2. home-theater
  3. 1290217941

Cart before the horse or horse before the cart?

So, I'm finally building my first home theater and just purchased the TV, (LG PK950)so far very happy with my purchase.

My question is, if you were going to be starting with nothing, would you buy your receiver first based on your needs and then the speakers, or would you buy the speakers first and buy your receiver that best compliments your speakers? I've read so much about different receivers better suited for different speakers.

I'm undecided on speakers at this point, but I know I'm going to be buying used, betting I can get better quality for my money.

Paradigm Studio 20's or 40's
PSB GB1
Usher S-520
Energy RC10
B&W 6 series, etc.

Reciever: Not sure at this point, Onkyo, NAD, Marantz, Denon...

Honestly, there are so many opinions and when I think I've got it figured out something else comes up...need a little help please.

Budget:
speakers $500-$600 (used bookshelves)
receiver $700 max

For now, just the two bookshelves and receiver.

System dedicated to mostly HT and some music, IPOD and vinyl, punk and garage.

What do I purchase first? Thanks everyone.
dufrain
dufrain OP
11 posts
 
Thanks for your responce Mceljo. I agree that the speakers and receivers I speak of within my budget probably don't apply as much as you say with the high end equipment, but being new to all of this, I really needed some confirmation in what I thought to be true.

Thanks again, I think I'll take your advice and find the right Onkyo for my needs. The TX-NR808 has the 3-D ready feature which I'm not interested in, but I do like the option of pre-outs and rated for 4 ohms. Does the TX-NR808 have a little brother which is not 3-D ready?
mceljo
1,357 posts
 
As far as I know, the 3D feature is just the latest HDMI connection. I don't think there are any specific features built into the receiver itself.

The TX-NR708 has all the same features with less rated power per channel but still maintains pre-outs and 4 ohm performance I believe.

Unless the price difference is significant for you, I'd get the 808.
mceljo
1,357 posts
 
To answer your question, the previous year TX-NR807 wouldn't have 3D capability, but the majority of current models will have the latest in HDMI technology and that means 3D capability.

Another co-worked just purchased the 2nd to the lower Pioneer in the line I previously recommended to you and it was 3D capable for under $300. I believe the most entry level Pioneer is 3D capable.

Personally, I like the idea of being as current as possible with receivers as you never know where technology will go next.
dufrain OP
11 posts
 
Thanks again, I appreciate all the help. Looks like I've got a decision to make, but you've made it much easier.
mceljo
1,357 posts
 
A little more information to help you in your decision.

My previous receiver was an Onkyo TX-SR606 that was rated for 90 wpc and continuous 6 ohms performance. My new receiver is an Integra 50.1 that is rated for 135 wpc and continuous 4 ohm performance. The improvement in sound quality was dramatic. I don't know how much to attribute to Integra vs. Onkyo, 135 vs 90 wpc or 6 vs 4 ohms, but the spec differences are similar between the 708 and 808 that you are comparing. The difference is that both are 4 ohm receivers.
More to discover