Polk/Pioneer Set vs. Onkyo - Need opinions

suzrutte · Nov 20, 2006

I'm buying my boyfriend a surround sound system for Christmas and have been researching systems online. I'm looking in the $300-$400 range and want the best system I can afford, without dvd player. Based on good product reviews, I was favoring the Onkyo 7.1 Channel 1000watt system (HTS 790S). However, on a research trip to a local electronics store, the sales guy talked me into a deal they had on Polk Audio Speakers (RM 6750) paired with a Pioneer Receiver (VSX 516). He assured me I would be happy with the system, but they only had boxed sets that I couldn't listen to and I'm just not sure of my purchase. I can still take the set back.

Any thoughts out there on the systems I've mentioned? I'm still considering taking back the Polk/Pioneer set in exchange for the Onkyo one, but just not sure. Solid product/consumer reviews are hard to find for all three.

sholling · Nov 20, 2006

He’s lucky to have you. You did much, much better than the Onkyo set. Polk has some great products and while these satellites may ho-hum for this forum’s crowd, remember that for folks here sound is their passion. Some have spent more on their speakers than on their cars.

These Polks are plenty good enough for the average Joe listener and head and shoulders better than most home theater in a box systems (including Onkyo) and that includes all of the Bose crap costing 3 times more.

The pioneer 516 is basic but has great bang for the buck. An excellent starter reciever! All that’s lacking (unless he is a complete audio nut and you have lots to spend) is a good subwoofer. The one that comes with the 6750 isn’t much. Here’s how I look at it. You’re springing for a plenty good quality starter receiver, a good set of satellites and throwing in a dorm room capable subwoofer. When he outgrows the sub he can replace that piece on his own dime, or wait for his birthday for an upgrade. I think that you did really good on a very generous for just a bf level budget. The $700 subwoofer will make a great wedding present when the time comes.