HK AVR-235 or AVR-435. Worth the Cost for EQ and Power?

[huma]

What do you guys think. I'm trying to decide between the Harman Kardon AVR-235, AVR-335, and AVR-435. Is it worth the money for the EZset/EQ room equalization in the AVR-435? My old sony receiver had EQ controls, but I never could figure out how to adjust the settings correctly even with a RadioShack SPL meter and the AVIA guide to home theater dvd.

Also, I don't care much about the Dual-Zone capability, Remote (I have a MX-500), and Pre-Outs, but I'm having doubts that the AVR-235 would be capable of running my system sufficiently and effectively? I've been looking at Onkyo receivers' as well because they are priced alot lower with more features. However, I really love the HK sound.

Recommendations?

System Specs:
Polk RTi-8's floorstanding, pair
Polk CSi-5 center channel
Polk FXi-3 bi-directional surrounds, pair
Polk PSW505 12" subwoofer

 

[jaxvon]

The problem is, I don't think any receiver really has the guts to power your system effectively. Those speakers are power hogs. I'm not sure if the 235 or 335 have preouts, but I think if they do, go with that and invest the extra into an external amp to really give your speakers the power they need.

 

[PENG]

I listened to the RTi8 & 10 powered by the AVR430 & 630 several times. To me, the 430 (so will the 435) can do a good job on the RTi8 but not the RTi10. As far as AutoEQ, I don't use it, but many people seem to think it’s a must to have. I think it’s a personal preference.

 

[Buckeyefan 1]

Avr-435

What do you guys think. I'm trying to decide between the Harman Kardon AVR-235, AVR-335, and AVR-435. Is it worth the money for the EZset/EQ room equalization in the AVR-435? My old sony receiver had EQ controls, but I never could figure out how to adjust the settings correctly even with a RadioShack SPL meter and the AVIA guide to home theater dvd.

Also, I don't care much about the Dual-Zone capability, Remote (I have a MX-500), and Pre-Outs, but I'm having doubts that the AVR-235 would be capable of running my system sufficiently and effectively? I've been looking at Onkyo receivers' as well because they are priced alot lower with more features. However, I really love the HK sound.

Recommendations?

System Specs:
Polk RTi-8's floorstanding, pair
Polk CSi-5 center channel
Polk FXi-3 bi-directional surrounds, pair
Polk PSW505 12" subwoofer

You may get away with the HK435. I'd stick with HK since you like the sound. You'd have to start out with an Onkyo 702 or higher model to equal the 435, and even then I'm not convinced it will put out the same current.

The RTi8's aren't as big of hogs as the RTi10's or 12's since they don't use the 7" drivers. The CSi5 is a pig (even moreso than the RTi8 due to it's larger drivers), but I think it tests out to 6 ohms instead of 4 like the RTi10's and 12's when the straps are engaged. The FXi3's are perfect little 8 ohm speakers, and can be driven by just about any receiver.

Here's the place to bid on HK receivers. You may be able to pick up a 635 for the same price as the 435 if you watch closely.
http://stores.ebay.com/Harman-Audio_Harman-Kardon_W0QQcolZ2QQdirZQ2d1QQftidZ2QQtZkm

I don't know what pricing you've got on the HK435, but here's one:

http://www.jr.com/JRProductPage.process?Product=4027286

JR is probably the best place to buy HK receivers new if the price is right.

 

[jcPanny]

Pre Outs

The ARV 235 and 335 definately have pre amp outputs for all channels

 

[huma]

Thanks for the tips! The thing about pre-outs is I can't afford to buy a couple of amps to power the channels individually since my budget is <= $600 nor do I have the space for them. Outlaw M200 amps do seem nice though. What about Denon receivers?

 

[CaliHwyPatrol]

Bah, I don't like how HK sounds with Polks... I think Onkyo (602 - same price) is a much better match for your speakers. BUT, if you like the sound of the HK, then to each his own. If that is the case, I'd say the 235. Anything more than that, you are seeing huge price jumps for minimal feature/power gain.

My $.02

~Chuck