The RX-V2700 adds a host of noteworthy features over its predecessor but also eliminates a very popular one in this price class – THX certification. Whether or not it’s a big deal to you depends on how often you use THX modes and/or if you find the PLIIx equivalent modes equally useful.

From its powerful network features, to its ability to playback all known current source types thanks to HDMI ver.1.2a, this receiver is likely to serve as the centerpiece of a sophisticated home theater for a long time.

Its audio sound quality and amplifier performance are among the best Yamaha has built to date in a sub $2k receiver. The assignable power amps should serve a multi zone system quite well and allow the end user to upgrade to a more powerful amp in the main zone (if needed) while not laying to waste its excellent internal amps.

If you have a MusicCAST MCX-2000 system, then it and the RX-V2700 will go like peas and carrots together. Think of it as getting a remote server thrown into the receiver for free. If you’ve gotta have the ability to stream music off your PC, media server, USB drive or iPod, while still hosting top notch AV duties, I can think of no better solution than the RX-V2700.

Despite some of the minor operational difficulties I had, this was still a very enjoyable receiver for me to review and one I highly recommend to the audiophile and technogeek alike. Keep in mind that most review publications don’t go into this level of detail with products and I have provided work around solutions for all of the issues I have found.

If you follow my guidelines set forth in this review, you can rest assured the Yamaha RX-V2700 will arm you with a sophisticated home theater arsenal at your command to propel you into the 21st century of home theater enjoyment.