Yamaha YHT 493BL - Issues and some questions/need suggestions

[xSeanZx]

Okay so let me start by explaining what I have up and running right now. Just last night I went to best buy and purchase the Yamaha YHT 493BL model found here:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Yamaha+-+600W+5.1-Ch.+Home+Theater+System/9875451.p?id=1218187080690&skuId=9875451

First let me say this was my first surround sound setup. God it took me forever. Now I was having the "Check SP Wire" error but was able to fix that myself by singling out the problem speaker and reworking the connection.

So no my problem is this: When put at higher volumes, I get crackling noises. Not necessarily cracking noises, but popping type sounds. I went to Best Buy, and I was told that many times this can be caused by poor HDMI connections found on the receiver, and this is a common issue with receivers from all sorts of brands.

Now also while I was there, I was suggested the current Insignia HTIB set. The guy I was talking to definitely sounded like he knew his stuff, and he stated that this particular receiver was manufactured by Pioneer (different companies make different things for Best Buy under the brand Insignia). The insignia set is here:

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Insignia™+-+670W+5.1-Ch.+Home+Theater+System/9833984.p?id=1218214391173&skuId=9833984&st=Insignia surround&cp=1&lp=12

The guy told me that he felt the receiver was much better on this set as well as the speakers that came with it.

So... my first question is does that popping actually come from bad HDMI ports on the receiver? If so... that kind of sucks. He also suggested to me running my xbox etc. through component and using optical audio to fix the problem... but I really like the crisp picture of the HDMI connection compared to component.

I want to stay in the range of 500-600 dollars... so I know I cant get much. Do you guys have any suggestions as to any other systems or setups I could find for comparable prices and that excel in performance?

This is for my smaller room, and I am not looking for anything that is mind blowing. I just want solid surround sound that has a good kick to it. I appreciate your time, and look forward to your responses. Thank you!

 

[m_vanmeter]

more Best Buy "sales manure"
Insignia is an in-store brand of just barely adequate quality. Normally it is not in the same league as Yamaha. I'm surprised the sales troll didn't try to up-sell you to a Mon$ter cable as the ultimate cure-all.

Try your xBox with a game and DVD, if the noise continues take the unit back for refund or exchange.

If you exchange it, look at the Denon DHT-591BA bundle. A Denon AVR 591 receiver bundled with Boston Acoustics speakers.

 

[xSeanZx]

Okay so if I notice the popping is with only a game or a movie what do I do? ... I did notice it a lot on call of duty. But I also noticed it a bit on my ps3 as well.

Also... I saw that denon set and saw it was 600 dollars... What warrants the larger price of that set?

Any suggestions on maybe some separate speakers and receiver combos in the lower price ranges?