100 watts per channel x 2 stereo mode (<0.08% thd 20hz-20khz 8 ohms) - 25-key unified remote control - switching for two pairs of loudspeakers - 5 audio inputs including tuner - totally discrete amplifier stage (tdas) - quartz pll synthesized digital tuning - preset scan with 30 station presets - bass and treble tone controls and digital encoder volume control - system illumination and sleep timer - dimensions (wxhxd): 17-3/8 x 5 x 13...

Sherwood's incredibly affordable RX-4105 offers integrated preamplification and amplification, inputs for numerous audio source components, and advanced radio tuning and station access. The receiver delivers 100 watts RMS per channel x 2 for strong, clear sound across the audible spectrum--even at low listening levels. The company has lowered the amplifier's distortion relative to the previous model (the RX-4105), to less than 0.08 percent, while also giving the receiver a new layout borrowed from its higher-end components.

The RX-4105 uses totally discrete amplifiers for all channels (TDAS) to maintain its high power and low distortion. Use the receiver's A and B clip-type speaker outputs to power 2 different rooms, or to biwire a pair of speakers for more efficient amplification (with A outputs driving the woofers, for instance, and the B outputs driving the tweeters--make sure your speakers are compatible if this is a key feature for you).

The receiver also offers a handy 25-key remote control and switching for 2 pair of loudspeakers. Audio inputs switch between and amplify up to 4 additional components, including 2 requiring both inputs and outputs (such as a cassette deck and a VCR). The built-in AM/FM tuner features 30 station presets and auto station setup.

Other features include bass and treble tone controls, a dimmable fluorescent display, and a .25-inch headphone jack for private listening.

What's in the Box
Sherwood RX-4105 receiver, remote control, AC power supply cord, FM indoor antenna, AM loop antenna set, and owner's manual.

Sony STR-DE598 A/V Receiver - The foundation of any home-theater is a good audio/video surround receiver. This A/V receiver features the latest in home theater technology. Your DVD video will look superb using one of the two high-quality Component video inputs. You're also covered on your audio with decoding support for the 2 most popular surround sound formats, Dolby Digital and dts! 6.1 Channels accepts 6 speakers plus 1 subwoofer for truly encompassing, natural surround sound. Optical Digital - 2 Inputs Coaxial Digital - 1 Input Composite Video - 3 Inputs / 1 Output Component Video - 2 Inputs / 1 Output Composite Monitor - 1 Output Headphone Jack 30 Radio Station Presets Digital Cinema Sound System Sound Field Modes Includes - UniCommander(R) Remote Control Supplied Accessories - FM Wire Antenna, AM Loop Antenna, Remote, Instruction Manual Color - Black

7 Channel Direct Drive Digital Amplifier: 150W x 7 (8 ohms 20Hz - 20kHz, THD .6%) Dolby(R) Digital, Dolby(R) Digital EX, dts(R), dts-ES, dts-ES 96/24, dts: Neo6, Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II Decoding Video Up-Conversion to Component Video 2 Component Video Inputs: HD Pass (80 MHz) 2 Zone/2 Room Output, RS-232C, 12 V Trig x 2, 1 IR In/2 IR Out 1 Way Pre-Programmed/Learning/Macro/LCD Remote Control (2nd Remote Included for Multi-Zone Control) Detachable AC Digital Section 7.1 Channel Decoding Dual 32 Bit System (32 Bit Decoding Chip/32 Bit Digital Signal Processing) 32-Bit Decoding Dolby(R) Digital EX Decoding Dolby(R) Digital Decoding Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R)II Decoding dts-ES Decoding dts 96/24 Decoding dts(R) Decoding dts(R) NEO:6 Decoding Digital Signal Processor with 11 Acoustic Environments Digital Cinema Sound System with Cinema Studio EX A/B/C Modes Sound Field Programs: Cinema - 4; Music - 7; Auto Format Decoding - 7 Multi Stereo Mode Amplifier Section 7 Channel Power Rating: 150W x 7 (8 ohms 20 Hz - 20kHz, THD.6%) Stereo Power Rating: 150W x 2 (8 ohms 20 Hz-20 kHz, THD .6%) 8/4 ohm Rated Amplifier Output A /B or A+B Speaker Switching for Front Speakers Circuit Devices: Discrete Inputs and Outputs 2 Zone/2 Room (Room 2 A/V Output) with Independent Source Source and Volume 7.1 Multi-Channel Analog Input/5.1 Channel Analog Input 7.1 Pre-Out 2 HD Capable Component Video Inputs/1 Output Phono Input (MM Type) 8 Analog Audio Line Inputs/4 Audio Analog Line Outputs 5 Optical 2 Coaxial Input (Including Front A/V/1 Optical Line Output 5CompositeVideo Inputs (Including FrontA/V)/3CompositeVideoOutputs (Including Monitor Out) 5 S-Video Inputs (IncludingFront A/V)/3 S-VideoOutputs

