Ready to pull the trigger! But

[Gazer]

Hi All,

Just like to start off saying what a great site to get alot of useful info! I know there are countless threads asking what brand receiver is better over another brand,but I am ready to pull the trigger on making a purchase and would like any advice on the brands that I am interested in.
(1) Denon 3805
(2) Yamaha 2500
(3) Marantz 8500
(4) H/K 7300

The last time I bought any Audio equipment was back in 1991,needless to say I have alot of catching up to do! After spending the last couple of months researching I've narrowed it to these four. The Denon seems to be a favorite on this site,with the Yammy a close second. Marantz & H/K don't seem to get mentioned much.
I am looking for a receiver with strengths tailored more towards audio than video. I have looked into separates and really don't want to go that route. I plan on upgrading the speakers and DVD player in the future. All of these receivers have the features I'm looking for,so it just comes down to which one of these will give the best bang for the buck!

Thanks
Gazer

 

[awesomebase]

Almost same list as mine!

I just finished buying a receiver (it will come in next week) after months of listening, testing, reading etc. I figured on either the Denon or the HK but, in the end, the Yamaha (and I even went with the 1500 instead of the 2500) was just the best price for the feature set. Keep in mind that I think that the HK and Yamaha had better balanced sound and, judging from what I've read others say, have better reliability. In the end, I went with the Yamaha because its price was just so much cheaper... if it were the same, I probably would have gone with the HK. Just my $0.02.

 

[azsoundman]

Which Receiver to Buy???

Ya know its like asking a wine maker How long U age a good 'Chardonnay' in Oak? Ask 5 different people U will absolutely get 5 different answers... All of the receivers in that list have plus's & minus's.. My advice? Just pick one and enjoy it! It is after all the music and movie FUN it brings that really matters!

 

[Buckeyefan 1]

Hi All,

Just like to start off saying what a great site to get alot of useful info! I know there are countless threads asking what brand receiver is better over another brand,but I am ready to pull the trigger on making a purchase and would like any advice on the brands that I am interested in.
(1) Denon 3805
(2) Yamaha 2500
(3) Marantz 8500
(4) H/K 7300

The last time I bought any Audio equipment was back in 1991,needless to say I have alot of catching up to do! After spending the last couple of months researching I've narrowed it to these four. The Denon seems to be a favorite on this site,with the Yammy a close second. Marantz & H/K don't seem to get mentioned much.
I am looking for a receiver with strengths tailored more towards audio than video. I have looked into separates and really don't want to go that route. I plan on upgrading the speakers and DVD player in the future. All of these receivers have the features I'm looking for,so it just comes down to which one of these will give the best bang for the buck!

Thanks
Gazer

All are great. All but the HK put out similar power. The HK is simply a powerhouse of insane current. The Yamaha could be had at the lowest price, followed by the Denon. The Marantz is overpriced right now, and needs some time on the market to come down. The HK is the best of the four, but you'll pay almost double for it. Thus the HK isn't really in the same ballpark as the other three. Yamaha is coming out with some new models this fall with XM Satellite and possibly HDMI/DVI hookups. The Marantz already has those, but again, is overpriced right now. If you choose speakers that have relatively sane spl levels (I say this all the time), you can even go with a model down from the three above without any loss in sound quality. Some don't like the Denon's remote. Take it from me, I've learned to use it, and it's got one of the best on screen displays and is a joy to use. It scares people off at first glance because it's so different, but Denon wouldn't use it with the new $6000 AVR5805 if it wasn't quick learning.

 

[azsoundman]

All are great. All but the HK put out similar power. The HK is simply a powerhouse of insane current. The Yamaha could be had at the lowest price, followed by the Denon. The Marantz is overpriced right now, and needs some time on the market to come down. The HK is the best of the four, but you'll pay almost double for it. Thus the HK isn't really in the same ballpark as the other three. Yamaha is coming out with some new models this fall with XM Satellite and possibly HDMI/DVI hookups. The Marantz already has those, but again, is overpriced right now. If you choose speakers that have relatively sane spl levels (I say this all the time), you can even go with a model down from the three above without any loss in sound quality. Some don't like the Denon's remote. Take it from me, I've learned to use it, and it's got one of the best on screen displays and is a joy to use. It scares people off at first glance because it's so different, but Denon wouldn't use it with the new $6000 AVR5805 if it wasn't quick learning.

