Pioneer Elite or Denon????? - Blu-ray Forum

Colglizity · 05-26-2009, 06:53 PM

Hi folks- Time for another one of these.......
Looking to upgrade my Yamaha 663 for something that has a little more power, has TrueHD and DTSMA displayed on the display, and has some kind of video conversion for a little better pic. Looking at the Pioneer Elite VSX-03TXH, or a Denon 2308CI, or maaaaybbeee something else. Your thoughts and opinions are very much appreciated!

Rob J in WNY · 05-26-2009, 07:08 PM

The "maaaaybbeee something else" Onkyo crowd will no doubt invite you to consider the 806 or something around that range. The 806 is an excellent receiver to consider. If you can find an Onkyo 805 around, you may be even happier, with its "push-pull," high-current amplification. The 805s are pretty hard to find now. A high-end store in my area has a couple for $999.00 each.

I am a recent purchaser of the Pioneer Elite SC-05, and I can't say a bad thing about it. I have not really driven my system to reference levels (although quite loud), but I know it's got the headroom make those times some memorable moments.

Best Buy Magnolia Stores may still be having a clearance on Pioneer Elite series receivers at the moment. You may be able to get the VSX-03TXH for around $700 if you like to purchase locally from a brick-&-mortar store.

And yes, the Pioneer Elites DO display the lossless audio type during operation. Interesting that you note this as a priority. I take it your Yamaha 663 does not display them (though it does decode them).

I don't know enough about the Denons, but as you are likely aware, Denon comes in highly recommended as well.

gtmorgan23 · 05-26-2009, 07:10 PM

I have the 92 pio elite and its a beast, so the pio gets my support

Colglizity · 05-26-2009, 07:17 PM

Thanks Rob. Yeah, the Yamaha only displays the HD audio codecs in a small icon that lights up in the top right corner and call me picky all you want> but I need that display to read the codec for me to be happy. I already have a buyer for my Yamaha, now I just need to find a replacement that I'm going to be happy with!!!!!!!!

teemacone · 05-26-2009, 07:19 PM

If you like warming up your component cabinet, get an Onkyo. If you want clean, tight sound, get a Pio Elite. You can't go wrong with any Elite receiver, it's high end goodness and highly versatile. I had a Sony ES for a few years and upgraded two years ago to the 82 model, much cleaner sound and effortless power. Works great with Harmony remotes, btw.

My buddy has a Denon receiver, good low end sound from what I remember. Nothing wrong with that brand, either.

TheZoof · 05-26-2009, 07:21 PM

I love Denon. You should be able to get a nice reciever from them.

I only have the 888 but the 889 or better will fit your needs perfectly.

I think if I had a choice I would get the Denon 2308CI for the price and functionality.

When I bought my Denon I compared it to the Onkyo and Pioneer. The sound was better on the denon. I also liked that in my price range I could get 1080P conversion on the HDMI. The wii looks better on the Denon.

I think you can't really go wrong with any brand just make sure to listen to them in your price range.

Colglizity · 05-26-2009, 07:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by teemacone

If you like warming up your component cabinet, get an Onkyo. If you want clean, tight sound, get a Pio Elite. You can't go wrong with any Elite receiver, it's high end goodness and highly versatile. I had a Sony ES for a few years and upgraded two years ago to the 82 model, much cleaner sound and effortless power. Works great with Harmony remotes, btw.

My buddy has a Denon receiver, good low end sound from what I remember. Nothing wrong with that brand, either.

Thanks. I have owned Onkyo in the past and haven't been completely pleased. They do get very warm. We've also had problems with a 605 model we use at work. Does anyone know when Pioneer's new Elite models will be coming out???

Colglizity · 05-26-2009, 07:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TheZoof

I love Denon. You should be able to get a nice reciever from them.

I only have the 888 but the 889 or better will fit your needs perfectly.

I think if I had a choice I would get the Denon 2308CI for the price and functionality.

When I bought my Denon I compared it to the Onkyo and Pioneer. The sound was better on the denon. I also liked that in my price range I could get 1080P conversion on the HDMI. The wii looks better on the Denon.

