Since B&K changed models, you can get a 202 reasonable here on AG. I have B&K Reference Seperates also, and the receiver does a very repectable job. Prior I had a Nakamichi AV-8, which was great compared to the same priced Denon I had before that. So, I recommend a used or closeout B&K 202 or the Nakamichi for real budget conscious. Haven't heard the Outlaw, but everything I read is good.
Any mid-priced Receivers Worthwhile???
I auditioned an Onkyo Integra DTR-5.1 receiver today, driving small Paradigm satellites with an M&K subwoofer. The system sounded quite good spacially and in terms of its frequency range, but it had a little too much lower-treble presence for my liking. I'd like to take the plunge into surround sound, but so far, all the low and mid-priced receivers I've heard have exhibited this flaw to varying degrees. Right now I have good 2-channel sound using the venerable NAD 3020 integrated amp. I don't want to regret going to 5-channel surround. Perhaps the treble zing was in the speakers and not the Integra, I can't say for sure. So, my question is: are there any mid-priced receivers that won't bore holes through my skull during the length of a 2-hour flick, or can I only achieve natural sounding HT with high-priced gear?? Thanks in advance for any and all insight!