Designed for simplicity and expandability, the AVP 17's focus, as with all NuForce products, is on first-rate performance. The unit's 7.1-channel analog inputs (8 total channels) have been designed to support the decoded output from present and future DVD players. With its video circuit off, the AVP-17 operates as a true audiophile-quality preamp. The internal DAC (44.1K/16-bit to 192K/24-bit) performs as well as the best stand-alone DACs available today. Those who listen to the AVP-17 are struck by its dynamic capability, smooth, lifelike midrange, and natural, grain-free treble. The deep, articulate bass provides plenty of kick for both music and movie soundtracks. While it's certainly true that Dolby HD can be decoded and transmitted to the audio system via HDMI 1.3, HDMI transmissions necessitate interleaving audio and video data streams, thus introducing jitter to the encoding-decoding process. With respect to Blu-Ray and HD DVD with built-in HD audio decoding, the audio system's analog output is much likelier to provide superior audio performance. Discerning listeners have discovered that disabling HDMI audio from their DVD players improves the sound. Note: These stocks are for sale to USA or international market where there is no Nuforce distributor.

Supported formats: Dolby Digital, Dolby-EX, Dolby Pro-Logic IIX, DTS Digital, DTS-ES, DTS NEO:6

PCM D/A conversion: 44.1K/16-bit to 192K/24-bit, S/N: 90 dB (A weighted), THD+N:< 0.05%, typical 0.

Video connections: 2 composite video, 2 s-video, 3 component video (1080i)

Digital audio input: 2 coaxial/optical,*1 CD coaxial (*video circuit off when CD input is selected)

Analog audio input: **1 set of 7.1 analog input for SACD/DVD-A, 5 analog input, 1 analog record out.