I think the MRX 710 is a good choice for $600 and will be a step up in sound quality over the mass market AVRs. Here’s another one on eBay for $600 that may already have the software and also with no mic but you’d need to pay shipping from Michigan, whatever that is.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/325425609116
Budget friendly receiver choice
I want to stay with 5.1 (or better, don't see the need/benefit vs trouble of 7.2 etc) but also use the system for audio a lot.
I have a dedicated 18" Dayton 18-22 sub (sealed enclosure) with the excellent amp from the Elemental Design A7. Front tower speakers (various, experimenting, changing, still not found the final one).
On my wish list:
- DSP
- pre out (so I can use other amps I have)
- nice: use build in amps for bi amping (Anthem MRX 710 i read offers that option0
- stable (to drive critical speakers if need be)
- low price certainly under $1,000 , $600 preferred (so used obviously)
- probably should be able to feed 4k TV (Vizio M75 currently)
- ideal (but not done anymore): pre/main amp split (remember these small metal U shaped bridges that good full amps had?)
I mentioned the Anthem MRX 710 because I just saw one offered locally (without the software/mic). To stay under $600, I likely need to make more compromises.
Suggestions (full make/model so I can look up prices and reviews)?