BNTR

I have a brand and model in mind. Budget is less than $2000. My reference model is about $1700. I really only have a few must have features.

• 9 channels onboard amp
• assignable amps to channels
• 2nd zone (need to be able to assign 2ch of amp to 2nd zone)
• Audyssey XT32 or better EQ
• Airplay 2

Hi CJ. I am not going to be much help since I haven't used an AVR in over 20 years, but the last one I had was a Marantz and it was great.

I purchased a Denon AVR x4500 several years ago for the main area. I added a 5 channel external amp when I added 4 overheads for ATMOS. It has been very solid and reliable. It sounds good and has flexibility. My last calibrations have been enhanced using the Audyssey App and A1 EVO.

This year I replaced an old Denon in our living room with an Integra 9 channel AVR - model DRX-3.4. It includes the Dirac full range calibration and outputs for all channels if you want to add external amps. I am using it with 5 channels in the living room, 2 channels outdoors and 2 channels to power a zone 2 in another part of the house. It has plenty of power. I purchased it on sale at Adorama for I think about $550 making it a great deal. I believe it equals the Denon. Just checked $569 now. https://www.adorama.com/indrx34.html

I had been concerned with past issues that others experienced with Onkyo/Integra heat issues. No issues here. Runs cooler than the Denon

I have no idea if it has all the features you need, but I really like my Onkyo TX-RZ50. I'm using it as a pre-amp for the mains and center, and using the on-board amps for my rears in a simple 5.1 system (no atmos, etc.) I've had no heat issues, but not saying that some people don't and since I'm not using the main amps in it, that could be a big reason why it's not a problem.

But it has all the inputs I need, including phono, and works well. It's so much faster switching HDMI than the old (very old) Denon it replaced so I'm happy about that. But that's not saying anything against Denon, I haven't tried a newer one of theirs in a long time.

I've owned a Marantz, Denon, and Onkyo. All of which gave out just a few years into life. On the other hand my B&K Ref 50 is still trucking after...20 years?