Excellent "old school" stereo receiver with lots of inputs, support for 2 speaker zones, power to spare, bargain price
342566
Incredible that such a feature-rich amplifier at this quality only costs $118! Had everything that I wanted at half the price I'd have been willing to pay.
- Wanted a pure stereo audio-only amp+receiver (no video nothing)
- Wanted control of two speaker zones A+B
- Wanted at least 4 input selections (this one has SIX: 5 RCA pairs and one unadvertised 3.5mm "portable" stereo jack input). PLUS the AM/FM receiver, of course.
- Remote control

It also has two sets of Line Out outputs (I didn't need it). It does not have Phono inputs, however (which I normally would need but in this application I didn't). It has no feature bloat of iPhone docking, Bluetooth, sub-woofer output, 5.1 Dolby sound, blah blah, none of which I needed, just a good old-fashioned stereo receiver with uptodate technology. This is it, at a fantastic price too. An RF remote would have been nice, but hey, you can't have everything.
833415
All I can say is, this receiver HK 3390, that I purchased on sale here, has been great and I have had it now wired up for a couple weeks..! Just what I wanted, a 2 channel receiver, "old school" and I coupled it up with a pair of Klipsch F-30 speakers and I couldn't be more pleased..! The 80 watts per side at 8 ohms powers those high efficient Klipsch, no problem... Purchased a Stanton turntable and an Onkyo CD player and I'm up and cooking again, since my EX took all of my stereo equipment (stay single boys, LOL)...! Highly recommend this receiver!
2017864
The quality of the audio is excellent, far better than that of a very good Onkyo receiver that cost about twice much 13 years ago, which I've replaced with the Denon.  I bought this Denon 2308CI largely to listen to music either on CDs or Apple TV.  It matches nicely with my B&W DM602 S3 speakers, when bi-amped.  I'm very pleased with the result.  I also use this for playing DVDs and watching HD channels with digital audio.

The best advice I can give those who have trouble setting this up is to not use the remote, but the buttons on the front of the receiver itself, which is what I ended up doing until I later figured out the funky remote control.

For those who get frustrated with all the remotes and all the "modes" that have to be set to use each kind of media device, I would highly recommend getting one of the Logitech Harmony remotes.  Just plug it in to a USB port on your computer, tell what your devices are, and then set up each of the activities.  After that, you just need the Harmony remote, and life gets much simpler since it turns on the appropriate devices and puts everything into the right "modes" so it all works.  My wife loves it.

Also, you need to know that the Denon 2308CI is being replaced by the newer 2309 model.  So the 2308CI is about half the price it was before, around $450 where I bought mine online in Nov., 2008.  If you need more HDMI inputs, then you'll need to go with the newer models.  A lot of the frustration in the initial setup could be avoided, if you use only the buttons on the back of the main remote control, or you use the buttons on the front of the 2308CI itself.  Even so, once I got my bi-amped speakers wired up to the 2308CI, I was playing CDs my DVD player in about 5 minutes.

Granted, I'm experienced in setting up electronics, home networks, computers, etc., so I did not pay attention to the manual much (and that's why I missed the part about using the back of the remote).  If you use the buttons on the front, some of them do not work in the Menu setup--e.g., the Return button, to go back to the previous menu--so you end up getting stuck).

The Denon engineers ought to do some usability tests of their menu systems for setup, which sometimes use unconventional ways of selecting or setting things and are inconsistent in some button functions which have further "modes".  For example, in the setup menus, the left-arrow button is sometimes used to go forward to a sub-menu, whereas the convention in most user interfaces is to use the right-arrow.  At other times, the left/right arrows are used for scrolling through horizontal lists of choices.

The main remote control that comes with this 2308CI is also laden with "modes" especially when it comes to controlling different devices--using the combinations of different positions on the 2 slide switches at the bottom.  This can drive you nuts, if you're not paying attention.  E.g., if the left switch is not set to audio, then the buttons on the back for the Menu setup won't work, yet another obstacle to doing the initial setup that is frustrating.

