In the process of narrowing down speaker options and seriously considering the VP150 and M60 floors, and my Denon 2802 receiver just died so need to purchase a new reciever (or components) first. I have a M&K V125 sub that cranks pretty good base. Typically I look at Den, Yam, and Mertz but want to make sure I get plenty of power to drive Axiom speakers assuming I go this route. I have a budget of 1K for receiver, open to any brand, wondering if anyone has suggestions?

Welcome Contentt.

Denon is probably the preferred brand here, and many guys are liking the newer Onkyos as well. Not sure which side of the border you're on but you'll be able to get more than enough power to drive the M60s in your price range.

I think you'll be "Content" with either of those brands.

Contentt, welcome. I'd suggest that you consider a Denon or Onkyo unit(forget the Mertz; I don't know anybody that has one)with Audyssey MultEQ. The Axioms are average to slightly above average in sensitivity and don't have any unusual power requirements. Any of the receivers with typical ratings in the 100-150 watt area should be plenty for safe listening levels at the usual home distances.

You don't necessarily have to go the whole $1K, especially if you get a factory refurbished unit, which should be at least as reliable as a brand-new one. A particularly good buy at the moment, which I've suggested several times, is the Onkyo 707 available for about $400 plus shipping. Models such as the 807, 1007 and 3007 are also available for $1000 or less. Similar Denon deals are available from eCost and Dakmart.

I agree with the Onkyo suggestion. I've the same speakers in the front and am using a 2 year old TX-SR705, 707 being current model, just saw it today new under $500 on newegg. Home theater performance is excellent as is stereo for music.

Thanks I'll look into the Onkyo units. What question, besides the differences in the specs is there any the other ways the Denon and Onkyo differ? Wondering if one company manipulates the sound more, or is more pure? Besides the specs what does one consider when looking at different receiver brands?

Hi Contentt,

Denon and Onkyo IMO are two of the best receivers manufacturers in the market today. From a features, build quality, and value perspective. From a general standpoint there is not much difference between them. Brand loyalists usually will stick with what has worked in the past.

One general thing to note is that Onkyo receivers run hotter (temperature wise) than comparable Denon models. If you choose the Onkyo make sure to keep enough space around the unit to keep it well ventilated.

The differences between makers is more about how they offer to manipulate the sound. If you want to pass the audio unchanged, they all do that well.

What I meant by the first part, is that different manufacturers license different "room correction" software, or in the case of Pioneer or Yamaha, write their own. Though with Onkyo and Denon, they've both settled on using the software developed by Audyssey.

Hello, You might want to look into pioneer elite sc-27.I got a great deal from 6thave for 950. I had a onkyo 705 and it was having problems driving my m80's with the vp-180.The pioneer is making my speakers sound truly amazing.

I wonder why Marants isn't much appreciated. I have the litle SR5003 and i pretty like it for movies and for music too.

Someone here had a pretty bad experience with a Marantz unit (michael_d?), and I think the name has suffered since then on this board.