Which mid tier AVR from USA with also decent stereo sound.

[rpanand25]

I am presently in USA for few months and am thinking of buying an AVR. My budget is upto around US $800 and I am ready to buy open box model etc in like new or excellent condition which come with manufacturer’s standard warranty and return. I am aware if it is 110 volts I have to but a step down transformer in India. There are some sites selling 240 volts AVR but I am not sure of their reliability and returns policy. Although warranty will not be there I may perhaps be able to send it back in case of any issue from india with relatives. Anyway, I will be using it in 5.0 configuration here in USA for some time and so the initial issues can be sorted out.

I am looking in Amazon, Crutchfield, Best Buy, Walmart etc

The approximate prices in Dollars (taken at Rs 85/dollar) of some of the models both pre owned and new. It will vary according to seller, website and condition.


New open box /refurbished

Onkyo TX-NR7100 730 560

Onkyo TX-RZ30 999 750

Onkyo TX-RZ50 1159 838

Yamaha RX-A2A 699 499

Yamaha RX A4A 999 699

Emotiva BasX MR1L 1199 spring sale now against 1599 regular price

BasX MR1L 9.2 Channel Dolby Atmos® & DTS:X™ Cinema Receiver

How long have you been waiting for a receiver that can actually deliver the superb uncompromising performance of separate components? The BasX MR1L cinema receiver combines a high-performance 13.2 channel immersive surround sound processor, and an audiophile quality 9 channel amplifier, in a...

emotiva.com

I would like Atmos so 5.1.2 will suffice. But since I need a decent 2 channel sound also but not necessarily audiophile level, I have gone for mid tier models. Some are 9 channel models.

I have excluded Denon because of 1. Reported high HDMI issues and 2. Laid back sound compared to others. However I am open to suggestion and models below the above price level as I am not looking spend too much. Emotiva has been added as they have got good reputation of trouble free working and solid build quality. Their specifications are also not inflated. It can be serviced in Bengaluru by the authorized dealer on payment basis. Although not mainstream as the other. the above aspects attract me despite the higher price. I am not aware of AVR sound profile although I found with my Emotiva stereo amp TA 100 that mids and highs particularly are little recessed.

What made me think of US purchase was that one dealer in Bengaluru has quoted as under

TX-NR-7100 : 1,71,300/- 9.2 Ch

TX-RZ-30 : 1,89,800/- 9.2 Ch

Even accounting fo rsome reduction with bargaining, the rates may still be are very high for me.

Athough my hall is 29*11, I will be using about 15*11 portion with one side open accounting for another 14 feet in length.


1.The views on the above AVRs with reference to perceived troubles, issues etc.
2. Two channel sound in these.
3.Forum members experience in bringing from USA.
4.I have gone through some posts in the forum but any other inputs/pointers would be welcome.
5. Buying dual voltage 120/240 volt AVR in USA. Emotiva is dual voltage.

 

[sandeepmohan]

Eyes closed get the Emotiva. It supports dual voltage

 

[Phani24]

I am presently in USA for few months and am thinking of buying an AVR. My budget is upto around US $800 and I am ready to buy open box model etc in like new or excellent condition which come with manufacturer’s standard warranty and return. I am aware if it is 110 volts I have to but a step down transformer in India. There are some sites selling 240 volts AVR but I am not sure of their reliability and returns policy. Although warranty will not be there I may perhaps be able to send it back in case of any issue from india with relatives. Anyway, I will be using it in 5.0 configuration here in USA for some time and so the initial issues can be sorted out.

I am looking in Amazon, Crutchfield, Best Buy, Walmart etc

The approximate prices in Dollars (taken at Rs 85/dollar) of some of the models both pre owned and new. It will vary according to seller, website and condition.


New open box /refurbished

Onkyo TX-NR7100 730 560

Onkyo TX-RZ30 999 750

Onkyo TX-RZ50 1159 838

Yamaha RX-A2A 699 499

Yamaha RX A4A 999 699

Emotiva BasX MR1L 1199 spring sale now against 1599 regular price

BasX MR1L 9.2 Channel Dolby Atmos® & DTS:X™ Cinema Receiver

How long have you been waiting for a receiver that can actually deliver the superb uncompromising performance of separate components? The BasX MR1L cinema receiver combines a high-performance 13.2 channel immersive surround sound processor, and an audiophile quality 9 channel amplifier, in a...

emotiva.com

I would like Atmos so 5.1.2 will suffice. But since I need a decent 2 channel sound also but not necessarily audiophile level, I have gone for mid tier models. Some are 9 channel models.

