Panasonic SA-XR55S Home Theater Receiver (Silver)

Panasonic SA-XR55S Home Theater Receiver (Silver)

Product Description
Amazon.com Product Description
The Panasonic SA-XR55S Home Theater Receiver delivers clear, powerful sound through outstanding digital amplification. With this sleek silver receiver Panasonic has coupled the benefits of digital technology with a high-quality amplifier. Digital amplifiers are much more efficient than traditional analog amplifiers, generating less heat and taking up less space while delivering an even larger amount of clean output power. Sound quality improves with the elimination of digital-to-analog conversion when connecting a digital source device (such as a DVD player) to an analog amplifier. With the SA-XR55K, all the processing and amplification is done in the digital domain, resulting in low distortion and extremely low background noise.

With the crisp, clear sound amplification of the SA-XR55S, you will be able to experience the latest in surround sound formats. The amazing image quality of DVD is only half the movie-watching experience. Most DVD movies have high-impact, theater-quality Dolby Digital or DTS soundtracks that require a powerful audio system for faithful reproduction. This receiver can process these technologically advanced soundtracks so you can get the most out of your viewing experience.

When MP3s and movie soundtracks are created, higher frequencies are lost due to the limited frequency response of compressed digital audio. Most of these frequencies can't be heard by human ears, but their presence conveys subtle nuances. When they're missing in a digital recording, the sound and music just doesn't sound quite the same as in a live performance. This receiver answers the call for better sound with Panasonic's multi-remaster feature that examines the audio signal and compensates for those lost frequencies. The end result is an improved sound quality that is much closer to the original performance.

The amplifier built into this receiver pumps out high power levels for head-bobbing, satisfying volume levels with remarkably low distortion. You'll feel like you're in the front row of a multiplex cinema as the Dolby Digital and DTS soundtracks surround you. The SA-XR55K has plenty of audio/video inputs to handle all your source devices (five video inputs, four digital inputs, seven audio inputs, and three S-video inputs). It even functions as a source selector, allowing you to connect multiple video sources to the receiver and then run a single audio/video connection to just one of your TV's audio/video inputs--no more flipping through multiple video inputs on your TV with this receiver.

Last, but not least, Panasonic knows that fumbling through a pile of remotes is the last thing you want to do. Clean up the mess on your coffee table and take control of your system with the included universal remote control. You can command many different brands and types of components after some simple programming--and the remote even lights up so you can see the buttons in the dark.

What's in the Box
Receiver, deluxe universal remote control, and user's manual.

Product Description:
Panasonic SA-XR55 Home-Theater Receiver for A/V surround sound - If you use a DVD player on your TV or plan to upgrade to HDTV soon, having multichannel surround sound is extremely important to complete the truest home-theater experience. Though HDTV offers a 5.1 channel surround mode, this receiver can deliver76.1 channels for new DVD output. So you've got the choice of your surround mode. This receiver also has a stereo mode for your audio recordings. Let's call this a receiver for all seasons! Rear Audio Inputs - RCA - 4, Coaxial - 1, Optical - 2 Rear Video Inputs - Composite - 3, S-Video - 3, Component - 2 Selectable DSP modes Port for adding external FM antenna Slim Design - 2.9 H x 16.9 W x 14.7 D Weighs 8.8 Pounds Includes Remote Control Silver Finish

Panasonic SA-XR55S Home Theater Receiver (Silver)
Average customer rating:
Panasonic SA-XR55S Home Theater Receiver (Silver)

Manufacturer: Panasonic
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
Receivers | Home Audio | Panasonic | Brands | Electronics Features | Electronics
Home Theater Receivers | Receivers & Amplifiers | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics | Satellite-ready Home Theater Receivers
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Product Features:

Receiver delivers clear, powerful sound through digital amplification

Processes Dolby Digital and DTS soundtracks for powerful sound reproduction

Plenty of audio/video inputs to handle all your source devices

7.1 channel surround capable

Measures 16.9 x 4.2 x 15.5 inches (W x H x D)

