Marantz M-CR603 Network Stereo Receiver with CD Player Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)if you seek a simple, yet sophisticated approach to a secondary audio-room, look no further. it won't play loud and deep, but it will handle most secondary listening needs perfectly. for the price, you can't go wrong.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Marantz M-CR603 Network Stereo Receiver with CD Player

Click here for more information about Marantz M-CR603 Network Stereo Receiver with CD Player

Read More...

Pioneer Elite SC-25 - AV network receiver - Rhapsody, vTuner, Sirius internet radio - 7.1 channel - high-gloss black Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As the title instruct you to do above, do what you have to, to be able to get one of these gems! I have had this receiver for about a month, and I never cease to be satisfied with this Unit! This unit is all about the details, both in sound quality and build quality. The thing is a monster(over 40 lbs). The connection panel in the back even has copper screws to attach grounding wires to for your individual connections, if your connection needs to have a ground available . Not to mention, the sheer amount of inputs at your disposal means that you can hook up almost anything your heart desires. Anyone can hook this unit up and use the M.C.A.C.C. and get a good sound, but, as the saying goes the devil is in the details. If you want to take it a step further, you can hook your receiver up to your P.C. (as I took the time to do) with a non supplied cable and download pioneers advanced M.C.A.C.C. software and fine tune your sound stage to your hearts content. I have a Horn loaded set-up for speakers which some people whine about the sound (klipsch: rf63's, rc64, rsw10d, and 2 pairs of rs62's), but if you are knowledgeable enough about tuning to use you computer skills and M.C.A.C.C. (playing with the X curve roll off) then you can get a sound that's on par with the best. The ICE power amps deliver effortless clean and coherent power to all channels, and have been tested to deliver with in approximately 1% of the claimed power rating on test benches by several different magazines/reviewers, not like other brands (Onkyo to name one in specific,I have previous ownership experience tsxr-806, which might have reached its power rating if there was a power surge and the unit was blowing up). The kuro link is a nice feature for those of us who own Pioneer Kuro's (myself included). One last feature that is worth noting is the pure direct feature that delivers the sound with no processing as it should be, in 2 channel full range with no sub out put so make sure your speakers are up to snuff and you will get a sound that is as incredible as it was intended to be, you will hear things that you have not noticed on the recording in previous listening sessions on other equipment. If you can afford it, or at least over extend yourself to get one, buy it as fast as you can.
As an update I recently added two items to this receiver that I believe made a great improvement in sound quality, an Audioquest NRG-5 AC9 power cord, and a pare of 10' bi-wired with bananas, Audioquest Mont Blanc(bananas because of the lack of spade support, which is endemic to most receivers for space reasons). The first thing I think that anyone purchasing one of these darlings should do is to toss that wimpy ac9 cost saving power cable it was designed to save them $. Doing so will allow your receiver to eat as much clean power (assuming you are running a power conditioner) as it can demand, and the improvements in the sound staging and placement of instruments and vocals were night and day. It may be me but I think the power cable made a larger improvement than my $2k+ speaker cables.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer Elite SC-25 - AV network receiver - Rhapsody, vTuner, Sirius internet radio - 7.1 channel - high-gloss black

Click here for more information about Pioneer Elite SC-25 - AV network receiver - Rhapsody, vTuner, Sirius internet radio - 7.1 channel - high-gloss black

Read More...

