 
|
Audio Asylum Thread Printer Get a view of an entire thread on one page |
For Sale Ads |
|
|
Audio Asylum Thread Printer Get a view of an entire thread on one page |
For Sale Ads |
205.157.136.3
A friend has asked me for a recommendation for a receiver replacement. Definitely not a Hi-end or DIY type, therefore, I have no idea where to start. What brands are considered good,especially for at least tolerable sound quality and reliability? 2 channel, not 5.1, Not sure if she wants Bluetooth or web connectivity. I am sure what broke doesn't have that stuff. Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
Follow Ups:
You can get some pretty good kit these days for less than you'd think.
But ... it boils down to a price range.
For one person $1000 is completely acceptable
For another it's way too much
And for a third, they wouldn't consider something that cheap.
Typically for 2 Channel I'd recommend Rega (like the Brio), NAD, Arcam, Marantz, Peachtree (there are others, too that are good) as being able to give something really good for $1500 or less, sometimes below $1000.
But if that is lower than they want, there are tons in the $2-3k range
And there are lots at $800 and less.
Ad of course for a lot of people a system like Sonos might do the trick for them since it can be expanded into a "whole house" situation. But if the person might want to play a CD or spin Vinyl, it would be too limited, but they are really good streaming machines!
====
"We have met the enemy and he is us" - Pogo
Thanks all. She has decide to go the route suggested by Kingshead. Minimal outlay just to get system up and running again while she saves for something better.
Great! Amazon has it for $149 with FREE shipping for Amazon Prime members. They also have an excellent return policy if something doesn't work out.
Same price and free shipping from Parts Express as I mentioned, with a customer service department second to none, and you don't need any special membership.
Most likely Amazon is actually getting it from PE lol.
Martin
Amazon will sometimes source the product from another company and handle the transaction but not in this case:"Ships from and sold by Amazon.com"
And since shipping is free via Amazon Prime, the return is also free with free pickup from your front porch via UPS or FedEx arranged by Amazon. Just put it back in the box and place it on your porch. They come and get it.... or you can drop off at any FedEx or UPS location or partner location (most office supply stores like Staples, Office Depot, etc.).
I'm sure Parts Express has excellent customer service too but I find Amazon's customer's service to be second to none.
The point is, IF you are already an Amazon Prime member (which many people are) buying from Amazon is probably the best bet with 2nd day delivery to your doorsteps and hassle free return.
In any case, good call on recommending that Yamaha receiver.
[EDIT]: ECONOMY shipping is free from Parts Express 5 - 10 days. Amazon Prime shipping is 2-days with a tracking number from UPS or FedEx.
Edits: 04/28/17 04/28/17 04/28/17
Actually, PE does have the best return policy. Last time I had an issue with a product they just sent out a replacement, no questions asked and I didn't even have to hassle with returning the original at all. No leaving it out for the UPS guy, FedEx, etc.
If you've never dealt with Parts Express you should check them out, they really are the best.
Martin
Not to be argumentative but just to be clear....
As for free shipping from PE, it's their ECONOMY shipping 5 - 10 days. Amazon Prime shipping (for Prime members) is 2-days with a tracking number emailed to you.
Actually, PE does have the best return policy. Last time I had an issue with a product they just sent out a replacement, no questions asked and I didn't even have to hassle with returning the original at all. No leaving it out for the UPS guy, FedEx, etc.
Amazon does the same thing, depending on the cost of the item. Do you think PE will let you not return a $150 receiver? ;-)
Actually yes they would do that on a $150 item, it was one of two subwoofers I purchased.As for their shipping speed, I've never waited more than 3 days for an item. And it sure is nice to know if I do need advice they have knowledgable PEOPLE on staff I can talk with about speaker building, crossover network building, cables, equipment purchases, etc, you get the picture, real customer service.
Here's a suggestion, give the good people over at PE a phone call, spend a little time talking with one of their speaker designers, sales staff, etc about our hobby, then do the same with Amazon Prime and let us know here how it went.
This isn't a contest, I recommend Parts Express, the best place to purchase the Yamaha receiver in question and the decision was made to go ahead and purchase it there, you recommended another site a day or two later with the same price, it's all good.
Martin
Edits: 04/28/17 04/28/17 04/28/17
Well, I don't think there's any DIY advice I would seek in buying a commercially manufactured Yamaha receiver. It's not a DIY project that would require advise for most folks. Besides, any questions and advise can be found in Amazon Q&A for the product and elsewhere on the internet.And once I've made my mind up on buying something the last thing I want is to waste my precious time chatting it up with some friendly human over the phone. One of the benefits of clicking a mouse button and buying over the internet I suppose. ;-)
But I get your point. If I needed some DIY advice for a DIY project I will consider Crutchfield. I mean Parts Express!