This full-featured surround receiver is ready to take on media of today and tomorrow. The STR-DE595 pumps out 100 watts per channel across five main channels (left, right, center, left/right surround) and has a dedicated subwoofer output for a seventh. You get everything from Dolby Digital and DTS surround decoding to Dolby Pro Logic II processing (creating 5.1 channels from two) and 5.1-channel analog inputs to accommodate the latest high-resolution audio formats.

The receiver includes an FM/AM tuner with 30 station presets (20 FM, 10 AM) and three video inputs to simplify switching between components and your television. Two of the inputs are for standard composite-video (yellow RCA jack), while the third is ready for wide bandwidth (80 MHz) high-definition component-video signals.

There's no phono input, but the unit's two stereo and one multichannel analog audio inputs simplify hookup of, for instance, a cassette deck, a VCR, and a high-resolution audio device that decodes formats like SACD and DVD-Audio. Three digital-audio inputs (two optical and one coaxial) accept bitstream feeds from DVD players, CD players, and other digital devices.

An additional "B" speaker output lets you enjoy music or movie sound in a room other than your central listening area (speaker cable not included).

What's in the Box
Receiver, UniCommander preprogrammed remote control, 2 AA batteries, AM loop antenna, FM wire antenna, a sheet on correct loudspeaker connections, owner registration card, user's manual, and warranty information.

With Dolby« Digital, Dolby« Pro Logic, and DTS you're going to love being surrounded by sound. The 27 DSP acoustic environments give you new ways to experience sound in your listening area. Plus, you can hook up three high-resolution video components with S-Video cables.

Panasonic SA-HE100K Consumer Home Theater Receiver

The SA-HE100 has been designed for ultimate audio performance, delivering cutting-edge surround sound from CDs, DVDs, and high-resolution formats like SACD and DVD-Audio with high power and great features. The receiver is equipped with six discrete RCA analog inputs to deliver the enhanced sound quality of multi-channel SACD (Super Audio CD) and DVD-Audio music.

It also decodes DTS and Dolby Digital 5.1-channel sources and Dolby Pro Logic II, which converts sound from regular two-channel stereo sources into 5.1 channel for spacious surround effect. And, you'll also enjoy DTS-ES and Dolby Digital EX extended surround formats, which add a rear center channel for a full 6.1-channels of surround--great for large rooms and home theaters with above-average resolution.

The SA-HE100 incorporates Panasonic's "Times Six" power amplifiers, which use Class H+ circuitry for a smooth, consistent sound from all six main channels. It delivers a full 100 watts per channel output (at 1 kHz into 6 ohms with 0.9 percent THD) so you'll feel the powerful bass of favorite music or the stomp of the Tyrannosaurus Rex breathing down your neck. You'll get slightly higher power--or lower distortion across the audio spectrum, depending on how you look at it--with stereo playback: 100 wpc from 40 to 20,000 Hz into 6 ohms with 0.9 percent THD).

The receiver uses Metal-Oxide Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor (MOS-FET) circuitry to enhance performance. By improving power bandwidth and contributing to highly linear sound quality, MOS-FET allows the receiver to reproduce a broader spectrum of frequencies than do standard amplifiers. Among other advantages, MOS-FET is what makes this model completely SACD and DVD-Audio compatible, with the ability to reproduce the rich, lifelike sound the formats are quickly becoming known for.

The SA-HE100 includes three optical and one coaxial digital-audio inputs, three S-video inputs, and one S-video output, as well as two high-resolution component-video inputs.

