New Tech vs. Old reliable

[Adrock]

I'm new to the forum, but I'm looking for some experienced advice. I currently have no receiver, speakers, but have an hdtv and blue ray player. Question is should I invest in a new receiver (HDMI capable) or invest in older but more reliable technology. I have a limited budget for receiver and speakers ($500.00 or so) but wanted to steer away from the HTIB option. Craigslist has alot to offer in the older hardware market. Any advice is welcome!

 

[sholling]

It depends on your individual situation and goals. I like having my receiver handle source switching. In other words a touch of a button on the receiver's remote changes both the video and audio source. If you're in the US then perhaps a happy medium would be a factory refurbished receiver. Accessories For Less sells last year's Onkyo TX-SR507 for under $200 with a 1 year factory warranty. However if you don't need or cannot afford modern features like HDMI then buying used can sometimes be a bargain. Seth is our resident expert and probably has better advice than I can give.

Now used speakers I'd be all over as long as I had a chance to listen to them before buying. You can save a ton of money buying used speakers.
You may also want to go with 2.0 or 2.1 to start with to start with and adding as to it as time goes by.

One last bit of advice and that is should you decide to go with a HTIB at least pick one that uses a real receiver with non-proprietary hookups. A product with a solid receiver will allow you to replace the speakers and subwoofer as time goes on.

 

[Adrock]

Thank you for your response. Source switching sounds good, I'm pretty sure I'd have both TV and Blueray, and Wii plugged into the receiver. Music is the main reason for the system, but I love to watch movies as well. I think an upgradeable component system is the best way to go. A HTIB system that is not upgradeable is a waste of money at this point.
I have been trying to research as much as possible without actually commiting to one product or brand. Due to the fact that money is limited I've been scouring my local craigslist for receivers that people just don't want/don't need anymore. Should I avoid a used receiver/second hand, or should I go with a factory refurbished unit? My preference would be a 7.1 receiver that I can upgrade the speakers over time and maybe just run it as 2.1 or 5.1 for the time being. I certainly appreciate your response, I just don't want to rush into making a foolish purchase.

 

[sholling]

Take your time, especially when going used. You're just at a price point that is hard to quite reach with new gear unless you catch a sale. I'm not huge Polk booster but Newegg has been blowing out Monitor 30s and Monitor 40s for $90-115/pr every week or two. You'll just have to watch the deal sites for sale dates and coupon codes. Not quite a recommendation but food for thought.

 

[Seth=L]

I've personally bought many used items, it's certainly the best way to get a good deal. However, you have to make sure everything works in a situation where you making a private purchase.

Pretty much any mid level receiver up to the crux of HDMI will be considerably cheaper than one with. I watched a Yamaha RX-V659, an extremely capable receiver, sell for less than $100 on ebay the other day in excellent condition with all the accessories.

Watch stuff like this -

http://cgi.ebay.com/ONKYO-TX-SR800-THX-SELECT-7-1-DIGITAL-AV-RECEIVER-EX-NR-/230528385077?pt=Receivers_Tuners&hash=item35ac900035

They aren't in high demand and there's not usually a high level of interest generated with this models that come before the dawn of HDMI. Take a look at used Yamaha, Onkyo, Denon, Pioneer Elite, and Harman Kardon receivers.

On a budget that tight I would look at used speakers too. Start browsing ebay, forums, audiogon, and learn about different speakers. Keep an eye on your local craigslist and if you see something interesting always be sure to research the item rigourously. If you can't find reliable data on it come back here and ask us.

Just understand, it is unacceptable for people to ask $100 for a bottom of the line Pioneer receiver from 10 years ago. I've seen it time and time again when someone joins this forum and proposes a list of receivers that are so old they don't even have Dolby Digital decoding. Then they ask, "which one would you buy for $100?", and they're often all completely overpriced. The most important thing is that you have to be patient. It is not likely you're going to be able to piece a used system together overnight that's going to be worth your investment.

 

[Adrock]

I will keep searching for equippment as long as it takes. I'm taking my time and doing the research. I'm so glad there is a forum to talk to experienced audioholics. Thank you both and I'll keep searching. I stopped by the accessories for less site, alot of great discounted items--with warranties!--I may purchase an Onkyo from them and keep searching for speakers from there.
Any recommendations for speakers? I think the Paradigm and KEF are out of reach at this point, but any advice is helpful.

 

[KEW]

If you want the assurance of warranty and seller support, the best I can think of is the Onkyo from A4L (~$200 shipped) and a pair of these for $180 shipped:
http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-B2031P-Ultra-Linear-Reference-Monitor/dp/B000LQ2ABK

The 8-3/4" woofer does a fine job for bass on music, and these are excellent sounding speakers for the $90 each. You could end up wanting power if you are trying to fill a big room. What is the size of your room?

That puts you at $380 with a pretty nice stereo. Now you can listen as you watch the used market for another pair of speakers (or sub if you are a bass head).

The receiver Seth linked to is definitely a great deal if you can get it under $150 shipped.