Which Entry Level Home Theater Receiver Is Good?

Question

I want to buy a new receiver to replace my Kenwood VR-705.
I'm interested in:

Sony STR-DG510
http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Sony-5-1-Channel-Receiver-STR-DG510/sem/rpsm/oid/176878/catOid/-12949/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

Pioneer VSX-516K
http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Pioneer-A-V-Receiver-VSX-516-K/sem/rpsm/oid/148426/catOid/-12949/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

Yamaha RX-V361
http://www.yamaha.com/yec/products/productdetail.html?CNTID=552118&CTID=5000300

If anybody knows about these receiver, please help me out.

Thanks

Answer 1

I just set up my new Onkyo TX-SR505 with my HDTV, upconverting DVD player and surround sound. It has 3 HDMI ports which could come in handy in the future.

IMO, it's an awesome machine for the price. It has plenty of extra stuff that I can use if I elect to add or upgrade components.

Answer 2

Depends on what you're going to be using it for.

Do you have a HDTV? Do you see yourself getting a HDTV before you'll replace your receiver? Are you interested in 7.1 surround, or is 5.1 sufficient for you? (none of the receivers you listed support 7.1)

What do you do with your system - movies? games? TV? Do you listen to SACD/DVD-A? How many devices will you be hooking up (DVD players, game consoles, cable/satellite...) ?

Of the 3 you listed, only the Sony supports HDMI, but only up to 1080i - not 1080p. The others don't support HD at all which might be a big problem if you have (or will soon buy) a HDTV. Sure, you can get a separate switch for component or HDMI video, but that's just extra complexity.

Answer 3

for the money onkyo home theater in a box is awsome.
check out cnet reviews online

Answer 4

just a good advice for a wealthier wallet n easier operation , 5.1 pc speaker system works as good as the entry level receiver.look for logitech.