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Need help picking out a receiver

1K views 5 replies 3 participants last post by  caposcore 
#1 · (Edited)
So, I am a first time poster and noob to the HT world. I purchase a Panny 50PX6u whose picture I configured based on the forums advice (looks great btw). I also purchased a PANASONIC DMR-EZ27 DVD Recorder with Built-in Tuner. Frys had a deal on Polk Audio R50 speakers so I picked up a pair as well. It now seems I am in the market for an A/V receiver to connect all my new toys to.

Here are my questions:
1. What is a decent (im a poor guy that likes HT) receiver that will work best for my components? I am looking at the Onkyo line as they seem to be in my meager price range ~$200
Onkyo TX-SR505
Onkyo TX-SR575
Onkyo TX-SR506

2. What is the best way to get audio to and from the receiver? It seems that most the receivers I am looking at do not pass audio through HDMI. My TV supports digital audio but is it coax or optical?

3. How do I connect all these devices and get the best picture quality and least amount of cables?

4. Recommendations for rear speakers and center channel (again small budget)

I am sort of lost and any help you can provide would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!
 
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#2 ·
1. Listed are good and decent receivers, 506 is the best choice. However, for your stated budget, you can look at SONY STRDG510/520.

2. & 3. combined: 1 HDMI cable from Panasonic DVD machine directly to TV, one optical cable or one coaxial digital cable (not coaxial RF cable meant for older TV reception) from DVD machine output to receiver input. Check the receiver's digital input options after your procurement.

4. A quick search in Best Buy website, Home Theatre Speakers Systems department, sort by price, you will see Precision Accoustics and Jamo on good budget, even though there are spare speakers as you already have a pair of Polk.

5. For better timbre matching, you are better off considering separate complete set of 5.1 with your budget e.g. from 4., as additonal Polk center, rear speakers and subwoofer will cost you. Usually the receiver will have Speakers A + B capacity, you can use the pair of Polk for stereo music, nothing is wasted.

6. This is only the DVD display and sound output part. For the DVD-recording part, let us know if it is part of your connection question.

I am interested in other members' input too, for the AV education and challenge on setting up a decent 5.1 on a smaller budget.
 
#3 ·
See the following post on Cables & Connections:

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=76085

The following on AVRs:

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=76082

And the following for those new to the forum:

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=57741

You mention that the TV supports digital audio, but will it be the actual source of the programming? If not then see the following post on DD5.1, wherein you need to connect each device directly to the AVR:

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=17870

Please put your location and service provider (if applicable) into your UserCP Profile (location). This helps us help you.
 
#4 ·
The latest

Thanks for the feedback so far. To answer your question I am also looking for a way to connect the DVD burner to burn TV shows etc. I havent quite figured it out.

I also purchased the Onkyo TX-SR575. I didnt see your reply in time. I am kinda wondering if I will regret not getting the one you recommended.

I was given a set of 5 Pioneer surround sound speakers. Not sure on the model number as they are used.

So now I just need to find out where to mount all these darn speakers!
Since I live in an apartment, I dont have many options to drill holes etc. Any suggestions to have minimal impact?

Thanks for all the great help!
 
#5 ·
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