Should I get a surround sound receiver or a 2.0 receiver?

Question

I already have a small, not very powerful 5.0 home theater package attached to a DVD player. I'm buying a receiver soon to replace me old stereo, and I'm not sure if I should buy a surround sound one to prepare for a more powerful set-up down the road, or if I should get a 2.0.

Answer 1

The only way I'd go 2.0 at this point in time would be for a higher-end system dedicated to music listening only.

If it's going to be used for audio/video or if there is any chance it would later be upgraded to home theater use, you might as well get the 5.1 or better; right now these are not really any more expensive than a stereo unit for equivalent performance anyway.

Another option would be to look on eBay, Craigslist, etc. for a used stereo or Dolby Pro Logic unit with the idea that you can wait for the "real" multichannel upgrade when you are ready to invest in the speakers required.

Answer 2

HI. If you are after sound quality for music then a two channel Integrated Amplifier will sound better.The reason being the power supply would only be used with two circuits, the Pre-Amp section and the Power Amp.In a Home Theater Receiver the single power supply limits its performance because it has to control the Pre- Amp the Tuner and five or more channels which compromise sound quality.If you buy a good quality 7.1 Surround Sound Processor/ Preamplifier such as the NAD S170i and an inexpensive two channel amplifier you will have an improvement over your old system And later on you can add a good quality 5.1 or 6.1 or 7.1or even12 channel Power Amplifier. you will have the best quality surround sound which far surpasses a multi channel Receiver for sound quality .And of course it is upgradeable.

Answer 3

Well, if you plan on upgrading down the road, I'd say go for it!