ASIN: B0009E1YPW

Product Description

Panasonic SA-XR55 Home-Theater Receiver for A/V surround sound - If you use a DVD player on your TV or plan to upgrade to HDTV soon, having multichannel surround sound is extremely important to complete the truest home-theater experience. Though HDTV offers a 5.1 channel surround mode, this receiver can deliver76.1 channels for new DVD output. So you've got the choice of your surround mode. This receiver also has a stereo mode for your audio recordings. Let's call this a receiver for all seasons! Rear Audio Inputs - RCA - 4, Coaxial - 1, Optical - 2 Rear Video Inputs - Composite - 3, S-Video - 3, Component - 2 Selectable DSP modes Port for adding external FM antenna Slim Design - 2.9 H x 16.9 W x 14.7 D Weighs 8.8 Pounds Includes Remote Control Silver Finish

Amazon.com Product Description

The Panasonic SA-XR55S Home Theater Receiver delivers clear, powerful sound through outstanding digital amplification. With this sleek silver receiver Panasonic has coupled the benefits of digital technology with a high-quality amplifier. Digital amplifiers are much more efficient than traditional analog amplifiers, generating less heat and taking up less space while delivering an even larger amount of clean output power. Sound quality improves with the elimination of digital-to-analog conversion when connecting a digital source device (such as a DVD player) to an analog amplifier. With the SA-XR55K, all the processing and amplification is done in the digital domain, resulting in low distortion and extremely low background noise.

What's in the Box
Receiver, deluxe universal remote control, and user's manual.

Panasonic SA-XR57S Digital Home Theater Receiver with HDMI, Silver
Average customer rating:

very good receiver for the money

Excellent Product

A 4+ star audio receiver with 2+ star video functions

Rim Shot

Great equipment

Panasonic SA-XR57S Digital Home Theater Receiver with HDMI, Silver

Manufacturer: Panasonic
ProductGroup: CE
Binding: Electronics

Receivers & Amplifiers | Audio & Video | Categories | Electronics | Combo Receivers | Component Amplifiers | Home Theater Receivers | Stereo Receivers
Audio & Video | Refurbished & Used | Special Features | Electronics Features | Electronics
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Product Features:

Full-digital amplifier

HDMI in/out

EZ Sync HDAVI control

Built-in DTS 96/24

Rear-wireless ready

ASIN: B000FYZQSW

Product Description

What differentiates the SA-XR57 from other receivers in its class is use of a full digital amplifier. Digital amplifiers are much more efficient than traditional analog amplifiers, generating less heat and taking up less space while still generating large amounts of clean output power. Sound quality is also improved by eliminating the digital to analog conversion necessary when connecting a digital source device, such as a DVD player, to an analog amplifier. All processing and amplification are done in the digital domain, resulting in low distortion and extremely low background noise. This receiver has multiple audio/video inputs to handle all your source devices?TV, VCR, DVD player, cable box, and more. It even functions as a source selector, allowing you to connect multiple video sources to the receiver and run a single audio/video connection to just one of your TV's audio/video inputs. No more flipping through video inputs on your TV. The front audio/video input makes it simple to temporarily hook up an additional source component, such as a camcorder or video game system. AM/FM Digitally-Tuned Radio with up to 32 station presets that you can easily program yourself Unit Dimensions (H x W x D) 4-7/32'' x 16-15/16'' x 15-1/2'' / Weight 9.9 lbs

Amazon.com

Clear, Powerful Sound Via Digital Amplification
The benefits of digital technology are now available in a high-quality amplifier. Digital amplifiers are much more efficient than traditional analog amplifiers, generating less heat and taking up less space while still generating large amounts of clean output power. Sound quality is also improved by eliminating the digital to analog conversion necessary when connecting a digital source device, such as a DVD player, to an analog amplifier. All processing and amplification are done in the digital domain, resulting in low distortion and extremely low background noise.

Experience The Latest Surround Sound Formats
The amazing image quality of DVD is only half the movie-watching experience. Most DVD movies have high-impact, theater-quality Dolby Digital® or DTS® soundtracks that require a powerful audio system for faithful reproduction, and this receiver can process such soundtracks and make the most of your viewing experience.

