I have already decided on the axioms epic grand master system for my speakers, but I can't seem to make up my mind in regards to a receiver. My house is still just blue prints as of now, I like to plan ahead. I am considering either the onkyo tx - sr701, pioneer vsx-53t or the denon 3805. Any recommendations would be appreciated.
Thanks,
revmike

the pioneer elite series are very good, stay away from the basic receivers.. the 3805, and the 701 are both great choices.. they have similar features and abilities.. i think the remote for the 701 is better than the denon remote, and the manual is easier to understand.. but thats because i have the 701, so you can say i have a preference..

but to be honest, those are both excellent, and they would do the job well.. i do believe you can find the 701 much cheaper than the 3805 also.

bigjohn

Hello Revmike,

Hope you are well. I have a Harman/Kardon AVR 630 which is a fantastic reciever very similar to the Denon 3805 in features and in the same price range. I bought mine from Vanns.com, currently they are selling them for $819.86. H/K modestly rates this model at 75watts per 7 channels, but this is a hefty high current reciever weighing in at a back breaking 41 pounds. The Denon 3805 weighs in at 37.48 pounds.

Feature for feature the two are very similar.

In my 18x12 room you can easily achieve unbearable SPLs, if you are in another room, no problem just turn it up. I have never had to turn it up past -15 on the dial.

It is well worth a look.

Later,

TonyM

Thanks guys for the replies. I'm leaning a little more towards the onkyo 701.

mike, thats a good choice!!

here, go check out this review of the onkyo SR601. its a very good, informative review.. the 701 will basically have 100 watts per channel instead of 85.. it will have a few more digital inputs/outputs, and it is THX certified.. thats about the only difference. the 701 also allows for dual sound zones, and i dont think the 601 does that..

so, if you are still on the fence, go read this article.. i did a quick search, and the 701 is selling for between $575-$750.. just make sure you search for the best deal..

bigjohn

Thanks, bigjohn. I read the review. There is very little difference between the 601 and 701. I like the idea of dual sound zones, but it's not the deciding factor.

I have a 45TX (pre-53TX) and love it. Has dual zones, works great for me. I can listen to CDs in the backyard while my wife watches tivo.

Mike, welcome. Since the house might be quite a few months off, don't try to plan too far ahead on the receiver, because we're seeing more features at lower prices continually appearing(e.g. the 53TX is now being replaced). Of the ones you mentioned, the 3805 is probably the most advanced in its features and would be my pick.

I would agree w/ JohnK. I bought my receiver a few months before my house closed. Then the 53TX came out. Wait till it gets closer, newer models may be out. If you still want the older model, you may be able to get better pricing. Or you could get in line for the new 5805...

I'm doing my best, but patience has never been one of my better qualities. I'm just trying to narrow the field down a bit. I really appreciate everyones replies and comments. This is one of the new house items that I can actually decide myself. I do have to give my wife credit, the 50" plasma over the fireplace was all her idea. I didn't have to do any begging.

Mike,
if you set your mind on ONKYO 701 look at JandJ.com on FRIDAYS - you might get it for $500 ( free shipping )
Just keep in mind ( IMHO ) - it is not really best AVR for STEREO
( I had it for 2 weeks, along with HK3840 stereo, HK7200,DENON 1803(?) and ended up bying PIONEER 2012, which is PE 45TX without expencive "ELITE" in front and, well 1 year warranty only, but I have extra year with my credit card, I think MOSFET output as as close to 'tube' sound as you can get - and price was $600 shipped )

I purchased the 3805 and have been very pleased (the manual left a lot to be desired). There is a good review of the 3805 at Audioholics. The retail was too high at $1299, but I was able to purchase it for $940 plus $35 shipping from Hippo's in Albany NY with no sales tax. They are an authorized dealer (important as Denon will not honor the warrenty when purchased from a non authorized source).

Bugzy,
I believe you mean JandR.com. Got the H/K 7200 for $799/no shipping on a Friday sale. JandJ.com is probably where you get the "Dynomite" deals.

Sponge, u r right,
of course
JandR

Thanks, Bugzyseg. I have jandr.com already bookmarked.