Deciding between a Pioneer Elite SC-63 and a Denon AVR 2313CI

nwohlford

PolishDude wrote: »

Last comparison, is an new in box Onkyo 818 from Crutchfield worth an extra $250 over the Pioneer SC-63?

Only big difference I really see is it has Audyssey XT32 and about 10 watts more per channel. Would XT32 make that big of a difference versus Pioneer's offering? I feel like I may be trying to do too much too fast. I am pretty sure going from a sound bar, anything will sound amazing but just want to make sure if I spend the money, I do it right the first time!

To me XT32 is worth the $250 extra (actually more as I would not get a receiver or pre/pro without xt32 or an equivalent like Anthem's ARC). Onkyo did have quality problems in the 07 and 08 lines, but the last four years of models have not had the same issues.

EndersShadow

nwohlford wrote: »

To me XT32 is worth the $250 extra (actually more as I would not get a receiver or pre/pro without xt32 or an equivalent like Anthem's ARC). Onkyo did have quality problems in the 07 and 08 lines, but the last four years of models have not had the same issues.

While XT32 may be a better EQ (not sure myself as I haven't had it) the fact he doesnt have a amp is the reason the Pioneer cant lose. The 818 is anemic at best amp wise compared to the amps in the SC-63.

The amp section is just as important as the video in this case since hes looking for a all in one solution.

nwohlford

EndersShadow wrote: »

While XT32 may be a better EQ (not sure myself as I haven't had it) the fact he doesnt have a amp is the reason the Pioneer cant lose. The 818 is anemic at best amp wise compared to the amps in the SC-63.

The amp section is just as important as the video in this case since hes looking for a all in one solution.

Over 5 channels the Onkyo and the Pioneer will have almost identical power ratings. The Pioneer will do a little better over 7 channels and the Onkyo will do a little better over 2 channels. The differences are too small to probably really notice. The only real meaningful difference is the higher efficiency amps in the Pioneer will allow it do lower impedance speakers. Unless you are separately EQing low frequencies, XT32 will make a big difference.

WLDock

PolishDude wrote: »

Last comparison, is an new in box Onkyo 818 from Crutchfield worth an extra $250 over the Pioneer SC-63?

Only big difference I really see is it has Audyssey XT32 and about 10 watts more per channel. Would XT32 make that big of a difference versus Pioneer's offering? I feel like I may be trying to do too much too fast. I am pretty sure going from a sound bar, anything will sound amazing but just want to make sure if I spend the money, I do it right the first time!

Some like the XT32 over MCACC...especially for the low end EQ ability. However, the Pioneer does a good job and is adjustable. So the great amps combined with tweekability means you one should be able to get the sound they are after. BTY, the Pioneer amps are relentless! They just keep hitting you....the over used term "bullying" is what they do to your senses! Only powerful dedicated amps can best top AVR's in terms of power delivery.

If you are a tweaker and wanted to get the best out of the low end of the Pioneer AVR, then maybe spend $250 on a used AntiMode EQ? http://www.polkaudio.com/forums/showthread.php?154116-Antimode-8033-Wireworld-Oasis-6-DIY-IC-anticable-speaker-cables&highlight=antimode

ibewbrother

I have a soft spot for the Onkyos......But ....make no mistake...buy a Pioneer Elite...no comparison....unless you need a space heater

PolishDude

I definitely won't be getting any external amps, my neighbors will probably already hate me, let alone if I amp the speakers! It looks like I should def stick with the SC-63. I was thinking about the pioneer for the sake of 32xt but with this being my real home theater, I am sure I will be more than satisfied with my results. I am also leaning towards a SVS PB-1000

PolishDude

BTW I also have a soft spot for Onkyos, I literally just sold my dad's onkyo system he bought new from Circuit City in 1992. It still all worked like a champ but obviously was low on features.

ibewbrother

I wish I had a chance to buy that older Onk stuff....and SVS is the baddest