Pioneer VSX-1020-K 7.1 Home Theater Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I tend to do a lot of research before making large purchasing decisions and so far this receiver is receiving a pretty rosy reception! Its predecessor, the 1019, was CNET's and Gizmodo's top mid-range receiver. Both reviewers had just as high hopes for the 1020, and Gizmodo already called it the best receiver $550 can buy, saying the 1020 "hit the sweet spot" that gave the most bang for buyer's buck.
The critics I read all raved about the excellent sound quality, but the 1020 brings some new offerings to the table for a mid-range receiver.
In short, the most valuable features you get with this model that you don't get with the next step down are:
1. A fifth HDMI port in back, an extra sixth in front (for digital cameras, computers, etc.).
2. Analog video upscaling (which I don't care too much about since most of my content is HD already or played through an upscaling player).
3. The iContolAV iPhone app. Very cool for controlling volume and switching inputs. Works simply by having your receiver connected to ethernet and your iPhone connected to the network via WiFi. A few times the app has had trouble properly connecting, but it usually works well.
4. Internet radio with programmable stations, which is cool, though you can't currently control the station selections from the iPhone App, unfortunately.
5. A color configuration interface output to your TV via the HDMI output. I can't imagine trying to configure all my speakers without seeing a graphical representation of their location on screen.
That last feature feature, the HDMI 1.4 ports that support 3D, the 7.1 surround capabilities, excellent sound quality and the iPhone App are what made the VSX-1020 the clear choice for me. I also appreciated the automatic calibration with the included microphone and the included iPod cable/compatibility, but those weren't as strong of selling points.
The only negatives of note for me is that the little front port cover is a little cheap. It's not even a door, simply a little plastic piece that pops out if you push one side. I, like others, have also experienced the issue where the receiver switches to TV/Sat when first turned on, but I've yet to determine whether that's a problem with the receiver itself or my Harmony universal remote (I'll update the review as I get more information).
One last tip to buyers, however. If you're considering listening to your phone's music over Bluetooth by buying the $99 AS-BT100 adapter, I'd consider buying a $99 Apple Airport Express instead (assuming your music is managed through iTunes). It lets you stream music from your computer to the receiver over WiFi and control what's playing via iTunes or Apple's robust "Remote" iPhone app, but more importantly the Airport Express acts as a USB print server and a one port wireless bridge (something that lets you connect wired devices to a wireless network).
That wireless bridge capability is especially valuable, since you'll need it or something similar for internet radio and iControlAV iPhone app support if your VSX-1020 receiver isn't close to your wireless router (mine isn't). Buying the Airport Express kills two birds with one stone.
UPDATE:
A few ideas have been thrown out by other Amazon posters to help alleviate the issue with the receiver switching to TV/Sat when it first turns on. The first idea is to change the receiver's settings thusly:
"1 Press Receiver , then press Home Menu.
2 Select `System Setup', then press ENTER.
3 Select `Other Setup', then press ENTER.
4 Select `HDMI Setup', then press ENTER.
5. Set Control to 'Off'."
The second idea is to adjust your TV settings like so.
"Go into Menu under HDMI-CEC and turn it Off. If the set is a Samsung look for AnyNet+ (default is normally On) and turn it Off."
I'm still having issues going directly to a given HDMI input when the unit first power on (going to "HDMI Input 1" simply toggles the current HDMI input instead of going directly to the one you want), but I've made the quirk tolerable by programming one of the buttons on my universal remote to toggle inputs, so it's easy to fix.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer VSX-1020-K 7.1 Home Theater Receiver

Key Features are110 Watts X 7, 7 Channel Configurable Amplifier, Surround Back. Dolby Pro-logic IIz or B Speaker, Dolby True-HD / DTS-HD Master Audio and Advanced MCACC. It has a 9 Band EQ.Auto Crossover Setting, USB to PC Graphs, PQLS – 2 Channel, Auto Level Control – Multi-Channel, Sound Retriever AIR – Multi- channel. It has a Internet radio. iPod Digital USB / USB Memory Audio. Its iPhone Certified, Sirius Satellite Radio, HDMI Repeater (6 In / 1 out), Analog to HDMI Video Conversion, HDMI to HDMI 1080p Scaler, Component Video (2 in / 1 out), Full Color GUI, iControl pioneer AVR iPhone / iTouch "APP" Multi-Zone A/V Pre-out, Preset Remote Control

Get 33% OFF

Click here for more information about Pioneer VSX-1020-K 7.1 Home Theater Receiver

Read More...

Onkyo TX-8255 Stereo Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This receiver replaced a Sony STR 397 that had a continuous static problem that was never fixed. I gave up on the Sony and bought the Onkyo. I use it to power two Polk tower speakers hooked up to my HDTV and DVD player.
The receiver is basic, no frills. Bass, treble and balance controls are on the front panel. There is no loudness control. There are multiple memory settings for music stations. All the standard connections are in the back including an input for an iPod (docking station extra). The tuner works well and has standard scanning for stations.
The receiver is rated at 50W per channel. It is plenty adequate for the Polks. The sound is clear and unvarnished. It produces a crisper, cleaner sound than the Sony.
For sound reproduction without lots of frills and buttons, this has proved an excellent choice. I am very pleased with the item.
Once again, I have to complement Amazon for having excellent pricing and incredible free shipping that is fast.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Onkyo TX-8255 Stereo Receiver

If you want your receiver to focus purely on two-channel audio, the TX-8255 could be just the answer. It`s perfect for your living room, or anywhere else you like to sit back and soak up your music.The TX-8255`s rock-solid construction incorporates a heavy-duty extruded aluminum heat sink to ensure cooler operation.The whole unit is housed in a rigid, reinforced chassis-finished off with a hairline-brushed aluminum front panel-to help eliminate vibrations. Add compatibility with RI dock for the iPod(R), and you have a superb stereo solution that brings out the power and dynamism of your audio sources.

