home theatre questions

I highly recommend either the Denon receivers or the Sony ES series. I used to have a JVC receiver, albeit many years ago, and it was sonically one of the worst recievers I ever heard. The low frequency response was abysmal.
The Denon and the Sony ES are quality products. I have owned both (a Denon 3802 reciever for 2 years and a Sony ES cd player for about 12 years) and have not had a problem with either one.

Good luck with your search!

i was thinking of using the sony str e695. I can get it on ebay for about $250. They are going in an average size living room. I would like to get everything (reciever and speakers) for around $1400 or so...
Jake

For best value I would suggest that you look at B-Stock PSB Image Series Speakers. I agree with an earlier responder on Denon and Sony ES receivers. I would also add the Yamaha RX series of receivers. For a video source look for an inexpensive Panasonic DVD player. If you shop carefully and defer buying a subwoofer until a later time I believe you can put together a very satisfying home theater on your budget.

The SONY STR DE695 has been a favorite of Sensible Sound magazine. In your price range ... personally, I would go for a Yamaha 5550 ($220) or Yamaha 5640 ($250) , new, at J&R Music http://www.jandr.com. If you are sold on the SONY, you can get it for $240 at J&R Music and not bother with eBay. The Polk 'R" series are OK, though you may find them a bit bright. You can go for PSB Speakers http://www.yawaonline.com or Axiom Speakers http://www.axiomaudio.com or Wharfedale Diamond 8 series http://www.audioadvisor.com/store/mfglisting.asp?hdnMfg=Wharfedale&MFGID=146. Rich

I know a couple people who have Definitive Technology Theater in a box setups, it comes with all 5 speaks plus a subwoofer. Im sure you could get it for under 1000. Ive heard them before, and as far as satelite theater in a box type setups, i personally think it is one of the best for the price. Sounds pretty good with music too.
(of course, not by the standards of the 2chan audiophiles on this site)

You dont need anything powerful to run them, so you could get a good yamaha or denon to run them.
It would definatly impress any casual listeners and it would put give your local cinema a run for the money