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Receiver vs Processor

It seems that the new receivers, regardless of price, are coming with all the latest capabilities, i.e., Ultra THX, EX, 6.1, 7.1, composite video inputs, etc... I already have a 2-channel power amp and multi-channel amp, so I was thinking about using a cheap to mid-level receiver as my processor. Since I will be using quality amps, will the sound be comparable to that of a higher-end dedicated processor. If so, what are some good recommendations for a receiver. I know this will be a slight waste since I won't be using the receivers internal amps, but there is quite a price and capability difference between a mid-level receiver and a quality processor like the DC-1. Also, I don't plan to use this for music, just HT.

Thanks,

Tbone
tbone
tbone OP
11 posts
 
It seems that everyone really like the stand-alone processor, but I'm not convince yet. I understand about the waste of power amps in a receiver, but they are cheap. For example, the pioneer VSX-811S has a ton of features, to include Crystal DSP, 7.1 inputs/outputs, DTS-ES, Neo 6, DD EX 6.1, and PL II. All, this for $295! The amps I intend to use are Carver Lightstar and HK 7.1. I'm think this will sound pretty good for HT. Otherwise, spend up to a grand for a DC-1, Act III or Chiro. So, what do you thinK?

Tbone
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porschecab
336 posts
 
Tbone,

Do you know what the beauty of the "All, this for $295!" statement is? You can try it very inexpensively, try it out, if you like it, you didn't spend the 'grand' for a DC-1, and if it doesn't work out, 1) You will know the answer, and 2) you will not have lost any/much money considering the purchase price and resale that you would get for it.

My thoughs:
Try it and find out. That is what I do ALL the time, which is why I sell so many different items. I love to try and find out. You will be amazed at what you find. In fact, this could very well be one of them!

Dan
tbone OP
11 posts
 
Hey Dan,

You are right; this is pretty much a disposable piece. I'll do a little more research on this model and give it a try.

Thanks

Tbone
applejelly
5 posts
 
Tbone,

You have got me interested in the Pioneer for HT only. I am in the same amp situation as you and have been waiting for the Outlaw preamp for 9 months now. Lately I have been considering an alternative until Outlaw and any other yet-to-be-released mid-fi preamps get things together.

Let us know what you find out about it.
dklap
51 posts
 
why are some receivers so inexpensive compared to pre/pro's with the same features? with receivers so cheap, and the separate pre/pro's so expensive, why don't the receiver manufacturers such as pioneer make a separate component leaving out the amps and charge much more for it?

the most inexpensive pre/pro with all of the current features is the outlaw for the "extraordinary low price of $950"

receivers with the substantially the same features sell for around $300. why so much more for a separate component that does even less (no amps) than the receiver?

i'm currently running a denon avr-3300 receiver into separate amps and using it as a processor only. can't figure out what to do in the pre-pro market. part of the reason for upgrade is to put the receiver in the bedroom, but there are so many cheap receivers out there.....why separates so expensive?

-dan
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