Recommendations for a stereo receiver

[volunteer]

I would appreciate any brand names, stores, etc. to purchase a new stereo receiver, 300 to 500W. Receiver only not one of the mini or regular systems. Sound quality important

[zepper]

You don't hear much about it any more but Sherwood receivers have unusually good sound for the money. You can get superceded models for low bux from places like Rex.. And I've always liked the sound of Yamaha electronics or if you are rich, there's always Onkyo.
.bh.

[rrbasich]

I've been into audio gear for a couple decades, so I can make some recommendations. First try the online forums at audioasylum.com. The forums have been around for several years and are searchable. You can ask questions there, and you will likely get a broader respose than you will find here.

As for the quality of stereo receivers, most of the brand names you will find in a Best Buy, Good Guys, or Circuit City are nothing to get excited about. Yes, gear like Yamaha and Sony ES will probably suit your purpose if you just need to hook up an audio system. But the good stuff gets pricy. Check out audiogon.com if you want to look at better quality equipment; it's where audiophiles go to trade. Cost of individual components can run from several hundred to several thousand dollars. So, the question has to be asked, what is your budget?

You indicate you want gear that puts out between 300 and 500 watts. Let me tell you friend, that's a lot of power. What kind of speakers are you driving? Generally 100 to 150 watts of power is more than enough for most speakers. And you will be hard pressed to find a receiver that puts out 300-500 watts of power. Probably you will be better off to look for a solid state amplifier if you want that kind of power at a reasonable price. Brand names I can suggest include Classe, Bryston, Aragon, Creek, and Parasound. Buying used will save you about 30%.

Good luck trying to find a mass market receiver that puts out 300-500 watts of power. I don't know of any offhand. Looks to me like you should either scale down the watts you need, or else start shopping for an solidstate amplifier. Tube amplifiers would be a good choice too, but not if you are on a budget.

Hope this helps!

[bombledmonk]

Informative first post.... welcome rrbasich!

[volunteer]

Thanks for the help. the power rating isn't something I chose but a "recommendation" from a salesperson at one of those chains stores. I can not shop with a little more info.