I think you can't really go wrong with any brand just make sure to listen to them in your price range.

Hey Zoof- Yeah you're right. My dad has a Denon as well as a buddy of mine and they are top notch receivers. The elite has a little more power at 110w per channel vs. the Denon at 100w. I don't know what to do

TheZoof · 05-26-2009, 07:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Colglizity

Hey Zoof- Yeah you're right. My dad has a Denon as well as a buddy of mine and they are top notch receivers. The elite has a little more power at 110w per channel vs. the Denon at 100w. I don't know what to do

Well in my experience W mean very little sometimes. You need to put them side by side and listen to them.

I actually almost went with an Elite but it ended up being about $200 more to get what I was getting from the Denon.

That's a big difference on a $400 purchase. You are obviously looking at more money so the difference might not be as great.

I have owned three Denon's now and I was never unhappy with them.

lojack1976 · 05-26-2009, 07:51 PM

I have an Onkyo 605 and I've had no problems at all. Ample power and its always run pretty cool. I have since moved it to the bedroom and put a Harman Kardon in the living room, but I still love my Onkyo. It pairs well with my Energy speakers. I do give HK the edge overall, but either works for me. With all of this said, my vote is the Pioneer Elite. They are excellent receivers. They not only look good, but they sound fantastic and put out lots of clean power.

I personally would not go with the Onkyo 806 over an Elite since Onkyo pretty much downgraded the receiver considerably from the 805. Now,if we were talking the 876 that would be different, but that's a bit more money. I don't know much about Denon myself. A friend of mine got one not too long ago and loves it, but I haven't heard it. Denon is very popular and I'm sure for good reason, so I think either would be a good choice. I think comparing the sound differences would be the best assessment if you listen to both side by side. I think you should also take a look at Marantz at this price range.

backtothecanvas · 05-26-2009, 08:29 PM

i just recently purchased the pioneer elite sc 05 after having many denons and yamahas sampled as well. i must say this thing is incredible and i highly recommend the elite line. i have always owned polk and onkyo over the years, minus a shitty samsung htib, and was a huge fan. i still would say nothing bad about either. but after this sc 05 and recently upgrading to all klipsch speakers, i now know its just about taking the time to listen to your options. eventually you will find exactly what you are looking for.

with that being said buy a pioneer hahahaha.

lojack1976 · 05-26-2009, 08:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by backtothecanvas

i just recently purchased the pioneer elite sc 05 after having many denons and yamahas sampled as well. i must say this thing is incredible and i highly recommend the elite line. i have always owned polk and onkyo over the years, minus a shitty samsung htib, and was a huge fan. i still would say nothing bad about either. but after this sc 05 and recently upgrading to all klipsch speakers, i now know its just about taking the time to listen to your options. eventually you will find exactly what you are looking for.

with that being said buy a pioneer hahahaha.

Hey, how do you like those Icon's? They seem to be gaining in popularity and they sure do look good....very sexy speakers. How does the sound compare to the Reference line?

doctorD · 05-26-2009, 08:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Colglizity

Hi folks- Time for another one of these.......
Looking to upgrade my Yamaha 663 for something that has a little more power, has TrueHD and DTSMA displayed on the display, and has some kind of video conversion for a little better pic. Looking at the Pioneer Elite VSX-03TXH, or a Denon 2308CI, or maaaaybbeee something else. Your thoughts and opinions are very much appreciated!

It looks like you may live in Washington State, like me. In Sunday's newspaper, Magnolia Audio Video has the Pioneer Elite SC07TX on sale for $1199. The original price is $2100. My suggestion is if that is within your price to go with that one. You won't be disappointed!

http://www.magnoliaav.com/Specials/t...2/Default.aspx

page 3 of the insert. The price is so good I'm considering buying it myself and I don't really need it.

