upgrade dilemma

[whoaru99]

Help! Can't make up my mind.

I have an old Sony SDP-E800(??) surround processor that I would like to upgrade.

The problem is that all my power amps are old too, even older than the processor. They are Yamaha 2) M80's (250 w/ch) and 1) M40 (120 w/ch) from the early/mid 80's.

With +20 years on them, how long can I reasonably expect them to last? This is one aspect of my dilemma. Will I upgrade pre/pro only to have amps failing tomorrow or next week or next month, etc.? Given the age, repair is probably not an option due to parts availability.

The other aspect of the dilemma is to consider a A/V receiver. The concern here is the all in one box scenario if there is a problem and also the amplifier sections. Since I am use to the power of the old, but very respectable, Yamahas I'm using now, will I be disappointed with the receiver's power for dynamic range (headroom, etc.)?

All opinions greatly appreciated!

BTW - Speakers are Def Tech all around. Front=BP30's, Center=CLR2000, Rear=BP10 and or BP2, Sub=PF1500.

Thanks!

[JonMarsh]

If power amps aren't abused, it's not unusual for them to last 20+ years; the biggest factor is the electrolytic caps drying out, and if the amps operate in good ventillation at reasonable power levels, they may still have quite a few good years left.

There's a lot of folks that are very happy with receivers, but aside from one I use in the bedroom with my video setup there, I haven't owned one in the last 35 years. You do have more flexibility to adapt to changing conditions and technologies with seperates. But there is a price to pay...


There's receivers and there's receivers... most these days are not rated for all channels driven simultaneously, partly because that's not often needed in HT, and partly because of the cost pressures. You can buy a starter level receiver for a few hundred dollars, and you can spend up to $3K for one also. You do get something more with the big guys.

Myself, if I were in your shoes, I'd probably look at Rotel, Parasound, Aragon and Anthem suround processors, and enjoy your current amps while looking over what's out these days. There are other good brands, but for HT I'm pretty value oriented.

Regards,

Jon

[Juan Cortez]

I agree with Jon. Separates will give you much better fleixbility, and sound quality. I would like to add Outlaw, and NAD to the list that Jon provided. How much are you willing to spend, we could give better recomendations for equipment to go and listen to.

[JBJR]

I would also suggest you look at the Sherwood-Newcastle P-965. It is getting some great reviews.