Have a Pioneer VSX-D709s ... new receiver or get an amp and use it as preamp? (1 Viewer)

[Jason Hammerly]

I was thinking about getting the Onkyo 595, or 575x. The Pioneer has preamp outs. What about getting a Parasound amp to go with it. Would the sound be completely dependent on the Parasound or would the Pioneer color the sound? I'm not really sure how that works when you use an amp? I was thinking about the Parasound that's 85x5. The 855 I think. What do you guys think would be my better option? Thanks!

Jason

 

[Vishwa Somayaji]

Given the choice is between the receivers you mentioned and an amp, you are better off with the purchase of a power amp both for now and for the future. The pioneer has decent decoding capabilities and the other receivers are in the same league. The amp would give you better sound now and you could use it for future if you decide to go separates route.

 

[Julian Reville]

I own a 709 and it's quite a decent receiver for the money. Mine is used in a bedroom with full-range (sort-of) center and mains, small surrounds and a sub (of sorts). In that environment, I have never felt it was lacking in power; I have never had the volume above -12dB.

What kind of speakers are you running and how large is your room?