I had a solid vintage workhorse 2-channel amp for a long time but finally thought it ws time to upgrade to surround sound. After researching extensively, Harmon Karden was the most consistently praised company. But I only needed an entry level model. This unit is perfect. It has sufficient power for almost any applications, setup is not super easy but straightforward enough. The speaker connections are rather difficult to get at and connect, but supposedly they are designed this way to create the best connection. There is also some features that only qork with digital connections, so keep that in mind (I am resigned to using analog for the time being).
I was looking at an inexpensive receiver to step up from my htib. I found HK and like the looks and in further looking they all had good reviews. I bought this receiver and it was an easy setup. The only thing that I did not like is the remote, which if you look at many other review online you will see that is a common complaint, not that it matters as I am using a harmony 668 to control everything. Good power and can power speakers very well with good warm sound. Good amount of hookups and can handle many connections as long as you don't need HDMI. I liked this unit so much that I bought another one used to use for a second surround sound setup. Look into it if you are on a budget.
Impressive and stylish entry level receiver. I bought this to replace a faulty HTIB Onkyo receiver, which I had bought as a Christmas gift. Harmon/Kardon and Denon(which I have) were the shopping choices from my research and reviews. The H/K was the choice because of the styling, the "warm" sound it was said to have, and the price from Harmon Direct here on Ebay was hard to beat. After the initial set up, the AVR135 is a breeze to use. The remote may seem a bit intimidating at first look, but it's very functional. Because it is a learning remote, there's no worries if the preset remote codes fail. Teaching the H/K remote code is a breeze and the directions are on the back of it. It also has a nice "rubberized" back & sides so it won't be sliding around or slipping out of hand. The five other remotes that were scattered around are in a drawer. The sound quality is outstanding for movies or music. Not too bright or shrill, but warm and crisp. If your thinking 40 watts/channel sounds weak, don't be deceived. I questioned this myself even after reading how H/K is one of the few manufacturers that under rates, or realistically rates, power. It sounds very close my Denon rated at 90 watts/channel. It blew away the Onkyo HTIB receiver rated at 100 watts/channel. For the best "bang per buck", I really recommend this receiver. If my Denon ever dies, I just may move to H/K and buy from Harmon Direct.Read full review
This is the 3rd Harmon Kardon product I have purchased. And it did not disappoint. Using this receiver with a pair of Definitive Technology towers, and am pleased with the results.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I have been collecting music for almost 40 years. thru these years I have used many sound systems, most did not have enough connectors. I was sold on this AVR 135 by the picture of the back of the case! You can connect almost anything to this wonderful machine! I have it hooked to my computer, its awesome!!! I also purchased a set of HKTS 8 home theater speakers that are a perfect match, especially with the sub-woofer volume control. HARMON-KARDON exceeds their reputation with this wonderful product! The shipping was very fast and when I had a problem with the remote I had a new one in 4 days. This is by far the best sound system I have ever had!!! MY NEIGHBORS HATE IT!! THIS MACHINE IS FANTASTIC!!!
Although this receiver doesen't count with the latest features of parametric sound equalizer and auto set up microphone like the bigger versions, it is indeed a really good performer, solid bass, really nice midrange and good highs. Plenty of inputs and outputs. Remote control is ok, it could be better but for the price l guess you can not ask for more.
Awesome unit, I own one, and just got one for my parents, well built, easy to use, clean power. My parents had a yamaha unit and had issues with it, and so I got them one like I had to be able to help them out if needed, I have not gotten one call from them to help them out!
I am very pleased with the receiver. It's excellent for watching DVD's in dolby surround. the switching between sources is good also. The styling is beautiful and the price at ~$189.00 is a steal. I would recommend this receiver to anyone. By the way, I was exposed to HK in the late 70's with on of there power amps. Harmon Kardon has been around a long time. They still make excellent audio equipment.
Nice
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
It only took a few decades to wait for a collectable like this one, I love it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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