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I'm simplifying my system and getting rid of the stereo power amp, 3-channel power amp, stereo preamp, and home theater processor.
I'm getting a basic 2-channel integrated amp for quality audio and want to buy a decent home theater receiver strictly for playing my Blu-Ray and DVD discs.
My budget will be about $1500 max MSRP for the receiver. I'm somewhat familiar with the Denon line but I want to know more about Onkyo Integra, Yamaha, Sony, and perhaps some others.
I plan to use my Sony PlayStation 3 for Blu-Ray discs and DVD. Some features that I want in the receiver include:
HDMI 1.3 inputs / outputs
HDMI IN to Component Video Out and Audio Out (Can this be done? I've seen component upscaled to HDMI but I want to go the other direction.)
What I really want is a receiver that sounds excellent with ability to drive the speakers clearly and effortlessly. I don't need a ton of features as I plan to run basic 5.1 into relatively modest speakers.
I'm also open to some ideas as I'm not familiar with the various new surround modes. I'm a basic DD5.1 or DTS kinda guy. Oh, and I'm planning to stay with a 5.1 speaker setup. I don't need more speakers in the room!! Thanks.
Follow Ups:
I too have been really concidering the Denon AV-3808CI and trying to find reasons why I may not buy it. I saw this at BestBuy Magnolia theater and thinks its awesome! However, I just found a review and am sort of secod guessing it.
I'm sure other AVReceivers have their issues but do you think this is a concern??
See Review on CNET (see "The Bad"):
http://reviews.cnet.com/av-receivers/denon-avr-3808ci/4505-6466_7-32553611.html
The good: Feature-packed AV receiver; visually appealing graphical user interface; four HDMI 1.3 inputs; can upconvert all analog signals to HDMI and upscale HDMI signals to 1080p; excellent standard-definition video upconversion; onboard Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding; XM-ready; automatic speaker calibration; Ethernet port enables digital music streaming, firmware updates, and remote custom installer logins.
The bad: Main remote isn't intuitive, although included simpler remote can be used; user interface could use some tweaks; graphical user interface crashed a few times; poor 1080i deinterlacing; not Sirius-ready.
The bottom line: The Denon AVR-3808CI AV receiver is absolutely packed with functionality and sounds great, but you'll need to be an AV geek to unlock all its potential.
I'm still going to look at their other Top Rated AV receivers.
-FuRosh
After looking at more reviews it does seem all reciever will have one thing or more that is bad, so for the AVR-3808CI I don't think it makes so much of an issue to steer me away from it.
In fact I asked the question to one of the Magnolia BestBuys guys and here is what he said:
The 3808 is a great choice. As far as the remote goes I have not experienced much with the remote but with the little I've used it I've noticed it being just as good, if not better than the remotes for the other receivers of that caliber. If you want a really intuitive remote check out the Harmony (by Logitech) '880' or 'One'. These remotes are highly regarded and use macro functions which make things so much easier.
-FuRosh
I've been using a Denon DD reciever for years now, first generation model before DTS was offered. Anyway the thing sounds good and hasn't missed a beat, reliable. So maybe Denon is still making good stuff.
I haven't auditioned receivers in awhile, Abe, so I cannot help with your specific query. But I suggest you find a model that allows tweaking of channel levels on the fly without having to enter a menu. Look for a remote with channel-select and level up/down buttons. The easiest way to check, of course, is to download manuals and look for a description of this invaluable feature, which is not available on all receivers.
Sonically, I'm curious about Cambridge Audio's receivers, available from the good folks at Spearitsound.com and Audio Advisor.
Get a Marantz 8002 for best SQ. A review is here:
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/images/site/logo-secrets.gif
Its $1500 from the AVS forum. I've got a 7002 and its great.
I second the Marantz SR8002. I went from a Denon 3805 to the Marantz SR8002 and the power is about the same but the quality of the Marantz. It has the smooth Marantz house sound as opposed to the darker Denon, brighter Yamaha's. It has HDMI 1.3 and all the new formats.
http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/processor-and-receiver-reviews/receivers/marantz-sr8002-7.1-a/v-receiver.html
G'day Abe,
... Denon or Yamaha.
I have both and find the Yamaha to have slightly better processing and slightly easier to use. BUT, as far as the sound goes when used as a receiver I think they are pretty close to each other. (I use power amps with both of mine so I’m going off memory)
Caveat; I have models higher up the food chain than you are looking at but from what I remember the current line-up of receivers from both Denon & Yamaha are pretty good and only personal preference will determine which you prefer.
Oh, none of them, Yamaha, Denon, Marantz, Onkyo & Sony output anything like their claimed output. I believe HK is pretty close to claimed power output but I have no personal experience with them. I’d stay away from NAD.
Lastly, I have heard Sherwood (Newcastle) range and I was very impressed BUT it was with gear I know nothing about. (might be one to consider if you can HEAR it before buying ~ corse they are keenly priced)
Good luck
Smile
Sox
Denon 2808 for $1200 MSRP (I'd rather the Denon vs the others).
There's no HDMI to component conversion (only the reverse, due to HDCP).
Circuit City has a big box equivalent (AVR-988) for $499 *and* you get10% off *and* you get a $75 gift card. This one does HDMI 1.3 and upconversion from composite to HDMI. Looks like a very good deal.
I've had my eye on that Denon model you pointed out. Since I'm already somewhat familiar with Denon, I might go that route again. The model above the 2808CI seemed nice too but I don't think I need the added features.
Thanks Joe.
...Abe
It is the minimum receiver that they make which is 7.1, decodes DTS-HD Master Audio and has preamp outputs. The 7.1 may not be needed now, but what if the bug bites you in the future and you decide that's the way to go? You'll be all set for 7.1 with this receiver. If you're using the PS3, it will decode the advanced audio codecs (giving you access to the best fidelity soundtracks). But should you opt for a different Blu-ray player or switch to a different model in the future that bitstreams the advanced audio codecs, this receiver will be able to handle their decoding. And should you decide to keep the amps that you have or decide that you need more power in the future, the preamp outputs have you set for that too.
Besides the above, there's just a solidity about the Denon Home Theater sound that I like. If they'd just make this model without the internal amps (ie, a preamp-only version), I'd be all over it.
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