Harman AVR 520 5.1 Channels Receiver

I received this unit as a replacement for an AVR510, which started having problems with sound processing about 3 months after I bought the unit. I liked the sound of the 510, but
was concerned that this unit would fail just like the original unit. Those concerns turned out to be unfounded, as I have not had a single problem with this unit since I received it, and have been thrilled with its performance, and noticeable improvement in the clarity of sound and the addition of several great new features.

Sound

This is why I bought the unit in the first place. H/K has a reputation for excellent sound, especially from analog sources. Having used the product for a year now, I am equally impressed with its digital processing as well. I particularly like the fact that it auto switches to Dolby Digital + Dolby Pro Logic II for two channel DVD sources that I watch. Plus, it auto senses when you run a DVD with DTS instead of DD, and also automatically turns on HDCD processing when you have a CD encoded that way.

Features

Lacks nothing in the way of features for the full home theater experience. Dolby Digital 6.1, DTS-ES+, Dolby Pro Logic II, plus several of their own DSP options: VMAX Near/Far, 5 Channel Stereo, etc. I have tried them all and would be hard-pressed to find any flaws.

Inputs

Except for the noticeable lack of a phono input, you can plug in virtually any device in any one of several formats: analog audio/video using RCA inputs, S-Video in/out, Component Video In/Out, and Digital Audio in both Fiber Optic and Coax formats. It even has a 7.1 input for pre-processing from any future devices not currently handled in the box, such as DVD-Audio or SACD. Unlike the problems I experienced with the AVR510, I have had no problem with any of the formats, and I am currently using nearly every type of input and output.

Flaws

There are a couple things I wish they would fix: 1/ I use the analog input/outputs on the front to pipe the sound to my TV. Each time I turn the unit on, I need to change the setting from input to output, as it forgets the setting once it is powered off. 2/ The remote could be improved. For starters, the unit is shaped like a door stop, with the end closest to you narrow from the sides and top/bottom and the end furthest away from you widening out in both directions. The batteries are also closer to the top then bottom. This makes the remote control rather unbalanced and difficult to hold on to, as it has a tendancy to fall out of your hand.

Peripherals Attached

Panasonic DVD Player
JVC Minidisc Recorder/3-CD changer
Magnavox VHS VCR
Magnavox 27" Stereo TV
Sony 5-Disc CD Changer
Sony Dual Cassette Deck
Nintendo 64 Game Console
Monitor Audio Silver 4 speakers, F/R
Sub/Center, unknown origin.

Randy.