Is There Greener Grass For Me?


I have owned an Onkyo TXSV515PRO for about 15 years. I have upgraded most other components in a modest AV system, but not the Onkyo. We use the AV system for audio only as it relates to TV programming and DVD play – there is no CDP involved – all music being played in a separate, dedicated 2-channel room.

Currently, the system consists of:
TV - Mitsubishi WS-65413 – 65” projection
Front Speakers – PSB Stratus Goldi’s
Rear Speakers – PSB Alpha Mini
Center Channel (own but not currently used) – PSB 9C
DVD - Zenith DVB318

Now. I am not trying to assemble a SOTA system in any way, shape, or form. However, I do not care much for the separation provided by the Onkyo, especially front to rear balance (regardless of how the speakers are positioned). Too, if something like a great performance on Soundstage or an audio DVD is used, the sound is a bit thin when cranking the volume. I’ve had these speakers in two-channel systems and they are not exactly what I’d call thin. As such, I am wondering if I could improve things much by using a different power/processor – or maybe given the level of all else I should just leave things alone.. I’d STRONGLY prefer a one-piece unit, as opposed to separates, due in part to space limitations. Don’t need a tuner which is provided in the Onkyo receiver. Appreciate suggestions in the $2K new, $1K used range. Obliged to all for their consideration – whether or not you choose to respond.
4yanx
David, you don't want the greener grass, it's too wet and won't burn well. Dry it out until it becomes darker in color, more like a brownish green. It will then be optimal and make your whole rig sound much better.
Marty
Point taken but I’m a waitin’ for you to forward some of THAT green stuff. I got nuttin'! My guys bit the dust so many years ago I forget their names and I fear establishing new acquaintances, lest I run afoul and land in the ole hoosegow.

Seriously, though, I could use a solid and specifc suggetion of a single unit that will have the appropriate decoders (if which I know virtually nothing) and that will drive front, rears, and center........
You might give this receiver some consideration:

http://iar-80.com/page139.html



Interesting review, if not incredibly L o n g . Thanks. I'll consider it, but don't think I will ultimately go with a 7.1 unit.
The Goldi's are just superb, hard to beat.
But you need to feed them power as Elevick said.
There's no way around a strong multichannel power amp with discreet power supplies for each channel.
The amp needs not only to produce a speaker excursion, it needs to suck the driver back into position in time for the next excursion. Failure to do so results in thin sounding bass and muddied midrange.
I use a Sherbourn 5/1500A (as good as it gets in my opinion.) You can get a real clean one used for $1200.