NOTE! THE TEAC T-R670 AM/FM TUNER IS A RADIO THAT MUST BE CONNECTED TO AN AMPLIFIER AS PART OF A STEREO COMPONENT SYSTEM. Up to 90minute Sleep Timer Function (adjustable in 10-minute segments) Timer On/Off & Clock Function Full Function Remote Control Power Requirements - 120 to 230 VAC, 50-60Hz Optional adapter for rack mounting, available at extra cost Approximate Size - 4 High x 17 Wide x 11 Deep

Ideal for audiophiles who like to build their systems piece by piece, the Teac TR-670 offers precise, high-end AM/FM tuning so you can enjoy your favorite programs static-free. The tuner is equipped with such features as direct-access tuning to the station frequencies or the 60 memory presets, manual or auto tuning for easy programming, and a multifunction fluorescent display that shows the station info clearly. Among the 60 presets are 30 AM and 30 FM channels, which should cover virtually the entire radio dial in all but the busiest markets. Plus, the tuner offers a digital clock with a 90-minute sleep timer function (in 10-minute increments)--a perfect fit for nappers. And should the power go down, the tuner's preset memory backup keeps all the information current so you don't have to reprogram it later.

The tuner offers control from either the unit face or via the included remote control. In addition, at 17.13 by 3.46 by 11.3 inches (W x H x D) and 8.38 pounds, it should fit easily within most component setups. An optional rack mount kit is also available.

What's in the Box
TR-670 tuner, remote control, user's manual.

Home theater may be the rage, but there's no getting around the need for affordable, high-quality music playback, and Sony's STR-DE197 stereo receiver can be a huge help in that department. The integrated amplifier pumps out 100 watts per channel across both its 2 channels and uses discrete output transistors--that is, transistors in place of cheaper and lower-quality integrated-circuit chips--to ensure high-quality music presentations.

350 watts, Dolby digital AC3, Dolby Prologic, DTS decoder, 5.1 multichannel inputs, assignable digital inputs, Subwoofer pre-out, cinema RE-EQ, AM/FM digital stereo tuner w/40 preset memories, Backlit learning remote w/joystick and macro

AM/FM Tuner for a home component stereo system

Enjoy full-bodied two-channel sound without breaking the bank with the Teac AG-790 stereo receiver. Equipped with 200 watts of total output power at 8 ohms (100 watts x 2), the AG-790 offers an affordable means of driving your left and right speakers to produce crisp, commanding audio. Among the receiver's audio features are a discrete circuit configuration that separates the audio signals for greater clarity; A/B speaker selection, which lets the listener choose an alternate pair of speakers; and binding post speaker terminals that provide a pure, high-quality connection.

As with many receivers, the AG-790 also boasts a quartz PLL-synthesized AM/FM tuner with 30 AM and 30 FM presets. Thanks to the tuner, listeners can easily locate their favorite stations or browse among the dozens of presets (enough for virtually any size market). Users also have the choice of using the manual or auto-tuning. Other add-ons include a multifunction fluorescent display, a front-panel headphone jack for private listening, and a full-function remote control. The receiver measures 17.12 by 5.47 by 13.19 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 21.2 pounds.

What's in the Box
AG-790 receiver, remote control, user's manual.

Teac AG-790 Stereo Receiver Component - This is designed to be the central component of a home stereo sound system and requires speakers or headphones (not included). Capability of attaching up to 2 pairs of speakers which may be controlled with a speaker selector switch Front-mount jack for optional stereo headphones Loudness function permits full tonality at low listening levels to provide consistently high-quality sound to suit any listening situation Phono Input Includes wireless remote control

For great hi-fi sound and on a budget, look no further than Denon's DRA-295 AM/FM receiver. The component is engineered to serve as the heart of a 2-channel music system while providing convenient composite-video switching for stereo video sources such as DVD players, digital video recorders, digital satellite systems, cable boxes, and VCRs. The receiver pumps 50 watts per channel x 2 into 8 ohm speakers (from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with .08 percent total harmonic distortion) and offers 2 sets of binding-post speaker terminals for powering 2 sets of speakers simultaneously.

Add great hi-fi sound on a budget with the DRA-295. Take a closer look at the controls.

Included remote. View larger.

