[LadyDog]

Ok, new house, new basement, new home theater area.  So looking to buy myself a present in the form of a new(really used) home theater receiver.  Been mostly a pre-pro guy in the past, so looking for some insight.  Some qualifications

*  used
*  $500 - $600 budget
*  will strictly be used for home theater, could care less about 2 channel sound
*  not really an apps type of guy, so probably do not care about hooking my i-pad up to it, and some of the other bells and whistles that seem to be the rage
*  currently 5.1 system, not sure I see myself going 7.1, but would really like the receiver to be able to bridge the front two channels if at all possible
*  need something beefy amp wise, front speakers need some power
*  think it goes without saying, but need hdmi compatibility - satellite dish, projector, oppo

Anything else I need to advise?  Appreciate the thoughts and time.

[mcgsxr]

I think your biggest challenge is the desire for the front channels to be bridged in some way.

Outside that, there are many options out there that should fit your needs.

I recently picked up a used Pioneer VSX-1018AH-K for under $250.  It has 4 HDMI inputs, 7.1 capable, Zone 2 (can be powered) and claims 130x7 (realistically about 5x80 or so, and I will only be running 5.1).  I liked that it had TrueHD and other modern sound formats.

I would think that a slightly newer model would do it for you, and can likely be had new in the US for your price point.

But, it cannot bridge front channels.  It does have pre-outs for all channels, so you could drop in a big amp for the front stage if that helps.

[LadyDog]

Thanks Mark.  Been enjoying the basement build.

[pearsall001]

Here's a great place for refurbs. I've used them in the past for numerous items & the transaction's were flawless. I wouldn't concern myself with bridging the mains with an AVR, it really doesn't accomplish anything. Go for the 7.1 setup & enjoy.
http://www.accessories4less.com/make-a-store/category/HomeAudio/Home-Audio/1.html

[RichardS]

Recently went through a similar process. Here's what I did:

Originally was interested in the newer Yamahas, since I was replacing a Yamaha 3090 that served me well for many years. But the Yamahas seem to hold their value too well and their top Aventage models that I was interested in were too expensive, even used.

Then, almost pulled the trigger on a used (from Videogon) Onkyo HT receiver, but then got scared off reading forum posts about failing of Onkyo's HDMI 1.4a boards (seems Onkyo fessed up to the problem and will replace a defective board but the warranty isn't transferrable if bought used). By the way, if you think you may want 3-D, you'll need the HDMI 1.4a so you'll need a recent receiver. I wasn't sure, but didn't want to limit my options. Otherwise, you can save more money on a somewhat older used one with HDMI 1.3.

Then considered the closeout SHERWOOD R-972 Newcastle w/ trinnov processor from accessories4less mentioned above for $599. I think this is a really good deal but some people had problems with this as well, and since I don't care all that much about the complicated set-up using the trinnov speaker calibration, I decided against this as well. But, I think it's a great deal and may be a good option for you. There are reviews available online.

Finally decided on a Pioneer SC-1522 new from Amazon. Cost at time was $850 (yeah, I kept going up in price the more I shopped). They have less expensive models in the line (the 1222 is only slightly less powerful and may fit your bill price-wise) but this one has 130 wpc 8ohms (210 4ohms) using Pioneer's digital amplification technology. Their MCACC calibration isn't as sophisticated as the trinnov, but it's simpler. Pioneer's seem to have a good track record and I couldn't find any really worthwhile considerations between this model and the more expensive Elite models. I've seen these cheaper used and refurb. but it still may be out of your price range, in which case I'd consider the 1222 or the Sherwood.

Anyway, good luck with your decision....

[sharpsuxx]

Yamaha rx1800, or 3800 it was the last year when yamaha included the beefy 700w power supply.  It offers a biamp option for the front channels and even if not, when sound and vision tested the 1800 it truly delivered 140x5 and with surround sound rather than 5ch stereo it could deliver 200+ for the front channels without bi-amping.  They can probably be had at or just above your price range.

[rif]

I've had very good luck with new/open box Denon receivers through electronics expo (auth dealer so you get the full warranty). Hunt for coupons online too, they can vary from a few dollars to many dollars.

I currently own a Denon 1910 and a 2113ci. Used to own a 1712.

If you don't want lots of ancillary features, check out the marantz slim line models. They look interesting, but I've no experience with them.

[electricbear]

I'm not overly impressed with the slimline Marantz. They do not share the sonics of their fullsized bretherin. They sound a little dry and lacking in power.

[medium jim]

Yamaha!

Jim

[milford3]

harman/kardon




http://www.harmankardon.com/estore/hk/us/shop/Audio-Video-Receivers-/cat370041

[Freo-1]

Sony ES:  They routinely get good reiews:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Sony-STRDA5700ES-7-2-Channel-130-Watt-Receiver-STR-DA5700ES-/290875215498?pt=Receivers_Tuners&hash=item43b9838e8a

[medium jim]

Once again the question is asked, which amp?  Once again, there are more answers than Carter has little pills.

Jim

[mcgsxr]

Should not likely come as much of a surprise that lots of folks have lots of different recommendations, we all have different systems!

Some great options listed, do any of these float your boat Ladydog?

[jermmd]

Pioneer SC-1522-K 9.2 Channel Network Ready AV Receiver, $599.99, @Costco, in-store only. YMMV. This is a good deal.

Joe M.

[LadyDog]

Thanks all. As mentioned, everyone is their own movie critic.  Some good suggestions though and gets me started on the review process.