger than the 750's. All of the reviews of the Infinity's have been very good as well.

Again how important is the adjustable delay?

Thanks for all the help!!

 

[Ron Temple]

The Onkyo is a nice receiver. For what you want it for and the price, you'll be happy. I moved from an Onkyo 5XX series to HK. More power, features and SQ. It might be best for you to do an A/B test at CC so you can hear the difference, then decide if it's worth the expense. The HK will push your speakers better, but YMMV.

 

[j_garcia]

I don't think you would be disappointed by either. I'd give the edge to the H/K, but both are good receivers.

 

[trhalma]

I looked at both and chose the hk and am happy with it. But as i recall the manual says it cant really be run in 6.1. it's either 5.1 or 7.1. you can read the manual on hk's site. one other difference is the hk only has one set of main speaker outs.

 

[Starbound]

Well I decided on the Onkyo TXSR602 refurbished from Ubid for $205.00 plus shipping total was $232.00 I just got it and it looks the same as a brand new one. I haven't decided on speakers yet but i am still leaning toward the Infinith TSS-750 set, I can get them refurbished for just under $400. My brother ordered the same reciever and he has the Infinity primus theater pack with a JBL E150P sub from Vanns.com for $350.00 plus shipping and it sounds great, the surround speakers are just a little too big for my application. I also just ordered my speaker wire from parts express I got the 100-762 14 GA 2 COND HQ IN-WALL WIRE 100' for the inwall and attic running to the surrounds. Then I got 100-145 14 GA SOUND KING SPEAKER WIRE 50' to run from the reciever to the wall plates. I also ordered some of the Dayton cables, optical, S-Video, etc. they looked like decent quality and pretty good price. Any feedback is appriciated!

 

[mulester7]

Well I decided on the Onkyo TXSR602 refurbished from Ubid for $205.00 plus shipping total was $232.00 I just got it and it looks the same as a brand new one. I haven't decided on speakers yet but i am still leaning toward the Infinith TSS-750 set, I can get them refurbished for just under $400. My brother ordered the same reciever and he has the Infinity primus theater pack with a JBL E150P sub from Vanns.com for $350.00 plus shipping and it sounds great, the surround speakers are just a little too big for my application. I also just ordered my speaker wire from parts express I got the 100-762 14 GA 2 COND HQ IN-WALL WIRE 100' for the inwall and attic running to the surrounds. Then I got 100-145 14 GA SOUND KING SPEAKER WIRE 50' to run from the reciever to the wall plates. I also ordered some of the Dayton cables, optical, S-Video, etc. they looked like decent quality and pretty good price. Any feedback is appriciated!

.....feedback.....I wish I enjoyed my system as much as you're about to enjoy yours, StarBound....Sound King Speaker Wire....good stuff....pro stuff......

http://www.starkelectronic.com/supwire.htm

 

[yvkulkarni]

Kilpsch Quintet

Hello Starbound,

I am also shopping for my first HT system. For speakers I also shortlisted Infinity 750. But lately I have listened to Kiplsh Quintet II and was wondering if you ever considered it.
All the pros, what is your opinion on Kilpsch Quintet II + KSW 10 Subwoofer (total $549 Shipped). Also I am trying to pair it with Yamaha RX-V2500.
I have read somewhere, this combination is too bright. What do you guys say.
Thanks
Yatin

 

[Starbound]

Just an update for everyone. I ended up purchasing the Athena Micra 6 5.1 speaker set. These speakers are incredible for the size and price. They sound so much better than the Infinity 750's and look better too. I have these in my living room which is 19'x19' and I think they fill the room very well. I did end up buying a JBL E150P sub from my brother when he upgraded to replace the Athena 75 watt 8" that came in the speaker package. I can tell a big difference with the JBL sub it fills the room much better. I know a lot of people don't like the JBL E150P sub, but I have been very pleased with it. Other subs may be better but I only paid $150.00 for it.