Pioneer SC-37 7.1-Channel 3D Ready A/V Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)The Elite series from Pioneer has developed a reputation for providing high quality at an affordable price. This is the third Elite receiver I have owned, and it definitely lives up to what it should be. Don't worry, I got the second one to move from 5.1 to 7.1, and I just got this one because the second one got zapped in an electrical storm. (I now have an APC J15 UPS protecting my equipment.)
The SC-37 has all the power you could want in any normal sized environment, and it provides crystal clear sound all the way up to its limit. Of course, I don't listen to anything that loud, which only means that it has plenty of power and headroom for any of my movies and audio.
Right out of the box, it sounded very nice - a bit on the bright side, though. Running the fully automatic MCACC made a very noticeable difference - not quite huge, but almost. Suddenly, the sound was full and rich, without any bright spots, and the spaciality was excellent. It was fun to listen to classical music and close my eyes and be able to pick out where each instrument in the orchestra was positioned. Someday I may go in and make manual adjustments to the setup, but for now I don't feel that I need to; the MCACC did a great job on its own.
Hooking up the receiver could not have been easier. With today's equipment, one HDMI cable provides both digital video and audio to the component. Digital (both coax and optical) and analog audio connections are provided, as are composite and component video connections, but no S-Video. I don't have any HDMI 1.4 components, so I can't report on the return feature it provides.
In addition to the normal (for these days) 7.1 connections (your subwoofer must be powered, as the SC-37 does not provide a subwoofer amplifier), the receiver also provides another pair of speaker outputs that can be used either as front high or front wide auxiliary speakers. (Alternatively, they can be configured as a B stereo pair.) I bought another set of satellite speakers and set them up in the front high configuration (about 4 ft above the front left and right speakers) and it really does make a noticeable difference in the sound. It adds another dimension, helps the spaciality and tends to fill in otherwise empty spots in the spacial field. One caution, though: nine sets of speaker wires is a lot of wires!
The SC-37 has a lot of features, many of which I don't believe I'll ever use, but I will eventually connect it to the Internet and my PC and will someday plug in a USB stick to listen to recordings. For now, though, I've been having fun playing with the various advanced surround effects and was surprised at how nice the Classical effect is. When you switch it on, suddently you are in a concert hall, with just the right amount of ambience and reverb to make it come alive.
This top-of-the-line receiver is not cheap, but compared to other receivers in its class, it is a real bargain. Once again, Pioneer has done right by me, and I'm very happy with this purchase.

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Yamaha HTR-6090BL 7.1-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)I was a previous owner of the Yamaha 5990 and recently purchased the 6090 as a replacement for it. I wanted to highlight a few of the differences between the two in features so that you can make an informed product buying decision. In the next few weeks 5990's will be going on clearance in order to make room for this new piece. Maybe you'll decide to go higher up on the Yamaha product line to the RX-V series, or try a different company. You decide
- Specifications -
As it sounds right now, just listening with my ears there seems to be no audible difference, but there are a few specs that a different inside from the last model to this model.
Dynamic Headroom 1.1 dB on the 6090. The 5990 had 1.03dB
Dampening Factor (IHF) 150 or More on the 6090. The 5990 had 140 or more
Maximum Input Signal on the PHONO is 60mV on the 6090. The 5990 has 100mV
The total weight of the product from the 5990 to the 6090 has dropped by 1 pound. From 37 lbs. to 36 lbs.
- Features -
The 6090 does have a couple of impressive new features which were the main reason I decided to purchase it.
Full pass through of 1080P video signals. The 5990 can only do 1080i.
Yamaha's proprietary iPod docking system. Using Yamaha's YDS-10SL iPod docking system you can connect your iPod to the receiver, control it, and charge it all at once. It works flawlessly and charges even when the unit is turned off (Although you can turn that off).
- Losses -
With all those new items older features have to go in order to make room and keep the pricing bracket.
The 6090 looses THX Select 2 Certification. As I said, the system seems to sound on par with the 5990 so I think this may have simply been used to save money by forgoing the expensive process of getting the branding. But if you see some of the slight differences above in specifications these maybe where the receiver fails to pass (I'm technical but not THAT technical).
The Front Speaker "B" Channel is gone.
Advanced Install Controls are gone. This included RS-232 input for advanced remote control systems, and the 12V triggers used to trigger other electronics in the room to turn on or off (such as a drop down screen, or lighting controls).
Those are the major differences between the two pieces. I hope this helps you out when attempting to decide what to purchase.

