I am curious about the S-video inputs. I've read that there are 2 inputs, and 1 out. Is this correct? Also, I haven't figured out if it has a front panel a/v input or not. I understand it has a tinted cover that folds down, so I can't visually see an input from pictures. I have found this reciever and the decoder for $499 online. Is this a good price and does anyone know where to get it cheaper. What about the blue lines? Any response would be appreciated. Please e-mail me. Thanks.

I checked out the usual receivers in this price range and found the SA-X720 to have the best combination of power output (with low THD) and capability to upgrade my system to fully integrate DVD. My main interest was power output and this amp has gobs of power. I would like a loudness feature but the subwoofer output has a decent level for my Cerwin Vega! subwoofer anyways. I am propelling a set of Technics SB-A28 three-way (12" woofer) on the main channel and a set of very crisp Genexxa 100 speakers on the surround side. The surrounds do not sound particularly good when playing music in any mode, but the big Technics on the main really rock with the full 110W to each speaker. Although either the SB-A28 speakers or the amp lack deep bass, the subwoofer output works very well. You are in for an unfulfilling experience without a subwoofer. The only speakers I have heard that produce adequate bass on their own are bigger Cerwin Vega! and JBL speakers but then you need a lot more power to get it than 110W. Overall, I really enjoy this amp and I disagree about the remote being cheesy. This is a very simple remote that I can use without going back to college to fully understand (like Mini-System remotes).

Just pick up the SA-AX720 coupled with the SH-AC500D from Circuit City for $379 total and an additional $100 rebate from Technics still coming to me. This is an amazing value for a system that has both DTS and Dolby Digital. Being a casual listener who mainly uses their system for movies, I have to say that this system more than fills my needs. I have this system hooked to Optimus speakers and a JBL powered subwoofer. I spent today listening to Armageddon on my Dolby Digital DSS and I have to say that my house was shaking. The difference from Pro logic to DD is incredible and this system was able to convey that to me. I know that some people are complaining on how music sounds, but I have to say that it sounds good to me. My only two complaints so far are the lack of video outputs (only three) and the no S-video connections. I am very happy with my purchase so far and at this price point this system can not be beat. I would urge others who want to get Dolby Digital to consider this system especially considering you get DTS to boot (other systems with these capabilities were $600 plus). Because of the overall value of this system I have to give it 5 STARS.

After a lengthy decision, I reluctantly picked up the SA-AX720. It simply offered the most features for the price. I originally had my eye on YAMAHA, but when push came to shove this receiver was all I could afford. I paid $340 Cdn, and I will admit there is nothing else out there at least I could find under $500 that compared. I'm currently running the receiver with a Paradigm theater speaker setup. The receiver produces pleasing highs and lows. My only complaint would be the slight "hiss" in my surround speakers when in surround mode. The remote is also a bit cheezy but I suppose thats expected with a less expensive unit. My rating with price point in consideration is...

Bought it on sale during the holidays and thought it was a good entry-level receiver. Hooked up surround speakers and was bummed about the hissing noise. Then I heard about AudioReview.com and checked out other folks' comments. Thank you all for saving me endless hassle trying to figure out whether my unit is faulty or it's just a bad model -- I returned the receiver today and am now checking out others (Yamaha and Denon for now). I think it's an OK receiver unless you plan to use the surround function.

This receiver was a big disappointment. The worst thing was the major HISS that comes out of every speaker when in Prologic, DSP, or Dolgy Digital modes -- even when the volume level is at zero. I took the receiver to a Panasonic authorized repair center to see if they could eliminate or at least minimize the hiss, but (after 5 weeks) they didn't/couldn't repair it. I'm giving it a last chance by taking it to an official Panasonic repair center (45 minutes away), and we'll see what comes back.
On other matters: the remote is uninspired with tiny buttons and a non-intuitive interface. The tuner offers a poor user interface too. FM reception seemed about average. It has several DSP modes, but they were unlistenable because of all the hiss. The layout of the front panel is good, however. It was easy to set up, although it doesn't offer any of the features like small/large speaker selection, etc.

When I bought this in March 1998, it was a good deal because you couldn't find many Digital-ready receivers at good prices. But today, I don't think this receiver is a good buy. I just purchased and installed a Yamaha RV-905 (same as RXV-595) from Crutchfield for $399; it has a Digital decoder built in plus room for 6-channel expansion. Plus it sounds better than the Technics.

