Pioneer VSX-1019AH-K

Critics and users praise the Pioneer VSX-1019AH-K for its nearly unbeatable blend of performance and value. Sound quality is excellent and video processing, while not flawless, is better than what many competing receivers have to offer. The VSX-1019AH-K is also blessed with an abundance of features. iPod and iPhone support is built-in, and the VSX-1019AH-K ships with the required iPod cable. The graphical user interface (GUI) lets you navigate your music collection -- but not photos or videos -- via the receiver's remote control.

Audio support is good, and the Pioneer VSX-1019AH-K includes decoders for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, the high-def audio formats used on Blu-ray Discs. The four HDMI inputs and multichannel analog audio input is sufficient to handle even complex home theater setups. One oddity is that the multichannel analog audio input in this 7.1-channel receiver will only accept 5.1 channels of audio, disregarding the two rear surround channels that are the difference between 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound. Ease of use is enhanced by a good speaker setup system and the helpful GUI, but hindered by a manual that some find confusing. The rated 120 watts per channel should provide more than enough volume for most home theaters, but some find that the VSX-1019AH-K struggles when asked to drive large or inefficient speakers or to fill large spaces.

The Onkyo TX-SR607 (*Est. $430) is another consideration in this price category. Pluses compared to the VSX-1019AH-K include support for Dolby Pro Logic IIz (which adds height channels to the standard seven channels for an even more impressive surround sound), an extra subwoofer output and a lower price tag. However, video performance is decidedly weaker, multichannel analog audio support is missing altogether and, while easy to use, the TX-SR607 lacks the sophisticated GUI found in the Pioneer VSX-1019AH-K.