Hello everyone,

I've just purchased a pair of M22ti's and I am looking for a complementary receiver. I am focusing on 2-channel models only, as I will use the system for music alone. A bit of background, I've never owned anything other than cheap mini-systems by RCA and Sony, etc. I am a huge music fan. My tastes are varied, but the system will be primarily used for classical and heavy metal (late '70's, early 80's).

There are three models I am considering:

Denon DRA-685
Onkyo TX-8511
Harman Kardon HK 3470

My listening space is about 12X20 and has hardwood floors, 10 foot ceilings and 2 skylights. I don't intend to use a sub at this time. I am leaning toward the Onkyo simply because of price (last I checked, Crutchfield had it for ~$250). I figure I don't know what I missing anyway with a more expensive system. That being said, if anyone has specific experience with the M22ti's and any of these receivers, I'd love to hear your suggestions.

Also, I intend to hook up an I-pod to the system. If anyone has experience or suggestions for this, I'd like to know as well.

Thank you for any response.

V/r
Rob

http://www.jr.com/JRSectionView.process?RestartFlow=t&EndecaURL=t&InSearch=t&N=0&Ntt=onkyo+8511&Ntk=All_Record_Search&lastSearch=


If link will not work go

www.jr.com

search for onlyo 8511

they have refurb for $125
and new for $250

I'd go with refurb ( to save money for future upgrades

Good suggestion on the refurbished 8511. I have the less powerfull 8211 with M22s. Works very well.

For a huge music fan, though, a sub may be in order. I have the M22's and there is a very noticeable difference w/o a sub.
Just my $0.02.
KOS

just another note, but you might want to consider some used units that are in that price range as well. some of the better units are usually kept in decent shape by their owners, and you can get great deals.
i went through this purchase (m22ti speakers and a ~$300 2-ch integrated amp) about a year ago, and settled on an Arcam Delta 290 that i'm extremely happy with. i, too, was shopping for my first REAL stereo system, and was looking for something primarily for music (although movies do sound great through this setup). the arcam was around $300, and has great warm sound, several inputs including a nice phono stage, and A/B speaker outs.

other used units i looked at that are usually in that price range include the Creek 4330, nad c350, & cambridge a500- all reviews i read mentioned these were great sounding 2-ch amps.
a great site for used audio pieces (i think i even saw a creek 4330 recently in the classifieds):
http://www.audiogon.com

the only bad thing with these is that most of them are just integrated amps (no radio tuner). but i picked up a used denon tuner ($40 shipped) that works fine.

just another $.02.

I too was going to suggest a used integrated amp. For $200-300 you can get a really nice unit.

Here's a nice Rotel on Ebay. And another...