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[Joe]

my options....:

onkyo hts580 $250-$275

or

infinity tss450 speaker package ($350) with random $200 receiver (total $550)

that infinity speaker package retails for about $350 but a friend of mine is willing to sell his (barely used) for $150 bringing the total to about $350 with a receiver.

my questions are:
1. obviously the infinity speakers are really nice but if its hooked up to a $200 receiver will i notice much of a difference from the onkyo hts580 system?

2. what is the best surround sound receiver for less than $200? doesnt have to be the loudest but just the best value. if i go with the infinity speakers im going to need a receiver.

i know i should probably jump all over the infinity's but it would be over my budget i didnt want to go over $250-$275 especially since that doesnt include the cables i need.

oh and please dont reccommend me other products these two options are pretty much set in stone, and its down to just them...thank you though

 

[Raistlin]

you should also consider the following:

http://www.av123.com/products_category_brand.php?section=speakers&brand=20

The $499 deal with the Kenwood receiver is just sick. The receiver itself retails for that price. Look in the forums or the following review for info http://reviews.designtechnica.com/review1726_intro8637.html

I've had nothing but AMAZING service from AV123. If you notice, my avatar has a picture of the tube amp I got from them.

I currently have the Ref 1 LE speakers, X-CD88 CD player, and SP3 amp for 2-channel duties. ASTONISHING for the price doesn't describe it ... it's really good at ANY price.

I've also just order the following system:
4 x Rocket 750 Signature
1 x Rocket 200 Center
2 x Rocket 300 adaptive dipoles
All in Ebony Macassar



(threw in the Ref 0.5 for the heck of it, they gave a deal when purchasing a surround system).

 

[GitarooMan]

Definitely the infinity set with this receiver maybe

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Onky...20212/catOid/-12949/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

but if you can spend a tad more get this

http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Onky...20213/catOid/-12949/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

Watts per channel may be a little lower on Onkyo receivers, but the quality of the sound is better for the money, IMO

 

[Raistlin]

BTW - The Rocket Tykes are all metal, not plastic crap.

center w/ wallmount bracket

and here is the reciever (with info)


http://www.av123.com/products_product.php?section=processors&product=15.1

I can't comment on the sound of this receiver, having never heard it ... but I'm sure you can search up some reviews. The specs are certainly nice!

# 100 Watts per Channel (Left/Right, 20Hz - 20kHz, 0.7% THD, 6 Ohms)
# Active EQ by DSP
# Adjustable Analog Input Sensitivity: with Individual Source Memory
# Analog-to-Digital Converter: 24-Bit Resolution, up to 96kHz Sampling Rate
# Bass Management: Full Digital
# Dolby Digital EX Surround Sound
# Dolby Headphone
# Dolby Pro Logic IIx Surround Sound: with Music Mode Adjustments
# Dolby Virtual Speaker
# DSP Processor: 32-Bit 2nd-Generation ADI SHARC
# DTS-ES Surround Sound: Discrete, Matrix, Neo 6
# High-Resolution Digital Volume Control
# Assignable HD-Compatible Component Video Inputs: 2
# Front Panel AV/Aux Input: 1 Composite
# Digital Audio Inputs: 2 Coaxial, 2 Optical, Assignable
# Front Panel AV/Aux Input: 1 Stereo Analog
# Preouts: Subwoofer/SurrBackL/SurrBackR
# Universal Pre-Programmed Remote: with Xbox and PlayStation2 Codes
# Dimensions (WxHxD): 17 7/16" x 3 1/8" x 13 1/8"


Read the second last one :lol ... the remote is setup for Xbox and PS2 :lol


Seriously though, it does have all the newest DSP/surround modes.

 

[Raistlin]

If you need another recommendation regarding av123 ... just talk to our friendly neighborhood A/V-phile - Klee.

I think he views them in pretty high regard.



Just for your info - all purchases are 30 day guaranteed. You don't like it for whatever reason, you send it back. You'll only be out shipping.

Any problems with what they sent, they will take care of you really fast. Basically if something gets to you hosed, they'll send a replacement right away - along with a paid shipping tag to return the gear with the problem.

They are also more than happy to discuss installation/setup/calibration question both before and after purchase.