I have excluded Denon because of 1. Reported high HDMI issues and 2. Laid back sound compared to others. However I am open to suggestion and models below the above price level as I am not looking spend too much. Emotiva has been added as they have got good reputation of trouble free working and solid build quality. Their specifications are also not inflated. It can be serviced in Bengaluru by the authorized dealer on payment basis. Although not mainstream as the other. the above aspects attract me despite the higher price. I am not aware of AVR sound profile although I found with my Emotiva stereo amp TA 100 that mids and highs particularly are little recessed.

What made me think of US purchase was that one dealer in Bengaluru has quoted as under

TX-NR-7100 : 1,71,300/- 9.2 Ch

TX-RZ-30 : 1,89,800/- 9.2 Ch

Even accounting fo rsome reduction with bargaining, the rates may still be are very high for me.

Athough my hall is 29*11, I will be using about 15*11 portion with one side open accounting for another 14 feet in length.


1.The views on the above AVRs with reference to perceived troubles, issues etc.
2. Two channel sound in these.
3.Forum members experience in bringing from USA.
4.I have gone through some posts in the forum but any other inputs/pointers would be welcome.
5. Buying dual voltage 120/240 volt AVR in USA. Emotiva is dual voltage.

Tx Rz30 and 7100 you are quoting mrps. Actual price much lesser with discount.

 

[caspian1985]

I am presently in USA for few months and am thinking of buying an AVR. My budget is upto around US $800 and I am ready to buy open box model etc in like new or excellent condition which come with manufacturer’s standard warranty and return. I am aware if it is 110 volts I have to but a step down transformer in India. There are some sites selling 240 volts AVR but I am not sure of their reliability and returns policy. Although warranty will not be there I may perhaps be able to send it back in case of any issue from india with relatives. Anyway, I will be using it in 5.0 configuration here in USA for some time and so the initial issues can be sorted out.

I am looking in Amazon, Crutchfield, Best Buy, Walmart etc

The approximate prices in Dollars (taken at Rs 85/dollar) of some of the models both pre owned and new. It will vary according to seller, website and condition.


New open box /refurbished

Onkyo TX-NR7100 730 560

Onkyo TX-RZ30 999 750

Onkyo TX-RZ50 1159 838

Yamaha RX-A2A 699 499

Yamaha RX A4A 999 699

Emotiva BasX MR1L 1199 spring sale now against 1599 regular price

BasX MR1L 9.2 Channel Dolby Atmos® & DTS:X™ Cinema Receiver

How long have you been waiting for a receiver that can actually deliver the superb uncompromising performance of separate components? The BasX MR1L cinema receiver combines a high-performance 13.2 channel immersive surround sound processor, and an audiophile quality 9 channel amplifier, in a...

emotiva.com

I would like Atmos so 5.1.2 will suffice. But since I need a decent 2 channel sound also but not necessarily audiophile level, I have gone for mid tier models. Some are 9 channel models.

I have excluded Denon because of 1. Reported high HDMI issues and 2. Laid back sound compared to others. However I am open to suggestion and models below the above price level as I am not looking spend too much. Emotiva has been added as they have got good reputation of trouble free working and solid build quality. Their specifications are also not inflated. It can be serviced in Bengaluru by the authorized dealer on payment basis. Although not mainstream as the other. the above aspects attract me despite the higher price. I am not aware of AVR sound profile although I found with my Emotiva stereo amp TA 100 that mids and highs particularly are little recessed.

What made me think of US purchase was that one dealer in Bengaluru has quoted as under

TX-NR-7100 : 1,71,300/- 9.2 Ch

TX-RZ-30 : 1,89,800/- 9.2 Ch

Even accounting fo rsome reduction with bargaining, the rates may still be are very high for me.

Athough my hall is 29*11, I will be using about 15*11 portion with one side open accounting for another 14 feet in length.


1.The views on the above AVRs with reference to perceived troubles, issues etc.
2. Two channel sound in these.
3.Forum members experience in bringing from USA.
4.I have gone through some posts in the forum but any other inputs/pointers would be welcome.
5. Buying dual voltage 120/240 volt AVR in USA. Emotiva is dual voltage.

Of this list get the RZ-30. It’s the newest model of the lot ( 2024 release ) so will have the most up to date processor etc. You’ll also get Dirac Live full bandwidth included ( worth $350 ) plus an option to upgrade to DLBC for $299

 

[arunkvivek]

JBL AVRs are dual voltage as well. Safeandsoundhq website has really good open box deals.
Audiogon at times has 220V europe equipments sold by expats.

 

[kbhuvi]

Please remember that audio service centres of most of the companies do not provide service, even if one is willing to pay, for imported electronics. You would be at the mercy of local technicians, if you are able to find one.

This could be an issue in terms of future requirements for service.

 

[rpanand25]

Eyes closed get the Emotiva. It supports dual voltage.--

Despite good power output even with all channel driven, it has only HDMI2.0, no streaming capabilities etc as per review of Andrew Robinson. Actually he was wondering what Emotiva proposed to achieve with a bare bone receiver MRL1 albeit with good power ratings.

