Pioneer Elite VSX-01TXH

Pros: Good power. Great looks. This amp was really easy to set up. It has a mic that can do its own calibration. It can decode all the modern surround formats. The comparison doesn't list all the formats it can do. Check manfactures website for full list.

Cons: No real issues. It was not immediately apparent how to get it to take video from an HDMI input and audio from an optical input. I got no audio. Manual was no help but managed to find a solution. Press signal sel button until you have sound and video.

Summary: If you are looking to get a high current amp with a longer than average warranty and with great sound and looks, this is the amp for you. The only reason I didn't give this amp 5 stars is the fact that I had to use the Internet in order to get my setup to work the way I wanted - which is by the way, a way that many people would want it to work.

It's a great HDMI switch as well. With 3 HDMI inputs it gives all of your digital sources a place to go.

All in all, the amplifier is very flexible. Lots of inputs, many of which can be configured to work together in different ways. You would be hard pressed to get in a position where you couldn't get your modern stuff to all work together. If you have a typical setup like a TV, VCR, DVD/Blue Ray player, game system, and satellite receiver, you will be in good shape with this amp. All of your stuff will have a home.

Another pro for this amp is the fact that it is THX certified. This doesn't make it sound any different, but it does mean that those who make movie sound have reviewed it and deemed it worthy of certification. I like this. The primary role of this amp in my home is movie watching, so this is something that makes me feel good about this particular amp.