Which entry-level system is better? Denon, Pioneer, Jamo, Paradigm, JBL?

[feadin]

Hi,

I'm shopping around (here in Canada) for a good, although entry-level, receiver for both home theater and music (this is for a friend).

Which of those two would be better?

- Denon AVR-486S (or Denon AVR-1506 which is almost the same)
- Pioneer VSX-D815S

Also, for speakers, I seem to have the following options. Which would you recommend?

- Jamo 5.1 Speaker System (A305PDD1)
- Paradigm Cinema 70 CT

There are also JBL kits like the SCS 145.5 or the SCS 180.6. Are these any good?

Many thanks to anyone that can help! It is greatly appreciated.

 

[Taifun]

What price point are you looking at?

Out of the 2 receivers I would go with the Pioneer VSX-815S. The MCACC feature is really nice as a starting point for setting up your system.

As for the speakers... audition them if you can. I would not buy speakers I have not heard. I bought the Polks I have as a starter. I am planning on moving up when money allows, but I really like them.

 

[feadin]

What price point are you looking at?

Well, in Canadian dollars, there is a deal right now for the Jamo speakers + the Denon AVR-486 at $799 at Best Buy.

At another store, there is a deal for the Paradigm speakers + the Denon AVR-1506 at $898.

The Pioneer receiver is not part of a deal, it sells at $399 CDN, but I just like this receiver...

Thanks,
Francis