Pioneer VSX-917V-K Home Theater Receiver (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I got this receiver a few days ago to upgrade from my basic Pioneer XV-HTD540 receiver/DVD combo.I'm using the same speakers from before but I swear,this receiver has just breathed new life into them.They sound much more dynamic from the same movies I've been watching.
I really wanted the HDMI and Optical audio connections and am really happy to have them here. This reciever has more options than anyone is likely ever going to use but my favorite so far is the included microphone attachment that will automatically set up your equalizer to the specs of your room by audio noises through the speakers then received by the microphone attachment(note:hook up component cables from the reviever out to your T.V. to get on screen interaction to make this and other options easier).I know this isn't the only receiver to have this feature but it sure is nice to have on a relatively inexpensive one like this, especially if you don't feel like fiddling with the EQ to find your sound. I listened to it before doing the auto set up and it was nice but after the auto set up, WOW, what a difference. I also like how this receiver will tune into whatever source you've set to adjust the listening options(like Dolby Digital,DTS,or even the Sports setting during a game)for what your watching. It also supports both XM and Sirius radio.
Only downsides are that when your using HDMI through the receivers ports,you have to turn the receiver on for the signal to get to your TV. Not a big deal and there are ways around this if you get creative enough. The other being that this reciever only passes through audio via HDMI, it doesn't decode it to play through your speakers. That's only a big deal if you have HD DVD or Blu-ray, as HD audio can only be heard through HDMI or........
........you can get a player with 5.1 analog audio outs to hook into the 5.1 analog ins on the receiver. That's what I did. Now I have hi def movies with their hi def audio playing through my receivers speakers. It's the only way to get hi def audio if your reciever doesn't decode from HDMI. Most of those receivers though are alot more expensive, so I found this to be a great alternative.
Overall, I'm just glad to finally have a reciever with options now.I like this one alot,it's going for a really good price right now and is actually much less than the Harmon Kardon reciever I was looking at which offered the same features. Plus this one is much more powerful than the HK. I feel good about keeping this one around for years to come as it's able to pass through 1080p video, some of the best audio from HD DVD/Blu-ray dics and is 7.1 capable.If your looking for a good mid-range receiver for a good price, this is it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer VSX-917V-K Home Theater Receiver (Black)

Pioneer VSX-917V-K Home Theater Receiver, Black

Click here for more information about Pioneer VSX-917V-K Home Theater Receiver (Black)

