Suggestions for 5.1 (or up) receiver for under $300?

McCelery

I'm setting up a few basic systems for some friends with somewhat similar needs and am looking for a decent receiver for under $300. One is looking for a modest 5 channel system and the other is only interested in 2ch for now but will most likely want more HT utility in the future so I'm getting her at least a 5.1 receiver as well. It is highly doubtful either will ever care about HDMI or putting any kind of video signal through the receiver. She would like easy Ipod use but I think she's okay using a $6 RCA cable from Radioshack for that if I have to.

The best deals I've found are the Onkyo TX SR504 and the Yamaha RX V459 for around $250-$270 shipped (Crutchfield).

I've owned receivers from both brands and really like each but wanted to check in her for opinions on these models and take suggestions for any others you might have. I know this forum is more of a high end crowd, but I'm working with severely limited budgets here.

For the speakers I'm looking mostly in used classifieds and Ebay, but I'd rather buy the receivers new from authorized dealers. Thanks for any help you can give me!!

cfrizz

Here is another option for you.
I'm partial to Denon's personally.

http://www.6ave.com/cat_detail.jsp?a=audio&st=search&d=86&s=Surround%20Sound&so=P

John K.

McC, the Onkyo 504 is an excellent quality unit and an outstanding bargain. It would be a good buy at the 6th Ave. source, which Cathy linked, for $219, but even better is to buy at ShopOnkyo which is the official source for factory refurbished units which are indistinguishable from new and carry the full factory warranty. By registering for "Club Onkyo" a $10 credit is gained which makes the net cost $159, including shipping.

mrbigbluelight

John K. wrote:

McC, the Onkyo 504 is an excellent quality unit and an outstanding bargain. It would be a good buy at the 6th Ave. source, which Cathy linked, for $219, but even better is to buy at ShopOnkyo which is the official source for factory refurbished units which are indistinguishable from new and carry the full factory warranty. By registering for "Club Onkyo" a $10 credit is gained which makes the net cost $159, including shipping.

I've bought a couple of Onkyo AVR's and DVD players (refurbished) through Club Onkyo, and have never had a problem. As John K. mentioned, shipping is free.
I bought the Onkyo 503, which is the same thing as the 504 except it doesn't have Sirus capability (or is that Xm ?). Nice features, decent power, nice price......it'll hold down the fort until the "upgradeitis" bug hits.

Keep an eye on the website, www.bensbargains.net.
They list a lot of computer deals, etc, but they also have postings for AVR, speakers, etc.

.....and, of course, keep your eyes and ears open around here !

McCelery

Thanks, everyone. This helps a lot, especially because every dollar I save on the receiver I can put toward more fun speakers for "my clients!"

halo

Does it have to be new? I have a Yamaha HTR-5450 5.1 AVR available.

McCelery

Thanks for the offer but yeah I prefer new for this part. The 5450 was about $350 new 4-5 years ago, right? How much you trying to get for it now?

josh_parsons626

I also have the Onkyo 503 and I agree if they're not looking for much and not looking to spend much, then the Onkyo will definately keep them happy.

dudeinaroom

I've got a Denon AVR 785s from e-bay for $220 shipped it was from 4d electronics, they have a few other models for around $300 they are refurbished units. To my ears the pre amp section in it sounds better than my Adcom gfp 555. I'm now using the Denon with my Adcom gfa 555 for my fronts and the Denon is powering my four surround speakers. It sounds way better than what I was using for ht, and is only a smidge better than the Adcom on imaging when in 2ch(will only use direct)mode.

ben62670

HK is an excellent value. Stay away from the cheaper yami's. I have one sitting on a shelf that I never used. Too bright for me, but good for theater.

The HK AVR-235, 240, 245 are real nice , and have a nice pre out for future amp upgrades.
Below is a link for refurbish direct from HK with warranty.
http://stores.ebay.com/Harman-Audio

HK Spec site

http://www.harmankardon.com/product_support/interstitial.aspx?Language=ENG&Region=USA&Country=US&sJump=om