Value for the money. Overall, I'm very pleased with the receiver.

The universal remot is irritating for a number of reasons.

I purchased the receiver on the strength of the reviews listed on this site (I find this site to be an incredible resource generally) and I have not been disappointed. I notice that all of the reviewers here gave this unit high grades for its DD and DTS performance. I have yet to experince these capabilities(as I am still contemplating the type of DVD player to buy...) but I'm sure I'll be impressed. However, some reviewers have questioned the audio CD quality of this reciever. Unfortuntaly, I have not had the opportunity to compare this receiver with other on my system (which currently consists of Sound Dyamics RTS-3 front speaker and a Polk Audio 8" subwoofer, both of which I am very happy with) and therefore do not have a good reference point from which to comment -but - I can offer these comments:

There are certain CDs which for lack of better words, don't seem to sound as good as they could, and it seems like no amount of tonal adjustment (though I haven't bothered to pick up an equaliser, and I don't think it would allow me to get that "perfrect" sound anyway) could give me that "perfect sound". There are however, certain CDs (like Sade's greatest hits, or depeche mode) that sound absolutely outstanding - i.e. I can't imagine how one could get a much better sound. That leads me to thing that the compromise in sound quality on some of my cds may just be inherent in the CD (ie, they would sould more or less like that with any receiver) or in another part of my system (like my pathetic cd player!). It's tough to say.

Certain features of the remote are irritating (aside from the small buttons) - specifically, the remote seems to "reset" itself after after a certian period of time (i.e. you press "TV" so you can use the thing to switch TV channels, then, if you haven't switched channels in a while (i.e. 10 min), your have to hunt for the "TV" button again to set the remot in "TV" mode so that you can use it to switch channels again). This is definately a pain in the ass.

But aside from those minor criticisms (some of which may not be the fault of the receiver - ie. sound quality on certain audio cds) I think the receiver offers outstanding value for the money, it's future proof, with plenty of connectivity etc. Overall a solid purchase.


, indicated that the performance of this receiver in respect of audio CD is purchase Generally, I feel the unit offers great value for the money. Some reviewers here have complained about the quality of CD audio

Similar Products Used:

none

Amazingly clear DD, DTS audio. Relatively easy to use, lots and lots of connectors.

The remote: cheap. However, it does the basic functions and that's all I use it for anyway. No surround for CD music.

First of all let me start by saying that I am not an audiophile. I have not trained my ears to detect sounds outside the range of normal human hearing. Anyone who thinks they can hear a sound at 50,000 kHz is out of their gourd.
Now that that's said. Let's get on with it. I purchased the receiver because my old 307 did not have DTS decoding. I had heard various stories about DTS and DD and how they were similar and different. After five minutes of the T2 Ultimate Edition DVD in DTS, I have come to the overwhelming conclusion that DTS is INDEED superior, and that it is INDEED worth replacing your receiver for. This baby has DTS and that's what I wanted.
One interesting thing to note is that, when left on at a low volume for an hour or more, the receiver begins to smell. Now, I don't know that much about electronics, but I do know that if something stinks, there's usually a problem. It could just be the fact that it's new, but I would rather err on the side of caution. If anyone has any ideas as to why this receiver emitted a foul smell (no jokes please!!!) please email me at n2quake@hotmail.com.
I would have to agree with the other reviewers when I say that while this receiver's performance with music is better than average, it's DD/DTS performance is ASTOUNDING. I am currently running mine with a KLH HTA-9005 surround speaker package (bought at amazon.com), and the sound is simply incredible. I was, suffice to say, less than prepared for the shocking clarity of DTS. It's too bad more movies don't have it. If you have any doubt about DTS.....perhaps you don't want to spend a lot to get it....buy this receiver. But I'm telling you right now, once you hear DTS, you'll be scrounging for special DTS encoded DVD's.
Some of you may join the reviewer from London who proclaimed that he had sex with his receiver. DTS has been known to have this effect on people. Just remember, this thing gets pretty warm when you use it, so don't go exposing any sensitive flesh to the vents above the internal heatsink!!!!
Final word: believe what I and just about every other reviewer on this site have said....this receiver kicks ass, and for the money, it's EXTREMELY hard to find a better value. If you wanna go and spend $1000 dollars or more on a receiver that you think is "better," go right ahead, but I'll be the one laughing, not you.

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Kenwood VR-307 (replaced by 407)

Inexpensive, loaded features, easy to connect.
Good/Powerful sub.

Remote, speaker/sub wires

DVD movies come alive and so enjoyable. Experience so good with my 61inch TV, we only go to the theater just to get out of the house (audio sound so much better at home). I would highly recommended this HTB-503 system to anyone who cannot afford much more expensive hardware (and have good ears to tell the difference). If you only have around $500 to spend, this is the only system to look at. Others may cost you more but maynot deliver the same substance. I changed the front speakers to a JBL set and everything is even better (the Kenwood are also good).
Don't walk, run out to buy. This system give you the best for your money.

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Sony.

Clear sound, DTS/Dolby Digital, # of ins & outs

None I can see.

This receiver came with the HTB-503. I bought it for about $370. The system is excellent for the price. Have shopped around for many other systems; either they were way over budget (understandable for the quality they produce) or not all the features I was looking for.

The receiver is able to provide equal power to all the speakers. The sound is clear. I have played over 50 DVDs and about 100 CDs. No problems or concerns at all. I would rate this a must-buy for low budgets. It is also extensible for future upgrades and speakers.