Pioneer VSX-819H-K 5-Channel A/V Receiver (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Went to Best Buy to compare the Yamaha RX-V465 and the Pioneer VSX-819H-k. I had read reviews on the Yamaha on several different websites and most were very positive. I could find no reviews for the Pioneer since it just started reaching retailers during the past 2 weeks. I noticed the Yamaha on display and didn't really like the appearance-seemed less substantial in appearance than the Pioneer. They both looked impressive with the online pics. I know you don't buy according to appearances, although aesthetics can weigh in on a tie/deal breaker. I asked to see the Pioneer and the sales rep had to check his stock. They had not displayed a model since they just arrive the day before. He brought a new box out and opened it so I could compare it to the yamaha and we talked about the different features that were important/meaningful on both receivers. The advanced digital sound fields mean nothing to me. On most receivers they are either a variation of Dolby Prologic II or provide sound stage fields with irritating echoes. Every receiver I have owned (currently we have Panasonic and Sony Models)have these digital sound fields and we never use them.
The Yamaha sounded pretty good hooked up to a blu-ray movie at the store. The True HD was unbelievable! The specs on the Yamaha were the same as the Pioneer as far as supporting True HD and DTS-HD through the HDMI inputs-all switchable to the one HDMI output. The Yamaha has 4 HDMI inputs/1 ouput and the Pioneer has 3 HDMI inputs/ 1 output. I did a mind calculation on the spot and decided 3 outputs were sufficient for my set-up (Dish sat/Sylvania blu-ray/Panasonic DVD Recorder.) The THD was .9 for the Yamaha and .05 for the Pioneer. I don't know how significant that is but the Pioneer seems that it would have clearer sound at low volume with less distortion. The Quick set-up using a microphone placed at your normal listening position are also similar. The Yamamha calls it YPAO while Pioneer calls it MCACC. Most receivers have some variation of this at the mid-price range. The back of the receivers were similar as far as inputs/outputs but the Pioneer had the banana plugs for wiring (which I prefer) while the Yamaha had spring clips for some of the speakers. I won't go into any further specs/features-just go to the company websites or here at Amazon.
Well, I chose the Pioneer. It looked more solid and had some additional features that seemed important to me. I could always return it if I was less than satisfied. I did mention (I am no slouch) that since it was an open box-could I get an "open box" discount? The sales rep laughed (he had opened it for me) and said "why not". So off I went with my 10% discount on a brand new Pioneer VSX-819H-K receiver.
Well, I am tired today! I spent about 2 hours setting it up in the den and removing a Sony which is going to the master BR. But I am VERY HAPPY. This thing sounds fantastic. The set-up was easy. I played the Blu-ray disc "Hitman" and it was like you were inside the screen with the DTS-HD giving you that feeling! Here's the weird thing- I have ordered a set of Yamaha surround speakers from another website (at that time I was somewhat sure that I was going to Purchase the Yamaha model) not that it matters-I'm sure that they'll sound fine with the Pioneer. Back to the weird- The speakers that I am currently using have not been placed on the walls or configured for surround sound-since I had taken them down and re-wired with 16 gauge wire. Since I should receive the Yamaha speakers in a few days I didn't replace the speakers back on the walls etc. I decided to do the QUICK SETUP with the right front on the floor tilted up toward my seating position-the left front 3 ft. off the floor on my AV rack- the center speaker on top of the TV- the 2 rear surrounds are on the floor behind me in the corners also tilted towards my seating position and my Sony subwoofer disconnected. (wired so I couldn't connect it to the Pioneer.) I guess the MCACC SETUP is really precise/accurate because the Blu-ray DVD was phenominal in it's surround direction. Just think when I get the new speakers appropriately set up in the surround configuration!? I think anyone will be happy with this AV receiver. I am a happy camper in my den surrounded by HD SOUND!! P.S. Try to find a store that just received them and ask them to open the box and then ask for a discount!! LOL

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer VSX-819H-K 5-Channel A/V Receiver (Black)

As the VSX-819H-K was designed specifically as a high definition control center with HDMI connectivity for sources such as Blu-ray Disc players and HD-Audio decoding capabilities, you¿re assured ultimate performance. Even with portable entertainment demands increasing every day and devices such as the iPhone becoming the de facto choice for many with respect to enjoying their photos, videos and music, the VSX-819H-K still delivers. Connecting to your iPhone, iPod and iTouch devices, the VSX819H has never been easier with a front USB port and included cable. And because it¿s Works with iPhone certified, the VSX-819H-K delivers a multitude of features designed to bring the entertainment stored on your iPhone into your home theater.

Click here for more information about Pioneer VSX-819H-K 5-Channel A/V Receiver (Black)

