Need help deciding on a new amp

[mbimmer]

Hey guys,
I'm new to the forum. Been looking for a new amp and found this site, obviously an amazing resource. You all see very knowledgeable and I was hoping you'd be able to help me decide on a new amp.
So my Denon Avr-2808 just died and it seems like getting it repaired will cost so much that I feel like now would be a good time to just upgrade to a newer model. I'm looking to spend no more than $600. My current set up is a 7.1, all definitive technology speakers. Also have speakers outside running on a separate amp which I want hooked up to the zone-2 on the receiver. I definitely want something that is network capable and has an app for idevices so i can control the system from outside. I basically have it narrowed down to three receivers, but I really can't decide between them. The three I'm looking at are:

Denon AVR-2112

Pioneer VSX-1021

Yamaha RX-V671

(I'd post links so you wouldn't have to go looking for them, but since I'm new to the forum it won't let me :-/)

They're all around the same price range and seem to have the features I'm looking for. What has the best mix of audio quality, video quality, build quality, and good GUI? If you guys had to pick one, which would it be? Or would you recommend something else at this price point?

Any and all answers will be HUGELY appreciated and I thank you in advance!

 

[mbimmer]

Also want to throw in the Pioneer Elite VSX-33. I think the only thing that is missing is the Airplay capability, which while important to me isn't #1 on the list as it still has an ipod connector.

Looking forward to some replies, thanks again!

 

[gpost3]

I would personally pickup the Pioneer due to its ease of use. But you can't really go wrong with any of them. Yamaha is also my all time favourite. I cannot comment on Denon as I have no experience using it.

 

[mbimmer]

Yes, I'm liking the Pioneers. But again, can't decide between the VSX-1021 or the Elite VSX-33.
Ahh, this is so difficult!

 

[gpost3]

The elite series have more bells and whistles and are more geared towards enthusiasts. If the price is the same, then go with the elite. Plus it is 3D ready.

 

[slerch666]

Try to find a store locally that has them in stock and audition them with speakers that match your setup as closely as possible and see if you hear a difference. If you don't (ensure they set all of the receivers to FLAT/PURE/WHATEVER IT'S CALLED THAT HAS NO EQ APPLIED), buy the one that has all the features you want and costs you the least.

I have a Denon 3311 and love the sound on it, along with the ease of use. I'd assume the "lower" models would offer a similar experience. Don't think you'll go wrong with any of the choices you've made though.

 

[AcuDefTechGuy]

So my Denon Avr-2808 just died

It died after only 4 yrs?

It sounds like you might want to try a flagship model like a brand new 4310 for $900. Hopefully it will last longer than 4 yrs.

http://www.amazon.com/Denon-AVR4310CI-7-1-Channel-Multi-Zone-Connectivity/dp/B002AKKFQC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1305740740&sr=8-3

 

[DenPureSound]

You can pick up a NEW Denon AVR-3311CI from Electronics-Expo for $800. I have one and I LOVE the Heck out of It. Has preouts also, so I added an Emotiva XPA-5 to give it some REAL Punch even w/my Highly efficient Klipsch's. Sound is Neutral, and EXCELLENT.