I am looking at 2 different recievers for my cabin up north. I found a pioneer vsx-505s and a pioneer vsx-605s both on craigslist for a decent price. My question is which one do you guys think is better and why? I can get the 505 for 65.00 and the 605 for 75.00. Thanks
PS I am running a pair of cerwin vega re 30 12" speakers....will either of these receivers handle these 4 ohm speakers?
I have no idea. I haven't had anything to do with inexpensive receivers in decades. Why not start by buying an amplifier that indicates it can drive a four Ohm load?
No, I probably shouldn't have typed "amplifier". The "power amplifier" is one portion of a receiver and it determines what the "receiver" will drive in a speaker load.
I'm not suggesting you buy a separate power amplifier if you aren't interested in the highest quality sound in this location. However, if you are not in need of a tuner function, you might consider one of the entry level NAD integrated amplifiers. They are a fair amount more than $75 though.
Otherwise, begin your search by finding out which receivers claim they can drive four Ohm loads. If you use this system as background music only - no loud volumes - then you can get by with a receiver that indicates it can drive a six Ohm load. An HK is a good place to begin. If your intention is to party, then you should be looking at a reasonably stout power amp whether it's built into a receiver, and integrated amp or a separate unit.