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Strengths: not much loss in video and audio signal quality especially in straight mode
Weaknesses: audio modes such as "Movie" and "Surround" make sound quality worse
Summary: I tested 6 different models from 5 brands with prices range from $200 to $500 and this one really stands out in terms of audio and video quality. Even people who claim that they can't tell A/V qualities acknowledge that the RX-V457 gives very clear video and crisp audio. It beats more expensive models from other popular Japanese brands in quality. The money I saved from buying 457 enables to buy better cables for component video and audio too. And I can totally see improved A/V qualities with better cables. Of course good speakers are also an important factor in a A/V system. With this favorable experience with Yamaha RX-V457 I now realize that it is true to have "balanced" components in every A/V system. I leave this amp on "Straight" audio mode most of the time because other audio modes tend to blur the clarity of the original sound, especially when watching HDTV programs. Exceptions would be watching ball games in which the audio modes can boost the game feels. For some reason I don't quite understand the center channel output level is lower than the L/R channels. I have PolkAudio CSi25 center with KEF Reference Series for main, and I need to turn center 2 notches above L/R to have center output about the same output level as the L/R. I believe the PolkAudio is about as sensitive as the KEF, so it may just be how this center out is designed. A very interesting thing is that Yamaha claims the their RX line and HTR line are basically the same designs and use similar components. HTR is just sold through regular stores such as Fry's and Circuit City, while RX is catered to more audio-oriented store chains like Good Guys and Magnolia. I tried the equivalent HTR model of this RX-V457 but the HTR model is much worse for reasons I don't know. With price much lower now ($250 on 06/25/06) this is a very good price-performance choice. Of course, A/V enjoyment is like food critique, it varies widely from one to another. It's always a good idea to try it with your system in the location you'd like to set it up, and with A/V media you're familiar with so that you can tell which amp you'd prefer. One last word, this amp is more for general A/V home theater enjoyment. If what you need is pure music play then you should consider more toward audiophile-quality amps which are in a totally different league. I myself use another system only for playing music CD's. Don't expect that much from a $250 amp even though IMHO this one beats other $500 models from Denon and Pioneer. There're 2 major inputs to this amp in my setup: OTA HDTV tuner, and progressive scan DVD player. Output is connected to a Panasonic plasma HDTV.
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