I have HD & plasma - recommendations on AVR


I now have a plasma TV and HD, so it's time to upgrade the AVR.

I'm currently using a Denon AVR 3300 and it struggles to drive my Hales T-5's in stereo, so I need at least 150 Watts per channel. It will split time between Home Theatre applications and two channel audio listening. My budget is in the $3K range. I'd like to buy used, as I think it will increase my options. However, it must be the latest technology to be compatible with my TV.

I'm looking at Parasound, B&K, Bryston and Arcam.

BTW - The Hitachi 55" plasma rocks!
128x128dawgbyte
Dawg,

Bt "latest technology to be compatable with the TV", do you mean it must have HDMI switching?

HDMI swithcing is not necessary, but is a convenience and can offer multiple HDMI inputs if you have multiple HDMI compatable devices. However, in general only current generation AVRs will hve it, so you will pay a premium.

Otherwise, I can't think of any reason why you would have to have the latest technology. You might want to consider a high end unit that is a generation old as it would save you hundred or even thousands of dollars vs some of the latest offerings.

Enjoy,

TIC
Agree with Rubeunt. You might want to consider a higher end 2 channel pre & amp with HT pass through and stick with your AV rcvr for now. IMO a great display and decent audio is more than acceptable for HT, where critical listening is usually not a factor. I get great satisfaction from my Fujitsu HD plasma with a Yammie AVR and NHT super zeros for HT, while my 2 channel rig is much more exotic. They are not integrated because I really cant get the video display in same room as the 2 channel due to room layout issues. But if I could, I would still go the same route, with the exception that the front speakers would do double duty.
Guys, I'm a somewhat talented person - however audio setup is not one of my strong suites. To avoid the mega stress associated possible screw-ups, I usually pay to have someone do it for me. I don't know how they have it hooked up right now.

I just want the new AVR to kick arse. I'll check out the Outlaw models.