In another 1-2 weeks I should get my M22's(2)QS8's(2)and VP150.Now I'm trying to decide on a av receiver to upgrade my kenwood vr616. Leaning towards Yamaha RX-V659 or Onkyo
TX-SR604.I have about $500 to spend and was wondering whether either would be a worthwile upgrade. Don't really need HDMI since I have not taken the high def step yet. Room size 15x13x8 and want enough power in case a house upgrade is in the future. Thanks!

The RX-V659 got product of the year in 2006 from Audioholics.com for a budget receiver pushing out more than the rated power.

It also has Pre outs if you want to upgrade in the future and use separates for your M80s

I picked up a Yamaha HTR-5960 yesterday from Bestbuy B&M in NJ (with price matching to www.Electronics-expo.com) for $319. B&HPhoto also has the receiver on sale for $319. It seems the feature and functionality of 5960 is similar to 659.


Initially was looking at Pioneer 1016tsx, due to hdmi support, but the only place that I found it in stock locally in B&M was Circuit City and the box looked as if someone had dropped it.

-Deepak

Jimmy, both the 659 and the 604 would be fine choices available at a very good price(about $350-$400). The basic amplification capacities would be very similar, so your choice should be made on the features which might be most important to you. Among the interesting points to note is that the 604 features a version of the Audyssey room equalization system.