Pioneer SC-05

I have had this receiver in my home for a few weeks now and I have nothing but good things to say about it. With its 130w RMS x 7 Analog Class D amps, 4 HDMI inputs, THX Select 2 Plus rating and Advanced MCACC 9 Band EQ Room Calibration it gives it competitors a run for its money. At 40 lbs it isn't a low weight box but at the same time doesn't take a fork lift to put into your rack.

Setup was easy. You just place the included mic near your main seating position and let the MCACC dial in your room. Full band phase control allows you to adjust the phase of your speakers just encase they are out of alignment at bit. You have a multitude of surround fields from DTS HDMA and Dolby True HD to Pioneer's own surround fields, Neural THX and THX Loudness Plus. Video processing includes HDMI x.v color and HDMI 1080p video transfer.

They include a Home Media Gallery that allows you to connect to your iPod and USB to access your music and photos or existing home network. I found this a cool addition to just plug in a USB stick with some audio on it and let it play away.

It also includes a 3 zone audio where you can have your main room set up and have another set up in another room. I have not had the need to use this function but I have read a few reviews that say this function works very well.

This receiver listed last year for $1,800 but you can find it on the net in the $800 to $900 range. If you are looking to pick up a great receiver without having to lay down a chunk of money to do so you cannot go wrong with this unit.

Highly Recommended