Yamaha RX-V663BL 665 Watt 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Before you go out and buy a fancy $1k+ AV receiver with all the bells and whistles, please ask yourself, do you really need all the extra little features like HD-radio, network connectivity, USB ports, a bazillion HDMI ports, fancy video processor, etc? If all you want is a basic receiver that will allow you to enjoy the latest lossless 5.1 or 7.1 audio codec from blu-ray movies (Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master), or even just multi-channel PCM tracks from movies or the latest generation game console, without having to pay for all the other extra stuff, look no further!
Yamaha did us all a favor with this unit. It does everything most people will ever need (unless you're the most technology-hungry of audiophiles) and does it all remarkably well. Sure, it is not the prettiest looking AVR out there and the OSD (on-screen display) will look like you just found that old Atari 2600 from childhood and plugged it in to your big 1080p plasma. The text and menu system looks prehistoric! Presentation and esthetics are definitely not this receiver's forte. But rest assured that in designing this receiver, Yamaha has skimped on such aspects only so they could splurge on components that count! Burr-Brown DACs and other high quality bits and pieces normally found on receivers that cost many times more are utilized in this budget AVR to deliver outstanding sound. Yamaha spent the money on things that count: the sweet sounds of music or the immersive 7.1 channels of your favorite movies delivered to your ears with uncompromising sonic quality. I also have the much pricier Onkyo NR905 and Denon 4308 that I use in my main home theater and living rooms respectively and this little Yamaha RX-V663 that costs a small fraction of those units rivals their sound. I originally picked this up so I could also have a home theater experience in the bedroom but have been floored at how it performs so much so that I will likely find myself watching more movies in bed.
It does have its limitations though. For one, it is probably not suitable for a very large room unless you use a separate multi-channel amplifier. Don't get me wrong, 95 watts per channels is probably suitable for many, but rooms upwards of 300+ square feet might be a stretch. Secondly, it only has 2 HDMI inputs (not a big deal for many, and is actually ideal for most who just have a PS3 or Xbox connected in addition to a Cable or Satellite box). Even if you needed more HD capable inputs, there are some component inputs that can still be transcoded to HDMI so you still retain the luxury of having a single HDMI cable going to the TV and use the receiver as a true AV hub. Thirdly, it has a cheap feeling and looking remote that lacks enough buttons to control other component functions (not a big deal if you use a Harmony). Lastly, it doesn't upconvert all video sources to full 1080p (again, not a big deal since most TVs do a better job at video scaling anyway). The only 1080p upconverting AVRs that are worth using for their upconverting/video-processing abilities are those with the HQV Reon or Realta chip like the higher end Onkyos and the $5000 Denon 5308. That all said, you really do get a hell of a lot in the box with this $500 Yamaha.
In conclusion, everything listed on the features list on Amazon's page about this receiver works as advertised. The YPAO automated sound optimization/calibration works flawlessly and in some ways even better than the Audyssey system used by Denon & Onkyo. Lossless audio decoding of DTS-HD Master and TrueHD works perfectly and even HDMI switching operates quick and smoothly unlike the long pauses and sometimes buggy HDMI handshaking issues Onkyos has with earlier firmware. I can confirm that there are no LFE flaws, DTS-HD Master issues, or other major problems that have often been discussed about the first batch of next generation "future-proof" receivers. It even has nice extras like a 12v trigger, and second subwoofer pre-out, speaker posts to accept banana plugs, and all the other ins and outs that you don't normally find on receiver under $500 are present. And of course I've already raved about the sound. This is the best bang for the buck in terms of AV receivers and the only thing that may be comparable is the upcoming Pioneer VSX-1018 or Sony DG-920 which will arrive summer of 2008. But based on my previous experience with the DG-910, they are definitely a step down from Sony's ES line and will probably not sound as good as the Yamaha but will have a nicer looking OSD.
I will give this product 5 stars simply because you get so much for so little. Sound quality being of higher priority than esthetics.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-V663BL 665 Watt 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver

Yamaha's RX-V663BL high-performance home theater receiver features full support for HD audio formats, HDMI video upconversion and deinterlacing, iPod and Bluetooth audio compatibility, improved YPAO for sound optimization and speaker setup in any room.4 SCENE buttons make operating the receiver easier than ever when switching between audio sources. 2 volume-setting functions are included on this receiver for additional convenience. Initial volume setting allows you to set the volume level that will be heard each time the power is turned on. Maximum volume setting prevents unexpected loud sounds. You have a choice of 8 unique CINEMA DSP surround programs to bring out the full audio potential of your entertainment sources. The RX-V563BL receiver is capable of delivering large amounts of reserve power for accurate reproduction of high-energy peaks that are especially prevalent in digital audio sources. It is XM ready with XM HD surround sound powered by Neural Surround, and is also SIRIUS satellite radio ready. Other features include improved YPAO for automatic speaker setup, iPod compatibility via optional dock, Bluetooth A2DP compatibility with optional YBA-10 wireless audio receiver, 1080p-compatible HDMI (2 inputs, 1 output), analog video to HDMI digital video with upconversion and deinterlacing, CINEMA DSP and adaptive DSP level for accurate surround sound reproduction, an improved compressed music enhancer for compressed music files, adaptive DRC (Dynamic Range Control), 40-station preset tuning / Auto preset tuning, and a preset remote unit.

