[superbj90]

Newbie on the forum and not an audiophile; the information here is a bit intimidating. I need to replace a system and wanting to avoid HTIB sub-par quality. I have no budget constraints, but want respectively quality thus I am looking to package a good receiver with a speaker package later.


My only requirements is the need for a zone 2 speaker connection, which I use when music is on when routine TV is on and looking for volume (big room). My research led me to the Denon AVR 591. You experts seem to favor Denon slightly over Onkyo, although I suspect the NR509 would meet my expectations as well.


Technically a 4 HDMI input, 1 output should satisfy all my needs. I plan to hook up a blu-ray componet and play a bit of radio. Bottom line, am I correct that the Denon has a zone 2 speaker hook-up and is as good a choice as any at this price point?

 

[jdsmoothie]

No, the 591 is only a 5.1 AVR ... so no Zone 2. You need to get the 1611 or the 1911/791 all of which are 7.1 and offer Zone 2 capability. Check with Best Buys in your area as they are clearing the old XX11 models out. You may even get a 1911 for fairly low cost.

 

[afrogt]

Jdsmoothie is correct, you need the Denon 1611 if you want to use the zone 2 feature.


I own the Denon 591 and it is not a zone 2 receiver. Get the 1611.

http://www.vanns.com/shop/servlet/it..._c=site_search


Call them for bigger discounts. 866-809-2170


What's your budget for a new receiver? What sources do you plan to use in Zone 2?

 

[superbj90]

thanks for the advice. I will run over to BB and see if they have the 1611. On the last question, I use the zone 2 for music and when the TV is on and I am not using the system for a surround experience. I had an older Onkyo in the box system that had zone 2, so when I was watching DVDs I would use the surround sound components only. When not watching DVDs I had zone 2 on also to pump audio into the other side of the large room that it is in.


Since I am a newbie it occurs to me that I may be using the technical terms incorrectly. What I am really referring to is a speaker A/B option on the front of the receiver. Thus to experience surround sound I turned off speaker B, and turned it on for all other activities. I hope this makes sense.

 

[jdsmoothie]

There is a difference between A/B and Zone 2. The 1611 can be have the rear surround posts set up as either Front B (to play same audio selected in the main zone) or as Zone 2 (to play an independent, but analog only, source with independent volume).

 

[superbj90]

aha, I may be new to avs tech, but I am a quick learner. Does this mean the Denon 591 does have the A/B option? (not the zone 2 to my earlier confusion)


Clearly my goal is a mid-range receiver, I hate buying low quality anything, but not being an audiophile I have no need to go overboard. Seems like a mid-range product, with not all the bells and whistles is a good choice for me. In this regard are there other "old standbys" that I should consider? Yamaha seems to have a good reputation with similiar price points? I just have difficulty distinguishing between the various choices. To get quality without going overboard has led me to about a 300 to 350 budget. I can afford more, but I think I would be buying not for need, too low and my bias says it is entry level lower quality.


After I choose the receiver I will come back with help picking a speaker package and a blu-ray. I have the leftover speakers from my in the box system that will soon need to be replaced. I'll try to be more specific in my questions before engaging you all.

Thanks

 

[afrogt]



Quote:
aha, I may be new to avs tech, but I am a quick learner. Does this mean the Denon 591 does have the A/B option? (not the zone 2 to my earlier confusion)

The Denon 591 doesn't have the A/B option at all. There are only 5 speaker terminals. You need to forget about the 591 if you're looking for Zone2 or B speaker selection.


I have the Denon 591, I know for sure! Get the 1611 if you want more options.

 

[superbj90]

Ordered the 1611 from Vanns. Thanks for the advice guys. I will be using the expertise on this forum in the future.

 

[jdsmoothie]

Great! We'll see you in the Denon 1611 Owner's thread if you have any setup questions.