The DRA-295 divides the circuits handling low- and high-level audio signals into separate blocks to minimize the signals' influences on each other. This chassis design, new to the DRA-295, is called Signal Level Divided Construction (SLDC). The resultant output signals are cleaner than before, possessing greater fidelity and clarity.

The receiver offers 5 stereo analog audio inputs, and the back panel sports 2 tape outputs. There's also a set of stereo (left/right RCA) preamplifier outputs, which may be used with a stand-alone audio amplifier for higher-power sound or for music enjoyment in another room. Use the receiver's remote input and output jacks to hook up external remote-control equipment, including IR re-transmitters and IR remote receivers (such as Denon's separately available RC-616, 617S, 617W, or 618 IR devices) so you can operate the DRA-295 with its supplied remote control, even if the receiver is in another room.

The PLL FM/AM tuner offers 40 station presets for one-button tuning to your favorite radio stations; auto preset memory scans for stations so you don't have to manually program all 40. Other useful features include bass and treble tone controls, tone defeat, muting from the remote, a motor-driven rotary volume control, last-function memory, and switched AC outlets for powering other components.

What's in the Box
Receiver, two remote controls, remote batteries (two AA, two AAA), FM indoor antenna, AM loop antenna, a user's manual, a warranty card, and a service-station list.

The DRA295 AM/FM receiver offers high-performance operation, functionality and affordability, all in a single unit. It includes a Video Select feature that lets you control a variety of video and audio signals and Pre Out jacks that let you listen to music in a sub-room as well as a main room.

105W PER CHANNEL X 2 IN STEREO MODE 8?FREQ RESP: 40 HZ - 20 KHZ INCLUDES 27-KEY UNIFIED REMOTE SWITCHING FOR 2 PAIRS OF LOUDSPEAKERS FROM THE FRONT PANEL 5 AUDIO INPUTS BASS & TREBLE TONE CONTROLSTOTALLY DISCRETE AMPLIFIER STAGE (TDAS)QUARTZ PLL SYNTHESIZED DIGITAL TUNING PRESET SCAN30 STATION PRESETS DIGITAL ENCODER VOLUME CONTROLSYSTEM ILLUMINATIONSLEEP TIMER

Get ready for a sound explosion! This Sony receiver is packed with performance features like a 32-bit Dolby« Digital, Dolby« Pro Logic, DTS, and Digital Cinema Sound decoder with Cinema Studio EX modes. Plus, it's got 6-channel inputs that are ready for high-resolution, multi-channel audio sources such as SACD. You might just want to sit down when you open this one.

The RXD301S features a sleek profile to complement today's home theater systems. Incorporated into this beautifully designed 7.1 channel x 110 Watt receiver you'll find an abundance of features. Wireless USB - PC Link, center channel alignment, virtual surround back, quick speaker setup and more.

The HTR-5890 delivers powerful 140 Watt x 7 (980 Watts!) channel sound. Discrete 7-channel amplification delivers high quality sound and YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer) measures your room and automatically equalizes for the best sound.

When two channels are all you need, make it two ultrahigh-bandwidth, high-current channels from the company that invented the stereo receiver. The HK 3480 features seven audio inputs, four video inputs (including one on the front panel), 30 AM/FM station presets, VMAx surround synthesis from stereo sources, three-step dimmable fluorescent display, a phono preamp, pre-out/main-in jacks, gold-plated inputs and a separate subwoofer output. Also included is a multicomponent system remote control.

Amazon.com Product Description Not everyone wants or needs a 5.1-channel receiver, which is where this HK3480 two-channel receiver from Harman Kardon comes into play. This ultra-high-bandwidth, 240-watt unit is perfect for fans of jazz, classical, or rock, as its powerful features bring out both the bombast and the nuance of your favorite music. The HK3480 is also one of the few stereo receivers to employ VMAx technology, a proprietary signal-processing technique that simulates a 360-degree sound field through a mere two speakers. The technology gives the listener the sensation of sitting in a concert hall or theater without requiring a surround sound setup.

Take a closer look at the HK3480's connections. You can also view the unit's front panel and remote control in detail.

Though the HK3480 is designed primarily for music, it also pumps out high-quality audio for your TV, DVD player, VCR, and video game console. It includes enough inputs for each of these components, along with composite video switching that allows you to conveniently switch between them. And unlike many current receivers, the unit offers a high-quality phono input (with preamp) for people who treasure the unique sound of LPs and don't want to give up their lifelong record collections.