Click here for more information about Onkyo TX-8255 Stereo Receiver

Read More...

Yamaha RX-A1000 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As I write this review, I am listening to my favorite music DVD (Eagles, hell freezes over), and I have the volume cranked to about 70% to match the listening volume of the Yamaha HTR 5790 (50% volume) that this RX-A1000 replaced. The 5790 had 110 watt vs 105 watt per channel for the RX-A1000. It was time to replace my 5790 because I recently purchased a Samsung 8000 series LED TV and wanted to pass 1080p signals from my BluRay player to the TV via the Yamaha receiver. The 5790 did not have any HDMI ports and you can't pass 1080p signals through component cables. The old Yamaha could not process Dolby True HD either. One of the nice features on this new receiver is the ability to pass video and audio to the TV via the HDMI cables even when the receiver is off. How cool is that? We don't always need 735 watts, especially when we are only watching a news channel. Another cool feature is the NET Radio. I connected the RX-1000's LAN jack to my router (via a gigabit switch)and 24 hours later (I could not get it to work imediately), I am listening to 15,000 radio stations. It took 24 hours for the receiver to figure out it was connected to a computer network? I don't understand why it didn't work right away. I checked all my settings over and over and then turned it off when my patience started wearing a little thin. The next day when I turned it on, the NET radio was working. This unit is about a $200 step up from my old receiver, but in my opinion does not match the sound of my older Yahama unit. Gosh, did 5 watts make the difference? Yamaha spent 2 years designing and building the Aventage series from the chassis up. This was not a redesign, (building and improving on an existing chassis), it is a complete new design including the number of feet (5) on the bottom. Well all in all I like this unit, but if I had it to do over, I would have waited a month and bought the RX-A2000. The RX-A2000 has video processing and upscaling that would improve the picture quality of whatever you are jacking into it, as well as 130 watts per channel.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-A1000 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black)

AVENTAGE is a dramatic, inspired step forward in audio/video component design. AVENTAGE brings studio-grade sound and sophisticated video enhancements to the home as a result of unparalleled attention to detail in design, engineering and fabrication. Details that, at first glance, would not seem to affect the quality of sight, sound, and control, when brought together within an AVENTAGE component produce a work of visual and acoustic art.The RX-A1000 A/V Receiver supports 3D and Audio Return Channel, with 8 in/2 out HDMI, new GUI, new YPAO, network functions, and control via web browser.

Get 40% OFF

Click here for more information about Yamaha RX-A1000 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black)

Read More...

Sony STR-DH100 2-Channel Audio Receiver (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have to say up front that I've only spent a week with my new Sony and my opinion may change but due to the lack of reviews here are my first impressions: This is a very capable receiver, nicely built with a useful and easy to understand remote. I, like most people reading this, was looking for a second receiver to put in my den to listen to cd's, mp3, and internet radio. My main Home Theater Receiver is a Denon. The Sony has a nice full sound and is easy to adjust to your liking. There are bass and treble controls on the remote, a plus for me. So far I am happy with the sound but I can tell something is lacking, a depth or warmth, whatever you want to call it, I imagine the Onkyo 8255 has what I really want but at 50 less watts per channel and $50.00 more in price. To be honest I don't know if the trade off is worth it but for those of you who have been trying to decide which one to buy I made my decision to try the less expensive new model from Sony first, then after a week or two if I am not sold, I'll probably return it and buy the Onkyo. I will say that the 96db s/n ratio is better than some alternatives like the Teac and Sherwood. If you've been looking for receivers in this price range you know there isn't a huge variety so with that in mind I would recommend this receiver over any other similar priced model with the Onkyo being the exception. The Sony has a nice full sound, the tuner works great, it has a sleep timer and a nice quality feel, that counts for something. Sound being subjective, I think I am a little spoiled by my Denon but this Sony does sound better then the Yamaha it replaced. REVIEW UPDATE:
Now that I have gotten to know this receiver inside and out and have spent over a month listening to various kinds of music through my polk Monitor 30 speakers, I can say that this Sony receiver is very well built and has a good clean sound, it was a bit harsh at first but now that it is being used daily I really enjoy the sound coming through the speakers. The remote is very nice and the buttons are laid out in a way that I can easily use the remote without looking at it. Music is very clear, full of bass and treble and a bit of the warmth of my Denon, something that I was hoping would happen as I first wrote that it lacked "warmth". For the money you can't go wrong, everything I play sounds very good and there is no distortion even when turningthe volume up considerably loud. If you are on the fence about this, do what i did, buy it and try it out and if you don't think it is worth the price you can always return it, that's the great thing about Amazon, no hassles!! Anyway, I highly recommend the Sony STR-DH100.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Sony STR-DH100 2-Channel Audio Receiver (Black)

