The HTR-5860 is one of the best receivers in the $500 range money can buy.
Read the rest of the review here:
http://www.epinions.com/content_193250233988
I can't post more helpful information such as sound quality, ease of use, etc. on THIS review, or I'll be accused of posting duplicate information...
I had originally posted this review as a duplicate of my review for the Yamaha RX-V657. The reason I had done this is because Yamaha says they the SAME RECEIVER. On the Yamaha website, there's a section titled "What Is The Difference Between The RX-V Line And The HTR Line?" Here are some excerpts from that explanation:
"There is a cosmetic difference found on the front panels of these two lines. The RX-V line maintains the traditional white colored lettering normally found on most Yamaha components, while the HTR line provides a slightly different approach. Yamaha has created a new look by using gold colored lettering in selected areas on the HTR receiver series.
The amplifiers in the HTR and RX-V units are identical but rated differently to comply with the accepted measurement standards of their respective channels of distribution.
The RX-V line is typically sold through Yamaha authorized audio/video specialty retailers, and is not available for mail order sales, phone sales, or internet sales.
The HTR line is sold through mass merchants, catalog retailers, and department stores. You may also purchase the HTR line through the mail, by phone, or at authorized internet retailers." - Yamaha Website
Now, if you look at the product specs, you'll see they are in fact the same receiver...spec for spec.
Update: It's come to my attention that I missed one spec difference: the RX-V has Zone 2 output, while the HTR does not...So, they're the same except for that, and do in fact use the same amp.
When I posted my original review, I thought I was being helpful. Most people will see the HTR-5860, because it's the model number that's available at big box retailers like Best Buy. I'm guessing very few people looking at the HTR-5860 would even know that the RX-V657 is the same receiver. So, by posting the review here as well, you could find a (hopefully) helpful review in either place. Well, that got both of my reviews essentially banned, rated as "Not Helpful", and got me flamed on the comments section. So, I deleted both. I've re-posted the original review for the RX-V657, which you can find here:
http://www.epinions.com/content_193250233988
If you can understand the fact they are essentially the same receiver, you will hopefully find a helpful review. I would have prefered you just read it here, instead of my frustrated rambling, but the "powers that be" at epinions would prefer to stick to the letter of the law (no duplicate posts), and not look at the individual case (they are the same receiver with different model numbers.)
