Pioneer VSX-D608 Receiver

In theory this unit is a great one. It has many feature which receivers costing twice as much don't have, mainly S-video inputs on all video channels and assignable digital optical inputs (you can designate what optical input goes to any input. With Sony for example, the optical inputs are fixed to a certain input. e.g. there is an optical input for a mini-disc player which is linked to the MD input.) With the 608 you can attach any future digital component to any input. Even though this unit is incredibly flexible in terms of inputs, there is one drawback which I believe over shadows these plusses, and that is the ease of use. Pioneer has made this unit (and the VSX-D508)very confusing to operate. To perform simple operations there are many key strokes to push, while on similar receivers of different brands there may be only one key stroke. Set up is also rather difficult. To make this short, if you are a first time Home Theater buyer, or are a person who has a hard time navigating and deciphering instruction books, this unit is not for you.