The HK3480 also comes with an AM/FM tuner with 30 station presets, a three-step fluorescent display, and a multicomponent remote control. As with most modern receivers, it's ready to serve as the audio centerpiece of all your listening needs, with seven audio inputs and four video inputs (including one on the front panel). The inputs are gold-plated for quality. The unit also comes with pre-out/main-in jacks for use with external amplifiers or speaker processors and a separate subwoofer output. Hookup is simple due to the color-keyed connections.

The receiver's tuner section offers exceptional performance, from its high signal-to-noise ratio (73 dB in mono, 72 dB in stereo) to high (40 dB) channel separation for superior stereo imaging--not to mention strong tuning abilities with the help of better-than-80-dB image rejection and better-than-100-dB IF (intermediate frequency) rejection.

This component is equipped with a nonvolatile EEPROM (Electrically Erasable and Programmable Read-Only Memory) that preserves tuner presets and system configuration information, even when the unit is not connected to a main power source.

What's in the Box
Stereo receiver, remote control, two AAA batteries, user's manual, and warranty/registration information.

Surround-sound systems don't amount to much without a quality receiver, and this Sony STR-DE895 more than fits the bill. Equipped with Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, DTS, DTS-ES, DTS: Neo6, and Dolby Pro Logic II decoding, the receiver breathes life into home theater audio, delivering spectacularly clear sound that fills up a room. The decoded formats are complemented by Sony's Digital Cinema Sound EX, which replicates the sound fields of three of the world's best-known cinema studios, along with 32-bit Digital Sound Processing that simulate 13 distinct acoustic environments.

The 6.1-channel receiver runs at 660 watts of total power (110 watts x 6), and features both 5.1 and 6.1 multichannel analog inputs. Radio listeners will be delighted with the AM/FM tuner, which includes 20 FM and 10 AM presets. The speaker options are versatile as well, with an A/B speaker switch and compatibility with both screw terminals (A) or push terminals (B).

Components attach to the unit through such connections as an assignable digital input, two component video inputs and one output, five composite-video inputs and two outputs, a phono input, and three S-video inputs and one output, in addition to the 5.1 and 6.1 multichannel speaker inputs and subwoofer pre-out. The unit is controlled by a preprogrammed Remote Commander remote control and carries a two-year warranty on parts and labor.

What's in the Box
Receiver, FM wire antenna, AM loop antenna, remote control, and user's manual.

This 6.1-channel receiver offers outstanding sound and picture quality, with a wide range of desirable features such as 540-Watts power, quad-field CINEMA DSP, XM satellite radio ready and component video up conversion. Direct stereo for high quality 2-channel sound reproduction XM satellite radio ready - allows you to hear over 150 digital satellite radio channels with the addition of the XM Connect-and-Play digital antenna accessory (sold separately). Subscription to XM satellite radio required. Selectable 9-band subwoofer crossover / subwoofer phase select Dolby digital EX, DTS-ES, Dolby Pro Logic IIx and DTS 96/24 compatibility Quad-field and Tri-field CINEMA DSP technology and 14 surround programs create thrillingly realistic soundscapes in your room Night listening enhancer (cinema/music) makes sure you don't miss sounds and quiet dialogue when you're listening at a low volume, and SILENT CINEMA accurately simulates surround sound through ordinary earphones Audio delay for adjusting lip-sync (0-160ms) Component video up conversion ensures you will get the highest possible quality no matter what the source is HDTV (720p/1080i) compatibility Inputs (including front panel) - 4 digital (3 optical and 1 coaxial), 6-chanel external decoder, 4 A/V, 2 audio and 2 component video inputs Outputs - 1 optical digital, 1 A/V, 1 audio, 1 component video monitor, S-Video and composite monitor output, front L/R, speaker terminals, 2-way binding post speaker terminals and subwoofer output Dimensions - 17-1/8 x 6-3/4 x 16-9/16 Weight - 24.2 lbs. Black

Amazon.com Product Description The Yamaha HTR-5850 XM-ready digital hometheater receiver is a full-featured digital home theater receiver that sports some serious features. Component video-up conversion takes composite signals and converts them into a component signal. This not only ensures the highest quality video from any source, it means you only need one connection to your HDTV monitor. No more switching inputs according to your source--it can all go through the component video connection.

