New AVR or HTIB?

[mike2874]

I posted this in the AVS forum but got little response so I'm hoping I can get some discussion here. My brother is looking for either a new Surround Receiver or a HTIB. Here's his current system:

1. Kenwood AVR - 12 years old
2. Front stereo speakers he used to use for music (large)
3. Inexpensive sub he bought maybe 5 years ago
4. Center speaker and two surrounds not sure if these were bought in a set or not

I don't think he wants to spend anymore than $400 and lower the better. I recommended the Onkyo S5400 HTIB for his two sons and they are more than happy with it and he probably would be to.

I know there is two schools of thought on this buy a HTIB and everything is matched and integrated together. Or buy a really good separate A/V receiver (better than HTIB receiver) and use with your existing speakers.

Do you think he would be better served by going with an HTIB, or do you think something like the Denon AVR-1713,1913,E300,E400,X1000 etc. (might have to buy Refurbished to hit price range) could create a convincing surround sound experience with his current speakers?


Mike

 

[NutBucket]

I like large speakers up front. No replacement for cone size IMHO. However, the question is how well-matched the center speaker is. I would err to say unless the speakers he has are complete crap a new AVR is the way to go.

 

[Number1]

If he likes the sound of his speakers or if he wants big sound I think a Denon 1713 or similar hooked up to his existing speakers would be best.

If getting matching sound from all the speakers is important, then an HTIB would be best.

 

[pmark]

What is wrong with his current receiver? Does he like the sound from his current speakers?

 

[mike2874]

What is wrong with his current receiver? Does he like the sound from his current speakers?

Well his old AVR is a 12 year old Kenwood that's sorely outdated with no HDMI.

You know I'm sure he never listens to his stereo anymore so I don't think it matters whether he continues to use them with a new AVR or goes with a HTIB. My brother is neither an audiophile or videophile it's all about the price to him (LOL). He relies on me for any electronics or computer recommendations.

I know from experience you can piece together different speakers and electronics for a convincing SS experience but then again I have several thousand in my system including a matched center speaker to my two large fronts.

If he went with a new AVR I've been thinking about either a Denon 1713 or 1913 is this a good choice or should I include other brands/models in my search?

What's your opinion on buying from accessories4less do they look like new? Is only getting a one year warranty vs buying new with usually a two year?

 

[iRONic]

What is wrong with his current receiver?

Well his old AVR is a 12 year old Kenwood that's sorely outdated with no HDMI.

Sell it to freedomsbeat212.

 

[NutBucket]

Nobody is claiming 90's gear to be quality vintage (generally speaking).....sheesh.

 

[iRONic]

Nobody is claiming 90's gear to be quality vintage (generally speaking).....sheesh.

Correct.

 

[Paul98]

Get a quality receiver with good room correction. Then later you can upgrade speakers if you would like, and your receiver will already be good quality.

 

[Aikouka]

Does he live near a Fry's? They've been having some fantastic deals on the new model Denon AVRs lately. It makes me a little jealous that the closest one to me is around 4 hours away.

 

[mike2874]

Nah we live in a rural area with Wichita,Ks being the closest biggest city about 50 miles away...they have Best Buy's but no Fry's

Do I understand correctly that the main reason to select the Denon 1913 over the 1713 is the former has 10 more watts, a component input, and does up converting but both have the same Networking features?

I guess there's always the 2113ci to consider too if it could be bought for the right price. I asked this earlier has anyone had any experience buying Refurbished?