Replace Yamaha HTR-5960?

[bvbellomo]

I have a Yamaha HTR-5960, my 2nd receiver. 5 years ago it replaced a much lower end Sony which was my first receiver. I bought it used, so the nobs are missing, lots of cosmetic damage, and I wish I had HDMI capabilities, but am happy with the sound. I briefly had a Harman Kardon, which I actually liked the sound better from, but was returned after a nightmare dealing with their support.

I am wondering if it is time to retire the Yamaha, and what to replace it with. I have no idea how much receivers improve year-over-year.

I don't need a lot of bell's and whistles, but I expect everything I own or buy to work together, and to be able to switch between devices easily. I also have a relatively large room (400 square feet, 10' ceiling). I am driving an AV123 Reference setup. I listen to music/movies 50/50.

Am I better buying a $500 receiver every 3 years? Or should I buy a $1000 receiver every 5-6? Or keep the Yamaha a while, save money and buy something higher end like Emotiva separates?

[Deleted]

Depends on what you need. Your need could be as simple as a UMC-1 or perhaps you want streaming internet or something that is considered bells and whistles. I personally would want a receiver with pre-amp outs, in fact I wouldn't settle for less as I actively cross over all my speakers with miniDSPs obliviating the need for Auddysey (sp?) and my computer supplies me with all the bells and whistles so a UMC-1 is nearly ideal for me (except for bugs).

[bvbellomo]

I need is water, food and shelter - I don't need a new receiver. But I still want to know if it makes sense to upgrade.

Pre-amp outs were a reason to buy the 5960. I never used them, but that is a potential upgrade path. I could buy an XPA-5 to use with the 5960, eventually replace the 5960 with the UMC-1. The 5960 gives me enough power, and I have enough problems with ambient noise that line noise won't make a difference. So I really wonder if separates make sense for me.