Harman/Kardon AVR 460 AV-receiver
The receiver is made according to an eight-channel scheme (7.1), while there is both a 7.1 multi-channel output (for pumping muscles by connecting external amplifiers) and an input (in case of playing multi-channel SACDs or the emergence of new sound recording formats). Since the Harman/Kardon AVR 460 receiver belongs to the middle class, the output power is relatively low (2x75W or 7x60W into 8 ohms). Modestly? But honestly, because, to be honest, some competitors in the pursuit of watts indicate power when only one channel is loaded. So Harman Kardon does not deceive consumers - the device has enough power to sound a room with an area of 15-20 m2. Is this not enough for you? No problem: buy an additional "assistant" (stereo or multi-channel) and connect it to the preamplifier outputs.
Audio streams are decoded by the built-in DSP-processor Cirrus Logic CS49700. Almost all currently existing audio formats are readable, including HD audio, and proprietary Logic 7 modes allow you to very skillfully decompose a stereo signal according to 5.1 and 7.1 schemes. For analog conversion, DACs with 24-bit / 192 kHz characteristics are used.
Naturally, the Harman/Kardon AVR 460 is equipped with such proprietary features as the EzSet / EQ auto-calibration system and the A-Bus control bus. For iPod/iPhone there is a socket for connecting a docking station. I would also like to note an HDMI switcher with four inputs and one output, a video signal scaler up to 1080p, the LipSync function (synchronization of sound and image), and an excellent graphical interface. Another interesting feature is the presence of the new Dolby Volume technology, which allows you to equalize volume levels while watching programs interrupted by commercials, as well as removing dynamic bursts that can wake up a child sleeping behind the wall. This is a completely new level of what used to be called "night mode". Works really well, will be useful to many users. If you are not going to organize a 7.1 system, the Surround Back amplifiers can be switched to sound the second zone.
Under the cover on the front panel, in addition to various audio and video inputs, there is a USB port. Alas, it has nothing to do with portable players, but only serves to update the firmware.
Once again, we want to praise the standard remote controls. The main one is a system one, it can be programmed with a code base or taught. In addition to it, a small remote control is supplied with the receiver, designed to work from the second zone.
The listening results are inspiring. I would like to call a very dynamic sound explosive. This character is ideally suited to the features of the soundtrack of a modern blockbuster. At the same time, one cannot fail to note the meticulous detailing (countless micro-effects of the HD soundtrack do not merge into a common buzzing cauldron, but create a clear and realistic picture of what is happening). We can only blame the relatively low power of the receiver - all of the above is true for the average volume level, but if you want to bring down a sound avalanche on yourself, you will have to add at least a "stereo assistant" for the front channels. For those who do not seek to bring their neighbors to a heart attack, the capabilities of the receiver will be quite enough, since it supports all connection options, so it will easily become the heart of any home theater system.
