Harman Kardon AVR 7550HD Flagship Receiver

Harman Kardon displayed their new AVR 7550HD 7.2-channel audio/video receiver. It features HDMI v1.3a (with Deep Color support) and can pass video signals to 1080p. The receiver employs Faroudja DCDi Cinema digital-video processing utilizing the leading-edge Torino chipset (FLI30436), providing HD upscaling and enhanced 1080p image quality from all video sources.

The receiver is among the first to include Dolby Volume technology, an innovative approach to delivering consistent volume levels across a wide variety of content, channel programming or input sources. It is also the first receiver to utilize the latest-generation Texas Instruments Aureus DA710 audio digital-signal processor in a dual-DSP implementation.

The AVR 7550HD incorporates a newly developed high-definition full-color on-screen menu system that utilizes both pictures and text to guide users in setting up their home theater system.

The receiver offers Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding; a built-in USB port to accommodate a USB memory stick or streaming audio from a computer; an Internet radio tuner; automated room-equalization and system calibration; multiroom audio and video capability with A-BUS connectivity; XM Ready capability; and more. It is supplied with the Harman Kardon docking station for iPod at no extra charge. The Bridge II enables enhanced audio and video playback and remote-control capabilities when a compatible iPod is connected.

This is a new venture for Harman, having formerly topped out at $799 with the AVR 354. Harman hasn't yet proved itself in the high-end receiver line-up, at least not since the introduction of HDMI and video processing, so it will be nice to see how well this new flagship product is received in the marketplace.

The AVR 7550HD will be available in Winter of 2009 for $2,799.

For more information visit www.harman.com.