Best budget 5.1 surround receiver and speakers?

Hands down its the Marantz SR-18EX. While not the flagship and excellent 2-channel stereo capabity of its sister (the SR-14EX) it is really close in all specifications and can be had for about 1/2 the cost of a used 14EX. Agreed on the paradigms for speakers - some mini Energy 5-channel surround systems go for under $400 new and come with an 8 inch sub to boot (I heard one hooked up to a Yamaha surround unit and they sounded great, for the price). ps. don't even consider Bose.

"Pmboyd":

For a "budget" 5.1 channel surround sound system, then I would try this approach:

Speaker System Packages:

I would first look at Paradigm and PSB (great sound at affordable prices) and then look at their subwoofers. If not, then I would still look at the Paradigm and PSB Speaker Systems and then mate them with a Subwoofer from either HSU (which by the way, their Ventriloquist line of speakers isn't a bad line to look at either) or SVS. Afterwards, if these aren't exactly your cup of tea, then I would also look at some of the more affordable packages from Definitive Technology. But, I would consider the Def Techs a distant fourth after HSU, Paradigm and PSB.

Receiver:

As for a receiver, then not only I would look at Marantz, but I would also check out Denon, Harman/Kardon and then Yamaha. I wouldn't overlook NAD either.

Good Luck and Happy Shopping........

--Charles--

av123.com

X series all around

Panasonic XR-55 or 57 reciever.

Solid.

I'm not one for these all-in-one box systems but what do you think of this one?

http://www.secondact.biz/product/HTS990THXRB

I'm building my first home theatre and agree 5.1 is a great cost effective way to start.

My problem is reading too much and wanting the best, without even hearing anything.

I think what's important for us on a budget:

1) Good amp/pre/receiver that can grow as speakers get upgraded
2) Good L/R Speakers and if possible identical centre and rears
3) Self powered sub

If I could do it for $1500 as you suggest I'd be all over that in a second and will read this thread every day.

I've calculated used:
Sunfire 5.1 amp - $1000
Sunfire Sub - $1000
Pre - $?
Speakers - $?

As you can see I'm already $500 over budget with no speakers or pre. Please help. I'm thinking of getting this anyways with really cheap speakers until next year. Am I sick?

Used to own and sell the Marantz receivers. Never cared that much for all but the most expensive for the money, personally. The Denon's are good Value. They have the MultEQ feature, which is superb! Also, good power and and balanced sound for the money. Actually, they work good with the highly efficient Klipsch speakers, and the EQ balances the sound superbly! For cheap, for MOVIE SYSTEM, I'd go HSU SB-1's (can't beat that "horn efficiency" and focus for the money!...great dynamics), matching sub, and Denon 2708(?) for around $750 on the net new! I doubt you'll get a more potent movie combo, unless you go with powered speakers. Good luck

Pdn is right about the Marantz receivers. Find one on here or ebay and then shop for speakers the same way. Paradigm or similar will give you great sound on a budget.

Enjoy the hunt.

Marantz A-V receivers for the money are one of the best buys out there. To me they're superior to their Denon counterparts, also superior to Yamaha, Onkyo, etc. Marantz is not sold is mass market stores. That should tell you something. The SR4001 (80 watts x 7) sells for $550.00 list and the SR3001 (60 watts x 7)at $380.00 Go to www.marantz.com. For loudspeakers, PSB, NHT, B&W, Boston Acoustics, etc are all recommended. Not sure you can get a decent 5.1 loudspeaker arrangment for under $1K though new. Going used could do it for you. The fun is in the hunt.

I've had good resulis with my Sony STR-DA 3000.I bought mine new for $700/list was $1000.Have seen them go for $300.Using Home Depot and Parts Connection /MAS ICs to good results.Just paired it with their NS9100 DVD with HDMI.Speakers are a modified Lineaum LX-4 based speaker system with Dayton RS 10" subs.Spend some $ on the front/center and upgrade the surrounds as money permits.