Click here for more information about Yamaha RX-V663BL 665 Watt 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver

Onkyo TX-SR505S 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Silver) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)There is no doubt that Onkyo builds very fine electronic equipment, and this receiver is no exception. It boasts Onkyo's usual fine build and finish quality and comes with a host of features making it an extraordinarily flexible receiver at a very affordable price. The one feature lacking in its predecessor (TX-SR504) was the presence of HDMI connectivity. This shortcoming has been addressed in the new model but, unfortunately, is not fully implemented. The HDMI circuits in this receiver DO NOT pass the audio portion of the program; they pass only the video portion. This necessitates the use of the analog audio or optical digital audio outputs to provide the audio portion of the program to any connected device (such as a high definition television). Since one of the main reasons for the existence of the HDMI specification is to simplify connectivity, one has to wonder what the engineers (or, more likely, the marketing and accounting department heads) were thinking when they decided to hamper this connection circuitry! While it's true that many people may only want to pass the video program portion to a connected monitor, routing the audio through the receiver's amplifiers and on to the connected loudspeakers, one should not purchase this receiver thinking that it has full HDMI connectivity, because it doesn't. Otherwise, this product represents a very good buy.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Onkyo TX-SR505S 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Silver)

To best appreciate the versatility of the TX-SR505, think of the home entertainment components that define today's consumer electronics landscape. It's a formidable selection, with HD-ready displays (from the first generation to the latest 1080p models), DVD players (including the latest Blu-ray and HD DVD players), gaming consoles (such as the Xbox and PlayStation 3), set-top boxes (consider PVRs offering HD transmissions) and MP3 players (specifically the dominant iPod).With the TX-SR505's HDMI transport enabling pass-thru sources up to 1080p and component video supporting 720p and 1080i sources, this A/V receiver is a fine investment for those who want the best of what's available today¿and tomorrow. Also, with the ability to tune the TX-SR505 to your room's surroundings through Audyssey 2EQ, you're looking at a seriously capable entertainment control center, without the excessive price tag.

Click here for more information about Onkyo TX-SR505S 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Silver)

Marantz SR5004 Audio/video Receiver (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This beautiful new receiver is packed with high-end options and the sound quality is nothing short of exemplary. For a full listing of technicals and features, see the site at: [...]. As compared to Yamaha, Onkyo, Denon, and Pioneer, you'll notice a far more "natural" and "forward" sound, whereas the formers are more "punchy", "dark" or "processed". Marantz has been at the business of making receivers in this vein a long time and the 5004 is sure to please even the most discerning audiophiles. Of course, if you have $8K to spend, the Reference series is a nice upgrade. But for us common folk who still appreciate the performance and sound quality that a top-end receiver can produce, this is the one. On the "things to consider side", the SR5004 only has 3 HDMI outputs, so if you're in need of more such connections for your home theater, you might need to consider upgrading to the 6004. All in all, however, you can't beat this receiver for the money. This reviewer recommends pairing it with either Polk RTI or Bowers & Wilkins 600 series speakers.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Marantz SR5004 Audio/video Receiver (Black)

Dolby TrueHD, dts-HD MA and Dolby ProLogic IIz decording, Audessey MultEQ&Dynamic Volume, Color GUI, Analog to HDMI scalling, Marantz MX-Port for Bluetooth transmission for iPhone/Mobile, M-DAX compressed audio expander

Get 41% OFF

Click here for more information about Marantz SR5004 Audio/video Receiver (Black)

