[Tim Smith]

I'm going to be buying a receiver in the next couple of months. I'd like AC3, DTS, S-video switching and multiple digital inputs.


My question is this -- in general, is it possible to assign the digital inputs to certain video selections. I'd like to have the coaxial digital input assigned to the LD Player selection and the toslink connection assigned to the DVD Player selection.


Is this pretty standard?

 

[Don O’Brien]

In most products around 1000 dollars this should present no problem, the rotel and denon receivers in that price range permit this without difficulty.

Don O



[This message has been edited by Don O'Brien (edited June 21, 2000).]

 

[Tim Smith]

Any idea how it compares to the Marantz SR-7000? 65 Watts seems low to me. Also, I think I might like an on-screen menu. What do you think of on-screen menus, are they frivolous?

 

[Nick Satullo]

Price point is always the first consideration, though you might well find plenty of products out there that would permit you to hook both up with a coaxial cable. I won't pretend to "hear" the differences that many attribute to coaxial, though I can say it's a lot sturdier, provides a much more secure connection, and is greatly preferable for just those reasons. Plus you get to bask in the audiophile conventional wisdom that you've got the "better" connection.


As for a receiver, I have almost never used the tuner component to a receiver, and, given the choice, I would much prefer an integrated amplifier, like the Yamaha. If you're not going to be playing the radio, then that is the preferable route to go. IMHO, you can never go wrong with either Yamaha or Sony. Of course, I would prefer separates over that, but now we're one step up in the food chain.

 

[Tim Smith]

I'm looking to spend less than $1K and preferably between $500 and $700 (or less if that's possible). The Outlaw seems interesting but how long is the waiting list?


Does anyone use Pioneer receivers in this price range?


I don't need a tuner, what Yamaha models would you recommend?


Thanks