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Cheap A/V Receiver with A/B speaker outs AND phono

Hi,

I'm looking to set up an inexpensive AV system in my screen porch.

I'm hoping to stay in the $300 range. The hardest part is finding a receiver that has 2 features that are important to me:
1) A/B main speaker outputs (to hook up a second set of speakers for outside)
2) A Phono circuit.

I'd like to have at least 80 Watts per channel.

So far, all I've found is the JVC RX-7020VBK for about $250.

I'm surprised to see how unavailable the phono input is. I can live without A/B speaker switching by getting an external speaker switchbox.

Any pointers would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Justin
jhaddad5407
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,747 posts
 
The trick is how the "B" circuit exists relative to the "A" circuit and the CC/RL/RR speakers. On the $300 or so receivers, the speakers for the "B" circuit are on the same cicuit as the CC/RL/RR and therefore, you can not run both the HT and B speakers at the same time, without the protection circuits kicking in (Ohm's Law). If you are able to download an old users manual for the ONKYO 434, they explain this type of design in much greater detail. The Harman Kardon receivers may be able to accomodate this, as well as the phono stage, for you.
kemp
20 posts
 
Yahama recievers would be good for your needs. I started out with an RX-V596 that has A/B speaker outs and a phono input. It is 100 watts x5 and has preamp outs for all channels if desired. I sold mine used for $300 a year ago. They are on ebay from time to time. Good luck.
jhaddad5407 OP
5 posts
 
Thanks for all the replies. Much appreciated.

I went to North Hampton Audio's website and found that they've got an Onkyo TX-DS555 for $299 that seems to be exactly what I'm looking for. They also have a TX-DS474, TX-DS484 and the Sherwood R-725 for less money. Is anyone familiar with these models that might be able to point out the basic differences? I tried Onkyo's website, but these models date too far back I guess.

Justin
sugarbrie
3,854 posts
 
I think the TXDS-555 does not have DTS, only AC-3 (dolby digital). The others have all formats. (I use a TXDS484). Double check with Richard.
rar1's avatar
rar1
1,747 posts
 
Justin:

The Onkyo 474/484/494 are all latter day descendants of the 434. The 555 was in vogue when the 434 was, so it probably is AC-3 and not 5.1. Onkyo USA is located in Ramsey, New Jersey. You can probably call them and ask for information. (If you live in NY or NJ, Shortline buses go right by Onkyo.) Also, the existence of an A/B switch on a HT receiver, does not guarantee that you can run them both at the same time. Research that as well as model numbers. Good luck.
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