How about Onkyo sr502?

[Defshep]

Hey guys! thanks for all the great advice on the JVC/Panasonic choice. Got another one for you. I saw the Onkyo SR502 (refurb) online for around $200 with shipping. Concerned about power issues in a mid-sized family room. Whaddya think? at 75 watts per channel, is it enough? Does high current really make a difference? My Pioneer vsx-d411 seems to have adequate power for the room at 100watts x5.

 

[MDS]

It depends on your definition of 'mid-sized' room and how efficient your speakers are.

I have an Onkyo 502 in a 16x12 room, using 92dB sensitive speakers, and it is enough power to reach unbearable listening levels. I calibrated to 75dB at 60 on the volume scale (it goes from 0 - 80) and I rarely watch movies at anything higher than 40.

The difference between 75 watts and 100 watts per channel is ~ 1dB. Don't even concern yourself with a minimal difference like that.

 

[Defshep]

Room Size

Thank you for that bit of information. My family room is roughly 14x16, so the Onkyo should sound great. I've been eyeing it for awhile, along with others like the Panasonic he200 and JVC 7030. I really just wanted an upgrade in sound quality, not really concerned with 7.1 or even 6.1 capability. My Pioneer sounds fine, I just want a "warmer" feel and depth for music and (mostly) movies.

 

[Polkfan]

The Onkyo power supply is quite robust for the price.

 

[Nomo]

Obviously you're taking a gamble any time you go with a refurb anything, but $200 is a good price. Do you still get a warranty?
I would take a Onkyo over JVC or Panasonic any day.