I am looking to purchase speakers from Axiom. Specifically, I will be purchasing the Epic 60 Home Theater (substituting the VP100 for the VP150). My question is which AVR would best compliment this setup? The room is 15x19x9 and is not the best setup accustic wise (it is open on one side to the kitchen). I really like the Denon 3805, but am wondering if this is overkill for my application. I will be using this setup for about 90% HT (HDTV and DVD movies). Could I get the same results from something cheaper? Thanks in advance.

I am currently running a Denon 2805 in a little larger room with M60s, QS8s, and a VP150 and I am very pleased.
Some good deals on some of the H/Ks can also be had right now.

In short, yes you can get by with something cheaper than the 3805.

Chrixx, you are in the classic "want/need" self -abuse arena! .

I applaud our choice of Denon, but there are also other fine choices in receivers out there (Onkyo, HK, Yamaha).

If you stick with Denon the 3805 would be an excellent choice and will drive your outfit with ease. If you want to save a few $$$, the 1905, 2105 0r 2805 would also be excellent choices. What you really need to do is to compare the features ( do that here ), decide what you want the unit to do for you, overlay what you want to spend and make a choice. If you have the opportunity, get out and do a little auditioning as well.

The other things that need to be considered are bragging rights, testosterone and your comfort level of "what if...". Finally, the most important ingredient of all, completely obviating anything else I have listed is - what will your wife allow you to have?

On a serious note, the 1905 is all you would "need". The 3805 is about all you could "want". It's really a matter of features. I originally had an 1803 (roughly equivalent to a 1905) driving a M60/VP100/QS8 configuration and a 20-39 PCi sub. It was PLENTY of receiver. A year later, for no good reason other than I wanted it, I upgraded to a 3803.

Let us know what you decide.

I would recommend the 2105 only because it has pre-outs that the 1905 doesn't and the 2805 and 3805 don't have any features that I would personally need over the 2105. But
Ray is right, the 3805 would definitely fill the "want" aspect.

may i also suggest an Onkyo... i know everybody loves their Denons, but truth be known, i love my Onkyo just as much. i agree with what everyone is saying, as far as look at the feature list, and what sort of inputs/outputs you are gonna need, then find the receiver that best fits that category.

right along with the denon receivers that have been mentioned, Onkyo makes comparible equip. the new Onkyo line have been introduced(602, 702, 802, 902), so it is very possible for you to find some great deals on the older models(601, 701, 801, 901). i have the 701, and couldnt be happier with it. i think you will find it has comparible features and wattage to the same denon receivers mentioned. keep in mind, there is no right or wrong answer to your question. as long as you stick with one of the more proven brands(denon, onkyo, H/K, yamaha, pioneer elite, sony ES series) you should be happy with which ever one you get.

bigjohn

I'll echo bigjohn - I have the 702, and I'm very happy with it. But first and foremost, match your feature set.

chrixx, I just remembered something. Take a look at your local CompUSA. The are exiting the Harmon Kardon receiver business and I remember seeing some excellent (almost 1/2 price) clearance deals a couple of weeks ago. The 230, 330, 430 or 630 would be excellent choices and are possibly available (new) at 40%-50% off. Don't be concerned about their power ratings - they are understated an dth eunits have more than enough power.

CompUsa has the H/K230 for $249.00. Its a very good reciever and thats a GREAT price.

My Denon 2805 and Ax's are a match made in heaven....

M60's, EP350, VP150, 4 Qs8's

Thanks for all the feedback. I was doing a comparison of the 2805 and the 3805 and have a couple of questions. Besides the obvious differences(120watts, Denon link, more inputs, different remote, and Burr Brown DACs), it seems to me that every other difference is on the music side. Correct me if I am wrong, which I probably am.

1. D.D.S.C. = I can't find any real answer to what this does. Anyone care to explain?
2. HDCD Decoder = It looks like this deals with CDs. Right?
3. AL24+ = It looks like this deals with DVD-A. Right?

For my application, the 2805 would probably be more practical. In the end, I just care about the sound. What do you guys think?

I was searching for a AVR with dpl2 since my old Yammie didn't have it. I took a chance on a Denon AVR 1083, a refurb from ecost. I believe it is the twin of the 3803. I got it at what I believe is a good price. After some initial set up difficulties, I would have to say that it was made for Axiom speakers. I liked my Yammie, but my m22s seem to be happier now. At least that's what they told me. For me it was between this and another Yamaha. I have no complaints.

Chrixx, I wish I could provide in depth answers for you, but this piece for HDCD is all I have to offer.

I believe your point is correct though, if you can stifle the desire to "just have the 3805", I think you will find that the 2805 is a terrific receiver.

I have an HK AVR 230 and I originally had a little "feature envy" of my brother-in-law and a good friend who both got the Denon 3805. However, I'm now (and have always been) convinced that my HK sounds every bit as good. If you need video upconversion or some other feature not found on the low end AVRs then get one of the higher priced AVRs that has what you need - otherwise, you can't beat an AVR 230 for $249.

Just wondering what Engine Joe meant when he said "First and foremost, match your feature set."

i would assume he meant for you to do a side-by-side comparison of the 'features' on the perspective receivers, and make sure you are getting the best "bang for your buck". in other words: DSP features, 5.1-6.1-7.1, DTS, Dolby digital, Pro LogicIIx, auto calibration, variable crossover settings, input up-conversion, pre/pro capabilities, SACD inputs, overall wattage, etc. those are the kinds of things you need to concentrate on.. well, those and a few others.

also, make sure the receiver has the proper amount of inputs you are gonna need. optical/digital/s-video, component, regular coaxial, phono, etc.. those will make a big difference in how you will be able to set the whole system up..

good luck, and try not to get overwhelmed.

bigjohn