Upgrade???

[PSOVLSK]

I'm looking to make a couple of changes to my systems in hopes of acheiving the following: 1) get TrueHD and DTS-MA 2) improve my 2-channel rig.

Here's what I'm considering as a low cost option to accomplish both objectives. 1) Buy an H/K 254. This unit has pre-outs and decodes the new codecs. I believe it's the most inexpensive AVR that does both and it can be had for a little under $400 at amazon.com. 2) Move my H/K 7300 to the 2-channel and bi-amp with my Adcom 545.

I believe this would be an upgrade for both systems...especially when I add a better 5 channel amp to the HT in the hopefully near future. I'm even considering the Emotiva xpa-3 and powering the surrounds with the Adcom GFA-6000.

If you think there are better options (or if this is just a bad idea) let me know. Check my sig. to see my current set-ups.

[hockeyboy]

I personally wouldn't be looking to add any new HK stuff and have owned several pieces in the past. You can do better for the same money, and much better for a bit more. You could look at either of these and potentially use the 2nd zone to control your two channel down the line. Both of these are more than double the WPC which will come in handy. You might also look at Onkyo.com and join club Onkyo. I believe you can buy refurbished product there with a warranty and as a member get 10% off.


http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listi...&condition=new




http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listi...&condition=new

[thsmith]

And for less than the HK you could get a Yamaha 663, has pre-outs and HD codecs. Call 6ave.com and tell them you are a member of AVSforum for best price and shipping, no affl

[Fongolio]

+1 to Yamaha 663. I have the same unit just a different model # designation and it will do everything you want and sound good too. I replaced a Pioneer Elite with the Yamaha in order to get the HD audio codecs and have been very pleased.

[WilliamM2]

If you are going to 6th ave, I always get a better price with one of their codes, than I do when I call. Right now you can get 25% off most audio items (except clearance items), with the code AFLAUD25.

[Kex]

... Both of these are more than double the WPC which will come in handy. ...

Hockeyboy, just FYI, you cannot actually compare h/k published w/ch to Onkyo published w/ch.

Firstly because Onkyo, being more honest than most manufacturers these days, clearly specify that their measurements are made with two channels driven, whereas harman/kardon measure output with all channels driven.

Secondly, harman/kardon are generally bench tested well beyond their stated output, sometimes by as much as 50% more, or greater (but at a higher THD, which explains some of the difference). Onkyo, on the other hand, while they demonstrate decent output (also at a higher THD than their published rating, however), will rarely, if ever attain the stated power output.

This is not unique to Onkyo, of course, since many products suffer from this same bench tested shortfall when compared to the published output, and many to a more significant degree than the Onkyo receivers you suggested AFIK.

[PSOVLSK]

I found the Yamaha for $342 using price grabber at 6ave.com. I also found a used one on agon for $320, but it was sale pending. I had a Yamaha for a few weeks a couple of years ago and liked it. Since I already have an amp and plan to be upgrading soon, I really want the best inexpensive AVR that gets me DTS-MA, etc. and also has pre-outs. For this reason I may go with the Yamaha over Onkyo or H/K.

Thanks for the replies, they really helped expand my search and possibly will save me a few bucks.

WilliamM2: thanks for the code. If they don't match the price grabber price, the 25% off will get me close to that price anyway.