The SA-XR57S is a great example of an affordable and powerful digital home theater receiver with HDMI switching, and Panasonic includes its HDAVI Control to make handling your entertainment setup a snap. HDAVI Control is a remote that can perform a variety of related commands with the press of a single button. For example, if you want to watch a DVD in surround sound, simply hit the "play" button. With a preconfigured macro, the remote will turn on the TV and switch it to the proper input, activate the DVD player and start the disc, and turn on the SA-XR57S and switch to the DVD source. It doesn't get much easier than that.

This is a seven-channel receiver that provides 100 watts of output per channel. It can also be wired in a dual-amp configuration that uses the amplifier channels for the rear satellites to provide additional power for the front speakers. Critics of digital amplification often complain that digital receivers can't match the full, rich sound provided by analog amplifiers, and the SA-XR57S can sound flat at lower listening volumes. This often depends on the source material, however, and the problem disappears at higher sound levels.

With the HDMI connection, the SA-XR57S provides a digital-to-digital, uncompressed link for audio and video signals to and from a variety of components, including DVD players (Audio and Video), SACD players and digital TVs. There is also a six-channel analog input for a DVD-Audio or SACD signal. With Panasonic's optional SH-FX60, you can enjoy the convenience of wireless rear satellites.

The SA-XR57S has built-in processing for Dolby Digital EX, DTS ES, DTS Neo:6 and DTS 96/24, along with Dolby Pro Logic IIx. One drawback is the rather plain display, but it still provides sufficient useful information in a relatively easy-to-understand format.

This is an affordable HDMI-equipped receiver, and HDAVI Control takes the confusion out of operating a large home theater system. The SA-XR57S is a feature-packed digital home theater receiver and a great value.

Pros:  HDMI switching, remote control macros (HDAVI Control), clear digital amplification
Cons:  Some audio sources can sound flat at lower volumes, basic display

Warranty
1 year