Denon 1804 or Pioneer Elite VSX-43TX? (1 Viewer)

[Brent_N]

I'm looking to purchase a surround sound receiver in the $350 - $450 price range.

I had about settled on a Denon 1804 which is being being sold by my local AV store for $450 (MSRP $499).

The sales guy then recommends I consider a certified factory
reconditioned Pioneer Elite VSX-43TX (last years model) which they are selling for $500 (MSRP $1,200).

What do you think?

 

[Stephen Hopkins]

Hands down the 43TX. I upgraded from a Denon 1803 to a 43TX and it was a very noticable jump in both sound and build quality. The 1803 sounded fairly thin to me compared to other Denon receivers. The 43TX has a strong amplification section and a very neutral sound. The 5 band EQ (manual MCACC) is very useful, though not quite as accurate as the automatic equalization found on the new yamaha's (1400 and 2400) and Pioneers (45TX, 53TX, 55TXi). The ability to use the surround back channels on the 43TX in a second zone or to bi-amp the mains is also very nice.

 

[Jon_Welker]

That's a no-brainer...43TX all the way.

 

[Brent_N]

I went for the Pioneer Elite VSX-43TX.

Got them down to $407... not too bad.

I am planning to use this receiver with a pair of Paradigm Mini-Mk3 fronts and a CC-300 center (purchased circa '96)? I also puchased some new Paradigm Titans for my surrounds and a PDR-10 sub.

The Mk3 and Titan are rated at 100 watts maximum input power.

Does the 43TX put out too much power for these speakers? Any problem with driving them at the top of their recommended power range?

Thanks

 

[Don Barduca]

I don't know what will happen to your speakers, but yes the 43tx puts out far greater than 100W in 2 channel mode.

 

[Brent_N]

According to Pioneer's specs on the VSX-43TX, it puts out 100W + 100W in stereo mode, so I assume I am still OK.

I posted a new thread on this topic to get some additional feedback.

Thanks

 

[Stephen Hopkins]

I drove 5SE MK3s, 3SE MK3s, and Mini MK3s with a 43TX with alot of luck. The neutral sound of the 43TX and slightly warm sound of the SE series sounded very good. $407 is a great price for the 43TX, expecially from an authorized dealer.

Good luck with your setup