Harmon HK525 vs. Denon 1804

Phil Levy · 10-06-2003, 04:12 PM

Well, I think I've narrowed it down to these two models pretty much, and I'm wondering if the HK is a notably better unit for just a bit more money (enough to justify driving over the border, Toronto -> Buffalo, to buy one for half the price it is here).
I know very little about receivers, and really can't tell if these are comparable units, or if one is better than the other.

Thanks in advance!

David Ruggiero · 10-06-2003, 07:40 PM

I like both Denon's and Harman Kardon's but these 2 receivers are not in the same league. The HK is a better and more expensive receiver. The Denon 3803 is a much better match to compare to the HK-525. But if you have to choose between the 1804 and the 525 for just a little more money, the 525 is a superior choice. At least in my opinion.

Wayne Ernst · 10-06-2003, 07:51 PM

I've owned a few Denon receivers and now the H/K AVR-7200. I'd pick the H/K for the sound qualities ... and the Denon in a very close second place. My only gripe with the Denon gear is that wimpy readout on the face of the receiver. Heck, you can't check the volume level unless you are within 3 feet of the receiver. H/K has a nice big readout that you can see from 8 or 9 feet away.

Best of luck!

Enjoy !

Phil Levy · 10-06-2003, 08:19 PM

Well, I guess I'll be looking into getting the HK525...
Shopping for HT stuff in Canada sucks!

(except speakers)

Nhan_H · 10-06-2003, 10:22 PM

525 definitely gets my vote. Love those HK products!

**HTF Ads**

Doug Brewster · 10-07-2003, 02:33 AM

I totally agree with David Ruggiero. It's not in the same class.
Enjoy your 525.

Nick.H · 10-07-2003, 06:59 AM

I recently purchased the AVR5550 Harman Kardon over the Denon 3803, reason being is that at low volumes the recievers sound the same but when turned up the Harman shows its true colours, it sounds very clear and not a sharp cutting sound like the denon does, you will notice it when you play movies and the music comes on, the HK is far better.

Rajeev_s · 10-07-2003, 08:43 AM

Quote:

My only gripe with the Denon gear is that wimpy readout on the face of the receiver. Heck, you can't check the volume level unless you are within 3 feet of the receiver. H/K has a nice big readout that you can see from 8 or 9 feet away.

HK Displays look so plain and ugly. They use 8 or 10 segment LED display while most of the manufacturers use dot matrix display. Dot matrix looks so much better. That makes HK look cheap IMHO.

HKs new line is supposed to have dot matrix display.



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