Amplifiers-vs-receivers? (1 Viewer)

[Scott Pad]

I need help...right now I have a Yamaha HTR-5490, but want to upgrade to a more powerful 2 channel receiver so i figured I'd head the way of an amplifier. I've been looking on ebay and see alot of amplifiers, but they are very old (around 1995-1998. Do ams tend to last while (I aminly have been looking at yamaha) I'm looking for something that'll put out 150w RMS. I'm also confused as to whether or not I need a pre-amplifier or whatever else I may need since I DO UNDERSTAND an amplifier doesn't have all components as a reciever. Also wondering if my Denon 280-M will work fine with an amplifier or if I need a new CD player..Please HELP!!!! Would like suggestions of other brands to look at as well...thanx

 

[Yogi]

If your recv has preouts for the main L/R channels you can hookup an outboard amp. Amps will last a lifetime so you dont have to worry about them being used. As long as the seller has a good rating you can trust him to sell you a good piece in working order. Welcome to the world of separates.

 

[RobWil]

1) Yes, you would need a pre-amp. I don't think your receiver has the pre-outs for an external amp.
2) The CD player has nothing to do with the amp or pre-amp. Yours would be fine.
3) Generally speaking, amps don't fail that often and usually last a long time. I am currently using one built in 1975 and it works perfectly....1995-1998 are NOT considered old in the least.
What amps to look for depends on your budget, and since you'd need a pre-amp also you'd have to budget for that. You could also upgrade your receiver to one that had pre-outs which would allow you to add an external amp.
One amp that comes to mind in the 150wpc range is the Onkyo M-501 which can be found on ebay for under $150. I used to own one and they are very decent amps.

 

[Scott Pad]

If anyone knows...I'm thinking my receiver has preamps for the front two channels...can anyone confirm or deny that for me...thanx

 

[Donald Wong]

This Link doesn't show pre-outs as features.

 

[RobWil]

I don't think any of the 'HTR' series has pre-outs, except maybe for the sub.

 

[ChrisWiggles]

Look and the back and see, it should be obvious, you'll see labeled RCA pre-outs for whatever channels if they are there.