Best 2 channel for under 300?

Uh, why not just buy the receiver referenced above and an older outboard dac by Musical Fidelity, Rotel, AMC, PS Audio or Audio Alchemy? Most are available for around $100.00 used and you would bring the whole project in for under $300.00 with a much better dac than the onboard models in most multi-channel receivers. Heck, the excellent Audio Alchemy Dac In The Box would run under $50.00 or you could have an MSB Link Dac for $150.00 or so. Just my two cents.

Viridian, you make a very good point regarding external DAC + receiver. I usually prefer that route, except for my office system I think simpler is better. But it is very worthy of consideration. Thanks.

Michael

Ok, ok, how about this baby - I have not heard it though, http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ddmiscrcvr&1154826123

You might pick up a NAD (7225/7240, etc.) on Audiogon or Ebay. IMO, NAD is the best sound for the buck and better than a lot of stuff that's more expensive. If my house caught on fire, I would grab my old 7225 and then my speaks.

Viridian, I've been wanting to listen to the Maven since I love the sound of the Mambo integrated. But the original question is for receivers under $300; even discounted, this is 3x that limit.

Michael