Buy used bigger model reciever or New lower model?

[66chevyIISS]

I've been window shopping new receivers and can't decide what is the better route to take.

I would like to stay with Denon. I've been leaning towards buying a used AVR-3805. I've seen then in them in the $550 range on craigslist, audiogon, ebay, etc... The other option is to buy a 2307ci or 2807 new. The 3805 has better power then these two receivers. The only disadvantage I can see is HDMI switching which isn't a big deal to me personally.

Am I missing something? What would you do?

[anonymouse]

get the older one

[Ricardo]

Welcome to the forum.

I have a 3803 and don't have any plans to change it; of course I am limited with the HDMI input on my TV (only one)...works for me.
It all depends on what you need.

[hearingimpared]

Welcome aboard.

[danger boy]

i'd buy a newer lower end one. and an amp. and call is good.. why go backwards on technology? Which would you rather buy to watch movies on, a VCR or a DVD player?

[Ricardo]

why go backwards on technology? Which would you rather buy to watch movies on, a VCR or a DVD player?

I don't think this applies too much here , except for the HDMI switching; as long as you have Dolby Digital and DTS, an old receiver is as good as a new one; with this in mind, I would go for more power for the same money :)

[66chevyIISS]

Thanks for the warm welcome and feedback. Keep em coming!

[MSALLA]

i'd buy a newer lower end one. and an amp. and call is good.. why go backwards on technology? Which would you rather buy to watch movies on, a VCR or a DVD player?

This would be the move. If you hang out on this site sooner or later you will read something you want and in the end you will need an amp anyway. That HDMI might come into play for you down the road if you go blue ray or HD DVD.

Welcome to the fourm.

[engtaz]

I have the Denon 4802 and I just plan on adding amps as needed. It has plenty of optical and coaxial inputs. My projector has HDMI so the DVD player just fine. The Xbox 360 is plugged in the projector via VGA. Component on everything else.

engtaz

[McLoki]

I would get a smaller old one. (comperable to the new one you are looking at, just cheaper)

Once you have everything set up and running the way you want, you can decide what features are important to you. I would not spend alot on an AVR right now until it can decode the HD formats. (probably about a year away) Plan to upgrade then with the knowledge of what you need and if you got a good deal buying used, you won't lose that much money.

Michael

[mulveling]

Buy used - get more for your money now, and more for your money later when you resell it to upgrade! Wish I could have my first year of this hobby back, bought too much gear new and paid the price...

Incidentally the 3805 was one of those items I bought new in my early days. Nice receiver, but not worth the $1K-1.2K prices.