I've been putting it off for several years, and now I'm ready to upgrade. Going from an M22/VP150/QS8/EP350 system to (likely) an M80/VP180/keeping the QS8s/moving the M22s to the rear position/unknown as yet which sub 7.1 system.

Here's where I'm having trouble deciding, mostly. I ran the old system on a Denon AVR-2805. It was fine, and it will be re-purposed elsewhere, but it's hopelessly obsolete (no HDMI, no network, no Airplay or other streaming capabilities, etc) and a bit underpowered for the new room and attendant upgraded. I'm looking into the Emotiva stuff, especially the separates, and am wondering what folks here that use or have used Emotiva gear think? It has the appearance of being in that sweet spot of good value for performance and features for the price before you get into the $5k-plus-per-component level, which is not where I want to go.

It seems to me that separates, especially if I pick up solid amps with plenty of power, will insulate me somewhat from obsolescence. Technology passes me by? Get a new pre/pro and hook it into my still-solid amps! What do you think?

It depends on many things actually. Do you have a big room, do you listing loud ? What do you REALLY need ?

Most AVR will do the job (Denon/Manratz/Pioneer/etc.) However, taking the pre/pro path would probably be a better way for long term setup. Have you look at Axiom amplifier ? If not take a look and just add a good pre and you'll be set !

Personnaly, Pioneer are my favorite AVR

Joe, welcome back. Yes, your 2805 is outdated as to its features, but nothing from what you've said establishes a need for a unit with significantly higher maximum power output. If you're not going to be listening at a distance substantially longer than you were previously(the most significant factor)the power requirements would be substantially the same at given listening levels.

The realities of quantity production of quality receivers make them the cost-effective buy in most cases. New pre-pros of similar capability would cost as much or more than a receiver with an internal amplifier which you'd in effect be getting "for free".

You might consider particularly Denon and Onkyo models with the latest technology, including Audyssey auto-calibration and room EQ. A good source for factory refurbished units, which should be at least as reliable as brand new ones but at a significant saving, is Accessories4less.

Sorry, should have clarified that the new equipment is going into a much larger (over twice as many ft2)room, 25 x 17 compared to 16 x 12. And thanks for the re-welcome to the boards!

Phillipe,

It's been so long since I've taken a close look at A/V products, I'm overwhelmed by how diverse the Axiom product line has become. When I was last an active member of the Axiom boards, the in-wall series was just being released, the VP-150 was the top-of-the-line center, and the 600 was fairly new and the flagship sub offering. So I will have to play catch-up on all of this. At that time, upgrading system was going to be a "within a few months" project. 6 or 7 years later, due to a series of health issues within my family, I've finally begun building the H/T room in the basement and scouting out equipment.