The fact that I'm very happy with the quality of the audio (and HD video) outweighs the initial frustration of dealing with all the "modes" that need to be understood to do the initial setup.  The excellent quality of audio/video engineering this receiver and the bargain price, for me, outweighs the usability challenges in the remote control in setting this system up, due to all the modes.  In my opinion, as one who has done hundreds of usability tests of software interfaces, Denon ought to hire some usability evaluators, and observe the problems people have in trying to user their manuals and remote controls.  Then maybe they would improve their manuals and remotes, which unfortunately are a far cry from the excellent engineering of the audio and video quality.
1384119
I recently purchased this receiver with a pair of jbl s38 speakers for fronts, a jbl s-center channel speaker, and jbl n26 rear speakers, and I have never heard a home theater setup sound so good at this price.  I have definetly heard better....from 4000 receivers, but for 99.9 percent of the population (me) this receiver is brilliant.  It has 6 total digital inputs (3 coaxial, 3 optical), multiple digital outputs, enough power that I have not yet brought my self to crank the volume for fear of ruining my hearing (for some reason Harman/Kardon underrates their receiver's power.  100 watt/channel sony is equal to about 40 watts or less on the HK scale), a really nice looking front and easy to use receiver, and to top it off you don't need a degree in home theater to set it up in a few minutes.
The only downside to this receiver that I have found is the lack of component video input/output, but this won't be a factor for the majourity of people.  One thing I was very happy, and actually suprised about, was that this receiver not only does a superb job at digital surround (DTS, Dolby Digital), but it also puts out transparent, crystal clear stereo sound from your favorite cds.  So many of those "home theater in a box" setups, with mini speakers and a subwoofer are able to nicely reproduce movies, becuase no single speaker/pair of speakers has to carry the load the entire time.  During Stereo listening, on the other hand, these setups really falter.  Sound becomes distorted, volumes are not very capable, and the sound is very tinny.  The HK avr 310 exposed to levels of ambiance to songs that i've been listening to for years.
 The inclusion of Logic7 and the best Pro Logic I have ever heard on any receiver, make watching tv a whole lot more fun.  I've owned this reciever for about three monthes now, and have only spent probably twenty-five minutes total setting it up, and I get great results.  In this price range, I challenge anyone to find a receiver that even comes close to the Harman and Kardon avr 310.
PS: This receiver comes with a two year warranty from h/k if something were to go wrong.  In past experiences with Harman Kardon, they have been exceedingly helpful in terms of repairs/replacements.
3671093
It's hard to imagine that anyone could have a collection of old and new hi-fi peripherals that couldn't be hooked up to this beast.  Check out the back panel view above.  The only problem is you will need to carefully plan your hookups, because once a set of jacks is surrounded, you'll never get something plugged in or out of it (at least with just fingers).  Mine handles a phonograph, 2 VCRs, an LD player, a DVD player, and a CD player.  There are jacks available for a tape deck or other audio recorder.  All video hookups are your choice of composite, s-video, component, or HDMI.  The DG-1000 will do any conversion you need from one to another automatically.

Flexibility is great.  You can reassign digital audio inputs (optical and coax) as needed.  The rear surround channels (useless, IMHO) can be setup to provide secondary entertainment in another room, or can be used to bi-amp your front speakers.

Automatic setup is terrific.  I found that half my speakers were out of phase.  It measures the relative power, distance, and phase of all your speakers, then automatically stores adjustments.  So you should easily get extremely well-balanced sound. Thank goodness for the on-screen setup, because it is complicated.  But it just takes some manual reading to get it.

Another reviewer said he upgraded from a 1998 STR-DE925, which I did also.  I really liked it, but this STR-DG1000 just has so much more.  I'll be growing into it for a while.  A very worthwhile investment, and I see the price has already dropped $11 in 2 weeks.
3677017
Bought this receiver on sale at BestBuy for $169 as an open box item after Black Friday for set up on a second TV/ Home Theater system downstairs. I connected AVR 1700 to a 50 inch LG Plasma and a set of Polk RM 6750's and I am a happy camper. The whole setup cost about $1000 and I doubt I could ever find better value in any of the components. Over the past 2 years the AVR 1700 has exceeded all my expectations and eliminated any doubt I had from reading some other reviews. Yes, it is light but it packs a good punch. Honestly, I can barely tell any difference between this set up and our main setup in the family room which cost twice as much.

