PROS: Budget receiver without a lot of bells and whistles for the newbie

CONS: Budget receiver without a lot of bells and whistles you'll eventually outgrow

This receiver has 3 HDMI inputs + 1 HDMI output. Bear in mind that the HDMI connections only do video; you'll a separate digital audio cable, incurring an additional expense.

Moreover, this model does not do HDMI upconversion; if you're running video through this receiver, you'll need the appropriate types of connections (component, composite, and HDMI) going to your TV.

Tone controls are accessed through the remote via a nested menu. You can adjust the treble and bass up or down 6db.

The only downside is the insufficient number of audio-only inputs (1 for SACD/CD connection). There is neither a tape monitor loop nor a phono input.

These missing features are available on more expensive receivers, to be sure.

How does it sound? Okay, I suppose. I played different types of music (Bach to 1980's rock) through a DVD player connected by a S/PDIF cable. There were some instances where I heard odd little 'pops,' as if I was listening to vinyl. I don't know if it was my CD, power, or any of the equipment at fault.

After tax, I paid $173.41. You can definitely find it cheaper on the street.