Marantz NR1501 Slim Line Home Theater Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The Marantz NR1501 slim line model is only about 4" tall and really an excellent overall receiver. I bought this to replace a Sony STRG810. It was a toss up between a Denon, Yamaha or Marantz. The Sony STRG810 was a great receiver for movies but it was lacking sound quality in the music department (too much reverb). When comparing similar models, Yamaha was brighter then Denon, and Marantz was warmer then Denon, so I went with Marantz. I compared the Marantz NR1501 model to a Marantz SR6004 ($1300) side by side, and the audio quality was almost the same except the SR6004 was a bit more full at 110 watts per channel. I also compared the Marantz NR1501 to a Harmon Kardon AVR254 and the Marantz NR1501 sounded much better. The Harmon Kardon sounded too digital and tinny where the Marantz sounded true to its source. I am very pleased with how warm and clear the sound quality is while listening to music or watching movies.
The 50 watt NR1501 is more then enough wattage to power my reference series Klipsch speakers in a 13' x 17' living room. You may think that 50 watts is too low, but Marantz rates their receivers lower then what they are capable of. For example, Sony rates their receivers by putting a meter in the center of a testing room and increasing the volume as loud as it can go - distortion and all; they mark down what the wattage output is. Marantz does the same procedure except once they get to distortion, they back the knob off a little and mark down the wattage rating. That is why you will notice a lot of Marantz receivers are rated at 50,70, or 90 watts which is a lot lower then some of the 100,110 watt competition.
I usually set all the parameters (crossover frequency, speaker distance, db level etc.) by ear as I have with every receiver I purchase. I wanted to see how well this receiver would do with auto calibration, so I ran it. The receiver comes with a microphone so I put it on a camera tripod, set it to the listening position, and ran the auto cal procedure. Auto cal lasted about 3 minutes and played a series of test tones. When it was done, all of the levels were adjusted to the listening position. I manually went through these levels to see how well it did and I would not change a thing. This is an excellent receiver.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Marantz NR1501 Slim Line Home Theater Receiver


The svelte, competent Marantz NR1501 Slim Line Home Theater Receiver offers the features and flexibility you need--but without the hulking size you don't. The NR1501 includes everything you need in a chassis that fits comfortably on a normal shelf or in a standard cabinet. It's just a bit more than 4 inches high and 13 inches deep, so there's plenty of room for the cables you'll need to connect it to your flat-screen TV, a Blu-ray player, cable box, your favorite game console, a surround speaker system, and more.

Get 33% OFF

Click here for more information about Marantz NR1501 Slim Line Home Theater Receiver

Fanatic Digital Gold-Plated HDMI Cable with ferrite cores (2 meters/6 feet) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I couldn't believe it! I hesitated for a long time to buy any HDMI cables that would cost less than $50 per my belief that quality was measured by its price. Was I so wrong. I already own a "Monster 1000HD Ultra-High Speed HDMI Cable 6 ft" which I have attached on my Samsung Blu-Ray player to my HDTV. A week ago I purchased the HP 23" HD LCD Monitor model# w2338h which has an HDMI input for my PC. I also purchased Sony's newest 6.6' 1080p HDMI cable at $40 to attach my new monitor. The picture was simply awesome. Upon reviewing the many reviews here at amazon.com about a "HDMI Cable-2 Meter (6.6 ft) Gold Plated v1.3 HDMI to HDMI Cable with Ferrite Cores" for $7.99, I decided to buy it and give it a try. I figured that if it did not work as good as my Sony cable, it would just be $8 lost. A week later I got this cable and I immediately unplugged the Sony HDMI cable and plugged the $8 HDMI in its place. To my amazement I was shocked in disbelief that such a cheap cable could deliver the same high quality picture to my PC. Yet, I was determined to find a flaw. So I went through the trouble of unplugging my $130 Monster cable from my home theater system and compare it. I found that the $130 Monster cable looked just as good as the $40 Sony cable and as just as good as my newest $8 cable. Interference on any of my 3 cables is non-existent. I am now a believer. Going forward, I will now buy this $8 HDMI cable for all my HD connections.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Fanatic Digital Gold-Plated HDMI Cable with ferrite cores (2 meters/6 feet)

Brand Name Fanatic Digital®. Registered Trademark under US trademark law. HIGH SPEED HDMI Cable. Ferrite Cores.Fanatic Digital cables are the only HDMI Cables you will ever need! We are so confident in the performance and quality of our HDMI cables, we are offering lifetime warranty and no hassle 30 day money back. If you feel our cables don't live up to your expectations, simply contact us and we will refund 100% of your purchase price. We Will Even Pay Your Return Shipping! For any other questions, and special or wholesale orders, please email us at sales@fanaticdigital.com. -Connect all your A/V equipment with one cable -24k gold-plated connectors ensure maximum conductivity -Compatible with resolutions 480p, 720p, 1080i and 1080p -Compatibility is guaranteed with all HDMI devices and brands -Cable length: 6 Feet -Gold plated connectors ensure solid connection -Lifetime Warranty

Get 88% OFF

Click here for more information about Fanatic Digital Gold-Plated HDMI Cable with ferrite cores (2 meters/6 feet)