The 7.1-channel receiver combines a blend of the latest digital processing technology with traditional high-end audio design. For example, DTS and Dolby HD audio decoding, High-Current-Capability and the innovative Dolby Volume technology deliver a mix of audio performance and advanced technology.

Dedicated audio-video enthusiasts will be impressed with the AVR660’s lengthy list of capabilities and features – including Ethernet connection, four repeating HDMI inputs, a powerful Texas Instruments dual DSP engine, USB mass storage connectivity and high power/high current amplifiers.

With six digital inputs (two optical and two coaxial on rear panel, and one optical and one coaxial on front panel) a convenient front-panel AV input for use with video games or portable players and a direct connection for a powered subwoofer, the AVR660 is also the last word in connectivity. Furthermore, the AVR660 features multi-zone capability and is ABUS-ready, marking the receiver as a truly versatile centrepiece for any serious AV installation.

And for those who enjoy playing content from their iPod or iPhone, the Bridge II iPod dock is included free of charge with the receiver. Connecting your iPod/iPhone to the Bridge II allows you to use your AVR660’s remote to seamlessly select and play audio and video content – guided by on-screen or front-panel menus you can read from across the room.

One of the standout features of the receiver is the incorporation of the brilliant new Dolby Volume technology, an approach to delivering consistent volume levels across a wide variety of content, channel programming or input sources. Dolby Volume analyses, measures and controls perceived volume levels, removing that need to adjust the volume during every commercial break and even switching between channels.

As the product of over six decades of ground breaking audio engineering, the flagship AVR660 model delivers a genuine 75W per channel, with all seven channels driven simultaneously. Combined with 60 Amps of High Current Capability and a quadruple-crossover bass manager, the AVR660 receiver is more than capable of delivering even the most complex bass heavy content to your speakers.

Despite all the technology Harman Kardon has packed into the AVR660, the sleek receiver has still been built with the owner in mind; meaning home entertainment enthusiasts can enjoy their receiver, minus the hassle. The graphical on-screen interface with picture blend (allowing you to make adjustments while your program is still on the screen) makes navigation as clear as possible, whilst the EzSet/EQ equalisation takes the guesswork out of setting up your system. And those annoying “lip sync” problems are automatically corrected thanks to HDMI Lip Sync capability and manual AV Sync Delay. Finally, the eight-device learning and programmable remote control puts all the receiver’s features at the tip of your fingertips.

The AVR660 has a two-year parts and labour warranty and is available at Harman Kardon specialist retailers for the new recommended retail price of $2999.