Marantz SR8001 Receiver: On the Bench By Shane Buettner   •   April, 2007

• $1,999
• 125-Watts x 7 into 8 ohms
• Processing Modes: DD, DD-EX, ProLogicIIx, DTS, DTS-ES/Discrete/Matrix/Neo: 6, DTS 24/96, SRS Circle Surround II, HDCD decoding

Features We Like: THX Select2-Certified, Four HDMI 1.2 inputs and two outputs with video upconversion and cross-conversion, four component inputs, Audyssey auto calibration and room EQ, three coaxial and four toslink optical digital audio inputs, one 7.1-channel analog audio input, XM Ready, 7.1-channel preamp outs, AV sync delay, multi-source/multi-zone

Marantz' sales lit asks whether this is an audiophile's AVR or a videophile's AVR. Of course this is their way of saying it intends to be both, and they might well be right. This AVR boasts ample power, a typically Marantz overbuilt chassis and power supply, high quality D-A conversion, and newfangled features like HDMI switching with upconversion and iPod and XM compatibility. All things to all 'philes? Check into HT's May issue to see if this mighty Marantz walks the walk.