I'm ready to start building my audio system. I'm going to run my TV, DVD/VCR and possibly my PS2 thru the receiver.

Not sure what I what I need. I'm planning on spending a few bucks to get something that will last and be compatible with future upgrades. I'd like to get one that has Sirius radio and I can hook my Ipod up to.

What the heck is HDMI? And do I need it?

I see THX Certification, THX Surround EX, Lucasfilm's THX Select2 certification? I know they pertain to the sound, what do they mean?

Not sure what else I need to ask. Please fill me in on anything I should know.

I'm interested in these two. I've not heard of Onkyo before.


http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Produ...179&tab=review

http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Produ...eceiver&tp=179


EDIT: I'm going to need a surround system also. 5.1 or 7.1? Anything on speakers would be helpful.

 

I'm far from a home "audio guru," but I'll tell you this: I had an Onkyo tuner back home for almost 8 years without fail.

Several friends also have Onkyo home audio and I've never heard anything bad about them.

Quality!

http://www.google.com/search?source=...q=what+is+HDMI

 

Had Onkyo in the past and now have a Yamaha....really like the features and the ease of use.

http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Produ...y=Yamaha&tp=33

This is the one I have. HDMI switching is a must {Forgot what HDMI stands for but it is the Video/audio hookup for High Def units]. The Yamaha has 4 in and one out, gives you enough room to expand.

I am still running 5.1 due to the fact that I am too lazy to rewire for the additional speakers....but if you can, 7.1 is the best way to go.

Two suggestions: Listen and play with everything before you buy. Specs and reviews are a great place to start, but nothing beats hands on experience. This is especially true with speakers: in the past I have bought ones that were highly rated, but I did not like the sound once I got them home. Bring in different types of music to see how they sound. 2nd: a good, big subwoofer is a must. Don't skimp on it. Mine is a 12" with a 400w amp..... Really needed for movies but wow, what it does for the kids games.....drives the wife and dog out.

Woof
Bowser

 

Ian - best advice I can give ya:

http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/


http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/res...-speak-av.html


Start readin'

 

Onkyo makes pretty good stuff. They're probably who I'll go with when I build my system.

HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. It's basically a cable used for Hi-Def that carries both audio and video. If you're still using a VCR and a PS2, then you probably won't need it any time soon

Go poke around avsforum.com some. They know their stuff.

 

If you are looking to atleast 5.1 and even better 7.1 look into Denon and also Yamaha. Both of which are mid to upper line and both as of this year (08) will be switching to the new lossless audio. Dolby True HD and DTS HD Master audio, you will have to be running HDMI v1.3 and a BluRay or HD DVD to use this technology. BluRay is the way to go right now, but HD DVD is backed by Microsoft and you know who has the money wins..

Jon..

PS, I am a Senior custom Home Theater Installer for a high end Shop.. Not like Best buy, My systems range From 30,000 and up. Full automation and so on..

 

or you could just call me or send me a note and I will catch you up.


jason@southlakeav.com
www.southlakeav.com


Man of many hats eh?

 

Denon makes a great receiver. I love mine.

 

You BUM! I never knew!

That's awesome.

I'll be pickin' yer brain fer sure, now lol!


MGD

 

Let me first tell you guys that I am only only one of the owners of a home theater company. We have really smart guys that work for us.

If you have specific questions, I don't mind taking a shot at them.

Let me just say that like anything you get what you pay for. Most AV manufactures build 2 lines. Consumer and high end.

For example. There's Pioneer, then Pioneer Elite. They are VERY different.

That being said. Picking a AV receiver is a highly personal decision based on these factors.

• Power-Watts vs Amps vs Current, each of their own spin on power
• Technology-Processors are important, but you have decided if you are in to, Sound or Movies-each of the big 4 are unique and none really excell at both.
• function-ease of use, on screen etc.
• Up Conversion/next generation

My picks for great all around AV receivers are the names you know:
Yamaha (better suited for Movies and AV) RXV line, high current power
Onkyo, Best value and great technology for up conversion, HDMI's
Denon, Best for Audio, high current power
Pioneer Elite, great for processors

High End, Sunfire. Shames the above.

Onkyo has most of the best of both worlds. Plenty of power, plenty of current, great processors and sound fields, lots of Opticals, HDMI's etc.

I am a Yamaha guy (RXV2300) running Klipsch all the way around and in-ceieling with 1200 watt Klipsch sub and my system ain't really that impressive. No HDMI.

My next receiver will be Onkyo or Sunfire separates. But like anything, you need to find the best match for what you want. By match I mean, speakers, sound, visual, budget. There are so many paths and your ears are totally different than mine. The best thing to do is always to visit your local retailer and listen to as many different combos of the above and buy what you think sounds the best.

That may help but then again, what do I know? I just own the joint.

 

RollingRock- what Klipsch are you running off you Yamaha? I am also running Klipsch and love em- MIght as well spill it all!!

Main KL RF-62
Center KL RC-62
Rears- KL Synergy S2
Front Sub RPW-10D
Rear Sub- RSW-12

Mistu-62525
Denon-2803
Denon-Dvd-1730
HD Dish
PS3
XBOX 360
WII
...

Jon

 

Yamaha RXV2300 (old and by old I mean like 4 years)
K- KLF 20's front
K- KG1's on B just for fun and to show off (bought them in college)
K- RC25 center
K 1200 Sub, not sure of the model, its hard to get to, Reference I think.
The rears are older Klispch in-walls similar to the new THX's, have had them for years.

 

Again I should caveat my notes as my opinions....to each their own and I encourage anyone looking at AV systems to do good solid research.

Just know the basics, shop, compare and listen, listen listen.

 

Eh?

 

First off, give us a real budget idea...and what all is included in that. I.e., do you need a TV too? How big if so?

What about installation? Can you handle it?

Any preference in sound output styles? Ie soft or hard dome tweeters?

Like others mentioned, Onkyo is FANTASTIC for the vast majority of people because it is a fantastic product with a retardedly low price.

Want to kick it up a notch? Check out Denon....great quality, pretty good value, but definitely a step up from Onkyo.

Speakers? Like RollingRock I run Klipsch all the way around, and I am pretty happy with them. I am running the Reference series in 5.1 (Albeit my Denon AVR 3806 is a 7.1 receiver).

As for subs, if you want value AND big performance..look no further than www.hsuresearch.com They basically offer the undisputed best woofer value on the market. For instance, their top-of-the-line sub coming in at $1,000 compares extremely evenly and comparably to subs ranging from $4,000 all the way to $20,000.

Another good resource is www.avsforum.com

Good luck!