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Make an investment in your surround sound home theater set-up that you'll enjoy for years with the Yamaha HTR-6090BL 7.1-channel receiver with 840 watts (120 watts x 7) of total amplification. The receiver is built around Yamaha's digital ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) design concept, which maximizes digital signal quality and minimizes analog circuitry to ensure the best possible sound. ToP-ART receivers include such defining attributes as ultra-high-current amplification, high-performance 192 kHz/24-bit digital-to-analog converters, an upgraded Pure Direct listening mode that provides terrific signal purity, and an impressively wide frequency range of 10 Hz to 100 kHz that helps digital audio sources like DVD-Audio and Super Audio CD reach their full potential.
This receiver incorporates the HDMI 1.2a specification, which transmits pure, crystal-clear digital audio and video via a single cable as well transmit a 1080p signal from any 1080p component. And with the upconversion feature, your S-Video and composite video signals will be converted into higher quality HDMI/component signals to ensure the highest-quality picture on your HD monitor from any source. No more switching inputs according to which source you're using--rather, they can all go through the same HDMI/component connection. The receiver also offers the ultra-convenient Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer (YPAO), which employs an optimizer microphone at the listening position to pick up test tones from your speakers. The HTR-6090BL then analyzes the test tones to let you know which speaker configuration is best. It's like having a professional audio engineer tweak your system.
What really makes the HTR-6090BL special, however, is its number of high-end functions, such as the 480i to 480p de-interlacing, the superior multi-zone control for listeners with multi-room speaker systems, the assignable amplifiers for users who want to create bi-amped speaker connections, and the pair of HDMI inputs for high-quality digital audio and video data handling. Plus, the HTR-5990 not only includes a standard AM/FM tuner, but it's also XM satellite radio ready, making it fully compatible with any separately sold XM antenna.
Additional features include an accurate touch-volume control, an enhanced dialogue mode for movies, a selectable nine-band subwoofer crossover, a night listening mode that helps you clearly hear all the surround programs at low volumes, and a full-function learning remote control.
With a bevy of digital and analog inputs, the HTR-6090BL can accommodate a ton of digital sources such as DVD players, CD players, video game consoles, digital satellite systems, and much more. The rear panel options include the aforementioned pair of HDMI inputs and one output, four optical digital audio inputs and two outputs, two coaxial digital inputs and one output, three component video inputs and one output, five S-video inputs and three outputs (two assignable), five composite video inputs and three outputs (two assignable), and four analog audio inputs and two outputs. Also present are a 5.1 multichannel input, a full 7.1 surround pre-out, and a set of front-panel A/V inputs for quick connections.
The HTR-6090BL measures 17.1 by 6.75 by 16.7 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a two-year warranty.
What's in the Box HTR-6090BL receiver, remote control, four AAA batteries, power cable, speaker terminal wrench, optimizer microphone, AM loop antenna, indoor FM antenna, user's manual

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Onkyo TX-SR876 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)I have had this receiver for several weeks now. I was a little leary about purchasing this unit as it was being used in a room that does "double-duty" of being a place where I listen to high-end analog and digital music along with occasional use of a home-theatre. The primary purpose is music reproduction and I was tempted to go with tube-style amps and other gear in support of my vinyl record collection. But since there are always compromises in this area (space, money, etc) I decided to take a chance with this Onkyo. All I can say is WOW. I run 5.1 channels with bi-amplification on the front speakers (my one concession to music versus video). The sound reproduction is excellent. I have done a lot of comparison shopping and looked at a lot of different systems and I would have had to spend over $4-5K on hybrid tube amps to get sound better than this.
In terms of home theater, it is even better. It performs as advertised. Set-up was a breeze and the audessy is a pleasure to use and instantly "balanced" my room. For home theater use, it is incredible. Ground-shaking lows, booming sound when appropriate yet the most subtle sounds (such as dialogue at a low level) is outstanding. Some reviewers complain about it running hot. I have mine outside of any cabinet (top shelf of a component stand) and have run it for hours at 75-80% of max volume with no problems.
My two complaints are: The remote as the buttons are a bit hard to read in dim light (even with the back-lighting) and it only has 3 digital optical inputs. Given I use seperate CD and DVD players, along with a Laser Disc and other digital sources, I had to use the alternate digital cable connects. Not a big deal, I just expected more digital optical inputs.
In summary, if you are looking for a leading-edge video processing unit that has outastanding home-theater characterstics at a low price, then this is definitely it. Throw in the fact that it processes music far beyond the expectations one would have for solid-state receiver (especially at this price point) and you really have a great unit.
If you do decide to buy this, please note the dimensions and weight. This is a large, heavy receiver. And given the heat concerns of other posters, I would make sure it has plenty of "breathing room".

