Receiver: Sony vs Denon

d4vid
d4vid Posts: 2
edited April 2013 in Electronics
Hi all,

I need help deciding between a Sony and Denon receiver. My choices are limited as I live in Johannesburg where last years' models are all you can get, and cost twice what you guys pay for the latest gear. I'm building my first 5.1 system. I have picked up some Polk speakers:
- 4 X TL3's
- 1 X TL3 center
- 1 X PSW111

My choice is between the Denon AVR-1713 and the Sony STR-DH820. Based on what I've read here, I'm leaning towards the Denon but a bit concerned it could be underpowered vs the Sony (80W/ch vs 100W/ch.) This setup will be in a room that's 14' X 18'. I don't need the extra 2 channels on the Sony but they're priced the same, so it could be a future upgrade.

What do you think?
Post edited by d4vid on
· Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Comments

  • seabeerob213
    seabeerob213 Posts: 1,843
    edited April 2013
    Go with the denon, but don't discount buying online if you can
    2 Channel(work in progress):DAC: Schiit modi 2 uberAmp:Parasound 1200 MK IISub:RBH 1010-SEP Speakers: Monitor 5A peerlesscurrently running some krk rokit 3g since the HK pre outs died and i need to start breaking everything down to move in a couple monthsHeadphones:Source: tidalDAC: schiit modius epre: schiit sysAmp: AQ dragonfly black/ schiit magni2 Cans: Velodyne V-True, Grado SR225i, sennheiser x drop gaming headsetPC:DAC: schiit modius e(over spdif)pre: schiit sysspeakers: prenous eris 5 xtSub: Earthquake Sound MiniMe-P63most of my comments are passing on of info, im a noob, im just trying to help how i can, if im wrong or out of place to comment, dont hesitate to let me know :)"WITH WILLING HEARTS AND SKILLFUL HANDS, THE DIFFICULT WE DO AT ONCE, THE IMPOSSIBLE TAKES A BIT LONGER, WITH COMPASSION FOR OTHERS. WE BUILD - WE FIGHT FOR PEACE WITH FREEDOM"Seabee Memorial, Arlington, VA
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • cnh
    cnh Posts: 13,284
    edited April 2013
    Welcome to Club Polk!

    Most receiver manufacturers CANNOT be trusted when it comes to reporting the "power" of their products. Sony is notorious for INFLATING its numbers. There is NO way that a Sony can put out 100 watts/channel. That's nonsense. The Denon probably puts out 80 watts/channel ONLY in two channel stereo. Almost all surround receivers drop in power, precipitously, when run in the 5-7 channel mode. So that instead of 80 or 100 it's more like 35-55 watts x 7. That being the case, the Denon will still have MORE power than the Sony in surround. I don't believe the Sony can do more than 30-35 x 7 channels? The Denon, a little more. Neither is a real powerhouse!

    I'd move up the Denon line and buy discounted, maybe from accessories4less.com if they still carry Denon. If not, think about a Marantz (similar sound).

    cnh
    Currently orbiting Bowie's Blackstar.!

    Polk Lsi-7s, Def Tech 8" sub, HK 3490, HK HD 990 (CDP/DAC), AKG Q701s
    [sig. changed on a monthly basis as I rotate in and out of my stash]
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • nwohlford
    nwohlford Posts: 700
    edited April 2013
    d4vid wrote: »
    Hi all,

    I need help deciding between a Sony and Denon receiver. My choices are limited as I live in Johannesburg where last years' models are all you can get, and cost twice what you guys pay for the latest gear. I'm building my first 5.1 system. I have picked up some Polk speakers:
    - 4 X TL3's
    - 1 X TL3 center
    - 1 X PSW111

    My choice is between the Denon AVR-1713 and the Sony STR-DH820. Based on what I've read here, I'm leaning towards the Denon but a bit concerned it could be underpowered vs the Sony (80W/ch vs 100W/ch.) This setup will be in a room that's 14' X 18'. I don't need the extra 2 channels on the Sony but they're priced the same, so it could be a future upgrade.

    What do you think?

    The Denon should do just fine with those speakers. If anything, I would look to get a second sub if you find that the set-up is not adequate for your room. The sub will do a lot of the heavy lifting given that you should set the crossover around 120 Hz. You could look at the DSW sub line-up as well or equivalent from another company. (The PSW 111 maybe a little small for your room)
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • d4vid
    d4vid Posts: 2
    edited April 2013
    Thanks for the feedback - this forum is awesome!

    The problem we have with online orders to South AFrica is even if I can get it shipped here, we get hammered on import duties.

    I'll be saving towards a bigger Denon receiver and look into that second sub - thanks again!
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • boston1450
    boston1450 Posts: 7,640
    edited April 2013
    Keep us updated
    i own and have owned a few Denons. I love them. Especially H-T and with those fine speakers you should be very :) .....food luck. Randy
    ..
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • jumpindick
    jumpindick Posts: 428
    edited April 2013
    try checking hometheater.com. They usually put up good indepth review of such components. Sometimes, they have lab data that would indicate the actual watt output. This may help you get some idea, how much to trust the information, well that I am not sure. But given they are known in the audio/video world, they can be pretty reliable. Good luck.
    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter