Using Onkyo 705 or 805 with RTi8s,10s,12s

JohnLocke88 · June 2008

Hello all. I'm a bit new, and I'm sure this issue has been discussed before, but I couldn't find a thread with my situation:

I'm in a bit of a dilemna.

I'm currently running a old, Aiwa (see signature), and RTi6s for fronts, A CSi3 center and a KEF PSW2150 and have an opportunity to purchase a Onkyo 705 (100 watts a channel) receiver for $379.96 plus tax. Another option I have is to get a 805 (130 watts a channel) off amazon for $650ish.

Question 1: I really don't need zone 3 speakers, so other than that, the only difference I can find in the two receivers is the additional 30 watts a channel. Is it worth another $300 for the 805 over the 705?

On top of that, here's my dilemna:

I have an opportunity to get some RTi12s for a very reasonable price that fits my budget nicely. I also have a chance to get some RTi8s for around the same price.

If given the opportunity, should I just get the RTi12s and power them with the 705 (100watts a channel). I've read that these speakers like more power (around 250-400ish watts), but I'm assuming they'll still sound kick **** at low-moderate volumes at 100watts. And then, someday, I can invest in a power amp when I need more power and louder volumes?

Or should I just get a pair of RTi8s, which are much less power hungry and won't require a seperate amp?

As you might be able to tell, I'm new the realm of higher end A/V equipment, so be gentle. Thanks!

-Jon

Gadabout · June 2008

First, don't confuse the watt output of an AVR vs a dedicated amp. I have the 10's and they clipped at high volumes with my 705. The easy solution, for me, was to solve this with an Emotiva LPA-1 (apx. $500). I think you will find that even the 8's will sound better with an external amplifier. My 705, is mainly relegated to pre amp duties. It works fine and I'm happy with the setup.

There are a few other differences between the 705 and 805 as far as video processing goes. The owners of the 805's can tell you the difference or you can delve into the spec sheets at Onkyo.

For my choice of speakers, I would get the 12's and plan on buying another amp. Again, you would probably want one for the 8's too. Since we're talking upgrades, the CSi3 is a fine center speaker, but the CSi5 is amazing. After listening to both, it was an easy decision to make to upgrade to the CSi5, but that can be put off for later too.

Just my thoughts and good luck with your upgrades
Scott

Ohhh and least I forget welcome to Club Polk

kuntasensei · June 2008

I'm running older RTi70s off a 705, crossed over at 60Hz, and they sound great. I doubt I'd try to run them full range without amplification though.

Imperitor · June 2008

If you can get the RTi12's for the same price as the 8's then it’s a no brainier. The 12’s usually cost a lot more then the 8’s. The 705 will run them fine at low volumes. You definitely won't be getting the most out of them but it should be fine until you find a separate amp.

JohnLocke88 · June 2008

Thanks for the informative replies.

gte697h · June 2008

John,
Could you guide me to where you got the Onkyo 705 for ~400 as well as the place that has the Rti8's for a decent price?! My research online has so far lead to dismal results.

JohnLocke88 · June 2008

Sure, My local CCity has the Onkyo 705 for 369.96 on Open Box. It may be very difficult to find them at CCity as they've been on clearance for the better part of 2-3 months now I think.

As for the RTi8s, they're through a private party on craigslist. I know I'm sacrificing the warranty by buying private over retail, but the price cannot be beat.

BIZILL · June 2008

if you can get the rti12's cheap as the 8's, get 'em. then get an amp soon thereafter. if that deal falls through, get an onkyo 705 or 805, rti8's and a gooooood subwoofer.

Using Onkyo 705 or 805 with RTi8s,10s,12s

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