Need help educating myself?

[Borny]

I currently have a Sony RV 3793 receiver, that is finally giving up on me. I have 5 Cerwin Vega Speaker system that I had attached to it. I know nothing about recievers, audio, video. I am trying to educate myself. Can any body recommend a decent A/V reciever for around $300 - $400? When buying a reciever what should I look for?
Thanks
Donald Bornhauser

 

[Rock&Roll Ninja]

$300-$400 keeps you away from flagship receivers, but there are still some good choices Yamaha, Onkyo, Panasonic, et al all make good units at that price point. Cerwin-Vegas are pretty efficient speakers, so you shouldn't need too much power.

Things to consider:

*Are there enough digital connections
*component video switching
*bass management

 

[Borny]

Thanks, Any paticular models in the Yamaha you would recommend?

 

[MasterChief]

You should get something like Yamaha RX-V650 Receiver or Pionner VSX-1014.
There i think about 350 - 400.

 

[Buckeyefan 1]

Those are fine. You can also check into Denon's 1905 receiver:

http://www.shopzilla.com/12--Denon_AVR_1905_Receiver_-_cat_id--11070000__prod_id--260804087

You'll save money by ordering online. Some trusted sites to order receivers from are:

www.jr.com
www.ubid.com

I'm sure some of the members can chime in on other sites they've had good luck with also.

 

[WooHoo]

There are a number of model changes going on right now and I suggest you look into the HTR-57XX series of Yamaha receivers. If you have a Best Buy near you check them out. The new HTR-58XX receivers are on the website but local stores may have deals on the old 5700 series. Doesn't seem to be many major improvements on the new line over the old. You should be able to find the HTR-5760 in your price range.