Onkyo vs. Yamaha

[lfender]

It all started a few weeks ago when I bought a Proton D940 at the thrift for $15. An amazingly well-built, great sounding reciever. I remembered the local store I used to frequent to audition gear in the mid-80's to early 90's and how good the gear was. I have a small collection of 70's recievers, sx-1010/sx-1280/kr-9600 and more and decided I want to find some more 80's gear. So my question is, does anyone have experience with the Yamaha R-9 (because I've been thinking about getting one) and how would it compare to the Onkyo TX-88 that I did find when searching for the Yamaha? The Onkyo is pretty impressive, although I can't find much info on it. It's a lot of reciever for the $5.99 thrift price! Anyone think the Yamaha would be better?

 

[Brian]

For $5.99 why even ask. I'd take the gamble if it doesn't look like a basket case. You can not even buy a crap tuner for that price. If nothing else andit works, if you do not like it, you can mate a pair of speakers with it and donate it to a retirement home or local school and I'm sure they'd appreciate it and you'll feel good.

 

[lfender]

I already have the TX-88. I'm looking for some feedback on how the Yamaha might compare to the TX-88. The Onkyo is great, by the way.

 

[vintagestereo]

I've seen plenty of the Onkyos at the local thrifts at the price you mentioned so it seems like a reasonable asking price. It looks like plenty of owners are just giving 'em away. I have no idea why. However, I don't know that the TX-88 ranks "up there" in the desireability column, given that it's only 85 wpc, compared with the R-9's 125 wpc and 30 wpc in Class "A" mode. The only Onkyo I've ever owned is the TX-8500 II, which just hasn't done it for me.

OTOH, I have yet to see a fully operational Yamaha R-9 at ANY thrift store. People just don't give them away. So, I ended up having to buy mine on e-Pay for $125.00 and it's worth every cent, and then some, IMHO. It was in MINT condition and operates perfectly. Unlike many folks here, I prefer to buy gear that does not need to be repaired so I'm willing to pay more than have to go through the time, frustration, expense and, sometimes, unfortunate outcomes that lie down that path. (Although it is still unavoidable because some people can't pack worth.......).

So, if price is your main concern, then, by all means, get the Onkyo. Assuming it works properly, what more could you want for $5.99???

However, if you want to hear a truly OUTSTANDING Receiver, pay what you have to and get an R-9. And, make sure it comes with the remote. You won't be sorry. My Tech says it was one of the best performing Yammies ever....and he's a Certified Yammie Tech.