question about receivers

[thomasshi]

Probably this is the right forum to go (I originally post it in Speaker forum)

Hi, all.


I just bought a pair of R15 from outpost. I am planning to use it for the front speaker. Since I listen to music more than watching movies, I am looking for a decent home theatre receiver under $200, given the fact that I am sharing a house with others. The room is about 14X18.

I am thinking buying a HT receiver instead of stereo one, because I have a set of off-brand speakers (from those cheap HT set, the DVD/amp is broken, the sub is un-powered).

But music performance is more of my concern.


I have read some reviews about onkyo 502 (refurb one is about 180) and Pioneer 514 (new about 180). I am eager to know which one has better musical performance. If you know there are better choices in the range, please let me know.

BTW, I notice there is Pioneer 515. I wonder what's the difference between 514 and 515.

Thanks in advance.

[thomasshi]

BTW, I do not have much chance to compare one by one in stores. So I think I'd better start from reviews online or forums.

I am eager to hear your advices based on the speakers I have.

Thanks!

[Early B.]

Go with Onkyo.

Alternatively, reconsider acquiring a stereo receiver instead of a HT receiver because if music is your primary concern, you'll get better SQ from a stereo receiver based on your budget. Check out the Harman Kardon stereo receivers. I recently bought one brand new for $259 shipped, so you can probably find one used for around $200. Several members on this forum use their 2-channel systems for HT and love it.

[thomasshi]

Originally posted by Early B.
Go with Onkyo.

Alternatively, reconsider acquiring a stereo receiver instead of a HT receiver because if music is your primary concern, you'll get better SQ from a stereo receiver based on your budget. Check out the Harman Kardon stereo receivers. I recently bought one brand new for $259 shipped, so you can probably find one used for around $200. Several members on this forum use their 2-channel systems for HT and love it.

Thanks!

So HT receivers are not as good as stereo one in terms of musical handling.

I saw refurb Onkyo 8011 and 8211 @ Onkyo site for about $85. Which one is better? I can not tell much difference from the specs.

[Early B.]

So HT receivers are not as good as stereo one in terms of musical handling.
Well, I wouldn't quite go that far, but I think for your budget it may be generally true.

[thomasshi]

Originally posted by Early B.
Well, I wouldn't quite go that far, but I think for your budget it may be generally true.

Yes, that's what I mean.

I will get what I pay for, esp. in this price range.


Well, I think since I do not have hi-fi level speakers, I will just go for a decent HT receiver. Probably the Onkyo 502 refurb. But I wonder how good those refurb things could be.

Thanks again

[okiepolkie]

The refurbs are fine. When you get to higher level equipment, they call it "B"-stock and usually give a full warranty with it.

I would normally buy a refurb before I would buy a new one because it more cost effective.

[thomasshi]

I notice that Pioneer just have a new entry model 515 with 6.1 set up. It has same price as the 514, which is 5.1.

I am wondering if there is any improvement in the performance. Any one have tried?

BTW, the Onkyo 502 is about $250. Is it better than the Pioneer 514/515? If true, how much difference?

Thanks!