My 1080 VR has an annoying "hummmm" that cuts in and out above 30 decibels and increases greatly in volume at 29 and below decibels. Has anyone else had this problem? When I give the top of the reciever a smack it stops humming for a while only to start again in a while. When the volume is 29 or lower, no amount of fooling around stops the hummm. This didn't start till after the warranty expired! I have eliminated any sources of radio interference and still to no avail. Please help.........The manufactures of the components should have empty PCI slots or something like they do on computers so you can upgrade your system with say.... a THX card........or a DTS card to stave off future obsolescence.Is their any manufacturers that consider this idea of mine in their designs?

I am interested in buying this piece simply because of the fact that it is digital and the price is exceptional(599). The reason I am writing this message is because I am a little skeptical about Kenwood and wanted some reassurance from some one that owns it or knows something about it. I am deciding between this and a Yamaha unit. Any knowledge would be appreciated.

I just bought the 104 AR reciever, and am really happy with it. I do not, however, like the bass/treble/loudness controls (bass increase is @ 150Hz, and treble @ 10K) The srs is really nice on some recordings... This is a really clean amp for the price (<$200).

I like the remote expecially in the dark ,others complain, just get used to it
OSD is great when setting sound, like being able to adjust input levels of my components (expept ac-3). cuts down on big volume differences between input units

Buzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz is the only one

I am very pleased with my 1080-VR.
I have been using it for almost 3 years (got this unit and a toshiba "$450.00++" DVD player when they hit the market and no one knew if DVD was going to stick around - best buy only had about 20, yes 20 different titles on DVD at the time, i like setting a presidence) and except for the buzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz i haven't had any problems.
I was thinking about replacing this unit because of the buzzzzzzzz but found out here (stereo review) how to fix it, and I am glad i did because this unit is well worth keeping.
I did notice that one of the power supply capicators was leaking some oil when if fixed the buzzzzzzzzzzzzz and I
will be replacing it soon, this may be due to the fact my unit is located in a entertainment center and should get more ventilitation.
If you have one of these units you may want to check the top of the capiciators (viewed from the vents in the unit)
will see what looks like cookie dough on top of the filter.
You would want to have you local stereo shop replace it before it goes bad (just a suggestion).
The buzzzz is an easy fix and ,as stated, any one with a $5.00 soldiering iron could fix.
A broken ground connection on the AC-3 board (the top board you see when the cover is removed)is the problem
1) remove the (3) rear screws and (1) internal screw to the left holding the board to it's bracket
2) disconnect the two ribbon cables on the right by pulling them up and out of thier connectors (there is no type of release, just pull them, gently)
3) release plastic stands and flip board over
4) soldier connector that was attached to rear of case (both sides)
5) assemble unit in reverse order
it's just that simple!!!!!!!!!!!!!
good luck a keep jammin

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pioneer dolby pro logic (this is my first 5.1)

Cheap, when I bough it.

Quality is questionable. Horrible volumn control. No DTS.

What started out as a great purchase slowly went down hill. I too have started to have the hum problem. In fact, at higher than -25db, it turns into a loud humm/buzz. It only happens in analog modes (Dolby Surround, Stereo, etc.), and is relatively quiet in Dolby Digital mode. The volumn control is really bad, especially if you are using the knob to change. It is more tolerable with the remote. On the plus side, it works great with my sony DVD player through the digital input. Working with my Infinity OVTR2s, it makes a great home theater. I would have spent more for another receiver if I knew more at the time, however.

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some sony receivers

Good performance for home theater. Excellent AC-3 seperation.

That Buzzzzzzzzzzzz at -29db.

Good for the price at the time I purchased the unit. However, you can get your hands on a Yamaha HTR-5280 for a few dollars more with at lover THD rating, .04% THD if memory serves me correct. I still love the reciever over all and don't regreat the purchase. I fixed the hum my self by tightening up the screws on the upper, back pannel of the unit, just above the Optical jack. Some difficulty setting up by directions to suite personal taste. Circuit City was a joke when it came to servicing the unit. Love the Kenwood but seriously doubt if I ever purchase anything form them.

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Sony Home Theater - (unsure of model)