Some other major features on the Yamaha HTR-5850 include 6.1-channel discrete amplification (105 w x 6 RMS) and Yamaha's Digital ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) amplifier design concept that ensures the highest signal purity, and 14 surround programs. Also featured is Silent Cinema, Yamaha's exclusive technology that allows private listening enjoyment of multichannel music or movie sound, including Dolby Digital and DTS Digital Surround, through ordinary headphones. The system's digital-to-analog converters use an extremely high performance 192 kHz/24-bit operation type and perform accurate sound field reproduction for high-quality multichannel sources. And for two-channel stereo, they provide outstanding separation and precise musical delineation. In addition, the HTR-5850-SL has high-quality two-channel and multichannel surround reproduction and reproduces surround for 5.1 channels and 2.1 (virtual surround). The HTR-5850 is also XM Satellite Radio ready, which means that with the addition of an XM Connect-and-Play and XM subscription, you can tune into your favorite XM broadcasts.

Click to view the Yamaha HTR5850's connections.

The HTR-5850 also features Yamaha's exclusive Quad-Field Cinema Digital Sound Field Processing, or DSP--Yamaha's way of recreating the ambiance of a stadium, a concert hall, or an intimate club in the comfort of your own home. With 14 different sound programs that provide multiple variations, every movie and every piece of music will sound right in your home theater. Discrete power transistors, rather than chips, are used in the amplifier section to provide the cleanest sound possible. The amp delivers 105 watts each to seven channels, and the HTR-5850 can accommodate DVD, CD, MC/CDR, and digital TV/cable. Three optical digital outputs assure the finest possible signal leaving the receiver for your other components. A set of front panel A/V inputs allows for simple temporary connection. The receiver also features an AM/FM digital tuner with 40 station presets.

What's in the Box
HTR-5850 receiver, remote control, batteries, AM antenna, and FM antenna.

150 watts per channel stereo powered source switcher/power amplifierDual line-level inputs with priority override switching - perfect for custom home audio distribution475 watts total power bridged mono into 8 ohms 150 watts rms per channel stereo into 8 ohmsSpeaker-level and line-level inputs for ultimate flexibilityAuto-on signal sensing or 12V trigger; rear panel master level controlsHigh current capability -- stable into 2 ohm loads; A/B speaker switchingAuto-on signal sensing circuit or 12-volt trigger onSpeaker level input for maximum flexibilityA/B speaker switching Volume and balance front panel controls 16 1/2" W x 5 1/4" H x 14" D

Both powerful and versatile, the AudioSource Amp 300 high-current stereo power amplifier offers 150 watts RMS per channel x 2 or, in bridged mono mode, up to an amazing 470 watts x 1 (into 8-ohm speakers in both cases). Now you can scale your listening to match your budget: use either 1 amplifier or 2 for stereo sound or 5 or more in concert for full-blown home-theater excitement--perfect for your DVDs, multichannel DTV broadcasts, or high-resolution audio formats like DVD-Audio and SACD.

Keep in mind that this is an amplifier only, with no volume control or onboard surround processing (though it does offer independent adjustable output controls for each channel). It's designed for use with a stereo preamplifier or a surround receiver offering preamplifier outputs.

Making the move from 5.1- to 6.1- or 7.1-channel surround sound? If your receiver has preamp outputs for all channels, there's no need to replace your 5.1 surround receiver. Just feed the additional center or surround signals to a strategically positioned Amp 300.

Connections consist of a choice of RCA (line-level) or clip-type (speaker-level) inputs and banana-plug-friendly binding-post speaker terminals for outputs. There's also set of stereo (left/right) RCA passthrough jacks for use in a daisy-chain setup.

The amp works with 12-volt power-on/-off circuitry and also features a signal-sensing circuit for automatic power-on/-off, making it as ideal for custom installers as for end users. Its A and B speaker outputs let you power speakers in your main room, a second room, or both rooms simultaneously. The amplifier's toroidal power supply keeps distortion extremely low (less than 0.04 percent).

