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Receiver or Amplifier?

22515 Views 7 Replies 6 Participants Last post by  rgk5
I currently have an older Harmon Kardon AVR-80 receiver (5.1 - 85 watts per channel) and Miller & Kriesel speakers and subwoofer (S-150THX, SS-150THX, MX-350THX). As the model numbers suggest, both the receiver and speakers are THX certified. My room is large at 13.5 x 30.

I have been pretty happy with the sound quality over the years, other than I would like more sound/effects from the rear surround speakers (not sure if the deficiency is my system or the DVD technology?). However. my receiver is going kaputs (i.e., no display lights and shutting itself off).

After doing some mid-range reciever research, I am starting to wonder if I will be happy with just a receiver, considering my room size and that the M&K speakers are 4-ohms, or do I need to bite the bullet with a lesser wattage receiver powered by a separate amplifier. My initial research suggests my pocket book would take a significant hit going this separates way!? Any input on this subject would be appreciated!

Speaking of Harmon Kardon, they seem to be MIA as far as the mid-range receivers. All my research has revealed is low end and high end units. Am I missing some units?

Thus far, the stand-alone receivers I have been considering are as follows: Onkyo TX-SR-806 (concerned by the reports of how hot this unit runs?), Sony STR-DA5300ES, and the Denon AVR-3808CI.

Thanks in advance guys and/or gals! Merry X-mas!
1 - 1 of 8 Posts
First welcome to the Shack... :wave: Well I would really look around and audition as many recievers as possible. It will run you a few more bucks going the seperates way but I think it is worth it. I have a pioneer elite and I use it for a preamp and then use pro audio amps such as crown and behringer. But when I just had the Pioneer alone I was pretty happy with the performance. I wanted more headroom so I went to seperates. Don't know what you want to spend but the shack store has some nice deals like this....http://www.hometheatershack.com/electronics-retailer/receivers-281053-B001BNLTYQ-Pioneer_VSX_1018AH_71_Channel_AV_Receiver.html Is it obvious that I like Pioneer.....:yes: Good luck and take your time and get what is best for you...:wave:
1 - 1 of 8 Posts
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