Rob J in WNY · 05-26-2009, 11:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Colglizity

Thanks Rob. Yeah, the Yamaha only displays the HD audio codecs in a small icon that lights up in the top right corner and call me picky all you want> but I need that display to read the codec for me to be happy. I already have a buyer for my Yamaha, now I just need to find a replacement that I'm going to be happy with!!!!!!!!

Colglizity,

Maybe this will help you decide. Check out the nice nice, big TrueHD display on my Elite SC-05!

Colglizity · 05-27-2009, 12:24 AM

^ that sucker is BEAUTIFUL!!!!! I wish I could afford that! Are there any good quality pics of the VSX 03 or 01 floatin' around?

funnymanbing · 05-27-2009, 12:48 AM

Here you go.

ZIPPO · 05-27-2009, 12:48 AM

Check out jjxiv1215's gallery. He's using a VSX 03. VSX 01 looks similar.

Colglizity · 05-27-2009, 12:48 AM

BTW, just called Magnolia in Bellevue, WA and one of the reps said he could get me one for $650 plus tax.... what do you guys think?????

ZIPPO · 05-27-2009, 12:50 AM

An Elite 05? If so, take it.

doctorD · 05-27-2009, 12:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Colglizity

BTW, just called Magnolia in Bellevue, WA and one of the reps said he could get me one for $650 plus tax.... what do you guys think?????

So you do live in Washington State. So is the $650 price for the 03 or 05?

05-26-2009, 06:53 PM	#1
Colglizity Senior Member Top contributor Member since:Feb 2008 Location:Washington (360) Home Theater Gallery:40 Blu-ray collection:31 Blu-ray reviews:3	Pioneer Elite or Denon????? Hi folks- Time for another one of these....... Looking to upgrade my Yamaha 663 for something that has a little more power, has TrueHD and DTSMA displayed on the display, and has some kind of video conversion for a little better pic. Looking at the Pioneer Elite VSX-03TXH, or a Denon 2308CI, or maaaaybbeee something else. Your thoughts and opinions are very much appreciated!

05-26-2009, 07:21 PM	#6
TheZoof Blu-ray Guru Top contributor Member since:Aug 2008 Location:Ottawa,Canada Home Theater Gallery:27 4K collection:850 Blu-ray collection:1636 DVD collection:10 Blu-ray reviews: 38 Trading Score:2	I love Denon. You should be able to get a nice reciever from them. I only have the 888 but the 889 or better will fit your needs perfectly. I think if I had a choice I would get the Denon 2308CI for the price and functionality. When I bought my Denon I compared it to the Onkyo and Pioneer. The sound was better on the denon. I also liked that in my price range I could get 1080P conversion on the HDMI. The wii looks better on the Denon. I think you can't really go wrong with any brand just make sure to listen to them in your price range. Last edited by TheZoof; 05-26-2009 at 07:24 PM.

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05-26-2009, 07:08 PM	#2
Rob J in WNY Blu-ray Guru Member since:Dec 2008 Location:'Western' N.Y. State (MEMBER OF THE "ECPP")™ Home Theater Gallery:24 4K collection:30 Blu-ray collection:486 iTunes collection:1 Blu-ray reviews: 15	The "maaaaybbeee something else" Onkyo crowd will no doubt invite you to consider the 806 or something around that range. The 806 is an excellent receiver to consider. If you can find an Onkyo 805 around, you may be even happier, with its "push-pull," high-current amplification. The 805s are pretty hard to find now. A high-end store in my area has a couple for $999.00 each. I am a recent purchaser of the Pioneer Elite SC-05, and I can't say a bad thing about it. I have not really driven my system to reference levels (although quite loud), but I know it's got the headroom make those times some memorable moments. Best Buy Magnolia Stores may still be having a clearance on Pioneer Elite series receivers at the moment. You may be able to get the VSX-03TXH for around $700 if you like to purchase locally from a brick-&-mortar store. And yes, the Pioneer Elites DO display the lossless audio type during operation. Interesting that you note this as a priority. I take it your Yamaha 663 does not display them (though it does decode them). I don't know enough about the Denons, but as you are likely aware, Denon comes in highly recommended as well.

