HT Migration path

[edgy]

Choosing the right entry level receiver

Hi. First post here. Starting up a home theater system and the system I want is not something I can buy all at once. Well, the system I really want would require a second mortgage...

But basically, I've been thinking about what I can purchase that will allow me over time to upgrade. I was hoping to run this by you fine people to help me foresee any problems that may arise. All I've got right now is a TV.

1. First purchase: AV Receiver (which is why I figured I'd post in this forum). I'm thinking of getting something like a Harman Kardon 135 or 235. I eventually would like to upgrade to the Marantz SR8500 because I'd like to use the DVI switching along with something that powerful.

2. Front speakers: I've got some nice powered studio monitors with good bass that I'd be fine with using with the home theater system until I can upgrade. Now, will most AV receivers allow me to send an out direct to these powered speakers and let me control the volume from the receiver? I know the HK units do have pre outs. I'm not sure I can control the volume with these though.

3. Surrounds: My ceiling is prewired and the next purchase would be surrounds (right now I'm thinking of the Gallo A'Divas, but I haven't researched the options yet). So the system would then be, two fronts that are sent through pre-out, and two surrounds using the power from the receiver. Will the receiver be able to be programmed for this odd configuration?

4. Sub: Maybe I'd get these with the surrounds, but at any rate, the system will be two self-powered fronts, surround and sub. Again, can the receiver be programmed fro this configuration?

5. Upgrade to L/R/C speakers: I've got my eye on the floor standing Def Tech Mythos line for these. Would the HK 135 or 235 drive these fine for the time being?

6. Upgrade AV Receiver: hopefully by then the SR8500 will come down in price!

Okay, so there it is. Sorry for the long post. I really appreciate anyone taking the time to think about this for me. My main question is whether or not the HK receiver I'm thinking about is the right choice for this plan.

Thanks so much!!

 

[Buckeyefan 1]

I don't think you will be happy with the HK receivers you listed as far as power goes. They are high current, but not very powerful until you get up to the 7300. I compared the 635 to Denon's 3500 and it couldn't hold a candle to the Denon. The 635 is HK's top model under the flagship 7300. I would only recommend the 135 or 235 if you are running speakers that are 97% plus efficient. You can use an external amp to drive two front towers, or with a higher end receiver, bi amp the front towers with one receiver. Your receiver should be driving the center, rear surrounds, and back surrounds at minimum if you run a 7.1 setup. The Marantz is an excellent unit, with all the new gadgets and inputs. Marantz, Denon, and MacIntosh are all owned by the same company now - its hard to beat that threesome.

 

[edgy]

Thanks for the reply. So it sounds like you think the HK 235 won't even be good for a short while with floorstanding speakers like the Mythos. I figure I'd wait maybe 3-6 months before replacing the receiver.

Can anyone confirm that most receivers can handle odd setups like self-powered front speakers with surrounds that need power?

Thanks!