Receiver Advice (1 Viewer)

[JWPH]

Greetings. This is my first post; have really enjoyed having access to all the great information here. Would love to get some purchase advice on a mid-to-hi end AV receiver and feedback on the value of THX Ultra certification. I have just bought a Panasonic TH-50PZ800U and now I'm looking for a new receiver to match, driving an Aperion 5:1 speaker set and DirectTV sat service (with HD). Looking at the Denon 3808CI but would love to know if there's another receiver or two in that price range that you think deserves strong consideration. Also, is it worth waiting for a sub $2,000 receiver to appear that offers THX Ultra certification (I assume some will come to market this summer or fall) to match up to the TV's capabilities, or am I over-thinking the issue?

 

[JohnRice]

I don't think THX is reason to buy one receiver over another reputable model. THX had a little value at one time, but I don't think that really applies anymore, so long as you get a reputable brand, which Denon certainly is. In fact, I have a THX Ultra receiver and I don't use any of the THX modes.

 

[Jeff Gatie]

I agree with John. THX certification is real and the receiver has to meet the requirements in order to wear the logo. However, since THX certification is voluntary (and costly), it does not mean a receiver which doesn't bear the logo is inferior and/or can't pass the tests. So in a comparison of THX vs. non-THX, the fact that one has THX certification is really a moot point, especially if the non-THX unit has superior specs and/or features.

 

[JWPH]

Thanks. Any advice on an AV shopping list or is the 3808 so good I should just do it? Anyone aware of new products coming in the next 60 to 90 days worth waiting for in the $1,400 to $1,600 range that would trump the Denon?