Highs: Good bass, great sound, easy setup, intuitive GUI, plenty of power, and outstanding value for the price paid. I think the test of any system is how much power you have to use to listen to movie dialog and this AVR delivers well on its promise.

Lows: No compressed music enhancer (for iTunes), there are no virtual sound effect modes, no auto volume control for moderating the sound of commercials, and the Logic 7 sound mode produces terrible sound and is beyond worthless.

Bottom Line: This is probably the best receiver you can buy at this price point. The AVR 1700 as all the main features you need, plenty of connectivity, and enough power to deliver a good home entertainment experience.
2350529
Bought this receiver to accompany the speakers and subwoofers I received as a gift.  What a great system. With my Plex server and DLNA enabled TV and Chromecast I do not miss network connectivity on the receiver itself one bit.  I find the quality of sound to be excellent whether I am watching a move in 5.1 surround sound or listening to music.  Video passthrough looks great as well.  The number of input options were sufficient for my relatively well connected space (Currently I have four networked devices that pass through the A/V receiver).  The automatic calibration via the microphone worked well, and only small adjustments needed to be made afterwards. I would recommend this receiver to anyone interested in setting up a small home media center.
3464853
After 7 long years I've finally decided to upgrade my long in the tooth pioneer VSX-1018ah. While this receiver still works flawlessly, and will be transferred to use as my small stereo workhorse, it was time to upgrade for several reasons...

1. I wanted something with 4K pass through and hdmi 2.2. A limitation of the 1018 was that it didn't work with my 2014 Mac mini, which acts as my movie/Plex media server. I wanted to be able to run straight into the receiver.

2. Rs232 control, I've grown a lot over the years and I wanted something I could more easily integrate into a home automation system, to simplify whole home audio for my wife and I

3. Network connectivity, airplay, Bluetooth, google cast(eventually) , again just make thing simpler.

I did pick this new 301 up on sale for 450$, which was a steal. Now while it is not as powerful as my old 1018(the 1018 was actually the last true non-elite receiver that could drive 4 ohm speakers) it isn't an issue as my older Polk LSi towers are being sent to stereo duty only, and I am switching to my Polk RT800i towers for home theater.

The 301 is an outstanding mid range receiver that does what I need it to do and more. And over the last week of break in, I've noticed it open up quite a bit.

Some reviews say this receiver is too warm, or not powerful enough, but being into audio for 15 years I will say when you learn what wattage + speaker + room size mean, you can find this receiver performs very, very well. Plus this sound profile isn't for everyone, some like a sharp sound , I personally do not, that part of why I like Polk speakers . So pairing this 301 with my polks yield a great surround sound/gaming experience.
4463031
For what it is, this is a wonderful receiver.  Yes, it's only 80W per speaker, etc, etc.  But unless you have REALLY good sound insulation or are trying to anger your neighbors, it has plenty of power.  Sounds are crisp and clear in 5.1 my lower end Bose speakers.  It certainly made a difference when I hooked up the DVD to the digital input (coaxial is DVD on this receiver) and played The Matrix for the first time.  It certainly didn't need to be anywhere near the top volume for that to impress me.  Definately one to look at if appreciate good sound, but don't want to pay the multiple $K for the top of the line.  There are plenty of good speakers that this will power just fine.
4694590
For the price and quality, this receiver is good value. Aux and USB inputs, as well as satellite radio connectivity if one chooses to install that basically solve all of your car audio needs. 18 FM and 12 AM presets should more than accommodate even the pickiest radio listeners.  Whether you're connecting an iPod/iPhone or flash drive, the USB interface is easy and intuitive to use.  Auxiliary is also great for running from non-compatible mp3 players and phones.  Clips in and out very easily and within seconds. Highly recommended.
4478217
This thing works absolutely great for what I want!

