NEW entry-level receiver or USED high-end

[krmanuel]

I'm new to the home theater world and I'm getting ready to purchase a receiver. I'm on a budget so I'm hoping to keep it under $300. My question is, should I purchase a new entry-level receiver or a slightly used high-end receiver if I can find one for the same price. My concern about an older receiver is that I need HDMI connections. With that said, it sounds like the high-end receivers have more options. I'm just not sure if it's something I need or not.

If the answer is new, I've narrowed it down to the Pioneer VSX-520-K or the Yamaha RX-V367BL (from Best Buy). Any thoughts on between those two?

Here is my setup. I mostly watch BlueRay movies and HD Sports.

50" Panasonic 1080i TV (HDMI)
LG BlueRay DVD player (HDMI)
AT&T Uverse DVR (HDMI)
Polkaudio book shelf speakers (RM6751) with sub and center

I appreciate anyone's feedback. I'm looking forward to my new hobby and contributing to the forum one day soon.

 

[AVRat]

For $218: http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-VSX-820-K-Home-Theater-Receiver/dp/B0039XQL2G/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=172282&s=electronics

At this point you really don't need anything higher up the chain.

 

[zumbo]

Yamaha 565 from an authorized dealer for $307.

http://www.6ave.com/shop/product.aspx?sku=YAMRXV565BL

 

[ErnieM]

Check out Accessories 4 Less. I bought my Marantz SR7001 for much less than half it's original 1300 price and after 18 months there is no problem with it.

http://www.accessories4less.com/index.php

 

[LAB3]

Yamaha 565 from an authorized dealer for $307.

http://www.6ave.com/shop/product.aspx?sku=YAMRXV565BL

YES It's HD. Good price. I have had several Yamaha A/V Receicers thru the years and never had a problem. HDMI from Blu-ray to this Yamaha then HDMI from Yamaha to your TV. For the money this Yamaha has the decoders you need. I would not buy a used amp from someone I did not know. Plus this one is new and factory warranty, doubt you will need it.