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Recs for 'entry-level' receiver with two sets of 5.1 analog inputs?

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NickR

(A)

I'm looking to set up a small multichannel/ht system. I'm looking for a decent entry-level system where I won't paint myself into a corner if I wind up with both SACD and DVD-A multichannel sources.
I'm not a video addict but again I don't want to leave out any feature that should be part of a basic ht system.
It would be great if there was something in the $300-$500 range that fits the bill.
Any insights will be most helpful -
Nick

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Re: Recs for 'entry-level' receiver with two sets of 5.1 analog inputs? - Kala 09:37:05 10/06/02 (1)
The Sony ES line allows for both, but it might be better to get a universal player. Pioneer, Yamaha, Onkyo, and Marantz all either have or are planning to have universal models.
- Re: Recs for 'entry-level' receiver with two sets of 5.1 analog inputs? - NickR 16:00:14 10/06/02 (0)
  Thanks - I'll check out the universal players.
Re: Recs for 'entry-level' receiver with two sets of 5.1 analog inputs? - cfraser 18:39:50 10/05/02 (3)
I doubt you will find two sets of those inputs on any receiver in your price range. Check out the HK AVR325 and AVR525 (probably about $600 though). The 325 has good functionality (I have this year's model, the 320) and 7 channels of amplification (no sub amp). It has up to 8 channels analog input (7.1).
IMO putting SACD through a normal A/V receiver is a contradiction in terms. Yes it will work, but is it appropriate? SACD/DVD-A=high quality, A/V receiver=low quality. Generally speaking, in comparison to what's available in separates. That said, I do it myself with DVD-A and it does sound rather good, I must admit! The HK AVR320/520 (2002 models, still available) have discrete amplifiers, and if you open them up you will see that ~75% of the interior volume is devoted to the amplifiers and heat sinks, and that they are surprisingly well built (I was shocked). IMO these are the best feature/sound units at the top of your price range.
Very shortly (or right now, elsewhere) you will be able to get a universal disc player, so that sort of quality level might be more appropriate for hooking up to a A/V receiver, and only one 5.1 analog input set will be needed.
- go to Harmon Kardon's web site!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11 - emfoods 10:24:31 10/21/02 (0)
  They started selling refurbished units online! Get a 320 for either $349 or $399. It has 5.1 inputs, maybe even 7.1?
- Re: Recs for 'entry-level' receiver with two sets of 5.1 analog inputs? - ggraff 08:29:46 10/17/02 (0)
  Would like your opinion on the newer HK receivers. I have an older AV20 that needs to be upgraded in my video system. I orginally chose the HK because it had a better sound than most midfi stuff (I have a serious two channel system in another room and while willing to compromise on sound quality I couldn't stand typical midfi sound). Do the new ones still have the sound quality of the older ones?
  THanks
  gjg
- Re: Recs for 'entry-level' receiver with two sets of 5.1 analog inputs? - NickR 16:08:19 10/06/02 (0)
  I know what you mean about playing a hi-res format thru an a/v receiver. At this point I can't justify the cost of 'real' processors and amps, etc. so I think a receiver is my best "enjoyment per dollar" approach.
  I'll also check out the universal players since that would eliminate the need for two sets of inputs.

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