HK 254 pooped out on me, any AVR recs?

djc9

Hello all looking for some advice,

I had an HK 254 with a Carver and Audiosource amp powering my RTi10's and CSi3, respectively. The Carver blew out several months ago and I hooked my fronts to the 254. It was acceptable until the 254 stopped working entirely this week. Since I bought it refurb store from HK it had a warranty, but I'm several months past the end. I may look into repair from HK but in the meantime I'd like to get another AVR.

I've been out of the loop research wise for awhile with a new baby and all, anyone have quick and dirty recs that would suit my needs (pre-outs, 4 or more HDMI inputs)? I was thinking Onkyo 700 or 800, maybe Yamaha RX-V867 which is on sale at newegg for $478, and would like to avoid HK again. I would eventually like to add a real amp again but for now I'd like something that could acceptably power my setup.

TIA.

brgman

Budget?
I have a Onkyo TX-NR808 and love it for what i do.I use a Parasound 2100 premap on bypass for 2 channel and drive the 5 channel with a sunfire 400x5.I can stream audio video and and my PC as well.It really covers the bases.JMHO

djc9

brgman wrote: »

Budget?

I'd like to be around $500 on the high side. Not against the used or refurb market either. Thanks for your input!

tonyb

Onkyo would be a good choice. You still driving the rti 10's and 8's ?

djc9

10's are the fronts and jury rigged some R300's as my surrounds. Never quite got around to getting dipole surrounds or picking up 8's that were available locally.

tonyb

Check out Audiogon, or your local craigslist. There is a Pioneer elite 21 by me for 350 that would work for you. I have one now that I use as a pre, has all the hdmi inputs,pre outs, you need.

mdaudioguy

I did not like the RTi/Yamaha RX-V series combo. I used two different models over the course of 18 months or so, before settling on an HK 254 {ironically). I tried an Onkyo, too, but wasn't crazy about it - a lower end model that I kept for use in another room. Considering your circumstances, it's tough to recommend HK again, but... What did you think of the sound? it seems like you were happy. Do some research on here for some "warmer" receivers that pair well with the RTis, especially if you have an interest in music. If it's HT only, virtually any decent AVR will do - even the Yamahas worked well in that role for me. Good luck!

djc9

tonyb: I'm thinking the used market may be the ticket, will look for an Elite 21 or maybe a used Onkyo 705/805. Price will probably play a big factor in my choice.

mdaudioguy: I previously had a Yamaha VX-1700 paired with the RTi's but I was using separate amps and it sounded fine to me. My ear admittedly isn't the finest tuned though and I'm using strictly for HT with occasional zone 2 out to another room. I did like the sound/OSD of the HK (and was impressed by its ability to drive the setup) but given the problems I've had and the problems I've seen documented with the 254/354's it looks like it wasn't an isolated thing for me. Glad you are happy with yours!

Thanks for the input guys, this place is as helpful as ever.

AsSiMiLaTeD

I would recommend Pioneer with the RTi series, I have one of those 21txh units you are talking about and ran RTi on it with great success

djc9

Whoops, I think my 254 is still under warranty. Bought refurb from HK Ebay store in 8/09 and I'm reading that it's 2 years on AVSforum. For some reason I thought it was only 1 year. I'll have to follow up with HK but if this is true I'll be saving some money (maybe). Also reading that some 254 warranty replacements have been a newer model without pre-outs. Still investigating...

In the meantime found local CL for a 21TXH for $350 so will keep that filed.