Time to upgrade (suggestions?)

[PeaceMonger]

I have an old pioneer receiver from about ten years ago that recently stopped working, and am thinking about purchasing a new receiver

the thing is, I'm not exactly sure all the features I need

I want to set up a 5.1 system, be able to have HD audio
I will be connecting it to a 60 inch LCDP TV, and a Blu-Ray player (PS3)



I was looking at the pioneer VSX-818V-K

but after reading reviews, I'm not sure about whether or not it can output HD audio.

any suggestions?

 

[Nomo]

If you're happy with Pioneer, it might be worth the wait for the VSX-1018.
How much money are you looking to spend?

 

[TheFactor]

Im really happy with my Pioneer Elite 94, its 7.1 but obviously you can still run 5.1 and with 140 watts per channel you've got nice clean power to spare and room to grow into watt gobbling speakers

 

[PeaceMonger]

honestly, I wanted to spend less than 400 dollars, but it looks like thats not going to happen if I want to get a descent receiver.


unless there are any in that range that anyone here can recommend?

otherwise, I'll probably be looking to spend in the 500s.

 

[Nomo]

This is Yamaha is best in it's class.
It can be had for less if you shop around.


http://store.audioholics.com/product/1759/69/yamaha-rx-v663/3037d1c1a1cb6f82378e8765053446d6

 

[ChunkyDark]

I'll second the 663 vote. I've had it about 2 months now and have been very happy with it.

 

[GlocksRock]

I too have a Yamaha RX-V663 and so far it's been fantastic. I really don't think you can beat it for the money.

 

[PeaceMonger]

if I have a 5.1 system, do you think its worth the money to get a receiver with TrueHD as opposed to Dolby Digital 5.1?

Is the sound quality very different, or is it mostly the fact that it supports 7.1?

 

[Mw`]

In your price range check out the yamaha 663 and the onkyo 606 for the latest/greatest. If you extend your budget another $150-200 check out the Hk 254, Pioneer 1018, and Denon 1909. You can also find some of last years models being cleared out at insane prices too.

 

[WmAx]

Two best low cost solutions, no doubt: Yamaha 663 and Onkyo 705(factory refurbished). You can get the 663 for about $370 shipped if you look around, and the 705 refurbishment for about $440 shipped. I'm actually considering from these two myself, but leaning towards the 705 because (1) it has more HDMI inputs, (2) it does not clip the extreme values of the HDMI signal like the 663 and (3) the Onkyo has higher class look with it's substantial real metal front as compared to the Yamaha's simulated metal molded plastic front.

-Chris