[crmay]

Hi!

I have a bit of a problem and was hoping to get some assistance from
the people in this group. My receiver started "dropping out" from the
optical SPDIF input from my computer for a few minutes, then hours now
no sound. I've tried the coax digital input with no luck, but can
still hear static from the radio tuner.

my only use for this receiver is to amplify signals from another
device (mainly HTPC). Any other features are wasted.

While I don't consider myself an expert in sound, I'm pretty sure my
hearing is 'sound" and my opinion of the current setup is excellent.

Here are the components I'm using:
Speakers - Dream Acoustics - Basic 5.1
Amp/Receiver - Wintal - AVR 3050 - 3 year warranty
Input - Auzentech X-Plosion

As the receiver is no longer functional and just out of warranty, I'm
not sure what to do.

Should I -
- Buy another receiver
- Have the receiver repaired

I paid around $350 for the (current defective) receiver and have been
quoted on two Kenwood's for around the $300-350 mark. Both of these
are 6ohm, the current receiver is 8ohm. This is the best price i
could muster on a name brand. The Wintal (current defective) receiver
is 130W @ 8ohm while the Kenwood is 100W @ 6ohm. Does this mean for
the Kenwood it's just 75W @ 8ohm?

I've rang most all dealers in my local area trying to find a receiver
with equivalent specs but haven't had any luck along the $350 dollar
mark. Should I get the current receiver repaired or should I buy a
new one?

Cheers,