Enjoy bolder, quality sound without the fuss. The solid, 2-channel STR-DH100 stereo receiver delivers clear stereo sound for everyday music fans and rooms where a complex home theater system is not needed. With the right mix of inputs and technologies, the STR-DH100 transforms any secondary living environment into a concert hall. In addition, it also includes the Digital Media Port input that allows you to extend your music selection from an iPod, Walkman digital music player, Bluetooth device or from a PC (accessories sold separately).

Click here for more information about Sony STR-DH100 2-Channel Audio Receiver (Black)

Read More...

Harman Kardon HK 3490 120 Watt X 2 Stereo Receiver with XM Radio-ready Tuner and Dolby Virtual Speaker Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I used the HK 3480 (the precursor to this model) for five years and loved it. The 3490 is even better. The sound is more robust and full, not different, but just more refined. It easily powers my Klipsch Synergy speakers and would pair well with any mid-level speakers. With 120w even inefficient speakers will have more than a enough power to move air.
Further, the 3490 has an important new feature: digital inputs. This is a very nice option for those who have made the jump to an all digital music library and use a digital jukeboxes like the Roku Soundbridge or the Squeezebox. Both players have digital outs and pair up nicely with the 3490.
The difference in quality from digital inputs or analog is debatable, but to my ear, going from the 3480 with analog cables, to the 3490 with optical TOSLINK, there was an immediately improvement in clarity. Songs with delicate sound work came alive. Soft details were more apparent. It's been a great upgrade for me.
It's important to note that the 3490 doesn't leave analog fans in the cold either. It has a very nice tape loop and a wonderful gold plated stereo pickup. In short, whether you're library consists of vinyl or mp3s this amp will do it all.
I have always been a fan of Harmon Kardon, and I bought the older 3480 because I'm a strict fan of stereo music listening. The 3490 is a very smart update to the 3480, bringing it into the 21st century with a host of digital options. For those who rely on an iPod for music, there is specific iPod cradle for this amp that allows you to play your iPod's music effortless over the stereo while controlling it with the HK remote. This amp is also XM Radio ready, just plug in your XM receiver and the HK will allow you to control it.
It's very hard to find a subtle, high powered stereo receiver with these features. The market has sadly moved away to the home theater, multi-channel world, but I'm glad Harmon Kardon is still loyal to their stereo listeners.
Build quality is very nice. It's not a flashy amp, it doesn't light up the room with needless LEDs. It's very understated, and handsome. HK even includes two little inserts that hide the front inputs and bass, treble, and balance controls (nice if you don't want people messing with your settings, or you appreciate a clean look.)
Other than the digital options, the tape loop and the phono pickup, the amp does allow video switching and pass through should you want to integrate into your home theater. The other notable detail are the speaker posts. They allow the use of banana clips or allow you to secure naked wire in two different ways to the posts. This is nice if you don't have a lot of clearance behind the amp.
At this price point, there is simply nothing out there that can compete with this amp in terms of quality, performance, or features.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Harman Kardon HK 3490 120 Watt X 2 Stereo Receiver with XM Radio-ready Tuner and Dolby Virtual Speaker

The HK 3490 is a high current stereo receiver that will give you the best possible audio performance. You can use the optional "Bridge II" to control and navigate your Ipod'. The power rating is 120 watts times two at 8 ohms and 150 watts times 2 at 4 ohms. It has 45 amps of current. It is also XM Ready. It has speaker A/B switching.

Get 18% OFF

Click here for more information about Harman Kardon HK 3490 120 Watt X 2 Stereo Receiver with XM Radio-ready Tuner and Dolby Virtual Speaker

Read More...