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Based on a winning design for high-definition home theater reproduction, the TX-SR876 is a comprehensive A/V processing "hub" with a deep reservoir of amplification power to draw on. Reveling in its new THX Ultra2 Plus certification, the TX-SR876 shows its class with a broad range of capabilities, phenomenal performance, and noticeable finesse.With its advanced HQV Reon-VX video processing-which enables upscaling to high-def 1080p-and supreme high-definition surround sound decoding, this receiver belongs in elite company. It's also one of the first receivers anywhere to employ ISF (Imaging Science Foundation) video calibration. From whatever movie, music, broadcast, or gaming source you choose, the TX-SR876 will impress time and time again.

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Pioneer Elite SC-35 - AV network receiver - 7.1 channel Review

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(More customer reviews)5star on the reciever itself and 2 star for the remote. The remote is a non issue to me since using a Harmony remote in it's place. The remote works as should but nothing spectacular.
Came from a NAD T762 that had a great sound and this Pioneer to my ears has met and maybe even exceeded it in sound quality. I am exclusively using digital inputs such as digital coax, optical and HDMI. So I have no experience with it's analog inputs. HTPC connected digital coax, Dtv box HDMI, Pan BD100 3D player HDMI, 360 and PS3 both HDMI.
HDMI experiences.
The HDMI passes 3D video to the TV as it should. When using the video enhancement it does lag the sound and require some tuning. Most of what I pass is already improved accept the standard def tv from DTV which when in enhanced mode it does improve the video a tad. No difference noted in HD content enhance on or off. So I just have the enhance turned off on all inputs.
With video gaming lag can be a problem. I have a Panasonic VT20 3D plasma that when gaming has to my experience 0 lag or damn near 0 when hooked directly to tv HDMI. I was worried I would gain lag through the pioneer. If it adds lag it is not noticed by me, of course with any enhancement turned off on the reciever and tv on game mode.
All HDMI inputs can be relabled accept the BD HDMI it can not be changed. Also if you run a HTPC as I do with HDMI video but sound via digital coax/optical it doesn't seem to work with both. It almost works but everytime I leave the OSD the sound goes away, the settings are saved cause once back into OSD the sound comes back. I think it is a HDMI copy right deal not pioneers fault. So I have the HTPC directly to TV and digital coax to reciever till I upgrade to a video card that carries sound via the HDMI also.
Self tune experience.
What can I say it is a breeze to run. Will it be perfect after running maybe maybe not for you. I am very pleased with the difference it made. I do like a bit more sub then it ended with but it allows tuning after the fact. It picked up my speakers and knew they where full range speakers.I have Paradigm studio's center and rear speakers with James LF and RF all very efficient speakers. At first they where very bright but after the self tune it was much improved and on par or even better to me then my NAD before.
I am very pleased with this reciever and highly recomend it. I was debating between this and the new Yamaha Aventage RXA2000. I can not comment on the RXA2000 for I have yet to see/hear one, but from the reviews it sounds like I couldn't go wrong with either the Pioneer I chose or the RXA2000. I am also a poor refrence for the added sounds etc since I always tend to preffer a non altered sound. I keep audio set to play what it was recorded as IE if in stereo it stays stereo and if 5.1 DTS it stays as such. I also do not use the sound altering settings either for hallway, concert hall etc. So to wrap this up this reciever delivers a great sound and performs digital switching flawlessly so far and I am very pleased with it.
Have a good one,

