This is a superb 7.1 channel AV receiver. It can also be configured for a 5.1 or 6.1 set up.
If you are using just 5 speakers and a sub-woofer, then the unused outputs for the two surround-back speakers may be used to bi-wire the front two speakers instead - a useful feature.
Sound quality is excellent - it sounds clean, detailed, and well controlled throughout the entire frequency range. Bass response is impressive and well delivered also, and thanks to the auto-setup feature, it is perfectly balanced and in proportion to the overall mix (not overblown).
The (microphone driven) auto-calibration feature takes the hassle and guess work out of setting it up. Although you can set it up manually if you prefer. The auto set-up is accurate and it only takes about 30 seconds to complete.
There are also bass and treble equalizer (tone) controls available (independently) for Front, Centre, and Surround speakers.
It has all of the inputs and outputs you could reasonably expect including HDMI, four optical digital inputs (including one on the front panel), one optical output, and two digital coaxial inputs. Not to mention a stack of standard line inputs and outputs (including a phono input).
It sounds very good not only with DVD playback, but also with stereo music as well. There is a very useful 'Multi Stereo' mode which outputs the two channel stereo sound (such as found on CDs) from all speakers plus the sub-woofer.
Other surround modes include: Dolby Digital EX, DTS ES, NEO:6, Dolby Pro-Logic IIx, and there is also a Digital Cinema Sound mode which enhances the sound further. It also includes a 7.1 Channel Analogue input - which may be used (for example) for connecting a Super Audio CD player.
The user interface / menu system is intuitive, and easy to navigate through, either using the inbuilt display or (optionally) via the display on your television set. The inbuilt display is clear and bright, and it can be dimmed or switched off altogether if you prefer.
The receiver also has a number of 'music sound field' modes such as: Hall, Stadium, Jazz Club, Live Concert, Sports, Portable Audio - these adjust the sound output accordingly - and they all sound good.
This model was awarded `Product of the year 2006' by `What HiFi Sound & Vision' magazine - and I agree with their conclusions, especially when they say: "There's real verve and enthusiasm in the sound".
I would recommend this receiver to anybody who is looking to build a quality home cinema surround system - at a reasonable price.
Excellent. Five stars. (Also available in silver).