I would give the Technics higher than 2 stars if the distracting hiss would disappear. Maybe it's just my receiver -- I'll find out when I get it back from Panasonic. Meanwhile, I'm enjoying my Yamaha. Anybody want to buy a 9-month old Technics?

I am surprized that so many people find there is a hiss in surround mode. I use mine in conjunction with the SH-AC500D ($499 for the pair at Wackids). When I first hooked it up I noticed the bass was lacking, but once I connected an Energy powered sub-woofer that problem vanished.
I have a full (6) complement of Energy speakers connected,a Panasonic DVD player, a Nakamichi CD, Phillips CD, Thorens Turntable and a Sony SVHS player. I find the sound quality to be fine, though the Speaker terminals and remote are pretty low quality, overall the unit functions quite well and DVD is the only way to watch movies.

I would rate it a 4

This receiver's performance is a mixed bag. Overall, it's a well-built and attractive unit. When listening to loud music, the sound was beautiful and crisp. The front panel display and controls are logical and easy to use.
The big disappointment was the hissing sound from all speakers, even when the volume was turned completely down. I noticed this right out of the box. At first, I thought the wires or speakers were faulty. However, I'm using high quality Monster wire and BIC Venturi speakers throughout (excellent speakers, by the way!). After discovering this website (I wish I knew about Audioreview.com before purchasing this receiver) and reading similar complaints, I decided to return the AX720 for a Yamaha.

If you are looking for a well priced, well built, powerful, and reliable receiver, this is a good choice. I purchased this receiver (with the DTS/DD decoder) from JandR.com for $299.

If you seek excellent home theater sound, as I did when going down the receiver route, and you are reading reviews on the different products available, be prepared to spend at least $600 for a higher-end receiver. Discount receivers like this Technics just won't cut it. (I purchased a Yamaha RX-V795, a DTS/DD 85WX5 home theater receiver. Believe me, it's worth it!). This is surprising given Technics' (a Panasonic division) reputation.

Good luck in your purchase. Kudos to Audioreview.com for this excellent website.

I've been using this component, matched with the Dolby Digital and DTS unit, for a few months now. I purchased both units as a "package" for $359 at Best Buy. Since home theater is becoming a new hobby of mine, I have tried several different speaker combinations with this receiver. I have to say that with none of them have I noticed any "hiss" coming from the speakers that some of you have experienced. I traded in a Yamaha system to purchase this one, and quite honestly I haven't noticed an appreciable drop in sound quality. I also must say that the reception of the Technics unit is far and away better than the Yamaha's. I can tune to many more radio stations (both AM and FM) now. I also like the option of 100W/channel to all channels rather than the 80W to the fronts and 20W to the rears. All in all, I have to say that I am very pleased with my purcahse, especially considering that the other units that I looked at with the same capabilities were priced $300 to $400 higher. For price/performance, I would have to give this unit a 5 Star rating.

I decided to treat myself to a new surround sound home system and replace my old Sansui QRX4500 4-Channel with Kenwood SL-777 speakers which I ordered from Vietnam over 27 years ago. Lost in the technical haze I looked at many systems and at many stores, I have found the magic to Best Buy. You look for the open box sticker, I paid $110.00 for the SA-AX720 which is actually a DX when packaged with the SH-AC500D decoder. Missing was the remote for the receiver which I ordered from Panasonic for $50.00. I complimented the sound with JBL TLX series and a 150 watt JBL sub-woofer. For the size of my family room this fills the room/house with awesome sound. I have 2 boy's 21 & 18 who also agree with me that the Digital Dolby sound watching DVD movies is great. I have not experienced the "Hiss" that many have stated, but found myself going crazy setting up all this new equipment including a Panasonic A-110 DVD player. I had sound quality/volume problems with the center channel in DD mode. My calls to Panasonic technical support helped troubleshoot the problem to a bad center speaker. I need to add that the 800 Panasonic technical line is very responsive, no long wait on hold, they are familiar with their products, and they call back to verify you are satisfied. The system in my cabinet really puts out some heat, but I have not had any failures due to this. Keep the glass doors open and a fan nearby.Now that I have replaced my center channel speaker I am extremely pleased with the sound in Stereo, Surround, and Digital Dolby. The demo DTS CD that comes with the unit gives you an idea of what to expect when DTS and DTV is readily available. Based on value, quality, and the Panasonic technical support I give this system 5 STARS.