MODEL- AMP-200 VENDOR- PHOENIX GOLD FEATURES- 80 Watt 2-Channel Power Amplifier 2 Independent channels rated at 80 watts into 8 ohms 125 watts per channel into 4 ohms 250 watts Bridged Mono 8 ohms A/B Speaker selector Independent Volume and Balance Front Panel Controls Rear Panel Master Level governs front Volume and Balance Second Line Level Input with Priority Override Speaker Level Input/Output for maximum flexibility Switch On Auto-On (Signal Sensing) or 2 Volt trigger On 400 watt Un-switched 117V outlet -- SPECIFICATIONs ------------------------------------FREQUENCY RESPONSE - 20Hz - 20KHzTHD - Less Than 0.02% into 8 ohmsSIGNAL-to-NOISE RATIO- -103dB ref. to rated power into 4 ohmsPOWER SOURCE - 110 VAC; Consumption: 700W (All channels driven)DIMENSIONS - 16.5"w x 3.5"h x 14.0"d WT.- 24.3 lbs.

A terrific choice for a remarkably affordable system upgrade or building block, the AudioSource Amp 200 high-current stereo power amplifier offers 80 watts RMS per channel x 2 or, in bridged mono mode, up to 250 watts x 1 (into 8-ohm speakers in both cases). Now you can scale your listening to match your budget: use either 1 amplifier or 2 for stereo sound or 5 or more in concert for full-blown home-theater excitement--perfect for your DVDs, multichannel DTV broadcasts, or high-resolution audio formats like DVD-Audio and SACD.

Keep in mind that this is an amplifier only, with no volume control or onboard surround processing (though it does offer independent adjustable output controls for each channel). It's designed for use with a stereo preamplifier or a surround receiver offering preamplifier outputs.

Making the move from 5.1- to 6.1- or 7.1-channel surround sound? If your receiver has preamp outputs for all channels, there's no need to replace your 5.1 surround receiver. Just feed the additional center or surround signals to a strategically positioned Amp 200.

Connections consist of a choice of RCA (line-level) or clip-type (speaker-level) inputs and banana-plug-friendly binding-post speaker terminals for outputs. There's also set of stereo (left/right) RCA passthrough jacks for use in a daisy-chain setup.

The amp works with 12-volt power-on/-off circuitry and also features a signal-sensing circuit for automatic power-on/-off, making it as ideal for custom installers as for end users. Its A and B speaker outputs let you power speakers in your main room, a second room, or both rooms simultaneously. The amplifier's toroidal power supply keeps distortion extremely low (less than 0.04 percent).

With both Dolby Digital and DTS surround decoding, S-video switching, 5.1-channel analog inputs, four digital-audio inputs, and the ability to deliver 100 watts across all five main channels, Pioneer's VSX-D509S is poised to satisfy many a movie and music fan. Its value goes deeper than its feature set, however: the VSX-D509S offers full-bodied sound with fine detail and texture. Vocals sound clear and well-defined, while the bass--crucial for dynamic surround-sound reproduction--is taut and authoritative. Operation is a breeze: the receiver's setup and controls work perfectly, and radio signals come in clear as crystal.

Pioneer's four Advanced Theater modes (Musical, Drama, Action, and Expanded) enhance DTS and Dolby Digital playback, giving you plenty of options when it comes to surround-sound playback. Six stereo DSP (digital signal processing) modes for music simulate the sonic environment of a large wooden concert hall, a modern hall with stone walls, a jazz club, a dance club, and two different movie theaters.

We like that the VSX-509S has S-video switching, a coaxial digital input, and 5.1-channel direct inputs, all of which are aimed at superior audio-video performance.

Radio signals come in clear as a bell. Dolby digital and DTS surround processing are both excellent, and we even found the relatively subtle DSP modes to be more to our liking than usual.

While we're pleased that Pioneer uses five-way binding posts for the front three channels, the surround channels use cheaper spring-loaded terminals, which require bare-wire connections--something to consider if you currently have banana-terminated speaker cable. This isn't a major shortcoming--most receivers use them--but we wish manufacturers would use identical connectors for all channels, especially in a performance-driven machine like this one.

Pioneer's VSX-D509S's strengths are many, and the receiver represents a very fine value. --Wayne Garcia

Pros:

• Clean, rich sound
• DTS decoding
• S-video switching
• 5.1-channel direct inputs

Cons:

• Spring-loaded push terminals for surround channels