Yamaha HTR-5930SL 5.1-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver, Silver Review

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(More customer reviews)I just installed my new receiver last night - in a breeze.
This replaces my high-end Yamaha RX-V890; I needed 2 optical audio inputs. I tested all the functions and I am totally impressed and satisfied with my purchase. What is most important, is to have good speakers. Great quality is no longer a luxury. A better surprise, this is a 2006 model. WOW!

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Take the next step in home theater performance with the Yamaha HTR-5930 digital surround receiver, which boasts 5.1 channels (110 watts x 5) of amplification and a host of high-end features. The receiver is built around Yamaha's proprietary surround sound technology and a powerful 192 kHz/24-bit digital-to-analog converter that maximizes the signal quality, ensuring that everything from two-channel audio sources to 5.1-channel DVDs sound rich, immersive, and dynamic. Plus, the receiver's wide 10 Hz to 100 kHz frequency range helps digital audio sources like DVD-Audio and Super Audio CD reach their full potential.
Movie and music buffs will dig the HTR-5930's Digital Sound Processing (DSP), Yamaha's means of simulating the acoustics of a concert hall, movie theater, or rock concert hall in the comfort of your own home. The Cinema DSP's four programs includes Movie Dramatic, Movie Spacious, Game, and TV Sports, each of which creates an optimum sound field for a specific type of programming. The Music DSP modes, meanwhile, range from 2-Channel Stereo to Concert Hall to Roxy Theatre, the latter of which reproduces the dynamic music environment of one of L.A.'s legendary rock clubs. And, of course, the HTR-5930 handles standard processing for Dolby Digital, DTS, and Pro Logic II sources.
What really makes the HTR-5930 tick, however, are the extras, such as Silent Cinema, a Yamaha-exclusive technology that lets you enjoy multichannel music or movie sound through ordinary headphones, and a night listening mode that lowers the volume during loud passages so the kids don't jolt awake after hearing explosions and other special effects from the next room. Plus, the HTR-5930 not only comes with a standard AM/FM tuner, but is also XM satellite radio ready. All you need is a separately sold XM antenna and a subscription to XM satellite radio and you're set.
Additional features include a virtual surround sound mode, A or B speaker selection, a sleep timer, and a Set menu that lets you optimize the receiver to suit your individual home theater system.
With a bevy of digital and analog inputs, the HTR-5930 can accommodate several digital sources such as DVD players, CD players, video game consoles, digital satellite systems, and much more. The rear panel options include two optical digital inputs and one coaxial digital input; three HDTV-compatible component video inputs and one output; four composite video inputs and two outputs; and two analog audio inputs and one output. Also present is a 5.1 multichannel input.
The HTR-5930 measures 17.12 by 5.94 by 12.44 inches (W x H x D) and is backed by a two-year warranty.
What's in the Box HTR-5930 receiver, remote control, two AA batteries, AM loop antenna, indoor FM antenna, user's manual.

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Sherwood RX-4105 2-Channel 100-Watt Stereo Receiver Review

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(More customer reviews)This Sherwood (noted brand years ago, now mysterious) might be a decent bargain for twice the money. It's stripped down by present standards -- two channels only, no phonograph input. It's dead quiet and extremely clean sounding. I can't hear any emphases or dead spots in the frequencies. The tuner is exceptionally good; I am surprised at the success I'm having with it in a poor reception area, with only the antennas that are supplied. Appearance and quality are fine: nice black steel case, solid buttons, one big old volume knob. It was all I needed, so I'm very pleased. Going to get another for a computer amp.

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Sherwood's incredibly affordable RX-4105 offers integrated preamplification and amplification, inputs for numerous audio source components, and advanced radio tuning and station access. The receiver delivers 100 watts RMS per channel x 2 for strong, clear sound across the audible spectrum--even at low listening levels. The company has lowered the amplifier's distortion relative to the previous model (the RX-4105), to less than 0.08 percent, while also giving the receiver a new layout borrowed from its higher-end components.The RX-4105 uses totally discrete amplifiers for all channels (TDAS) to maintain its high power and low distortion. Use the receiver's A and B clip-type speaker outputs to power 2 different rooms, or to biwire a pair of speakers for more efficient amplification (with A outputs driving the woofers, for instance, and the B outputs driving the tweeters--make sure your speakers are compatible if this is a key feature for you).The receiver also offers a handy 25-key remote control and switching for 2 pair of loudspeakers. Audio inputs switch between and amplify up to 4 additional components, including 2 requiring both inputs and outputs (such as a cassette deck and a VCR). The built-in AM/FM tuner features 30 station presets and auto station setup.Other features include bass and treble tone controls, a dimmable fluorescent display, and a .25-inch headphone jack for private listening.What's in the Box Sherwood RX-4105 receiver, remote control, AC power supply cord, FM indoor antenna, AM loop antenna set, and owner's manual.

