While lacking the mind-boggling array of inputs and outputs seen on some of the top receivers, the 701 has enough to handle most typical rigs. There’s a total of five inputs for video sources like your VCR, satellite dish, and cable box, etc., plus another DVD input with a 5.1 channel analog hookup for high-res audio formats like DVD-Audio and Super Audio CD. The fifth video input on the front makes it easy to connect a camcorder or a Gamecube. You also get audio-only inputs for a tape deck, CD player, and even a phonograph, just in case you want to dust off your old turntable to do that Wish You Were Here thing again. Perhaps the most limited area of the 701 is its digital connectivity, where its three assignable inputs (2 optical, 1 coax) might be restrictive if you use a DVD player, a PVR like TiVo, a digital cable box, and a digital satellite dish receiver. Otherwise, the 701 should cover all the bases.

The remote for Onkyo’s TX-SR701 has macro buttons that help your family members control the system by themselves, so you can stay at the sports bar.

You couldn’t call the 701 a receiver if it didn’t include a tuner, and this has always been a strong area for Onkyo. Despite a huge hill right between my home and the transmitter, I was able to pull in WQXR, my local classical station, without a hint of noise using a simple indoor antenna. With most tuners I need to use a roof antenna to get similar results.