Maybe a sweet deal... Harman Kardon AVR 635

[Sonnie]

Possibly a good deal at over 50% off... HK 635 at Amazon



The number of channels is only one factor of many when considering home-theater surround performance. Harman Kardon AVR635 focuses on sound quality with the most fidelity throughout the listening spectrum for superior realism and a pleasurable experience. AVR635 combines the sonic power of a high-current, ultrawide-bandwidth amplifier with the computer power of Texas Instruments' most advanced audio DSP to deliver unparalleled performance. With exclusive, integrated EzSet/EQ functionality, speaker, output and delay settings are automated for optimal equalization to your room acoustics. Add video conversion circuits that output all video sources via component connections with on screen graphics, a digitally-tuned AM/FM radio (that's optionally upgradeable to digital radio), and, of course, the ability to play through up to 7 speakers plus a subwoofer, this is a receiver that's worth owning.

• A/V Inputs - 4 rear
• 1 front S-Video Inputs - 4 rear
• 1 front Analog and digital Inputs outputs - A/V Inputs - 5 ; S-Video Inputs - 5 ; Audio Inputs - 4 ; Digital Inputs (Coax/Optical) Rear panel - 2/2, Front panel - 1/1 ; Digital Outputs (Coax/Optical) Rear panel - 2/2, Front panel - 1/0
• Direct Audio Inputs - 6-/8-Channel Up to 30 AM/FM tuning presets
• 2 AC outlets built-in (rear)
• Speaker Terminals - Color-coded binding post
• Unit Weight - 41 lbs
• Connector for external AM/FM antenna option
• 2-Year Limited Warranty

[Wayne A. Pflughaupt]

This was one of the receivers I looked at when I was recently researching a suitable model for a friend in the $1000-1200 price range. I found the HK manuals to be perfectly dreadful, which in this age of 100-page manuals is practically a make or break deal, as far as I’m concerned. Plus it was lacking some of the features that others in the price range had, most notably HDMI.

However, half price – you can overlook a lot with a deal like that!

Regards,
Wayne

[SteveCallas]

I've got a blind test coming up May 20 where we will test an Audio Refinement pre/pro vs an HK 635 vs a Pioneer 1015 vs (possibly) a Sunfire Theater Grand II pre/pro. All will strictly be used for processing with a PS Audio amp providing all the amplification, so the DACs and analog preout stage are the only variables being tested. I'll be sure to post the full results here.

The test will directly influence my purchasing decision, but at the moment, the HK 635 looks like "the one".

[GregBe]

Wayne A. Pflughaupt wrote:

However, half price – you can overlook a lot with a deal like that!

Amen to that. I bought a HK-DPR2005 for less than half price some time ago. HK has been known to have some reliability issues, but as far a sound quality and amp power, they take a back seat to none of the major brands. If the missing features are ones you can live without, it is a solid deal for a solid unit.

Greg

[nova]

Hahhaa,... how is this for shallow? I did not even get as far as the manual, I could not get past the volume dial,.. feels like it came off of an old $12.00 transistor radio. At half price though,.... I bet I could have over looked that.

I bought the HK7300 and have been very happy with this receiver that is missing some of the newer features of the 635. The new TVs have multiple HDMI in so that was not an issue. For the guy that did not like the volume knob I will have to take his word for it as mine came with a remote control and I may have turned the knob once.

[GregBe]

My opinion on receivers, is there will always be some new bell or whistle coming out every 6 months. I always try to focus on sound quality, and try to be critical as to what features I really have to have. There are always killer deals on receivers that are not that old, and by finding them, you can afford better sound quality than if you get the latest and greatest features you will never use.

Greg

Your other option for a good deal on the same reciever would be from outpost.com....slightly cheaper, but you gotta factor in shipping (unless of course you live near a Fry's).

[GregBe]

overclockedpc wrote:

Your other option for a good deal on the same reciever would be from outpost.com....slightly cheaper, but you gotta factor in shipping (unless of course you live near a Fry's).

Fry's is a great place to buy slightly older gear. When they are looking to dump inventory for newer models, they drop prices to unbelievable levels.

[nova]

jhixson wrote:

For the guy that did not like the volume knob I will have to take his word for it as mine came with a remote control and I may have turned the knob once.

I hope I did not offend, I was just trying to point out how a trivial item (like a poor manual, crummy remote, or odd/different volume knob) turns some people away from and excellent piece of equipment.

Like the Denon 3805 remote has caused the same type of reaction, didn't bother me because I don't use it but others may not buy a 3805 just because of the remote.