.

Safeandsoundhq website has really good open box deals

I am looking at other sites. Problem is many retailers ask you to pay for returns in case your return because you don't like after hearing it. Also restocking fees may be charged. Not like Amazon.
I checked with another retailer Electronics Expo and they quoted as under
Onkyo TX-RZ30: $799.00 brand-new .Yamaha Aventage A4A: $949.99 brand-new

Tx Rz30 and 7100 you are quoting mrps.

The ONKYO website lists even higher MSRP.

Of this list get the RZ-30. It’s the newest model of the lot ( 2024 release )

RZ 30 looks promising but some reviewers raised issues with Dirac live with provided mic. They recommended UMIC 1 which costs $74 on miniDSP site and also to use PC for better calibration. It is attractive as it is available new for $800 from Electronics Expo with full manufacturer's warranty. This seller appears to be reliable going by reviews.
There there is the issue of "limping mode" some reviewers were talking of the power being restricted if you choose 4 ohm speaker impedance.
I am still searching but tariffs may also impact sooner than later in US.

 

[sandeepmohan]

Despite good power output even with all channel driven, it has only HDMI2.0, no streaming capabilities etc as per review of Andrew Robinson. Actually he was wondering what Emotiva proposed to achieve with a bare bone receiver MRL1 albeit with good power ratings.

Bare bones is what you want. All the mainstream brands stash a whole lot of krapp. 9 out of 10 features, you won't use.
It has Bluetooth so can certainly stream from your phone. It can't stream directly from the unit. Not the end of the world.
HDMI 2.0b gives you eArc, 4k, Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support. What else do you really need?

 

[Acoustician Abhilesh]

I am presently in USA for few months and am thinking of buying an AVR. My budget is upto around US $800 and I am ready to buy open box model etc in like new or excellent condition which come with manufacturer’s standard warranty and return. I am aware if it is 110 volts I have to but a step down transformer in India. There are some sites selling 240 volts AVR but I am not sure of their reliability and returns policy. Although warranty will not be there I may perhaps be able to send it back in case of any issue from india with relatives. Anyway, I will be using it in 5.0 configuration here in USA for some time and so the initial issues can be sorted out.

I am looking in Amazon, Crutchfield, Best Buy, Walmart etc

The approximate prices in Dollars (taken at Rs 85/dollar) of some of the models both pre owned and new. It will vary according to seller, website and condition.


New open box /refurbished

Onkyo TX-NR7100 730 560

Onkyo TX-RZ30 999 750

Onkyo TX-RZ50 1159 838

Yamaha RX-A2A 699 499

Yamaha RX A4A 999 699

Emotiva BasX MR1L 1199 spring sale now against 1599 regular price

BasX MR1L 9.2 Channel Dolby Atmos® & DTS:X™ Cinema Receiver

How long have you been waiting for a receiver that can actually deliver the superb uncompromising performance of separate components? The BasX MR1L cinema receiver combines a high-performance 13.2 channel immersive surround sound processor, and an audiophile quality 9 channel amplifier, in a...

emotiva.com

I would like Atmos so 5.1.2 will suffice. But since I need a decent 2 channel sound also but not necessarily audiophile level, I have gone for mid tier models. Some are 9 channel models.

I have excluded Denon because of 1. Reported high HDMI issues and 2. Laid back sound compared to others. However I am open to suggestion and models below the above price level as I am not looking spend too much. Emotiva has been added as they have got good reputation of trouble free working and solid build quality. Their specifications are also not inflated. It can be serviced in Bengaluru by the authorized dealer on payment basis. Although not mainstream as the other. the above aspects attract me despite the higher price. I am not aware of AVR sound profile although I found with my Emotiva stereo amp TA 100 that mids and highs particularly are little recessed.

What made me think of US purchase was that one dealer in Bengaluru has quoted as under

TX-NR-7100 : 1,71,300/- 9.2 Ch

TX-RZ-30 : 1,89,800/- 9.2 Ch

Even accounting fo rsome reduction with bargaining, the rates may still be are very high for me.

Athough my hall is 29*11, I will be using about 15*11 portion with one side open accounting for another 14 feet in length.


