How Do You Process All This Information?

An A/V receiver for the age of high definition pictures and multichannel sound must be able to amplify digital source signals containing massive amounts of information without degrading any of the data. Panasonic's SAXR700 high definition home theater receiver is designed specifically for full-digital processing. Digital signals entering the SAXR700 are processed entirely in the digital domain. Even if only a single analog circuit is inserted in the signal processing stage, noise cannot be completely eliminated. That's why the SAXR700 converts analog input signals to digital signals immediately after input based on the sampling by the 192 kHz/24-bit analog-to-digital converter. As a result, signals are processed digitally based on sampling frequency of up to 192 kHz inside the amplifier. The SAXR700 generates far less cross-talk (mixing of unnecessary signals) between channels than conventional analog amplifiers. For this reason, it is capable of reproducing a wider range of frequencies to enable the creation of amps that deliver superior sound quality. When it comes to fully digital processing, Panasonic simply does not compromise.

Your Ordinary Analog Receiver Can't Do This

Even though multichannel reproduction has become the norm, Panasonic continues to seek high quality sound in 2-channel CD playback. The SAXR700 allows the user to select Dual Amp Drive Bi-amp or Triple Amp Drive for 2-channel stereo playback, without changing cable connections. Conventional bi-amp drive uses two amps--one for high range and the other for low range--to drive bi-wired front speakers, achieving clear sound without mutual interference. Panasonic's Dual Amp Drive applies the same concept to ordinary speakers that do not support bi-wiring connection. The Dual Amp Drive can also be used for the bi-amp drive of bi-wired speakers for clear, rich, high-quality bass. With the SAXR700's Dual Amp Drive system, two amps (Surround Back) that are ordinarily not used for 2-channel reproduction are automatically used to drive each of the two front channels when a 5.1-channel source is being played, with no need to reconnect the speaker cables. This enhances realism and ambience in movie soundtracks by delivering high-quality sound from the left and right front channels, which play such an important role in reproducing movie sound effects and background music. Triple Amp Drive uses three amps to drive ordinary speakers. Moreover, when used with bi-wired speakers, the reduced impedance of the amps creates higher sound quality due to the improved sound separation of the bi-wiring setup. When the home theater system is playing a two-channel audio source from a DVD-Audio or CD using only the front two speakers, the SA-XR700 will automatically drive each of the two channnels using three amps (Front, Surround, and Surround Back), with no need to reconnect the speaker cables. This lets you enjoy a crisper bass, richer acoustic presence, and expansive instrumentals and vocals. Bi-wiring speaker connection also reproduces a higher-quality sound with better high-range and low-range frequency characteristics. Ordinary analog amps can't handle parallel drive. Because of differences in circuit design, the simultaneous drive of two amps causes a current imbalance, and this may damage the circuits. Parallel drive is possible with Dual Amp Drive and Triple Amp Drive because they are digital systems.

Keeping It Digital All The Way

The SAXR700 features digital processing from signal input all the way through to output. It lets you enjoy the full potential of today's most advanced audio sources, such as Blu-ray and HD DVD discs, by digitally amplifying them to produce a dynamic 7.1-channel surround sound. And because Panasonic amplifiers are compatible with frequency sampling up to 192 kHz, the SAXR700 is able to reproduce the lifelike sounds of high-quality 192 kHz/24-bit 2-channel sources. You can also enjoy faithful reproduction of analog audio signals because the receiver can convert analogue sources into 192kHz/24-bit digital signals. The SAXR700 has two HDMI inputs and one HDMI output. It can receive signals from a source connected via HDMI cable and output them via HDMI cable to an HDTV. Since the SAXR700 supports video sources with resolution up to 1080p, it can receive full HD video signals from high definition DVD players and send them in original form to an HDTV for degradation-free display. Only HDMI-compatible products can unlock the full digital surround sound potential made possible by the huge amount of audio data on high definition DVDs. And choosing your input source is as easy as turning the selector dial.

Bells And Whistles

Auto Speaker Setup makes time-consuming speaker settings quickly and easily. Simply connect the speaker setup microphone, place it at your usual listening position, and press and hold the Test button on the remote control to start the automatic setup. This function detects the number of connected speakers, their polarities, distances and sizes. It also measures the speaker and room characteristics, and sets the most suitable speaker output levels. The SAXR700 takes care of everything, and creates the optimal listening environment specifically for your listening room. With an all EZ Sync HDAVI Control home theater system made up of Panasonic EZ Sync-compatible components, watching a movie is easy as a single touch. Pressing one button on the remote control turns on the SAXR700, TV, and DVD player, displays the playback image, mutes the TV sound, and outputs the sound from the receiver. It's all done instantly, automatically. All you have to do is sit back and watch and listen. The SAXR700 can be combined with the optional Panasonic SHFX60 wireless unit (not included) to form a neat, uncluttered wireless system. By eliminating the cables between the main unit and the rear surround sound speakers, the wireless home theater system keeps the floor area looking neater and cleaner.

Gold Standard Materials

Panasonic gold plated the SAXR700's input and output terminals to resist oxidation and ensure high electrical conductivity. This helps minimize the signal degradation that could otherwise occur over the years. Not only that, but Pure Water Capacitor containing a rayon separator is used as the electrolytic capacitor for each of the seven audio channels. With its high water content this capacitor offers excellent electrical characteristics and low impedance. The clean electric current it delivers to the speakers helps achieve a clear, transparent sound.

Included With Purchase

Remote control, 2 AA batteries for remote, AC power cord, FM indoor antenna, AM loop antenna set, and Operating Instructions.

Comparison Specifications

• Dolby Digital EX/Pro Logic IIx, DTS 96-24/ES/Neo:6 Decoding
• 100 Watts x 7 Channels Power Output (0.9% THD @ 6 Ohms)
• HDMI (2 In/1 Out)
• Digital Audio In (2 Optical/2 Coaxial)
• 6-Channel Discrete Audio Inputs
• Component (2 In/1 Out)/S-Video (4 In/1 Out)/Composite (5 In/1 Out) Video Connections, Audio In (6), Subwoofer Out
• Full HD 1080p Video Transmission
• 4 Hz-88 kHz Frequency Response For HD/DVD-Audio
• HDAVI Total System Control
• Universal Remote Control

Additional Specifications

• 192 kHz/24-Bit Audio Analog-To-Digital Converter
• Full Digital Amplifier
• Triple Amplifier Drive For Stereo Sources
• Advanced Dual Amplifier Drive For 5.1 Sources
• Pure Water Capacitor
• Built-In AM/FM Tuner
• XM Satellite Radio Ready
• Wireless Ready
• Gold Plated Connection Terminals

Dimensional Specifications

• Dimensions: 16.93" W x 4.23" H x 15.35" D
• Weight: 11.7 lbs

Panasonic SA-XR700 Warranty Details

One-Year Parts and Labor Warranty