Digital Recordings Sound Like the Original Performance
When MP3s and movie soundtracks are created, higher frequencies are lost due to the limited frequency response of compressed digital audio. Most of these frequencies can't be heard by human ears, but their presence conveys subtle nuances. When they're missing in a digital recording, it doesn't quite sound the same as the live performance. Our multi re-master feature examines the audio signal and helps compensate for these lost frequencies, providing sound quality closer to the original performance.

Powerful and Accurate Surround Sound
The amplifier built into this home theater receiver pumps out high power levels for driving our speakers at satisfying volumes with low distortion. You'll feel like you're in the front row at your local multiplex as the sounds from Dolby Digital® and DTS® soundtracks travel all around you.

Connect and Switch Between Multiple A/V Sources
This receiver has multiple audio/video inputs to handle all your source devices—TV, VCR, DVD player, cable box, and more. It even functions as a source selector, allowing you to connect multiple video sources to the receiver and run a single audio/video connection to just one of your TV's audio/video inputs. No more flipping through video inputs on your TV.

Control Many Different Components With One Remote
Fumbling through a pile of remotes in the dark is a pain. Clean up the mess and take control of your system with the included universal remote control, which can command many different brands and types of components after some simple programming. It even lights up so you can see the buttons in the dark.

Quick Connection of a Camcorder or Game System
The front audio/video input makes it simple to temporarily hook up an additional source component, such as a camcorder or video game system.

Customer Reviews:

very good receiver for the money.......2007-04-14

I would have rated this receiver as excellent but for one glaring short coming, only one HDMI port. This receiver does a wonderful job with my home entertainment equipment. It is very easy to set up and a person like me with basic knowledge of assembling a home entertainment system had no problem with this receiver. Only if Panasonic would had the vision to add at least to HDMI inputs this receiver would be hard to beat for the money.

Excellent Product.......2007-03-09

I like to sound quality, it's easy to use and even easier to setup. I have it setup with a Panasonic Plasma TV and the controlls work great wich each other. I would definetly nuy this product again.

A 4+ star audio receiver with 2+ star video functions.......2007-02-24

IN SHORT: As an audio-video receiver, it's solid on the A, but falls short on the V. Still, it's a very good option if that fits your needs.

The Panasonic SA-XR57 is a solid receiver for someone looking for to fill out the audio section of their home theater, especially if the compact size and lower heat output of this digitally amplified model are important to you. The sound and power are good, and the audio feature set is reasonably complete. For people who primarily need audio, and have a limited number of video sources, the rating would be 4+ stars. (There are a few quirks, and the power output probably won't fill a large room as well as other options, so it doesn't earn 5 stars.) Consider the SA-XR57 if you just have one or two primary video sources, and can manage with the XR57's connections, or directly connect the sources to the television.

Unfortunately, this receiver is not a good option if you want to rely on it for the video part of a more complicated home theater setup. See the detailed discussion below. So as a true AV receiver, this rates just 2+ stars. If you are looking to connect and switch several video inputs, look at another receiver. (Yamahas are sweet, they will have to pry my old one from my cold dead hands.)

SOLID AUDIO FEATURES FOR MUSIC AND HOME THEATER

There's a lot to like about this AV receiver if your are looking for a lower-priced receiver for music or home theater.

- The audio quality is good and provides enough power to up to 7.1 channels to satisfy lots of people. It handles nearly all of the multichannel and audio formats you're likely to want to use, with a few small wrinkles.

- All audio inputs are processed and amplified digitally (with high sample rate conversion to digital for analog sources).

- Because it's a fully "digital" amplifier, it's much smaller and lighter than other options with the sound quality and features this offers. It's also much more energy-efficient, and generates a lot less heat. (But note that does NOT mean you can squeeze this into a cramped, closed cabinet with no air or circulation!)

- Cleverly, if you've connected just a 5.0 or 5.1 speaker setup, the XR57 will automatically use the idle amplifiers from the unused rear surround channels to "dual amp" the front left and right, to deliver full power with less distortion. A great feature.

The receiver has enough connections for most people, and real binding posts for the speakers are nice to have.

The XR57 is not the most beautiful receiver, though it has a nice slightly retro feel - you can imagine the silver one in Starsky or Hutch's pad. If you can get past that, and past buying audio gear from the same company that makes your electric razor, you'll like this receiver.

