Is There Greener Grass For Me?


I have owned an Onkyo TXSV515PRO for about 15 years. I have upgraded most other components in a modest AV system, but not the Onkyo. We use the AV system for audio only as it relates to TV programming and DVD play – there is no CDP involved – all music being played in a separate, dedicated 2-channel room.

Currently, the system consists of:
TV - Mitsubishi WS-65413 – 65” projection
Front Speakers – PSB Stratus Goldi’s
Rear Speakers – PSB Alpha Mini
Center Channel (own but not currently used) – PSB 9C
DVD - Zenith DVB318

Now. I am not trying to assemble a SOTA system in any way, shape, or form. However, I do not care much for the separation provided by the Onkyo, especially front to rear balance (regardless of how the speakers are positioned). Too, if something like a great performance on Soundstage or an audio DVD is used, the sound is a bit thin when cranking the volume. I’ve had these speakers in two-channel systems and they are not exactly what I’d call thin. As such, I am wondering if I could improve things much by using a different power/processor – or maybe given the level of all else I should just leave things alone.. I’d STRONGLY prefer a one-piece unit, as opposed to separates, due in part to space limitations. Don’t need a tuner which is provided in the Onkyo receiver. Appreciate suggestions in the $2K new, $1K used range. Obliged to all for their consideration – whether or not you choose to respond.
4yanx

Showing 14 responses by 4yanx

Thanks, TIC. Looks as if I need to explore some individual models. Actually, I need to further educate myself. In the tw-channel world I'm fun but..... And, it figures. I branch into something else and wind up committing myslef to countless hours of research before buying... ;-)
I take it that no one else has specific recommendations other than those made above. (?)
Reubent:

Thanks for the very thoughful and well reasoned answer. Because I will never get into HT in a big way (with respect to sound production, anyway), I have firmly decided to go with a single unit. Some sort of integrated processor/amp would be ideal in my case. Specific suggestion regarding well rated units fully appreciated.

I have thought of a sub in the past. However, my past experience with subs has been that buying a cheap sub is worse than no sub at all and I have not been able to justify the dough to add a good one on the HT side of things. I have Vandersteen 5's in my 2-channel system, so not sub needed, there. :-)
Interesting review, if not incredibly L o n g . Thanks. I'll consider it, but don't think I will ultimately go with a 7.1 unit.
Point taken but I’m a waitin’ for you to forward some of THAT green stuff. I got nuttin'! My guys bit the dust so many years ago I forget their names and I fear establishing new acquaintances, lest I run afoul and land in the ole hoosegow.

Seriously, though, I could use a solid and specifc suggetion of a single unit that will have the appropriate decoders (if which I know virtually nothing) and that will drive front, rears, and center........
So if I were to consider components, instead, what would be a preproc of choice - keeping in mind that it is almost exclusively to be used for TV and DVD movies and I do not need a tuner. In doing research, I am beginning to lean more to an amp/pre combo.
Elevick. I hear thee. I am borrowing a piece from a friend beginning tomorrow. I don't have the heart to audition from a brick-and-mortar when I know I will be buying elsewhere - not that this is what I thought you were suggesting - just saying in general.

Trouble is, I KNOW that once I do the research and buy one of these receivers, I will be pining for upgrades - just like in my 2-channel system which, thankfully, I am now satisfied. So, it is either not upgrade at all or do it on the used so I can get my dough back when the upgrade bug inevitably comes to call. :-)
Thnaks to all who responded. I wound up buying a used Arcam AVR350. Anxious for it to be delivered and give it a go!
I will do so, certainly, but it will be in about a month - after my move and a good long, multi-variable audition.
I was planning on using an DVI to HDMI cable between my DirecTV H20 receiver and the Mits 65413. Good? No good? My setup will be installed in the new home on 6/11.