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PYLE PRO PT260A 200 Watt 2 Channel Home Stereo Receiver w/AM FM Tuner Review

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(More customer reviews)I am writing this review in response to an earlier reviewer's comment about the hiss problem with this receiver.
I purchased this unit 6 months ago because I needed a receiver for under $700 that could handle a pair of 4ohm speakers. I was a bit skeptical about just how well this would work, but for less than $100 I believed it would be worth a shot.
Initially, I encountered a similar difficulty with the hiss (as well as some clipping and distortion).
However, as soon as I switched out the 4ohm speakers for an 8ohm Bose set, the receiver sang just fine. A keeper!
(Note that some minor amp hum is to be expected with *any* receiver. The only time I can hear it on this model is when I place my ear directly in front of the speakers. That said, I have noticed over the years that some reviewers can be quick to growl at equipment when the real problem is poor speaker placement. There are several good articles on the web that provide details on how to avoid the audible consequences of positioning speakers too high or at incorrect angles.)
That aside, here are a few other perks of the Pyle PT-260-A:
- At level 10 (out of 40) it provides good background sound. At 20, it can fill a large room and be heard clearly in the next room. At 30, it becomes uncomfortable to the ears.
- The EQ controls are programmed to handle a significant range, with the bass creeping as low as 40Hz (not always the case in cheaper model receivers, which usually only stretch to 60-80Hz). Meantime, the treble only reaches as far as 15kHz, which is actually a strength considering the depth of the bass (cheaper models tend to exaggerate the high end, which is why they tend to be characterized as sounding tinny). All that said, one slight twist of the EQ knobs can make quite a difference. Be sure to play around with different combinations until you land on just the right sound for your speakers and your setting.
- The mic inputs work great for karaoke. Not my cup of tea, per se, but wonderful for children who want to sing along with a CD. (They also will have a lot of fun with the echo control!)
And of course all equipment has quirks:
- For my needs (with only one component connected), the PT-260-A serves its purpose quite well. However, if you intend to input more than one component, there is only one selector switch on the unit itself (though there is a separate button for CD, Aux, Tuner, etc. on the remote). In addition, the unit sets to Tuner each time it powers up (which then blasts the room with radio static if you don't have the antenna connected).
- If you plan to use a turntable with this receiver, you will need to pick up a phono preamp (there is no powered input).
- The display is a bit cheesy. The EQ meter simply dances a preset light pattern that has nothing to do with the music being pushed through. (Though it can be amusing to watch it bounce out of rhythm with the music!)
So the verdict:
This receiver costs less than $100. For a model that operates on par with more expensive models, it is worth learning to live with a couple of minor bugs.
If you are on a budget, or have children who express an interest in listening to music, this is *the* way to go. If only a receiver of this quality had been available at this price when I was in high school! (In the early 1990s, the cheapest comparable model would have cost $250-350.)


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This 200-watt amp brings music to the living room with crystal clear clarity. With plenty of inputs, you won't find this amplifier lacking. It plays AM/FM thanks to the built in tuner - store up to 50 presets! It's equipped with three RCA inputs on the back and two ¼" mic jacks on the front, so you can turn this amp into a karaoke machine - even add an echo effect. Easily adjust the volume, balance, treble, bass on the master output for total control of your sound. AM/FM antenna included. Runs on 110 and 220 V AC.

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Channelmaster CM-3020 Deep Fringe Advantage TV Antenna Review

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(More customer reviews)I live about 35 miles from NY City and 65 miles from Philadelphia, in a very hilly region. I previously had a Radio Shack UHF/VHF/FM antenna in my attic and received analog NY City TV stations OK. I installed a Samsung DTB-H260F HD tuner for my HD-ready TV and received a few NY City HD stations with that older antenna. (Warning - you must use an HD input on an HD-ready TV with the Samsung DTB-H260F to see the on-screen menus). I used [...]to help select the right direction and the right antenna for HD signals for my house. The PCT International #3020 Deep Fringe TV Antenna improved reception and increased the number of HD stations available (also attic mounted). Adding the Channel Master 7777 High-gain mast-mount UHF/VHF TV antenna preamplifier made an even bigger difference. I now receive most of the NY City area over-the-air HD stations, and most of the Philadelphia area HD stations (with the antenna directed at NY City). I was surprised at the number and quality of the Philadelphia signals considering these stations are almost 90 degrees off of the primary antenna direction and over 60 miles away.

