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problems deciding on receiver
#284576 12/31/09 06:05 AM
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Hello,

I plan on ordering the following setup:
2 x M22 v2
2 x QS8 v2
1 x VP150 v2

and an HSU STF-2 or finding a decent used sub.

I'm having a real hard time deciding on a receiver.

I got a Denon AVR-890 on sale for $629 CAD, and also a Pioneer VSX-9040TXH for $629 CAD. I also like the Onkyo 707.

Between the 3 (unless someone has another suggestion, or I can find a 3310 or 807 for a decent price) which would be the better receiver? I plan on purchasing a new TV in a few months, I would guess this would do most of the up scaling I would need?

I am somehow convinced that the Denon is the best, but I don't like the fact that it has a plastic cover, or a cheap cap over the front inputs, or no serial port for firmware updates.

The 707 is nice, and has a front HDMI which I really like, and the serial port. I've read that it isn't as good for video processing. This is also THX certified (not sure if it's really that big of a deal?).

The Pioneer has THX, and a lot of other features...as well as a front USB port to play things off a memory stick or iPod's.

Could anyone provide we with a nudge in the right direction? I know auditioning them would be the best, but since I don't have speakers yet, and each system would have different speakers hooked up, I really wouldn't be able to do a fair evaluation.

Thanks...

S

Re: problems deciding on receiver
sm_tl #284581 12/31/09 06:27 AM
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As you are only looking at the M22s etc, pick the receiver you like the best, but keep in mind that if you ever decide to go with a speaker in the 4ohm range like the M80s I would look at Denon and Onkyo as they are very capable of driving the 4 ohm load or at the very least make sure which ever receiver you choose has preamp outputs to allow a seperate amp to drive the mains \:\)


Jason
M80 v2
VP160 v3
QS8 v2
PB13 Ultra
Denon 3808
Samsung 85" Q70
Re: problems deciding on receiver
jakewash #284601 12/31/09 01:33 PM
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I am currently running a setup similar to your planned system (M22v2, VP150v2, QS4v2, and EP350v3) using a Denon AVR-790 and have nothing but good things to say about it. According to many people on these forums and several salesmen at the electronics store, the main differences between the AVR-790 and -890 is just features...no real difference in sound quality. I say that if the -790 has all you need, then buy that receiver and spend the extra $300 elsewhere.

Re: problems deciding on receiver
BWeasner #284614 12/31/09 02:56 PM
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Nevermind, I'm an idiot who didn't read your first post clearly enough. For $629 CAD, the Denon AVR-890 is a steal!

Re: problems deciding on receiver
sm_tl #285237 01/05/10 01:31 AM
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Dont waste too much money on the receiver. As long as it have the proper inputs that you need. I have 3 brand of receivers and multiple models. The sound is limited with all of them.

I do have the M22,VP150,QS8 and M80, without a power amp they sound like cheap speakers.

If someone like their current speakers with their integrated amp, they just don't know what love is.

I tried my power amp with all my speaker sets and they all sound differently at low volume and extremely different at high volume.

Re: problems deciding on receiver
LRA #285245 01/05/10 02:36 AM
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my m80s sound amazing with the amp built in to my denon 3808. Luc, are you saying that an external amp is a requirement for good sound?


-David
Re: problems deciding on receiver
terzaghi #285252 01/05/10 03:12 AM
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Totally confused by Luc's post...never have I heard my M22v2's sound like "cheap speakers" using my Denon's integrated amp...

Re: problems deciding on receiver
terzaghi #285253 01/05/10 03:18 AM
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 Originally Posted By: terzaghi
my m80s sound amazing with the amp built in to my denon 3808. Luc, are you saying that an external amp is a requirement for good sound?


under estimate the dedicated poweramp was my biggest mistake ever.
Anyone doubting that can just to at a local music shop and rent a Behringer/QSC/?? power amp. You can lease them for a w-end and it will change your life.

When I plugged an Ep2500 on the M22, I was blown away. The only word coming to my mind is: miracle.

If you put your volume at a whispering level, you probably wont need it. For normal and up, what a difference.

In my latest test, I hooked 4 QS8, 2 to the pioneer vsx-1018 and 2 to the amp. I've put a few songs and played with the volume knob to let her know what its like to hear two speakers coming from the receiver and when I add two more coming from the amp.

I wont talk about insanely loud volume level, even at extremely low volume she was hearing new notes and sounds.

Did the same test for the m22 and m80.

If you think its good, think again. They can sound a lot more different.

Re: problems deciding on receiver
terzaghi #285262 01/05/10 03:48 AM
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David, as properly controlled double-blind listening tests have shown, there's no magic in putting amplification equipment in two or three boxes instead of one. If the power amplifier(certainly including one in a receiver)amplifies with flat response over the audible frequency range and with inaudibly low noise and distortion(commonly available these days in even modestly priced receivers), the amplification is transparent and nothing more is possible. Claims to the contrary are frequently made, but lack factual support. The vast majority of listeners(including me)use receivers for optimum amplification with Axiom and other fine speakers.


-----------------------------------

Enjoy the music, not the equipment.


Re: problems deciding on receiver
LRA #285272 01/05/10 04:10 AM
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 Originally Posted By: LucRaymond

even at extremely low volume she was hearing new notes.


Like the C Flat? Only available on power amps, kids.

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