One of the questions we get all the time is, “What audio/video receivers do you recommend with your speakers?” We enjoy that question. Because we don't sell any of the components it allows us to be impartial and we enjoy making our opinions known. Our speakers are pretty friendly to most receivers and it doesn't take a lot to power them. However, manufacturers play games with power ratings in an effort to seem more competitive. Many receivers rate their power with only 2 channels driven. When you measure the power with all the channels driven, the ratings drop significantly.

Of all the components in your home theater system, you'll probably have your speakers the longest. Next, will be your TV followed by your blu-ray player. Last will probably be your audio/video receiver (AVR). That's because the features seem to change very rapidly. Many of today's reasonably-priced AVRs are quite good. I think the sweat-spot for excellent results with our speakers seems to be in the $500-$1,000 price range.

The most popular brands with our customers seem to be Onkyo, Integra, and Denon. Integra is the higher end of Onkyo (sort of like what Lexus is to Toyota). These are all excellent. There are other good ones out there, but the ones I've mentioned seemed to be the most popular. Another brand that is intriguing us is Anthem. We've received a few glowing reports about their sound quality. However, they start at about $1,000.

Here's a suggestion: Today's AVRs are loaded with features. Before purchasing, go to the manufacturer's website and download the owner's manual. If you can't understand it, don't feel bad. It's probably them and not you and I'd look for a different brand. Some owner's manuals are disasters.

One last thing: all popular AVRs come with an automated setup which includes a microphone. Sometimes these automated programs gets certain things wrong. It's a good idea to speak with us about how to properly set up your system.