I purchase this product as a second hand unit. I used to run starting with a JVC amp, then a Yamaha amp, then on to a Sony Surround Sound Amp or receiver, didn't much care for the first two amps, but the Sony amp lasted 15 years before giving up. But after listening to the AVR 144 which is Harmond and Kardon's low end Amp....what a difference, for an affordable amp from a company that sells usually amps out of my range, I was quite surprised. It may not blow everybodies sock off, but it did with me, completely satisfied with the product. Lots of settings to play with, great sound and pretty easy to use, I don't think I'll ever purchase another amp in my lifetime, but if I do it will be a higher end version. GREAT PRODUCT!!

This receiver replaced an old JVC pro-logic unit that died. After break in the sound really opened up. Very clean sound that belies the 30 wpc rating. Originally this unit was driving my Cambridge sound works Ensemble 2 system with matching center and surrounds. This unit drove the Ensemble 2 with ease. There is a very listenable quality about this receiver. It never sounds harsh or bright but just right. I listen to over the air HD (NFL) games in Dolby Digital with my current system and am amazaed every game. 5 channel Stereo is awesome for video gaming and Pink Floyd CD's.

I'm currently driving a pair of Infinity Beta 20's as my left/right pair with a matching Infinity Beta 250 center. After the infinities broke in it was magical. Home Theater is superb now. Band of Brothers was awe inspiring. In Stereo I am floored by the imaging of my speakers and the control of this receiver. The soundstage is huge easily 5-7ft beyond the physical position of the speakers but not muddy or unatural. I beleive the high current power of the amp accounts for its fair share of this effect. I plan on using the Ensemble 2 Left/Right pair as a surround upgrade with all speakers crossed over at 60hz once I gaet a new sub this Christmas.

Price Paid: 178.95 at Buy.com

Strengths: Clean sound with very natural sound staging and control

Weaknesses: I have to turn it off because I have a wife.

Thoughts: I am sold on H/K receivers. Period. I look forward to purchasing their top end model at some point to serve as the nexus of an inspirational Media Room experience.