Wilco's Yankee Hotel Foxtrot is one of the best CDs of the year, and the XR10 uncovered all of the music's dense textures and layered sounds. We next took advantage of the DVD-A inputs and checked out Bobby Short's finger-poppin' Piano DVD. The late-night jazz disc sounded gorgeous, but more demanding, higher-energy music and special-effects-laden DVDs pushed the XR10 to its limits. We felt that the 100-watts-per-channel power rating was unrealistic; this receiver doesn't come close to displaying the effortless dynamic agility of its 100-watt-per-channel brethren. That said, as long as the XR10 is partnered with a compatible sub/sat speaker system and used in small rooms, it will have the necessary moxie to handle the job.
Though the SA-XR10 carriers a suggested retail price of $599.95, you can find it online for closer to $400, which makes it easier for us to recommend. If this Panasonic had more power, we'd have worked up even more enthusiasm. That said, if you love this receiver's look and don't need a powerhouse, check out the SA-XR10 for yourself.
What You'll Pay
- Set Price Alert
