My HK AVR-254 is experiencing HDMI problems (surprise, surprise) and periods where the sound will go off if paused for any length of time. Since I still have a warranty until July, I am going to send it back and exchange it for another refurbished unit but it will take about a week and a half to get it replaced. As to not go without TV and music for that period, I want to buy a receiver somewhere in the $250-350 range. I know I could get more if I went up in price but that unfortunately is not an option.
I currently have a Tivo with a Samsung blue ray player, Apple TV and an Xbox 360 running through older Kef speakers. By going the refurb and open box route, I could get either the Onkyo 608, a Denon Avr-1911 or and Elite VSX 32. I am not going to need the 3d feature but I want a mellow sound that works well with both the Avatar blue-ray DVd and Beethoven's Ninth. The room is 12x16 and although I don't blast my music, I want enough power to limit distortion.
Any suggestions - any advice would be appreciated.
