Which receiver for Ascends? HK or Denon?

[chas]

Thanks for the update....let us know how everything sounds together.

[sharerware]

I received my refurb Denon yesterday from Second Act. It looks (and smelled) brand new. After a time, I was able to hook up my Ascends to the Denon, and play some music. I'll post my thoughts of the combo and I configure everything (and figure out all of these features and options).

BTW, everything about Second Act was great. They answered my emails promptly, and shipped the Denon out quickly.

Funny how things have changed since then. As it turns out, the refurb Denon was still defective. After I suspected that the problems I was having was due to the receiver, and not the speakers, I rushed out and picked an Onkyo 674. I'm quite pleased with the Onkyo paired up with the Ascends and HSU sub. Couldn't be happier. It's just so amazing!

Now I have to figure out how to deal with this Denon paperweight...

[chas]

Funny, I was just reading reviews of the 674 last night. Did the Denon work well enough at anytime to be able to compare the sound with the Onkyo?

[sharerware]

Funny, I was just reading reviews of the 674 last night. Did the Denon work well enough at anytime to be able to compare the sound with the Onkyo?

I didn't really get much of a chance to listen critically to the Denon before it started crackling, but of what I did hear, it seemed to sound just as good. One thing is for sure, I like the rear layout on the Onkyo better than the Denon. I had a much easier time connecting the speakers to the 674.

[chas]

How hot does the Onkyo get? I've heard they run on the hot side, and my rack has very limited to clearance (though it's open on the sides).

[sharerware]

How hot does the Onkyo get? I've heard they run on the hot side, and my rack has very limited to clearance (though it's open on the sides).

OK. Later this evening, I'll reply back with the results.
Mike

[kirkup]

How hot does the Onkyo get? I've heard they run on the hot side, and my rack has very limited to clearance (though it's open on the sides).

I have an Onkyo 674 that I am running with Ascend 170SEs R&L, 360C, 200s in the back and a HSU VTF-1. It sounds great for both music and HT. It does run warm, but not uncomfortable,to the touch. I have open sides and about six inches on top. This is my first Onkyo and it was a pain to set up. However, I am technologically challanged. Those speakers sounded very good with my ancient Panasonic receiver too, but no up to date surround sound..

[chas]

Thanks for the feedback on the heat.

[sharerware]

Listened to a CD and watched a movie, with the volume cranked up. It really wasn't hot at all.

[chas]

Good to know...thanks for taking the time to check it out and report!