The THX Ultra-2 certified AV8003 is a full-featured pre/pro with all the latest audio decoding technologies, including DTS Master HD and Dolby Tru-HD; it is also compatible with HDMI-equipped SACD players that bitstream multichannel DSD digital signals. For non-BD sources, the AV8003 features a number of built-in processing modes to bring out multichannel ambiance from mono and stereo signals. Since most buyers will use the Marantz as a home theater unit, it sports plenty of connection options for multichannel and, of course, stereo. It contains 7.1 preamp inputs and outputs via RCA jacks, and balanced XLR I/O for connection to high-end amplifiers — stereo and multichannel. There are four version 1.3 HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs. Stereo audio inputs include TV, VCR (x2), CD, and Aux. Both VCR inputs and Tape and CD also have fixed audio output jacks. The unit has two stereo zone outputs. The AV8003 has six digital audio inputs (three coaxial RCA and three optical, up to 96 kHz), and two digital audio outputs. Sadly, there are no AES/EBU balanced XLR digital audio inputs or outputs. The audio connection architecture also includes the two back surround channel jacks for input and outputs via RCA and balanced XLR. If you don’t have the back channels, the processor can be set to down-mix the two back channels into the left and right surrounds, which is exactly how I ran the AV8003. For audiophile listening, the AV8003 includes a headphone amp and a “Direct Mode” that is said to reduce measured noise by turning off video and other internal electrical circuits that can degrade audio quality. Internally, the AV8003 has high-quality components including Cirrus Logic 24/192 kHz D/A converters and a high-quality power supply with a shielded toroidal transformer. The chassis also is electrically shielded to reduce the chance of RFI. **Video-wise the Marantz is well equipped with the highly regarded Anchor Bay video processor chip, which offers excellent 1080P native video and superb up conversion of DVDs. The HD video connectivity includes four sets of component inputs and two sets of component outputs. The HDMI section includes the four inputs and the two HDMI outputs. The AV8003 does not slight the non-HD source video component owner — with plenty of composite and S-video inputs for TV, DSS/VCR, DVD, and VCR. The rear panel includes a Network “Ethernet” connection to allow the AV8003 to be a bona fide distributor for network audio and video from a server — or even the Internet. The back panel also contains an RS232 port and a switch that allows the unit to offer bi-amped stereo audio output. The AV 8003’s dimensions will allow it to fit into most racks. It is just over 17-inches wide, 11-inches deep and nearly 7 inches tall. It weights in at 25.5 pounds. The cabinet saves some weight through plastic on the front panel, but it looks good. Unit Has been tested and is in Perfect working condition. The Remote - Model # RM-2001 is NOT included but can be purchased online as well as other ‘Learning’ substitute Remote Controls. Operating manual is easily accessible on - www.marantz.com Auction is for the AV8300 in perfect working order with the power cord as pictured. Optical cables and HDMI cables can be included at your request. Happy bidding =)