powaking

I've been really looking at the Onkyo 797 and Denon 3802 but now I just happened to notice Harman Kardons AVR 520. It is cheaper that the above but pretty much has all the features (it is weaker on the watt side).

Could someone fill me in on the 6.1/7.1 features of the receiver? Does it only have pre-outs for these or can the receiver really do 6.1/7.1 out of the box?

Thanks

palebluedot

The receiver only has amplifiers for 5 channels. It will decode 6.1/7.1 however if you want the rear center for 6.1 or the two rear speakers for 7.1 then you need another amplifier for those speakers.

powaking

Thanks. That pretty much answers my question. It can process the signal but to play that signal you need another amp. Might as well pay the extra $100 and get an Onkyo or Denon.

Deke Rivers

I got the Denon 2802 and it sounds great..Im using Polk 6600 satellites

gotapex

The HK is kind of nice in that it does Logic7 too.

It'll also allow you to connect those 5 internal amp channels to any of the 7.1 channels. Thus, you can get a more powerful external 2 channel amp (or two mono's) to power your front two speakers, and use the internals to power the others. Nice way to get good sound.

powaking

True but why buy 2 amps when I can just buy 1. Probably will end up with the Onkyo.

larryw

I'm seriously considering the Denon 3802. I really like the features and I've seen plenty of favorable reviews. The only thing that's holding me back is the whole "authorized dealer" stuff that Denon gets into. Makes it hard to find a good deal if you want the warranty.

gotapex

Things like sound quality. Other than that, probably nothing.

powaking

Larry thats pretty much how I feel. Plus the Onkyo has 192khz DAC where the Denon has 96khz DAC. Other than that they are pretty much the same (oh Onkyo is also THX Select and Denon isn't at all).

joshd2012

The Denon has less THD than the Onkyo, if that is important to you.

powaking

Yes it does, not by much but it does. Its these little things that keep me going crazy. I have been seriously considering getting the Gallo's for the corners and building my own center and sub.