HT Newbie Looking for Receiver Advice (1 Viewer)

[Earl Bradley]

Hi All,

First, let me say I'm just getting started in all of this. I'm new to HTF and am just beginning the process of building an "entertainment room/media center". I've read through many of the e-mail threads and, boy, did I come to the right place. I can't believe how much helpful information there is out here and how knowledgeable all of you are.

First question: Most of my "research" has been through a few magazines (Home Theater, Sound & Vision, Audio Interiors). Home Theater Magazine appears to give me the best info, but I'm wondering what you think about their ratings. Do you find them to be relatively accurate or is there a better resource I can look to?

More specifically, based on my own research and recommendations from my HT contractor, I've narrowed my search for a receiver down to the Denon ARV-5803, the Yamaha RX-Z9, the B&K AVR507 and the Harman Kardon AVR 7300.

Sounds from earlier threads there's a lot of support for the B&K; my HT guy thinks the HK units are best at this price range.

Any opinions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Angelo.M]

Welcome to the forum.


I think you'll find that, within a given "class" of receivers of relatively equal specification, there is very little real-world difference in performance (again, of course, some folks strongly disagree). Some people talk about the "sound" characteristics of particular receivers, but I think that most of that talk is handwaving and not very useful. Within this group, I think you'd do best to consider the feature-set you need and pick the unit that meets your requirements. They will all perform well. Ultimately, your choice of receiver is an order of magnitude (several, perhaps) less important than the characteristics of your listening room, your speakers and other factors.

Good luck.