VSX-23TXH or VSX-21TXH

There should not be much of a difference in actual sound...what DACs do the models have...are they the same (does the lower model have Burr Brown and the higher Wolfsons or do both have Wolfsons..because that would make a difference). Also do by Quartz lock do you mean Pioneers PQLS system of jitter-reduction because that would be important for CD sound, etc.

I thought both Elite models had that?

cnh

Well, I know any Elite has pre-outs so I think you're good to go cheaper!

cnh

get the 21 unless you need the extra hdmi or have a pioneer bluray. I got it and I love it. Sounds great. And looks damn nice too.

If you want warm go marantz or hk. I have had onkyo, yamaha, hk, and now pioneer elite receivers in my current system and the HK had the best sound to me. I like music and the hk definitely was warmer to me than any other receiver I have had.

I own the pio vsx21. I have had it for about 3 weeks now. For the features, and DACS along, I think puts it at the top of its price category. I will say I dont know how its amp section is because I use external amplification for all speakers, but as a prepro its packed with more features than any other receiver I have ever owned.

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In my system, the hk had the best, warmest sound to me. I am running kefs and they are a little foward, but the hk laid them back. I jumped on the elite wagon to see what the fuss is about and its not a bright receiver by any means, but its not hk warm to me either. Thats just my opinion though.

If you feel the speakers are bright on the Onkyo and I can understand that, you're running RTIs and they can be bright on an Onkyo...I have an 805 that I use with M70s and it's OK with those but brighter with your series!

Harman Kardon is most definitely a 'warm' amp/AVR and if you wanted to tone down RTIs that's one way to do it!

However you'll need extra amplification with the HK because those 9s can soak up watts.

Unless you can afford to buy the top of the line H/K?

But, personally, I've heard the 9s and I think they are the least bright of the RTI series so the Pioneer might work for you still....I'd say take a listen if you can..as the owner above says and I said above...Elites are not bright so they might be fine for you. But if you want a lot of Warmth....H/K and Marantz would be the tickets!

cnh