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(CHNCM-3020) Channelmaster CM-3020 Deep Fringe Advantage TV Antenna The Channel Master CM 3020 is an outdoor TV antenna which will allow you to receive UHF, VHF, FM and HD signals. This antenna has a signal range of 100 miles and will pick up available local channels 2 thru 69. With an HD television you will pick up any crystal clear HD signals being broadcasted in your area.MODEL: CHNCM-3020 Reception Range: Channels 2 thru 69 up to 100 miles Picks up UHF, VHF, FM and HD Superior signal strength in weak signal locations Easy Installation Number of Elements: 50 Optimized for HDTV and Digital FM Signals This is a large directional outdoor TV antenna and yields a beam width of about 30 degrees High quality construction Includes:Channel Master CM 3018 is an outdoor TV antenna Installation guide Dimensions:152-Inch L x 95-Inch W x 22-Inch H Weight:6 lbs

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Yamaha RX-396 - Receiver - black Review

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(More customer reviews)This receiver was sold to me as a unit the would give me clear, natural non-distorted sound, even though the output wattage is not as high as some other receivers. On all these fronts Yamaha delivers! It's slightly lower wattage sounds louder than an equivalent receiver of another brand. If you want to hear loud music, you will have to turn the volume control just past half-way, but the sound is still crystal clear. I have had this for about four years and have used high quality Boston Acoustic large bookshelf speakers. - Simple, effecient stereo receiver with awesome sound and some nice features (sleep, remote with volume control, input plugs for two sets of speaker and more... no subwoofer input, though, but the sound delivers a lot of bass on regular speakers.)


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The Yamaha RX-396 Natural Sound Stereo Receiver is a perfect way to start putting together a stereo component system for your child or for a second room at home. Deciding to create your own component audio system is a wise choice because it's an investment that you can constantly upgrade and grow with. Yamaha delivers clean power and reliable assurance that the RX-396 will be a solid foundation and will offer years of wonderful listening pleasure.Versatile binding posts for convenient, easy speaker connectivity (Speakers and Wire not included)Includes wireless remore control

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Pyle Home PT720A 1000-Watt AM/FM/Tuner Hybrid Amplifier with 70-Volt Output, Built-In Auto Mute Function And Music On Hold Output Review

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(More customer reviews)If you check your records, you will see it has been returned. The fan goes all the time and is very noisy and disturbing. Secondly, it stops intermittenly and so does the music. Totally unacceptable.

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Get professional-quality sound and tons of features with this 1000-watt amplifier! The PT720A is well suited for large rooms, including stadiums, auditoriums, and for events when your sound needs to make an impact. It's got plenty of inputs, including two ¼" mic inputs and a 3.55m jack for your iPod or MP3 player on the front, . It pushes audio over standard speaker jacks at 4, 8, and 16 ohms - or connect to your 70 V PA system. And this amp doesn't just sound great - thanks to the digital fluorescent output display meter and blue LED lighting, it looks great too. Includes a wireless remote control. Runs on 110 or 220 V.

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Harman Kardon HK 3490 120 Watt X 2 Stereo Receiver with XM Radio-ready Tuner and Dolby Virtual Speaker Review

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(More customer reviews)I used the HK 3480 (the precursor to this model) for five years and loved it. The 3490 is even better. The sound is more robust and full, not different, but just more refined. It easily powers my Klipsch Synergy speakers and would pair well with any mid-level speakers. With 120w even inefficient speakers will have more than a enough power to move air.
Further, the 3490 has an important new feature: digital inputs. This is a very nice option for those who have made the jump to an all digital music library and use a digital jukeboxes like the Roku Soundbridge or the Squeezebox. Both players have digital outs and pair up nicely with the 3490.
The difference in quality from digital inputs or analog is debatable, but to my ear, going from the 3480 with analog cables, to the 3490 with optical TOSLINK, there was an immediately improvement in clarity. Songs with delicate sound work came alive. Soft details were more apparent. It's been a great upgrade for me.
It's important to note that the 3490 doesn't leave analog fans in the cold either. It has a very nice tape loop and a wonderful gold plated stereo pickup. In short, whether you're library consists of vinyl or mp3s this amp will do it all.
I have always been a fan of Harmon Kardon, and I bought the older 3480 because I'm a strict fan of stereo music listening. The 3490 is a very smart update to the 3480, bringing it into the 21st century with a host of digital options. For those who rely on an iPod for music, there is specific iPod cradle for this amp that allows you to play your iPod's music effortless over the stereo while controlling it with the HK remote. This amp is also XM Radio ready, just plug in your XM receiver and the HK will allow you to control it.
It's very hard to find a subtle, high powered stereo receiver with these features. The market has sadly moved away to the home theater, multi-channel world, but I'm glad Harmon Kardon is still loyal to their stereo listeners.
Build quality is very nice. It's not a flashy amp, it doesn't light up the room with needless LEDs. It's very understated, and handsome. HK even includes two little inserts that hide the front inputs and bass, treble, and balance controls (nice if you don't want people messing with your settings, or you appreciate a clean look.)
Other than the digital options, the tape loop and the phono pickup, the amp does allow video switching and pass through should you want to integrate into your home theater. The other notable detail are the speaker posts. They allow the use of banana clips or allow you to secure naked wire in two different ways to the posts. This is nice if you don't have a lot of clearance behind the amp.
At this price point, there is simply nothing out there that can compete with this amp in terms of quality, performance, or features.