BTW, I have the PE catalog and have purchased from them in the past. A very pleasant experience.
I was merely mentioning Amazon as an alternative for those who have Amazon Prime.
Edits: 04/28/17
Well, if you were an uninformed buyer (as is the case here) you might want to know if the receiver you were looking at would drive the speakers you were considering. You might even need assistance connecting your source components, you know, real customer service.And if you just want to order without speaking to anyone whatever floats your boat, just click away and order. I guess you think being facetious doesn't show a propensity for being argumentative?
The OP's friend already made the decision to purchase from PE before your recommendation so the point is moot.
Martin
Edits: 04/28/17 04/28/17
Like I said, I offered up Amazon as an alternative in case the buyer (or others in search of that model rx) has Amazon Prime. And then we sparred over who had a better return policy and customer service. I concede victory by a slim margin to PE since this has turned into some sort of pissing contest.It's really no big deal to me but I'm happy that the OP's friend is getting a decent low budget receiver on your gracious recommendation.
Edits: 04/28/17 04/28/17
It's really no contest, PE offers a great return policy plus REAL customer service, Amazon has a return policy with NO customer service, pretty cut and dry. As such the ONLY reason to purchase from Amazon is price, and as they aren't offering a better price? What's the selling point?Not knocking Amazon, they are what they are, can't get tires from PE so their customer service would be useless in that regard. But for the OP or anyone purchasing something PE does sell they're hard to beat.
And as for tires etc, I've found most times Amazon is not the cheapest.
Case in point, looking to purchase The Big Larry flash light I found it locally for $25, Amazon had it for the same price, I found it elsewhere new for $18, purchased 5, two for me, three for my sons. And with Ebay's great return policy along with PayPal protection, actually better customer service too. I've purchased a few things through Amazon but there prices are usually just too high.
Martin
Edits: 04/29/17 04/29/17
You have your favorite stores, I have mine.
"Amazon has a return policy with NO customer service, pretty cut and dry"
Simply untrue and misinformed. I have spoken with and emailed with real humans at Amazon and they have always given me excellent customer service. What's even better is not having to talk to anyone and still receiving stellar customer service on product returns.
Your PE does not offer:
- Free 2nd-day Prime shipping on many items including those under $100, shipped via UPS or FedEx WITH an emailed tracking number .
PE's idea of free shipping is ECONOMBY 3 -10 days, and only on purchases of $100 or more. Says so right on their website. And no tracking.
- Amazon has a no hassle return policy. Yes, your favorite PE shop let you NOT return a house brand speaker kit but I seriously doubt they would do that for you on a brand name item like a $150 Yamaha receiver. So Amazon is at least equal to your PE on returns..... probably better.
On items that DO require a return, they setup up the shipper and pickup. All you do is put the box out on the porch and it's taken care of.
How does PE handle an actual return?
As for Amazon vs other retailers you will often find prices lower elsewhere but you have to factor in the shipping and return policy. If I have to hop in my car and waste gas and time to save a buck or two at a brick and mortar store, I'll go with Amazon to save me the hassle.
Yes PE is an excellent outfit. So is Amazon. In fact Amazon is one of the top companies in the world with a market cap approaching 1/2 trillion US dollars. They must be doing something right, including excellent customer service.
Let's be honest shall we, you've chatted & emailed with someone at Amazon on the other side of the planet, not spoken on the phone with anyone familiar with the product, there's a HUGE difference if needing real help.As for how PE handles actual returns, lets see, in the many yrs I've been buying from them I've had few reasons to need this service, but each and every time they just sent out a replacement, NO RETURN NECESSARY, NADA, ZILCH, ZERO.
As for PE being my favorite? ROFLMAO, not even close. My only reason for recommending them was the OP was obviously looking for something new, with a warranty, inexpensive, and as it was for a person lacking knowledge in our hobby a place with great customer service if needed.
I only purchase new sound equipment when it's for someone else also lacking experience dealing with the excentricities that can come with vintage gear, like my sons.
When I purchased a gift for my brother in law on his bday I didn't hesitate to get him a nice vintage Kenwood integrated amp from the 70's, he's been around the block a few times, he gets it.
For the $149 that little Yammy I recommended cost it wouldn't be hard to find a nice vintage unit WAY more musical, better looking, better built, and maybe have enough left over for some records etc.
Martin
Edits: 04/29/17
Yes, I have honestly spoken over the phone to live bodies in Amazon customer service. I know many others have as well. Why do you have a hard time believing that? Here's their customer service number. Give them a call: 1 (888) 280-4331 Open all day all night - 24/7.I'm sure you've done several transactions with Parts Express where they did not require you to return a low cost part or house brand before sending you a replacement. Amazon does the exact same thing within sensible limits.