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Onkyo HT-S5200 7.1-Channel Home Entertainment Receiver/Speaker Package with iPod Dock (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)If you are going to spend big bucks on a large screen TV, why not get a good quality audio system too. Any of them will beat TV speakers. Given the amount of time most people use their TV, would encourage others to get a good audio system if they can afford it. This thing brings a whole new dimension to movies as well as other programming.
So far, have the center and front speakers hooked up along with the sub woofer. Like the adjustable active sub woofer volume knob. Have more speaker wire on the way for the long wire runs on my side and rear speakers. Am not using HDMI cables on my standard definition system yet. Next, will begin mounting more speakers with the Sanus mount system.
The clear and deep sound quality of this powerful 1200 watt system is great for the money- as many reputable online review sources said. The powered (110 volt) 290 watt subwoofer will make the floor shake, windows rattle and my cat head for cover. One can crank up the volume to the point where the house is vibrating but it still maintains clarity and quality sound. They include cheap little plastic protective pads to keep the sub woofer from marking floors. After watching a James Bond movie with it, believe the 10" sub woofer, that is pointed straight down, was designed so viewers could feel explosions and such for it sure shakes the floorboards. It gives one a sense of being right in the action scenes when you can actually feel the movie. All of the wires are fully color coded making it easy to hook up with no mistakes. It would be hard to be unable to get this system up and running properly if you pay attention to the easy set up guide.
Consumer Reports rated the Onkyo 5100 model that this system recently replaced their highest rated choice for a home theater system. It was the only model that they rated "very good" for sound quality. All of the rest only rated "good" per their opinion. This 5200 model is a new release to replace their 5100 system. Wonder just how many systems CR tested total.
You can't go too far wrong here for high sound quality at a budget price. One review source said Onkyo consistently beats other brands.
My goal was high quality sound and realism at a reasonable price. Will add extras (blu-ray player...) after I have the system set up and properly tuned with their included syncronization mic system that automatically adjusts the system for each unique application, room size, etc.
Everything about this HTIB is big including the large, heavy box it comes in. Physics is physics- that's how they get the clear, deep, high quality sound out of the sound chambers. All of the speakers have a real wood grain laminate exterior finish- look good. There are numerous higher priced Onkyo home theater systems and one lower priced model than this one.
Oct. 6, '09: Consumer Reports has now put this one- the Onkyo 5200 system in their number one spot with a Yamaha YHT-591 model second at $600 and a cheaper Yamaha YHT-391 ($300) in third place. They have these three systems rated "very good" for sound quality currently. Been enjoying mine about everyday now. Especially using it for XM music from my Direct TV satellite connection. Am now working on getting a good old fashion TV antenna 34' feet into the air with a powered pre amplifer on it for all of my regional broadcast stations. The amplified rabbit ears have to go with what's available free off the airways nowadays.
Nov. 13, 2009: Am definitely getting my money worth out of this system. Use it a lot for XM music. Usually last less than five minutes before I switch from TV speakers to the home theater system and turn off the TV- great sound quality. There is no comparison with TV speakers. It is comparable to a high quality stereo system.
Dec. 9 2009: Consumer Reports now has the Onkyo 7200 model ($800) in 1st place with the 5200 model in 2nd. They rated the Yamaha YHT-391 ($300) system a best buy. CR rated all of them "very good" for sound quality. Have noticed that many appear to like the Onkyo 6200 model system for its capabilities.
Bought my Onkyo 5200 HTIB system back when they were going for a best price of $500.00 or more at about all of the larger online retailers. Paid $443.00 for my system new including shipping from a small but reputable seller but I have no factory warranty for Onkyo does not see fit to cover their products unless you purchase them from an "authorized Onkyo dealer". So far, have not encountered anything I have not been able to figure out using the owner's manual. Hopefully, it will not need repair service anytime in the near (or distant) future. It appears that Amazon is an authorized Onkyo dealer.
Guess you can tell, I'm happy with this HTIB. It has the level of sound quality and power that I wanted. It was money well spent. Don't comprimise sound quality just to get a system with a built in DVD/Blu-ray player. The live concerts Direct TV broadcasts periodically are great with this system and a 52" LCD TV.
After watching a live Jethro Tull concert last weekend and a live Toto concert this weekend with this thing cranked up just right, must add: if you have a hang up about the size of the speakers, do yourself a big favor and get past it.
May 2010: See that Amazon now has a similar looking Onkyo 5300 model currently for sale for $39.00 more. It probably has technical improvements. Looks like it's a newer model. Check out Onkyo's website at [...].




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If you want an idea of where Onkyo's home theater packages are heading, the HT-S5200 is well worth checking out. Like previous Onkyo 7.1-channel receiver/speaker packages, the HT-S5200 delivers reassuringly hefty amounts of power and all-round performance.And in line with other recent offerings, it's also perfectly suited for high-definition entertainment in the home: 1080p video takes center stage from sources such as Blu-ray Disc, DVD, HD broadcasting, and gaming. The emphasis is still on Onkyo's audio prowess, so the HT-S5200 is equipped with three groundbreaking Audyssey technologies that will give you the edge in terms of surround sound. It also features some exciting innovations from Onkyo: a dedicated port that connects the iPod via the Dock for the iPod and DSP modes specifically designed for gaming.

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