1.The views on the above AVRs with reference to perceived troubles, issues etc.
2. Two channel sound in these.
3.Forum members experience in bringing from USA.
4.I have gone through some posts in the forum but any other inputs/pointers would be welcome.
5. Buying dual voltage 120/240 volt AVR in USA. Emotiva is dual voltage.

try Sony STR AN 1000, there is no coming back from it for music as well as movies around 700 dollars on Best Buy...its 360 spatial mapping is out of world for atmos music

 

[rpanand25]

While I am considering the various suggestions like JBL, Sony etc., in the current Memorial day sales Integra 3.4 is available for $569 for a new unit. It sits above Onkyo NR 7100 and just below Onkyo RZ 30 as far as I could see in specifications. Although it is a old model (2021) it still is in their website also. Although it outputs 100wpc at 8 ohms two channel driven, I think I can expect around 60 wpc all channels driven, given the Class AB efficiencies. It is quoted at 750 watts total.
I am more concerned with the robustness of HDMI board of 3.4 and I am searching for feedback in this regard. Onkyo RX 30 is available for $800 new and I wouldnot mind the price if it gives gives peace of mind on HDMi front . RZ 30 is not that much of a step up on specifications over 3.4 if independent subs etc. donot matter.

 

[rwnano]

Buy an older harman kardon avr prior to 2004. My suggestion.

 

[caspian1985]

While I am considering the various suggestions like JBL, Sony etc., in the current Memorial day sales Integra 3.4 is available for $569 for a new unit. It sits above Onkyo NR 7100 and just below Onkyo RZ 30 as far as I could see in specifications. Although it is a old model (2021) it still is in their website also. Although it outputs 100wpc at 8 ohms two channel driven, I think I can expect around 60 wpc all channels driven, given the Class AB efficiencies. It is quoted at 750 watts total.
I am more concerned with the robustness of HDMI board of 3.4 and I am searching for feedback in this regard. Onkyo RX 30 is available for $800 new and I wouldnot mind the price if it gives gives peace of mind on HDMi front . RZ 30 is not that much of a step up on specifications over 3.4 if independent subs etc. donot matter.

Integra is more premium than Onkyo - they say it has better components, much more robust testing and quality parameters

 

[insane79]

Not worth the trouble getting from USA, If getting from Europe/Dubai/UK or Singapore then it makes sense. The Step Down transformer will just eat away the performance & the Avr will have Zero resale value over here once you decide to upgrade.

My 2 cents..

 

[Nitin K]

Not worth the trouble getting from USA, If getting from Europe/Dubai/UK or Singapore then it makes sense. The Step Down transformer will just eat away the performance & the Avr will have Zero resale value over here once you decide to upgrade.

My 2 cents..

Totally agree especially if the same brands are available here without being too expensive and comes with warranty.
Excess baggage + duty + taxes will have to be taken into account if it is being brought from the US.

 

[rpanand25]

Not worth the trouble getting from USA, If getting from Europe/Dubai/UK or Singapore then it makes sense. The Step Down transformer will just eat away the performance & the Avr will have Zero resale value over here once you decide to upgrade.

My 2 cents..

Can you pl explain how the step down transformer will stifle performance. If efficiency of transformer is concerned, I have read in forums to get almost double the rated wattage of AVR.
I am looking for 240 volts AVR but that restricts me to Emotiva and JBL MA series. I am also exploring sites which offer dual voltage AVRs of other brands but not yet found the models I seek.

 

[rpanand25]

Totally agree especially if the same brands are available here without being too expensive and comes with warranty.
Excess baggage + duty + taxes will have to be taken into account if it is being brought from the US.

Pl see post#1. The rates quoted are more than double. I would prefer to buy in India factoring in all said by you but at a reasonable increase over US cost but so far I have not found any seller in India. Any pointers in this regard from members would be welcome.
I have carried all the my items from USA through Delhi and Mumbai Airports in checked in baggage without any extra being paid. In fact my 35 pound Subwoofer(Emotiva dual voltage) was carried in the original carton box in open as one checked item few years back. I hope this continues this time also.

 

[Nitin K]

Pl see post#1. The rates quoted are more than double. I would prefer to buy in India factoring in all said by you but at a reasonable increase over US cost but so far I have not found any seller in India. Any pointers in this regard from members would be welcome.
I have carried all the my items from USA through Delhi and Mumbai Airports in checked in baggage without any extra being paid. In fact my 35 pound Subwoofer(Emotiva dual voltage) was carried in the original carton box in open as one checked item few years back. I hope this continues this time also.

I had bought the Marantz avr in 2018 and it was almost on par with international rates.
The Rel HT sub bought in India was also as per the prevailing international rates at that point in time few years back.
The main issue is that if in case there is any issue in the new unit bought from the US, the dealers over here may not honour the warranty. Besides you will have to go with a step down transformer.
While in a lot of other brands , I do agree that the prices in India are expensive but the common ones like Onkyo, Denon, Marantz, Wharfedale etc the prices may be similar over here. I am not familiar with the present rates though.
If in case you have made up your mind to get from the US and open to preowned gear, then US audiomart is a good option and better than Audiogon where the price is concerned. Pls see the seller ratings before buying. All the best...

 

[dashy]

Emotiva AV receivers!