I didn't mean to suggest that purists would automatically reject Denon receivers specifically in some closed-minded way. I was referring to all receivers in general, not just Denon’s, and by extension I suppose, the more full-featured separates from companies like McIntosh. Tone controls, stereo/mono switches and the like just don’t mesh with some peoples’ philosophies on audio design, and that’s fine; their objections are well founded. There’s no absolute right or wrong approach, just whatever enhances your enjoyment of the music. When I said purists wouldn’t necessarily appreciate the Denon, I just wanted to warn anyone with certain sensibilities that they'll be sacrificing a certain amount of resolution and tautness in exchange for the Denon’s convenience and features.
As for the Yamaha receiver line, it was initially near the top of my shopping list. But unfortunately, I don't have a good Yamaha dealer nearby (except for the chain stores, which don't stock the Yamaha two-channel line, only their HT receivers). It should be noted that the Yamahas don’t include a phono stage – surprising, I think, since Kenwood, Harman Kardon, Sony ES and others include phono capability on many of their receivers. HK even touts it in their advertising. So I tend to support companies that remain committed to offering above-average phono capability for two reasons: (a) I still think LPs, in general, offer sound quality that’s equal to or better than CD, and (b) receivers are a good starting point for budding audiophiles, who might be persuaded to try a garage-sale turntable, but only if they don’t have to invest in a separate phono stage – an option they might not even be aware of. Call it a crusade, but I love that Denon still offers above-average turntables and great MC cartridges. Given that I’m also very fond of the Denon house sound, it’s a line I plan to stick with whenever I find myself in the position of needing reasonably priced, full-featured gear.
And a side note for those building their first system: I’ve listened to and purchased Denon gear from two terrific dealers: Sounds & Images in Linwood, NJ and Audio Classics in Vestal, NY. Instead of calling Crutchfield, I suggest that you’d be much better off (if you’re within driving distance) to give either of these guys a call. At both places, you’ll be able to compare Denon products with comparable products (like NAD or Rotel) and also much higher-priced lines to see if the difference in sound quality is worth the added investment. You may walk out the door with a $349 receiver and an ear-to-ear smile. Or, you might instead discover that spending $2,000 or more on separates is perfectly reasonable. I’ve bought at both ends of the spectrum and in my experience, both stores will happily accommodate you and steer you toward the stuff that’s right for you, not necessarily the stuff with the highest price tags.
As for the Yamaha receiver line, it was initially near the top of my shopping list. But unfortunately, I don't have a good Yamaha dealer nearby (except for the chain stores, which don't stock the Yamaha two-channel line, only their HT receivers). It should be noted that the Yamahas don’t include a phono stage – surprising, I think, since Kenwood, Harman Kardon, Sony ES and others include phono capability on many of their receivers. HK even touts it in their advertising. So I tend to support companies that remain committed to offering above-average phono capability for two reasons: (a) I still think LPs, in general, offer sound quality that’s equal to or better than CD, and (b) receivers are a good starting point for budding audiophiles, who might be persuaded to try a garage-sale turntable, but only if they don’t have to invest in a separate phono stage – an option they might not even be aware of. Call it a crusade, but I love that Denon still offers above-average turntables and great MC cartridges. Given that I’m also very fond of the Denon house sound, it’s a line I plan to stick with whenever I find myself in the position of needing reasonably priced, full-featured gear.
And a side note for those building their first system: I’ve listened to and purchased Denon gear from two terrific dealers: Sounds & Images in Linwood, NJ and Audio Classics in Vestal, NY. Instead of calling Crutchfield, I suggest that you’d be much better off (if you’re within driving distance) to give either of these guys a call. At both places, you’ll be able to compare Denon products with comparable products (like NAD or Rotel) and also much higher-priced lines to see if the difference in sound quality is worth the added investment. You may walk out the door with a $349 receiver and an ear-to-ear smile. Or, you might instead discover that spending $2,000 or more on separates is perfectly reasonable. I’ve bought at both ends of the spectrum and in my experience, both stores will happily accommodate you and steer you toward the stuff that’s right for you, not necessarily the stuff with the highest price tags.