Dude... U just doin't get it.. If he is looking to the future with this purchase the Marantz has the most to offer. Overpriced? maybe by your standards, but since when do U have the right to think with HIS wallet? As far as 'cheaper units' are concerned they may 'spec' the same but doint think that smaller power supplies and storage caps doint make a difference? U bet they do.. But I forgot this from someone who thinks a 'Walmart' surge strip is fine and that cables and decent interconnects doint make a difference either.. Do U actually READ the reviews on this and other sites when it comes to performance products? I think not.. U know some people can see past an AVR-3805 and the Polk RTI series... and I sell Both! With your logic there is NO need to build a 5805 or the LSI series either... BTW.. try take'n a Denon DVD 2910 home and actually listen to it with some 'Better interconnects' and I think the next place that Toshiba SD-1600 will be is on E-Bay!!

 

[MacManNM]

Dude... U just doin't get it.. If he is looking to the future with this purchase the Marantz has the most to offer. Overpriced? maybe by your standards, but since when do U have the right to think with HIS wallet? As far as 'cheaper units' are concerned they may 'spec' the same but doint think that smaller power supplies and storage caps doint make a difference? U bet they do.. But I forgot this from someone who thinks a 'Walmart' surge strip is fine and that cables and decent interconnects doint make a difference either.. Do U actually READ the reviews on this and other sites when it comes to performance products? I think not.. U know some people can see past an AVR-3805 and the Polk RTI series... and I sell Both! With your logic there is NO need to build a 5805 or the LSI series either... BTW.. try take'n a Denon DVD 2910 home and actually listen to it with some 'Better interconnects' and I think the next place that Toshiba SD-1600 will be is on E-Bay!!

So, I guess you are getting a nice commission from Marantz and Cobalt Cable? Next are you going to tell him how good of a “Deal” you can get him?

 

[MacManNM]

Hi All,

Just like to start off saying what a great site to get alot of useful info! I know there are countless threads asking what brand receiver is better over another brand,but I am ready to pull the trigger on making a purchase and would like any advice on the brands that I am interested in.
(1) Denon 3805
(2) Yamaha 2500
(3) Marantz 8500
(4) H/K 7300

The last time I bought any Audio equipment was back in 1991,needless to say I have alot of catching up to do! After spending the last couple of months researching I've narrowed it to these four. The Denon seems to be a favorite on this site,with the Yammy a close second. Marantz & H/K don't seem to get mentioned much.
I am looking for a receiver with strengths tailored more towards audio than video. I have looked into separates and really don't want to go that route. I plan on upgrading the speakers and DVD player in the future. All of these receivers have the features I'm looking for,so it just comes down to which one of these will give the best bang for the buck!

Thanks
Gazer

IMO, none of those are really strong in the 2 chan dep. I know you said you didn't want to go with separates, but for music that is your best bet.

 

[Buckeyefan 1]

Dude... U just doin't get it.. If he is looking to the future with this purchase the Marantz has the most to offer. Overpriced? maybe by your standards, but since when do U have the right to think with HIS wallet? As far as 'cheaper units' are concerned they may 'spec' the same but doint think that smaller power supplies and storage caps doint make a difference? U bet they do.. But I forgot this from someone who thinks a 'Walmart' surge strip is fine and that cables and decent interconnects doint make a difference either.. Do U actually READ the reviews on this and other sites when it comes to performance products? I think not.. U know some people can see past an AVR-3805 and the Polk RTI series... and I sell Both! With your logic there is NO need to build a 5805 or the LSI series either... BTW.. try take'n a Denon DVD 2910 home and actually listen to it with some 'Better interconnects' and I think the next place that Toshiba SD-1600 will be is on E-Bay!!

I'll post this quote by you, then shut up and let the guests at the forum decide who doesn't get it.

My Philips SACD 1000 took a dump and will not open or close or play and I have been searching on the net to see if its worth repairing because I guess parts are no longer available. If anyone has an idea besides using it as a $2000.00 dollar door-stop,
I'm open for suggestions..

 

[Duffinator]

Hi All,

Just like to start off saying what a great site to get alot of useful info! I know there are countless threads asking what brand receiver is better over another brand,but I am ready to pull the trigger on making a purchase and would like any advice on the brands that I am interested in.
(1) Denon 3805
(2) Yamaha 2500
(3) Marantz 8500
(4) H/K 7300

The last time I bought any Audio equipment was back in 1991,needless to say I have alot of catching up to do! After spending the last couple of months researching I've narrowed it to these four. The Denon seems to be a favorite on this site,with the Yammy a close second. Marantz & H/K don't seem to get mentioned much.
I am looking for a receiver with strengths tailored more towards audio than video. I have looked into separates and really don't want to go that route. I plan on upgrading the speakers and DVD player in the future. All of these receivers have the features I'm looking for,so it just comes down to which one of these will give the best bang for the buck!

Thanks
Gazer

First, Dude, I do think Buckeyefan 1 does get it and is entitled to express his opinion.

Gazer, my opinion is that the Yamaha 2500 will give you the "best bang for the buck" and I own a Denon 3805. For stereo music I'd go with the HK 7300. It has the most power and is an excellent choice. But keep in mind it's a monster and will not fit in many shelves/racks (at least mine anyway), you have been warned! BTW, what speakers are you using?