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The HK 3490 is a high current stereo receiver that will give you the best possible audio performance. You can use the optional "Bridge II" to control and navigate your Ipod'. The power rating is 120 watts times two at 8 ohms and 150 watts times 2 at 4 ohms. It has 45 amps of current. It is also XM Ready. It has speaker A/B switching.

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Channel Master CM7777 Titan2 VHF/UHF TV Antenna Preamplifier with Power Supply (Grey) Review

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(More customer reviews)I purchased this amp over a year ago and found that it was just the ticket. I researched my purchase on several websites and determined this was the best within an afordable range (There was one overseas with less noise but it was over double the cost). I had a cheap amp from a home improvement store that gave me reception but with the upgrade to HDTV I was getting dropouts more than I would like. I purchased this amp and no more drop outs, it gave me a boost in 20 points on my Sony Bravia digital reception over the cheapo booster. I suspect the negative reviewer installed it wrong. There are separate inputs for VHF & UHF that you can combine to one input but if you do not you would eliminate your VHF channels (2-13) or UHF (13-69) entirely which would explain loss of these channels.

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The Channel Master CM 7777 is a high gain, low noise preamplifier used for weak signal areas to allow a weak signal that is present at the antenna to be amplified to a viewable strength. This TV antenna preamplifier works best for persons in weak signal areas and is subject to overdrive if used in areas with fairly strong signals. In stronger signal areas our medium gain preamplifier, the CM 7778 is a better choice.

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Pyle P3002AI 3000 Watts Hybrid Receiver and Pre-Amplifier with AM-FM Tuner/iPod Docking Station Review

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(More customer reviews)I noticed that when I was shopping around online for a decent AM-FM Reciever, I didn't see much feedback for this amp from PylePro, so I felt an obligation to give my opinion.
I found several online stores that feature this amp for a pretty wide range of prices. Amazon is your best bet (at least when I bought it) for about $190. I didn't know what to expect because it seemed like I was getting a lot of bells and whistles for a prettly low price. BUT ... THIS THING IS POWERFUL. I work at a water park and I had to install a sound system that could play music which had to be heard over several noisy waterfalls and water jets (not to mention all the other ambient noise from outdoors). All I had was two Sony 150watt tower speakers. These aren't massive speakers, but they can handle a solid 150 watts each. I have never heard these things sound so clean at the volume I am pushing them with this amp and they actually get TOO loud for the water park. I mean you can hear the ECHO bouncing off the walls of buildings clear on the OTHER SIDE of the waterfalls and water jets.
A small critique would be that although I am not an expert on how companies measure the output wattage of their amplifiers, I have been buying amps for a long time and you DO get what you pay for so don't expect 3000watts. They might as well have put 3000000watts. At some point it starts getting rediculous to think that people are going to believe they are buying a legit 3000watt amp for $190. That is the only thing that is a little tacky about Pyle. Don't get me wrong, I feel that I got MORE than what I paid for and I certainly put this amp in the category of amazing sound for an amazing price.

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Pyle Pro's amazing new 3000 watt Hybrid Reciever and Pre-Amplifier is the perfect solution for any home or office audio needs. Using sophisticated circuitry and premium components for uncompromising musicality -- this reciever is famous for delivering powerful and accurate sound. Complete with i-Pod docking port -- simply plug in your i-Pod and enjoy hours of high quality music. Experience warm, detailed sound from all your music sources with the P1002AT integrated amplifier. This powerful amp and reviever can easily power up to 4 speakers and has a separate gain control for the preamp and subwoofer. Unit includes AM/FM radio with auto-seek, 2 mono RCA outputs dedicated for subwoofer use, and tons of other great features. You won't find a higher quality amp/reciever at a lower price.

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