OK, I've been considering my options and I think the most expedient way to get a pair of M80s into my livingroom is to look for a used receiver as a short term solution.

I,m not sure what I can reasonably expect to pay, but was hoping to keep it at or below $150.

I'm currently looking at a Yamaha RXV1050 and am curious as to what something in the specs means:
Dynamic Power per channel (by IHF dynamic headroom measuring method) 8/8ohms 160w/190w

Jason. I will look into ecost.com as suggested in the other thread.

Once you settle on a model or two, I'd recommend you check eBay as well if you are comfortable shopping there. I bought a used Pioneer receiver from eBay several years ago and it has served me well (and continues to, seven years later). Just make sure if you go that way that you find someone with a high feedback rating so you know you're dealing with someone honest.

Just missed out on an older Yami because I've forgotten my password. I use ebay about once every 1.5 years.

I don't know that I put much stock in the rating system because sellers are able to 'rate' a purchasor. I've heard a number of stories on retailatory ratings.

You should check some of the older threads for Onkyo's as well. I know JohnK usually sends people to one site for refurbs but I can't remember it nor desire to look it up

You can get an Onkyo 505 refurb for about that price at accessories4less.com

Definitely valid, but sellers with hundreds or thousands of positive ratings still paint a good enough picture in my book. I tend to steer clear of anyone whose feedback shows that they've had the same complaint multiple times... (i.e. non-responsive, item not as described, etc.). If buyers leave that kind of feedback more than once, especially knowing that they'll likely earn a negative feedback themselves from the seller, it's an indication to look elsewhere.

E-bay commentary over, back to audio talk.

PS: I'm surprised no one here has volunteered to sell you some of their own older equipment. This seems like the kind of crowd who has 2-3 old receivers around the house without a defined purpose... (or, if everyone is like me, we don't have a purpose for them now, but know that sooner or later we'll buy enough speakers to need another receiver!)

Sorry, but my old Denon receiver is destined for my screened room, once the budget allows for some Alqs. A SB3 is already in position for this; so the entire CD collection as well as std radio on tap

Checked the refurbed Onkyos out. US only. I didn't see a 505, but the 504 is only 75w/channel.

Jason, you mentioned that you have used ecost. What are the shipping charges like into Canada?

I bought my PF60 from them and the shipping costs for that unit wasn't too bad, I don't remember the exact cost, but it was about $70. However I just tried to 'purchase' some receivers from them and they all stated it wasn't possible to Canada, looks like the protectionist economy style of thinking is starting to take over. although I could still get the PF60 sent up.

I just looked at amazon.com and they have a Yamaha RXV461 shipped:
Items: $215.96
Shipping & Handling: $120.10

Total Before Tax: $336.06
Estimated Tax:* $0.00

Order Total: $336.06
Which I think isn't too bad. Funny thing is it is from 6ave. and if you go to 6ave they won't ship up here but Amazon will!

No luck with Denon refurbs either. Canadians need not apply...