Should I just upgrade my AVR or get an amp and AVR?

[E-A-G-L-E-S]

Unfortunately about 6 months ago I bought a Yamaha RX-V661, which is a very good AVR for the price, but it does not pass 1080p/24hz.
So I want an AVR capable of doing so now.
My question is, would it be a good idea to get an amp 'and' an AVR?
I have a feeling that at some point I will be wanting an amp for when in th future I upgrade to nicer speakers in my set-up.
But my budget now is only $600. So not knowing prices of amps am I even being realistic in looking for an amp and an AVR that can pass 1080p/24hz for that little money?
I know I can get just an AVR that will 'do th job' for that much or even less, but what about the amp?

[nova]

I don't think there is anything out there for that price. I've been looking around for amps and about the best deal I can find is the new Emotiva 5 ch XPA-5 for $799 plus the price of an AVR.

If you want to go used, you might be able to find something but I dunno if you can get a used AVR with the features you want and a decent used amp with your budget. Possible, but may take some searching. Also selling your current AVR and adding that cash to your budget will be a big help.

[E-A-G-L-E-S]

I was thinking the same....that unless I found a good used deal I should just upgrade the AVR now and the amp down the line.

Which AVR(s) would you reccomend for my budget for my situation?

[tonyvdb]

If you can squeeze just a slight bit more out of your budget the Onkyo TX SR805 $749 in the shack store with free shipping is a great receiver its THX ultra certified and has a push-pull amplifier design 130watts per ch. There will be no need to have an external amp with that receiver.

[E-A-G-L-E-S]

I have read reports of the 605 getting ultra hot, is this an issue with the 805?

[tonyvdb]

No, these reports are false, there are many members on here who have them including me and none of us have had issues.

[nova]

Personally I prefer Denon,...but at this point in time it appears Onkyo has a firm grip on the price vs. features/performance ratio.

[chas]

If you are comfortable with the Yamaha, you could sell the 661 and move up to the new RX-V663. You can add an external amp as funds permit.

[E-A-G-L-E-S]

I will look further into the 663 and 805.
Any others to consider?
Thanks for the help guys!

[tonyvdb]

I have a review of the 805 here if you have some time.