Looking at a new budget receiver need sugestions !

[quest88]

Hey guys first off thanks in advance for the help. Currently I have a Onkyo 605 and I'm looking at getting something with a little bit more power. The only thing that will be connected via HDMI is a PS3, the DVR will be connected via optical. So the price range is no more than 500 with tax and shipping. The only receiver that I've narrowed it down to is the Pioneer VSX-919AH-K which is on sale at new egg for 329. I leave the rest up to you guys I know you'll point me in the right direction !

[picture_shooter]

does your receiver have pre-outs? if so, get a dedicated amp. I dig the Emotiva's

[HAMP]

Originally Posted by picture_shooter

does your receiver have pre-outs? if so, get a dedicated amp. I dig the Emotiva's

The Onkyo 605 does not have pre-outs, if it did that would be a nice combo.

[serenity]

Originally Posted by quest88

Hey guys first off thanks in advance for the help. Currently I have a Onkyo 605 and I'm looking at getting something with a little bit more power. The only thing that will be connected via HDMI is a PS3, the DVR will be connected via optical. So the price range is no more than 500 with tax and shipping. The only receiver that I've narrowed it down to is the Pioneer VSX-919AH-K which is on sale at new egg for 329. I leave the rest up to you guys I know you'll point me in the right direction !

The Pioneer would probably be a downgrade as it's amp section is rather anemic in comparison to the Onkyo. They both put out roughly 90 watts per channel. However the 605 will stay closer to its rated power when all channels are driven. The Pioneer will not even come close. The 1019 was just bench tested and only put out 28 watts when all channels where driven.

Another thing to keep in mind is you need to double the power output to obtain 3db power increase. Which even then is not all that much of a gain.

Judging by the fact you are using some rather efficient Polks and probably using an 80hz crossover I would just keep the Onkyo as it would fill most larger medium sized rooms with no problem.

When using an 80hz crossover a receiver tends to pick up a fair amount of dynamic headroom as they are not burdened with producing lower bass frequencies which suck up most of the power.

In a nutshell just keep the 605. Unless you have the upgrade bug and want a new toy. Which is understandable. We all like new toys.

[Irrob]

I agree with above. Furthermore, it's very difficult to find a receiver with substantially more power than the Onkyo 605 at a $500 budget. That's why the 605 is such a popular seller. Keep it.

[quest88]

Thanks guys I really do appreciate all the replies. I guess if I want to move up I need to think about adjusting my budget for a receiver. Well until I want to kick that figure up I'll keep my 605 pumping.

[Fors*]

Originally Posted by quest88

Thanks guys I really do appreciate all the replies. I guess if I want to move up I need to think about adjusting my budget for a receiver. Well until I want to kick that figure up I'll keep my 605 pumping.

You and your wallet will both be happier if you do. I am sure the 605 can keep you happy in the meantime. I had the 605 until I made a significant jump to my Pioneer Elite 05, and it was well worth waiting to do the upgrade.