I bought this as a simple integrated amp -- not as a surround sound 5.2 AV processor/switch.  So I don't use the HDMI inputs or outputs -- just stereo audio in and stereo audio out.  Actually, I have two sets of stereo speakers + 1 sub-woofer, so I guess I'm using it in bi-amp mode, as (2 x 2).1.  Sony calls this Extended Stereo.  Whatever, it is just what I wanted.  With great sound quality and plenty of power to drive my 4 large speakers.  And with two sub-woofer pre-amp outputs (of which I'm using one) which really fills in the sound space.  And with flexibility for audio processing if I want to add a center speaker.
1611275
Great receiver for the price. Great sound. The main thing is that it has a phono inputs for my turntable. When playing records, you do have to boost the volume to match the level of a CD. A very easy to use remote, which even has bass and treble controls. A very pleasant surprise. Lots of bang for the buck. Quick delivery. Thanks, Amazon!
2653555
Our old system with two speakers gave out.  Looking online/eletronic stores, this stereo receiver was a steal.  My wife and I was a little recultant to purchase a refurbish product, but glad we did, because we saved a lot of cash.  The turntable unit, cassette unit, and CD player has it's own ports, and button.  The sound quality is great, and could not be any happier.  I recently visited a local electronic store and found the same item for twice the price we paid.  Great product, and would highly recommend the stereo amplifier.
4457600
I bought this receiver when it was on sale for $280. I also bought the Sony SA-VE367T 7.1-Channel Surround Speaker System to go along with it.  Let me tell you, for the price this sounds great.  I know there are systems that sound better, but you're going to have to pay a whole lot more than this.  Definately recommended!
2715850
I replaced my Sony STR-DE998 multi zone receiver with this one and I LOVE it! Setting up the speakers with the included mic worked very well for me. Besides the multi zone, the 5 HDMI ports sealed the deal. I couldn't be happier!
3411326
This receiver is packed with a lot of useful and quality features, which is surprising given that it is a mid-range receiver. The sound quality is really nice through my Polk Ti400-series speakers. There are also a lot of audio mix/scene pre-sets that provide a dynamic range of options for getting good sound in your viewing area.

Even though it does not have a true bi-amp, the "bi-amp" feature does add a noticeable amount of clarity in the audio mix through the front speakers and balances very well with the center channel.

The network feature is extremely nice, as well as the AV Controller app for the android/iphone. This was a very pleasant suprise an is surprisingly pretty effective and convenient; for standard control I find this much more convenient to use that the standard controller. It has built-in net radio functionality that works superbly.

There is a little bit of room for improvement in the network functionality, but I can't complain too much given the price of this unit and the quality of its other features. I can successfuly stream .mp3s over my network using an android phone and Windows Media Player from Windows 7, but have been unsuccessul at doing so with a Macbook or with Windows Vista, nor have I been able to stream video over the network.

Was surprised to find it lacking a co-ax input...means that a separate converter box is needed for cable or satelitte inputs.

The firmware update process is not very robust. It is not necessarily easy to perform (novices may find it a bit intimidating) without being connected directly to a internet-enabled network, and it has only had about a 50% success rate at accepting a firmware update.
607336
I wanted to update my old stereo system purchased in 1998, but didn't have a lot of money to spend. Also, I have a small living room and didn't want the speakers to overwhelm the space. After doing some research, I decided to purchase a couple of Orb Audio Mod1X's. I'm old school when it comes to HIFI: give me a simple setup with 2 speakers (Orb Audio Mod1X), a stereo receiver (Onkyo TX-8020), a cd player (Onkyo C-7030) and a powered subwoofer (BIC America F12) all for less than $900.00!
I couldn't be more pleased. I listen to Jazz, Blues, Classical and Rock. These little speakers really shine! The clarity and depth of sound to my ears is amazing. Highly recommended!