 

[nm2285]

Since you're looking more into audio than video, I would HIGHLY recommend you check NAD and Rotel. They don't get much mention here because they lack some features. However, I'm sure no one will argue they are fantastic pieces of equipment. NAD is known for awesome power supplies and musicality and Rotel is known for its refined, laid back sound.

Both I would consider superior in the audio dept to anything you're considering. However, if you need features or video processing, definately stick to those on your list. I my tastes would lead me to Marantz or HK (probably HK b/c of reliability).

 

[Gazer]

Thank you all for your suggestions. I would love to going with separates but they are out of our price range. As for the speakers, we will be using the speakers that came with the htib system we bought earlier this year (what a mistake ) oh well live and learn. I've narrowed the choices down to the Marantz and H/K.
Which brings me to my next question. Any suggestions on speakers for a surround setup, in the 2k range? Depending on how we layout our living room, we can do 6.1 or 7.1 setup.The room is 12'x16',with 7'-8" ceiling. The entertainment center will be along the 12' wall,with the listening area about 12' from the entertainment center. We will be upgrading the speakers over time, so we will be starting off by upgrading the fronts and center speakers. Any suggestions!

Thanks
Gazer

 

[azsoundman]

Yeah.. because it was a very good sounding SACD player and there were a few places who specialized in repairing it.. It has been replaced with a Denon DVD 3910 which if U bothered to read also is a good sounding SACD and DVD audio player!! So Whats UR Point?

 

[azsoundman]

So, I guess you are getting a nice commission from Marantz and Cobalt Cable? Next are you going to tell him how good of a “Deal” you can get him?

NOPE.. NOT even a Dime! In fact look at my earlier post reguarding his list of receivers! My point still stands.. its his decesion.. both Yamaha and Denon will have HDMI switching units available in the next 45 days.. I have copies of the
spec sheets on both and pricing. BTW.. If U look at my system, U can see I am a 'music' listener first.. video second! Pick ONE and be Happy!

 

[azsoundman]

I'll post this quote by you, then shut up and let the guests at the forum decide who doesn't get it.

My Philips SACD 1000 took a dump and will not open or close or play and I have been searching on the net to see if its worth repairing because I guess parts are no longer available. If anyone has an idea besides using it as a $2000.00 dollar door-stop,
I'm open for suggestions..[/QUOTE
So What's UR Point? It was still used by the guy's at the Absolute Sound as a
'Reference' SACD player up to a couple of years ago.. BTW Philips would repair it 'under warranty' but NOT out of warranty... figure that out!

 

[MacManNM]

NOPE.. NOT even a Dime! In fact look at my earlier post reguarding his list of receivers! My point still stands.. its his decesion.. both Yamaha and Denon will have HDMI switching units available in the next 45 days.. I have copies of the
spec sheets on both and pricing. BTW.. If U look at my system, U can see I am a 'music' listener first.. video second! Pick ONE and be Happy!

That’s why I have a separate 2ch system. I love guys like you, you read reviews and believe everything you read. News flash: cables are cables, as long as they are built properly. If you need 12ga speaker wire, it doesn’t matter what kind it is. 12ga copper is 12ga copper. I mean I’m sure your setup is nice, but you need to chill out. This site is about opinions.

 

[azsoundman]

That’s why I have a separate 2ch system. I love guys like you, you read reviews and believe everything you read. News flash: cables are cables, as long as they are built properly. If you need 12ga speaker wire, it doesn’t matter what kind it is. 12ga copper is 12ga copper. I mean I’m sure your setup is nice, but you need to chill out. This site is about opinions.

John.. First of all I absolutley do NOT believe everything I read in fact far from it.. 2nd My main system is 2 channel with a modified Jolida JD801A Tube amplifier.. 3rd I have made NO bones about working in this industry its right in my profile so I doint know where UR "I love guy's like you" statement is based!
Nothing is further from the truth...

 

[MacManNM]

John.. First of all I absolutley do NOT believe everything I read in fact far from it.. 2nd My main system is 2 channel with a modified Jolida JD801A Tube amplifier.. 3rd I have made NO bones about working in this industry its right in my profile so I doint know where UR "I love guy's like you" statement is based!
Nothing is further from the truth...

Look, first you jump on Buck, for giving the guy an opinion, then, you basically insult him by inferring that he has a tin ear, after that you jump on me, what do you expect? This site is about opinions, some of us have more experience than others, and some are more technically savvy. The bottom line is, it’s not about insults, or confrontation. I don’t slam other peoples systems. I don’t slam you because you use a tube amp, could I? I’m sure, but lets try to keep the information coming, and the confrontation down a notch.