A good 7.1 receiver for under $400?

Answer 1

All will require a powered sub if you want to use the .1 of 7.1. In this price range pick the features you like, there will be little true difference between these. I know people like their brands but it will really make little difference at $400. Here are just a few to look at.

Denon AVR-1507
Onkyo TX-SR504
Sony STR-DG800

Stepping up a little to $500
Yamaha RX-V659 (maybe a little better quality)

A little lower in the $300 range
JVC RX-D206B (I'd be a little suspect of this item, seems to good to be true and it probably is)

Answer 2

Outlaw Model 1050 [only 6.1], which is discontinued. It was $500 new. You can find them on ebay. The output is only 65 watts per channel, but the surround circuitry is exceptional for the value. There is no grey noise in the surround speakers, and by itself, the 65 watts per channel is quite nice for movies, and it is designed to easily add an amp. I have had one for over five years now and it delivers quality sound comparable to my B&K Ref 20 and Parasound HCA2205, which is 220 watts per channel. It doesn't compare with respect to power output, but the sound quality is similar, and your talking $500 instead of $5000. If you want to spend $899, you can get the Outlaw 1070. Check out their website. www.outlawaudio.com. No middle man in the purchases. No price negotiation. Just a well built product for a lesser price than products found in retail establishments.

Answer 3

I own the Onkyo unit mentioned in the above comment. Good unit and good features. Look into a powered subwoofer to make the difference, possibly cerwin vega.