Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Stereo I need some input on stereo receivers.

(I think) I'm look for a new stereo receiver for the M60s in my living room.

The receivers I'm considering are the Yamaha RX-497, Denon DRA-397, H-K 3485, and the Sherwood Newcastle RX-770. Is there a significant difference in sound characteristics between these brands?

We really don't listen to a lot of FM, so the tuner section isn't a huge consideration, other than the fact that I do use the AM to listen to sports and talk shows from time to time. The main function is cd playback on an Onkyo DX-C360 (which is subject for possible future upgrade).

I welcome other suggestions in the same price range. Perhaps, an intergrated amp of some type? I haven't even researched those, yet.

Some background info: Right now I have a Denon DRA-395 driving the M60's, but I am considering giving it to my daughter along with a new pair of M3s for Christmas. That way (nah, ah, ah!), we'll need a new receiver for the living room.

I guess I'm trying to decide if I'm just getting giddy with upgradeitis and should keep the 395 where it is and get my daughter an Onkyo TX-8222 (which I gave my other daughter for Christmas last year) or, maybe even move up to an Onkyo TX-8522 or a Yamaha RX-297 for my daughter's new M3s. For that matter, I see the H-K 3485 is $250 at JR.

Thanks for helping. And, Happy Thanksgiving to all celebrating.

If you can hear significant differences in sound between those three receivers identified above, then I would suggest that the settings on each of them are different, especially the volume setting. Good receivers, or preamp/amp systems should sound the pretty much the same. And what's one of the most important characteristics of a good system - it's the power supply. The heavier the unit, the better, because they more than likely put in a real power supply, rather than a crappy switcher.

Tom, whether it's going to wind up with you or your daughter, I'd suggest an HT receiver, rather than a stereo unit, both for 2-channel use now and more flexibility for the future. About the best deal going right now is the Onkyo 505 factory refurb at Shop Onkyo . When you register for "Club Onkyo" you're eligible for the special $179 price, plus you get a $10 credit for registering. In addition, the Thanksgiving sale for the next four days gives an extra 10% off. The net result is a $151 price with free shipping; terrific bargain.

John,

Yeah, that's an angle I hadn't even considered. It does make sense. Also, I've never heard about Shop Onkyo. That is a terrific deal and site. Thank you!

manarex,

Thank you for your response. I'll keep the power supply consideration in mind!

Hi Mullhead,

Another stereo model that's very pretty looking and an unusual Art Deco design is the Outlaw Audio RR2150, sold online.

Manarex's points about the power supply are well taken, especially if you get an AV receiver. The H/K, Sherwood Newcastle, Denon and Outlaws are fairly robust but I still have misgivings about Onkyo's AV offerings with low impedance speakers like our 4-ohm M80s. Onkyo is fine with higher impedances.

Regards,