No complaints about the remote. The remote is small but not at all a problem to use. Clear prints and explanations are provided on the usage. Even the manual is pretty detailed and explains things.

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None

Terrific DD & dts decoding, 3 digital inputs, s-video inputs, great price

Cheapo remote, but most of us probably use a universal remote anyway

Got this as a replacement to my 209, which didn't have dts. To my ears, the 407 sounds as good as the 209 (which was terrific). DD DVD's sound great, with dts sounding even crisper & bassier. Just try the opening battle sequence in "Saving Private Ryan" as a dts reference, and the opening credits sequence in "The Mask of Zorro" as a DD reference. Both will blow you away. This is a good receiver for movies, but only an okay receiver for listening to CDs (which come off a bit tinny sounding). Overall though, a solid receiver at a great price. I got mine at 800.com with a small discount going through ebates.com

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Kenwood VR-209, Sony DPL receiver

4 Digital inputs, Good DD and DTS decoding

Remote, Too small and not very many codes

Happy with sound and extra inputs I didn't have on Pioneer. DTS is also great. Found an open box at Circuit City for $199. Remote is ok for setup but then put it away and use a good learning remote.

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Pioneer VSXD-607S

inputs, all in one package, PRICE

Remote. Not earth shattering or able to knock pictures off the wall. Two fronts will scream pretty loud but sub works hard for ground shaking base.

The amount of inputs and digital capability make this a top of the line model (at least till 6.1 comes out). You cannot beat the price in my opinion. I did not do a lot of shopping and comparing but everywhere I looked they wanted at least $500 for this unit. I got mine for $400 from shoppers advantage. I compared this model to the pioneer equivilant and looked at reviews on this site and it seemed the kenwood was a better buy. Setup is relatively easy but I have not got a dvd hooked up yet either. The "all in one package" is a great convenience. The system is not for knocking pictures off the wall but for home theater, I think it will be awesome (no dvd yet). I am a little disappointed with music listening power. I wanted to bother the neighbors, shake their house. I don't think this is going to happen. The sub has to work pretty hard to hit like I like it. But, for the price (especially at $400) I don't think you can beat it. I would give 4.5 stars but that is not an option.

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None

Value package deal, plenty of input/output connections

Remote looks like it came from a doll house, instructions are pathetic

I got the receiver and speaker package in an effort to obtain my first total surround sound system. I am by no means an Audiophile, and I only want to hear the aliens attack from all angles when watching Pitch Black (what a flick!) I knew when I bought this system that it wasn't the best that was available on the market, but for the money it is an excellent purchase. In general, Kenwood has solid home equipment - which encourage my purchase.

I "thought" that since this was a package deal that the setup would be extremely simple. First off, I do have a solid basis of equipment assembly and cable connections, which only adds to my ability to put a system like this together. Although, I was installing a new TV (51" RPTV), a new DVD player, the receiver, and the speakers all at once. A lot to bite off at once, but I was game.

Connections are clearly labeled on the receiver. Plugging the speakers in and locating them was simple - but the instructionst that explained the operation of the equipment was pathetic. I felt like Alice talking to the Mad Hatter ever time I re-read the instructions. Case and point is the fact that the instructions NEVER say that in order to operate in surround mode you MUST turn off speakers B. In fact, speakers B are useless unless you have speakers in a location other than your entertainment room (like speakers on the porch if you live in Florida :). The instructions are very poor at explaining what the different functions do, and how to filter through them to get the performance you want.

However, with a little search on the web (like the one you are doing now), these issues can be quickly resolved and you have a very solid surround system (with DTS decoding :) that generates and awesome home entertainment experience.

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Pioneer (Model # ? - hey, I got it at a pawn shop years ago while I was in college...)

Fantastic Sound.
Fully featured receiver/package with lots of options
Great value

Could use on-screen display
Setup a little tricky with many video components

I bought this package (5 + the subwoofer) after looking for the best value home theater package. I have had it for 10 months now and it still continues to impress me.
Power is quite sufficient for any needs I have and is more than anyone with neighbors and a desire to avoid a noise citation could possibly need. I generally keep it below -40.

The subwoofer rocks. Nough said.
DTS movies through my Apex DVD player are crystal clear and unbelievable. Hearing DTS movies has got to be seen to be believed.

Video is crystal clear and easy to use.
Complaints: included speaker wire blows (buy your own!), provided remote is a little sketchy, and this could really use an onscreen display. Setup can be a pain due to the nearly nonexistent manual, but once you get it set up it's quite easy to work.

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None

Sounds really great in DTS and DOlby Digital formats. Lots of digital ins, rca ins and s-video siwtching.

remote and manual

Excellent receiver for the price
Now, I am only 16 years old and in no way consider myself an audiophile! But in a prior review someone wrore that you can't adjust the bass in Pro Logic, is that even possible? e-mail me the answer bitemyass12@hotmail.com
Anyways, If you want DTS and DD this is the receiver for you. With the money I saved buying this receiver I was able to buy 2 PSB surrounds a 12" polk audio sub and 2 polk audio front floor standing speakers. I must say through the use of my Kenwood DV-503 DVD player Saving private Ryan sounds f***ing awesome. Other good titles to pick up include, Enemy at the gates, Terminator 1 and 2, Fast and the furious (say what you want that movie is cool) and Driven. Value rating 5 because of DTS and DD at such a low price. Overall rating 4 because of the remote, manual and just overall stereo sound. Thank you.

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Sonys and JVC's