Mid-range Receivers

[SMiLEY]

Okay, so my parents are getting a DVD player this Christmas, and they asked me to take a look at their TV and stereo and see if they need a new receiver.

So, it turns out they do. Between the VCR, Satellite TV, and Playstation there are no more inputs to be had, they would have to unplug something to use the DVD player, and they don't want to do that.

I think they're most comfortable in the $300 range, but they would be willing to spend more if it saves them later on (i.e. extra inputs, so they don't have to worry about this again too soon).

Looking around I'm considering the Pioneer VSX-509S, Onkyo TS-DS575X, and the Yamaha RX-V596. All have Dolby Digital and DTS processing and S-Video inputs and outputs. There are a few differences though.

Pioneer 509S:
4 A/V inputs
100 Watts x 5 channels
3 Digital inputs (1C/2O)
I've found this one at a nearby Circuit City for $280

Onkyo TS-DS575X:
70 Watts x 5 channels
4 A/V inputs
4 Digital inputs (2C/2O)
The local Circuit City has a floor model for $430, but I've found it online for $380

Yamaha RX-V596:
100 Watts x 5 channels
5 A/V inputs
5 Digital inputs (2C/3O)
The local Hi-Fi buys is selling this one for MSRP, meaning $499, I've seen it online for $399

So, what do you guys think of those choices? Is it worth it to get the Onkyo or Yamaha? That Pioneer seems like a heck of a bargain. Also, I know most manufacturer's are picky about online retailers. What are some of the more reputable online retailers?

[Lexman]

Well, I would think either the Yamaha or the Pioneer would do. I prefer the Elite line of the Pioneer really. Might go with the Yamy.

Lex





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[ThomasW]

SMiLEY

If inputs are the only reason for the upgrade, look at using an input switcher. Radio Shack, Parts Express, J&R Music, all have devices that will work for less than $50

If your parent needs aren't real demanding, any of the receivers listed will be fine.

Yamaha is the king of receiver DSP. They along with Lexicon, jump started the world of digital soundfields. So if this is an important feature, I say choose Yamaha.

Onkyo builds pretty solid gear. Their tuner sections a particularily good.

Like Lex I favor the Pioneer Elite over their regular line.

If all other things are equal, literally compare the weight of the devices. Stuff is stuff, so the greater the weight, generally the more your getting for your money




theAudioWorx
Klone-Audio

[Andrew Pratt]

Well I don't perticularily like Yammie gear due to their remotes, bright sounds, silly DSP modes and ergomonics. The Pioneer you listed is a very good model and for all intents is the same as the Elite 21 model. The Onyko is a fine receiver as well. Don't get to hung up on the rated power levels if benched I'd guess them all to be fairly close to each other. One receiver you didn't list was any of the Sony DB line. There's the 840 and 940 out now which replaced the 830 and 930. Any of those Sony's would be better then what you've got listed esp the newer 840 etc. They have adjustable crossovers, great build quality and decent remotes. According to Priescan though the Sony's are too expensive...the Denon 1801 would fit that budget and would be my choice over the Pioneer, Yammie and Onyko. You can see the Denon's specs by clicking this link and the lowest price I can find is available here Hope that helps

[Lexman]

Well, Andrew isn't quite so into Yamaha as Thomas and me, it seems.

But on the external switcher, additional devices can only complicate things, and I don't think complications are that great for most of our folks.

Lex

[Huskerduck]

I have 2 $500 Sony DD 5.1 receivers in the closet that didnt make it a year so I now stay far away from cheaper Sony products, I did have the Pioneer VSX D608 running for over a year and got moved to another room for more abuse and keeps on ticking and sounds surprisingly good, I guess we all get lucky once and awhile.




Mark


Ducks Meager Theater

[Robbie]

Smiley,

I have a friend who has one of the older cheaper Sonys (the 840 or 940 I can't remember which) and he's not very pleased with it. Check out http://www.audioreview.com/ You have to take everything on here with a grain of salt but it can provide some good info.

Good luck

Robbie

[Andrew Pratt]

well the Sony DB line are a lot different then the regualr DE line. The DB series are virtually the same build quality as the ES line. I agree I wouldn't buy a Sony DE even if it was $75.

[SMiLEY]

Thanks guys!

I agree that Pioneer Elite would be better, but that stuff really goes above my parent's budget.

Inputs aren't the only reason for the upgrade, just the most significant. They are getting a DVD player, so being able to use Dolby Digital will be nice for them. Besides, I agree with Lex's sentiment that ANOTHER device would only confuse them more.

I looked at the Sonys, but the price was too high for the features I wanted, I didn't consider Denon, but the 1801 looks like a good contender.

Now I just need to look for some deals...

[DavidY]

In the US$300 range, I would recommend either a Sony DB830/930 or maybe, a "fixed" Onkyo 575 (all are now discontinued). The Sony DE is strictly mass market and is often regarded by many as low end. The DB series is placed between the DE and the top of the line ES series. IMO, the DB series build quality is quite a bit better than the DE line, but it's not as good as the ES series IMO. However, for the price, I don't think that the Sony DB830 or DB930 can be beat. The Onkyo 575 is another discontinued model with an infamous past....well known problems with hiss/hum. As long as the Onkyo 575 has been "corrected" to eliminate hiss/hum, it should work fine.

The new models, Sony DB840 and DB940 and Onkyo 575X, are nicer, but are more expensive, beyond your stated budget.

Dave

[Paul McGowan]

I think the under $500US price range is by far the easiest to decide. If I was looking in that price range, I'd pick up the Onkyo 575X in a heartbeat. Asside from the fact that it can be had for $375 online + shipping, it's really the best value out there. Onkyo sound, plenty of inputs, especially for their needs... easy to use... not as bright as the sony's and yammy's are... and for it's price range, it's built like a tank. 5way binding posts, S-vid switching.... it's SPEC'd at only 70 watts or so, but I think you'll find it's got a pretty powerful punch for HT... and nice smooth sound for music.

Hands down, no question, without a doubt, the Onkyo 575X.




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[Iguana Man]

If you're into the Elite line, check Circuit City again (maybe 6th Ave), I saw the Elite 21TX for $245 in last weeks flyer.




Iguana Man