Will Parts Express send you a replacement and let you NOT return a $150 Yamaha receiver found to be defective? I seriously doubt it. You have yet to answer that question straight up.
Amazon does not require an RMA number or require you to affix a shipping label on returns, and they credit your account immediately.... before you even return the item. Parts Express can't match that - period. Go read their Return Policy.
Like I said before, the only reason I offered up Amazon was simply as an alternative to your beloved Parts Express. I saw no harm in that.
Edits: 04/29/17 04/29/17
Gentlemen,please.Points made,let's move on.
Tom:cat
(Gentlemen,please.Points made,let's move on.
Tom:cat)
If you'll take notice the last post by either was two days ago, are you trying to start something back up? LOL
Martin
Edits: 05/01/17
Glad I could be of some help, let us know what she purchased and how she likes it.
Martin
Excellent decision and plan.People often spend way too much money "upgrading". Buy what you need now, and save for what you really want. Skip the stuff in the middle. That's what I've learned. Case in point: My first microphones were Electro-Voice 664's. My second pair were AKG D200E's (a definite improvement for music recording). My third pair were AKG D224's - a large investment for not much better sound. My fourth, and current, pair are Schoeps dual-pattern condensers, which I've now had for 30+ years, and don't see any reason to replace them, although there's a DPA, Earthworks, and Sennheiser which are tempting me to expand my options. (Edit: Just fyi, I have no, none, zero, interest in Neumann for my needs.)
:)
Edits: 04/26/17 04/26/17 04/26/17
Greed! and I know to her, musical content will always be more important than SQ to the nth degree. Not everyone treats this as a hobby or as the ultimate display of their OCD.
Check out Cambridge Topaz SR20 or SR10.
What speaker is she using now?
Cheers
Bill
Another nice one!
Edits: 04/25/17
Here ya go!
It was a S'phile recco'd component for three or four years in a row. Inexpensive too.
There is currently one listed in the Asylum Trader
...the bass management feature is real handy. It allows adjustment for volume and crossover frequency for the main speakers and the subs.
"That was some weird shit".- George Bush
I believe the Outlaw RR2150 are normally $699 direct but Outlaw puts them on sale for $100 less now and then, usually around the holidays.I think Inmate51 was kidding but even though Outlaw isn't a huge mass market company like Yamaha, Denon, Marantz, Onkyo, Sony, etc., they aren't exactly a tiny audiophile brand. They cater to the broader mid-fi market as well and they've been around for many years.
BTW, the RR2150 has a rich robust full-bodied sound, which I prefer to some others that are more lean or bordering on anemic or bright.
Good luck.
Edits: 04/25/17
Not sure which post you're replying to, but...
I, myself, as an audio professional with many contacts, wouldn't buy a product from a tiny company which could go out of business tomorrow if the owner died and there was no back-up plan with other people in place to keep the company going. Outlaw? - seriously? Can y'all say "Merlin" or any other company for which parts are no longer available? Especially for a non-audio person, that would be a bad move. Don't misunderstand - shit happens at all levels, but try not to shoot yourself in the foot going in.
Stick with the majors in this situation.
:)
They've been around for somewhere around 20 years and I haven't heard any complaints about their customer service. It's a small company but not a one man operation. I'd put them in the same category as Parasound. From what I understand, Outlaw has multiple principals so it's not a one man show like Merlin.
Regarding parts availability, I would be more worried buying a mass market product e.g. Pioneer because their product lifecycle is so short. And the likelihood of Outlaw going out of business in the next 10 years is probably no greater than the likelihood of a big brand name getting sold off to some Chinese electronics giant who has no ability to support the brand's legacy products.
Also, we're talking about an old school solid state stereo receiver. These things tend to last a long time and are relatively easy to service for a reputable electronics repair shop.
Wow, have I been out of the loop! I just searched and archives. I had no idea Bobby died or that the company went out of business. Very sad.
And I get your point, but I agree with the others that I wouldn't worry so much over a $700 receiver.
___
"If you are the owner of a new stereophonic system, this record will play with even more brilliant true-to-life fidelity. In short, you can purchase this record with no fear of its becoming obsolete in the future."
Not talking about 7 thousand.
Do any of the 'majors' still make a 2-ch receiver?
At $699 you're not exactly risking your life's savings on the Outlaw receiver. Roll the dice man! Take a chance. ;-)
Inmate doesn't realize that mainstream companies like McIntosh and Theta and
Marantz and several others have multi-channel receivers that we can no get parts for.We are talking 6 years old in some cases. That two channel receiver is a well made bargain at 700 usd.
My other favorite is the Anthem 225 integrated amp. That was a bargain at 1500usd when it came out. 225wpc with tone controls and phono stage and MC pickup.
