Joined on 08/08/03
No too bad for entry level
Pros: Needed to replace an older SONY ES series 5.1 receiver that finally died. I will be setting up a HT with projector later, so didn't want to go too crazy with the living room set up. The set up and calibration mic (Included )worked well, sound is great. ( I set it up manually, and although I have a good ear, the auto calibration sounds better. I used a tripod with the Mic at ear level of the "Sweet spot" seat
Cons: As previously mentioned, having the OSD only work through component cables, but Once it was set up, removed the extra cables for a much cleaner reverse. Others have complained about not being able to go component in and HDMI out, but not an issue for me as everything is HDMI. Not a CON on this, but most receivers I have had have different sound stages, and most sound like echo chambers- majority of people will just set it up for normal EQ and stage, and let it go from there
Overall Review: I Bought the cheaper VSX-519 from a local store and wasn't happy with it, this is definitely worth the slight bump in price. I would have opted for the 819 if it was in stock, but don't need 7.1 yet. I am Driving Efficient 4 ohm speakers in front with no issues in overheating the amp, but do not really crank it up past 60. (Due to UL issues most mfgs will not mention 4/6 ohm applications- biggest issue is higher current draw causing overheating) Haven't used the IPOD / MP3 hook ups, as I have a seperate whole house music system, but having cables come with it is nice. This weighs about 10 lbs less than the old receiver-
So so
Pros: Very easy set up, fast dual band, good signal strength
Cons: too many (and often Drops on wired connections, and wireless- going back Firmware seems to be flaky and lacking in standard features- If you try to idiot proof a router, it needs to be more stable
Overall Review: I have bought and set up routers for a long time, I pretty much know what I am doing, but wanted something simple that I didn't need to spend too much time tweaking. The printer option was attractive. I also wanted to see if it was something I could recommend to parents that wouldn't need me on site. They just need a "set it and forget it" option- too many issues would have me on the phone with them constantly.
Question components
Pros: Camera has been recieving excellent reviews This is an observation on the kit
Cons: From the picture it appears that they are supplying a DX kit lens with a full frame FX camera body- they should be ashamed. Also the flash is junk- you don't want a 3k camera body and throw-away components
Overall Review: Not a great deal to make a entry level kit package for a pro-Sumer body. These are in demand but I would get a body only and a good 24-70 f2.8 lens. If you think you will be happy with this kit as presented, you should really be looking at the Nikon 3200.
Almost there
Pros: Back lit Works great for HTPC controller Small, but not too small-
Cons: ESC and direction arrows are secondary commands Have a little difficulty with dropped info from about 7 feet
Overall Review: Size- Somewhere Between two STD DVD cases and A Nintendo DS Purchased with rebate that arrived in about 6 weeks- no issues No battery life data yet Using as HTPC controller on Bedroom TV, no issues, but Kids can not use well for any minor gaming Track ball is small, and on a large screen, takes fine motor skills for accuracy.
Works with low overhead
Pros: You can upgrade to version 5 with this license. Learning mode, doesn't suck resources like other better know solutions. Had for one year, recently repurchased and upgraded for second year. Have on XPsp3 Desk top machine, Vista note book and Win7-32 HTPC no issues with any.
Cons: Registration on second and third PC can require a quick Knowledge base search, no a bid deal
Overall Review: Used Norton, Zone Alarm, McAfee, this is by far the best.
Add to unhappy list
Pros: Low cost included SATA cable Free shipping
Cons: Died- fist disk to ever give me the click of death sounds Very slow clicks about 20 seconds apart, disk visible on re-boot, but go off a short time later.
Overall Review: I foolishly waited about 3 weeks to install on my main machine as additional storage and to free up my 2 500 gig drives that were about 90% full. noticed that today, not showing as accessible, too late to RMA, did get one back up onto my WHS device before it failed