Harman Kardon's AVR 500 is a shining example of a fine audio-video (AV) receiver with superb sound. In addition to standard Dolby Pro Logic and Dolby Digital surround decoding, the AVR 500 also comes with built-in DTS (Digital Theater Sound) decoding as well as Harman Kardon's proprietary Logic 7 and VMAx surround modes. Most importantly, though, the AVR 500 is simply a superb sounding receiver. For example, with CDs the AVR 500 presents a big, natural window on the music. The qualities we expect from separates (preamplifier and amplifier components) but don't usually get from integrated receivers abound here: a wonderful sense of air and ambiance; complex layers of rich harmonics; a beautiful nuance in vocal delivery; wide dynamics and subtle microdynamics; smooth, extended high frequencies; and a bottom end that is at once powerful and well defined and never muddy.
Surround decoding of Dolby Digital- and DTS-encoded discs, performed by 24-bit, 96-kHz Crystal DSP (digital signal processing) circuits, is just as impressive. The AVR 500 creates one of the most convincing and enveloping soundscapes we've heard from a receiver, rivaling the performance of many fine (and pricey) configurations of separates.
Unlike most of the overhyped proprietary DSP modes out there, Harman Kardon's own Logic 7 (multichannel) and VMAx (two-channel) surround modes work extremely well, in most cases audibly improving regularly decoded, discrete source material (such as Dolby Digital and DTS)--which is no small feat. Logic 7 also instantaneously generates 5.1-channel information from two-channel material from CDs, television, VHS tapes, and other sources, letting you take full advantage of your surround system.
Setting up the AVR 500 is--not surprisingly--a complex and time-consuming effort, but one that pays off. To its credit, the unit boasts a terrific onscreen display menu for setup, one of the best owner's manuals we've seen, and an uncluttered, full-function, illuminated remote control.
Although the AVR 500's price is higher than that of the average AV receiver, its performance is anything but average. In this case, the extra money buys you one of the most dynamic and satisfying receivers we know of.
Pros:
- Sound quality rivals separates
- Excellent build quality
- Loaded with features
- Controls are easy to navigate
Cons:
- Lengthy set-up procedure
- No phono input
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