[slingshot]

I am thinking of selling my fairly expensive sound processor and purchasing a receiver with pre-amp outputs to drive my Integra Research RDA 7 channel amp. Therefore, I don't care about the quality of the amps. I also hook up my components directly to my Rear Projection TV so I don't care about video connections or multi-room connections.  

What is important is the quality of the pre-amp section, the processing chips, and the remote contol. A direct two channel mode would be a plus.  I also need about 4 analog inputs, the Harmon Kardon only seem to have two.

Of the popular brands, Denon, HK, Marantz, Onkyo, Panasonic, Pioneer, JVC, Sony and Yamaha, which would fit my criteria the best? If this has been discussed before perhaps someone can provide me a link.  Thanks,

[mcgsxr]

A used one of the high end Yamaha's might fit the bill, and I know someone will chime in with the Pioneer that should be able to do this - I cannot recall the model with pre outs that people are liking, that is affordable.

Good luck,

[bubba966]

The Pioneer VSX-1014TX or VSX-1015TX is what people have been very happy with at $400. Auto calibration & Auto EQ along with a host of other features make it a damn good piece for $400.

[woodsyi]

I think the lowest priced 7.1 receiver with pre-outs is Kenwood vr 7080.
Looks like you can get one for less than $325.
http://www.buyersedge.com/Product/prodDesc.asp?XOS=3296387&pageView=1  ADA is only 24/96.  

Here is the list of available 7.1 receivers.
http://www.bizrate.com/nc/buy/products__cat_id--11070000,keyword--7.1%20Receiver,sort--5.html

Good luck

[bubba966]

Info on the 1015TX

http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pna/product/detail/0,,2076_4153_209686388,00.html

From my experience with the 1014TX (the 1015TX is the replacement for the 1014TX) it should fit you rather nicely based on what you're asking for.

I'm not recalling off the top of my head what's been updated/added in the new 1015TX. But I don't recall it being much.

[slingshot]

You probably can't go wrong with a Pioneer. My Pioneer 1010 receiver that I purchased as a demo in 1974 for $499 is still going strong!! That was when I was making $11,000 a year so it was a lot of money. I gave it to a friend of mine. Its amazing what you get for your money these days because of the "digital revolution."

By the way, Onecall.com has a list of the all the receivers they sell that has pre-amp outs. Its quite a few.

I been studying the HK models this afternoon. The AVR-435 has automatic equalization, etc. but it sells for over $600. It uses the TI DA 610 chip. They have some earlier models that I am also reserching as well as their lower lines. HK has traditionally been considered in the high end of the low end.  I will keep researching and let you know what I purchase.

[jermmd]

Buy my Outlaw 950 for just $100 more...  
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=17954

Joe M.

[Jose Garcia]

When it comes to HT and receivers, I first look at www.avsforum.com. These guys expend their "audio-time" seeking for great products at every possible level. The Pioneer VSX-1014/1015 are something like a cult there.

You may find good reliable units from many companies that make your list. The Yamaha RXV-750 and 1400. The Marantz 6500, Onkyo 702 and so. I , personally, am after a Pioneer 1014. It has enough wistles and bells to cover my basic system and more. They are better for HT than stereo but you will be using external amplifiers...no hay problema!!

Just make sure you buy it from an authorized dealer. OneCall has the 1014 for $349 and the 1015 for $449. J&R has the 1015 for around $399. If you have a BestBuy near you, they got them as low as OneCall.

Suerte!

Jose.

[mcgsxr]

http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=16496 should help too...