"For every complex problem there is an answer that is clear, simple, and wrong" H. L. Mencken
I would NEVER recommend a tiny company to someone if they weren't a committed audiophile. Ever.
:)
.
The most important phrase in your post is:"I have no idea where to start."
I often tend to cut to the chase, so:
Is she a potential or current girlfriend? Why are you hesitant to tell her "I have no idea where to start"? Are you insecure?
Just say "I have no idea where to start." If she likes you, she'll appreciate the honesty.
And, why "mid-fi"? Why not turn her on to Pioneer, Onkyo, Yamaha, etc., and get hi-fi? If she insists on Bose, Sankyo, StoreBrand, etc., this might your opportunity to impress her, or, it might go completely over her head. Either way, now you'll know.
:)
Edits: 04/25/17
This is a high end site. High end is Pass, MBL, McIntosh(?) price anyway LOL.
Pioneer, Onkyo, Yamaha are all mid fi by definition.
Denon and Marantz also make mid-fi receivers, and they are fine for 2-channel, even if they are 5.1.
Not a past, present or future GF, and not trying to impress. Knowing I have a lot of tubes and DIY stuff, she assume I might know and asked. I am just trying to be helpful, and thought I could see if any inmates could help out. Perhaps mid-fi and high end were the wrong terms. To me Bose, Sanyo and store brands are junk, not mid-fi, so let's forget those terms. Let's just say she is very budget conscious at this point in time.
A receiver has classically included a FM tuner.
But IMO very few modern folks bother with FM anymore
(though yes a few hardy types love FM to this day)
Anyway, the FM tuner part would matter if the friend wants it included.
Otherwise there are a lot of 1990 forward devices with are sans FM and worth considering. Right here on A.A. for sale are integrateds from $300 to $6000.
Another point is phono included? or not matter?
Some integrateds have a included phono. Some do not.
The one I would pick from the classifieds here is the Cambridge Audio
http://www.audioasylumtrader.com/ca/listing/Integrated-Amplifier-SS/Cambridge-Audio/Azur-650A/Integrated-Amplifier/166166
Tuner is a must. I am not sure about phono.
Parts Express is your friend here, great company with customer service second to none.
They have receivers starting as low as $149, but don't let the low price fool you this is a great little unit I'm sure she would love.
Yamaha R-S202 Stereo Receiver with Bluetooth 100 Watts per Channel
With Yamaha's vast knowledge and experience, the R-S202 delivers your music the way it was meant to sound. Even as an entry level stereo receiver, the R-S202 reproduces high-quality and musically rich sound.
The R-S202 is above its class with 100 watts per channel, and a high quality design that minimizes the length of signal routes and optimizes the circuit layout. By positioning the power transformer near the power amp, Yamaha's R-S202 reduces power loss, while improving the peak power supply capacity and enables high volume output. The signal ground and power supply ground are connected at one point, eliminating mutual interference to achieve a higher S/N ratio.
Built in Bluetooth connectivity lets you enjoy steaming your music from your smart phone and other Bluetooth devices. Preset up to 40 total AM and FM stations that can be conveniently recalled from the receiver's front panel, or with the included remote control. Auto preset lets you automatically search and save FM stations that are received in your area.
The R-S202 maintains the simple yet sophisticated design that Yamaha Hi-Fi audio is famous for. An elegantly brushed finish on the front panel of the R-S202 will harmonize beautifully with your other Hi-Fi audio equipment. The operating buttons and volume knobs also show Yamaha's commitment to simplicity and ease of use.
Equipped with speaker terminals for two systems, the R-S202 stereo receiver easily connects two sets of speakers. The speaker selector quickly switches between speaker outputs, allowing you to hear the sound from one speaker system (A or B) or from both at the same time (A+B).
Managing the power usage of the R-S202 is made easy with an on board power management function that automatically turns off the power (standby mode) when the receiver has not be operated for a long period of time. The power saving function can be turned off, or set to two, four, eight or twelve hours.
Specifications: Power output: 2 x 100 watts RMS @ 8 ohms Dynamic power output: 165 watts @ 4 ohms, 125 watts RMS @ 8 ohms THD: 0.2% Frequency response: 10-100,000 Hz SNR: 100 dB 5 stereo RCA inputs Includes: Wireless remote control, AM antenna, FM antenna, 2 AA batteries Power requirement: 120 VAC 60 Hz Dimensions: 17-1/8" W x 5-1/2" H x 12-5/8" D.
You never know when it might come in handy.
"That was some weird shit".- George Bush
| FAQ |
Post a Message! |
Forgot Password? |
|
||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||
This post is made possible by the generous support of people like you and our sponsors:
Top of Page ]
[ Contact Us ]
[ Support/Wish List ]
[ Copyright © 2024, Audio Asylum, all rights reserved ]