LIMITED VIDEO FEATURES

This receiver will make you happy as long as your video requirements are limited. Other people will quickly run into some of the shortcomings of the video side of the XR57:

- If, like most people, you have any equipment that isn't brand new, this implementation of HDMI leaves a lot to be desired. You can only output signal through the same type of connection as it was input (for example a component connection in means component out). So you can't plug all your video sources into the back of the receiver and expect to run one HDMI cable to the TV. Given that the whole point of HDMI is to reduce cable clutter, it's not entirely clear what they were thinking when they produced this implementation.

- And even if all your gear is brand new, that won't help. There's only one HDMI input and one output. So even if all your inputs are HDMI, you can't connect more than one. Further, the XR57 supports resolutions only up to 1080i, so even as a pass-through you can't connect a 1080p source.

Just in case it doesn't go without saying, there is of course no upconversion (for example, turning a 480-line DVD signal into a carefully resampled 1080-line signal for the TV).

By the way, connecting video sources directly to the TV can work fine if you have a high quality digital output from your TV to the receiver. You can output the audio from the TV to the receiver over a digital cable. This will not only get you the audio for the directly-connected sources, it will also feed the Dolby Digital audio in the HDTV broadcast to your amp and speakers!

A FEW OTHER ISSUES

There are a few quirks that should be ironed out:

- Some of the features, including things you might use regularly like balance, can only be accessed from the front of the receiver, not from the remote. That matters a bit more than it might since you there's no separate level adjustment for the front left and right speakers.

- If you connect an HDMI source, you can only use the audio from that HDMI cable - you can't select another audio source. So, for example, you can't connect a DVI to HDMI cable and route the audio separately.

There's also some room for improvement on the nice-to-have features, although using a universal remote would hide most of the rough spots in the interface. (Just a quick note, if you haven't looked into what a good universal remote can do to simplify using your home theater, look into it! The Logitech Harmony brand is popular.)

- It remembers the settings by source, which takes you part way there but isn't that much help if your DVD player/recorder is also your CD player.

- It would be great if there were a manual or automatic edit to the list of inputs/sources, so that you didn't have to scroll through ones that are non-functional to get to the one you want.

- It's nice to be able to rename the inputs to fit your own description. (For example, I don't have a set top box, so I don't really like seeing TV/STB as the source.)

- There are just barely enough adjustments for most people, but it would be nice if they went a little further with the fine-tuning options for the audio and speaker setup. Not everyone has a dedicated, perfectly shaped room for their home theater, more options can help adapt to various situations. It would also help out some of those who are more particular about their settings.

Panasonic is also touting the ability to control an all-Panasonic home theater (TV, DVD, etc.) using their proprietary HDAVI control signal system. But other reviewers have given that unenthusiastic reviews, saying that it takes some time to figure out, and it doesn't do anything you couldn't do (maybe better) with a universal remote.

You can also find a much better description of the SA-XR57 at the panasonic.it Italy site - panasonic.it/_ftp/catalogs/SA_XR57.pdf

Rim Shot.......2007-02-14

My experience with this product was frustration and sadness.

I would have expected this product to be a perfect companion for the 50" Panasonic plasma TV that I installed. HDMI connections should make everything clean and simply. Sadly, I did not find this to be the case.

The product info listed 2 HDMI connections, but this refers to 1 in and 1 out. No HDMI to connect a DVD player. Worse, despite over 4 hours on the phone with a series of helpful, patient and courteous Panasonic tech support people I couldn't get an audio or video signal to display using optical connections and standard a/v to the back of the TV.

I found the controls on the receiver to be extremely non-intuitive and frustrating to set and the manual borderline useless. Do they ever ask real consumers to read these instructions and see if they are comprehensible? I suspect not.

I eventually exchanged the unit for an Onkyo 604, which although it is not a digital receiver worked immediately out of the box.

My experience with Panasonic products has generally been delight, but this one just didn't work out for me.

GTV6fisti
Norcross, GA

Great equipment.......2007-01-26

Good buy and received timely from shipper. The one downside is that the description on Amazon did not state that the equipment does not support mutiple inputs to one output. However, it did have all the possible inputs and outputs needed and was easy to setup. Lots of additional features!

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