froggit Wrote:Thanks for the advice and links.
So, to further refine my needs:
1. I don't care at all for having 3D
2. At least 3 or 4 HDMI inputs would be good
3. 5.1 sound is all I need, so forget anything greater than this
4. Last year's model is fine, as long as it meets the above requirements
5. As cheap as possible, but not nasty
Does that narrow my model possibilities a bit?
Any suggestions? I love the look of the Denons so are there any models that might satisfy the above? However a Denon is not a must.
Also, I suppose looking for second hand equipment might be a reasonable idea?
I have last year's denon avr-590 which has 3 HDMI in and 5.1, plus pre-outs for the other 2 channels should you ever want to move to 7.1.
It seemed to have the same core feature set, and similar quality amplifier, as all the more expensive stuff. Most other brands did not have a comparable model.
I had a 10% or 15% coupon for best buy and it was under $300.
I am basically satisfied, although i'd like more HDMI inputs (currently full with tivo, hd-dvd, and HTPC, what do i do when i get an xbox or ps3 or whatever?). My advice is that if you can find a receiver with more HDMI in than you think you need, for another $50 or $100 it's probably worth it. Of course that really depends on your own finances and your tolerance for dorking around with external switchers, etc.
Look at the specs of the amplifiers, THD in particular. I remember one brand (I want to say onkyo but i could easily be wrong) had great amps in their $600+ receivers but not in the cheaper ones.
When purchasing denon note that they take identical receivers and put two labels on them. One goes to the generic audio market, one goes to home theater. In this case the equivalent model was an avr-1310 i think. Best Buy had the 590 out on the shelf and the 1310 in the magnolia home theater section for $30 more.
I see that they have an avr-591 which loses a toslink and gains an HDMI. They also have a $250 avr-391, i dunno what they cut to reach that price.
