Pioneer Elite vsx-14 enough for hdi-3800? Alternatives?


Hello,

I just purchased the JBL HDI-3800 speakers and am wondering if my current Pioneer Elite vsx-14 receiver will be sufficient to power this or if I should be looking for an upgrade. Will I be missing a lot of potential without an upgrade?

I should have the HDI-3800's in hand later this week. Any suggestions?

szejna

@szejna 

The two you have listed are a good product and worth your consideration as well as the Yamaha also suggested. 

Take a look at The Music Room if you want to purchase them, they have a return policy so that way you can try them and see which you like.

Ignore my comment on room correction and all three of the suggested amps will give you good power.

It is a dedicated conservatively rated stereo all in one solution (integrated amp + streaming dac) that can deliver greater than 200W/channel Class AB into your speaker with enough current. The DAC implementation is good and Yamaha's Musiccast streaming features are glitch free/fairly robust (it has been around for a minute to get all kinks ironed out). To summarize, It should be a good step up sonically for 2 channel use than your older Pioneer multichannel receiver and good value for a modest budget of ~$1000.

@deep_333  Thanks for the thoughtful response! This looks like a really good option in the more affordable price range.

@sunshdw I will take a look!
 

Ignore my comment on room correction

Too late smiley  I started thinking about it, I'm really curious what Dirac would do for me. It sounds like with mini-dsp it can always be added later.

good value for a modest budget of ~$1000.

What do you feel the next step up would be in terms of a price point that has noticeable differences in sound quality?

@szejna 

The NAD you noted has Dirac built in I believe. Room correction software is a different animal but can make a great difference when use properly. If you aren't techy Dirac can be somewhat difficult to navigate. In that case I'd suggest finding a local dealer and have them do it. 

The MiniDSP is a cool piece but in your set up using a integrated you'd only be able to use their product on the sub channels whereas Dirac can do the full range including your subwoofer(s).

Just something else to think about. 

fwiw, for my bedroom system i recently replaced my 20-year old pioneer elite vsx80 with an anthem 740. the anthem is serviceable, and has the modern features like room correction, arc, etc., but to my ears doesn't sound as good--flatter and less musical. whether this is because of synergy or because the pioneer is an overacheiver i know not. undoubtedly, you can find something better, but i'd give a close listen to your current pioneer before upgrading.