05-26-2009, 07:10 PM	#3
gtmorgan23 Senior Member Member since:Jun 2008 Location:Austin Texas Home Theater Gallery:20 Blu-ray collection:98	I have the 92 pio elite and its a beast, so the pio gets my support

05-26-2009, 07:17 PM	#4
Colglizity Senior Member Top contributor Member since:Feb 2008 Location:Washington (360) Home Theater Gallery:40 Blu-ray collection:31 Blu-ray reviews:3	Thanks Rob. Yeah, the Yamaha only displays the HD audio codecs in a small icon that lights up in the top right corner and call me picky all you want> but I need that display to read the codec for me to be happy. I already have a buyer for my Yamaha, now I just need to find a replacement that I'm going to be happy with!!!!!!!!

05-26-2009, 07:19 PM	#5
teemacone Member Member since:May 2007 Blu-ray collection:40 Blu-ray reviews:1	If you like warming up your component cabinet, get an Onkyo. If you want clean, tight sound, get a Pio Elite. You can't go wrong with any Elite receiver, it's high end goodness and highly versatile. I had a Sony ES for a few years and upgraded two years ago to the 82 model, much cleaner sound and effortless power. Works great with Harmony remotes, btw. My buddy has a Denon receiver, good low end sound from what I remember. Nothing wrong with that brand, either.

05-26-2009, 07:51 PM	#10
lojack1976 Blu-ray Guru Top ranked HT gallery Member since:Aug 2008 Location:7 Cities, VA Home Theater Gallery:62 Blu-ray collection:203	I have an Onkyo 605 and I've had no problems at all. Ample power and its always run pretty cool. I have since moved it to the bedroom and put a Harman Kardon in the living room, but I still love my Onkyo. It pairs well with my Energy speakers. I do give HK the edge overall, but either works for me. With all of this said, my vote is the Pioneer Elite. They are excellent receivers. They not only look good, but they sound fantastic and put out lots of clean power. I personally would not go with the Onkyo 806 over an Elite since Onkyo pretty much downgraded the receiver considerably from the 805. Now,if we were talking the 876 that would be different, but that's a bit more money. I don't know much about Denon myself. A friend of mine got one not too long ago and loves it, but I haven't heard it. Denon is very popular and I'm sure for good reason, so I think either would be a good choice. I think comparing the sound differences would be the best assessment if you listen to both side by side. I think you should also take a look at Marantz at this price range.

05-26-2009, 08:29 PM	#11
backtothecanvas Active Member Member since:Mar 2008 Home Theater Gallery:20	i just recently purchased the pioneer elite sc 05 after having many denons and yamahas sampled as well. i must say this thing is incredible and i highly recommend the elite line. i have always owned polk and onkyo over the years, minus a shitty samsung htib, and was a huge fan. i still would say nothing bad about either. but after this sc 05 and recently upgrading to all klipsch speakers, i now know its just about taking the time to listen to your options. eventually you will find exactly what you are looking for. with that being said buy a pioneer hahahaha.

05-27-2009, 12:24 AM	#15
Colglizity Senior Member Top contributor Member since:Feb 2008 Location:Washington (360) Home Theater Gallery:40 Blu-ray collection:31 Blu-ray reviews:3	^ that sucker is BEAUTIFUL!!!!! I wish I could afford that! Are there any good quality pics of the VSX 03 or 01 floatin' around?

05-27-2009, 12:48 AM	#17
ZIPPO Blu-ray Guru Member since:May 2008 Location:Columbus, Ohio Home Theater Gallery:148 Blu-ray collection:472 Blu-ray reviews:3 Trading Score:3	Check out jjxiv1215's gallery. He's using a VSX 03. VSX 01 looks similar.

05-27-2009, 12:50 AM	#19
ZIPPO Blu-ray Guru Member since:May 2008 Location:Columbus, Ohio Home Theater Gallery:148 Blu-ray collection:472 Blu-ray reviews:3 Trading Score:3	An Elite 05? If so, take it.

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