Panasonic introduces SA-BX500 AV receiver

Panasonic is using this week's CEDIA show to debut its new AV receiver, the SA-BX500, and even though we doubt the nameplate will get much attention from the audiophile crowd, this unit does have a bit of audio-geekery with its bi-amplification/bi-wiring feature. Other stuff that will appeal to a wider audience includes 7x130-Watt amplification, HDMI connectivity (3 inputs, 1 output) that's ready for your 1080p content, HDMI-CEC in VIERA Link form, support for Dobly TrueHD and DTS-HD MA, and the ability to simulate 7.1-channels of surround in 5.1-channel systems, so you can hear what you're not missing. Available in October for $799, but you can grab a peek at the front and back right now.

Gallery: Panasonic introduces SA-BX500 AV receiver

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[who? @ Sep 4th 2008 2:55AM]

Wicked

[Flashpoint @ Sep 4th 2008 3:39AM]

For $800 this isn't bad at all.

too bad Pioneer can't build the same thing for under $2000.

[I LOVE THE CAPS LOCK KEY @ Sep 4th 2008 3:00AM]

Panasonic's last batch of receivers from a few years ago were very ho-hum, you can do better than that in sound quality for the same price (ONKYO?). Does anyone have any indication on how much this thing weighs?

[taxesq @ Sep 4th 2008 8:15AM]

gotta agree, you can't post something about an A/V receiver and fail to tell us the weight- borderline sacreligious to the audiophile crowd. $800 for a Panasonic?!?!? you can go and get a Marantz or Denon of comparable spec (maybe a left over from last year) and come out on top.

[Richy @ Sep 4th 2008 6:06AM]

Is there some rule that stipulates that manufacturers can only supply fugly remotes with AV amps/receivers?

[slarity @ Sep 4th 2008 9:31AM]

I would guess this would be an ok receiver but $800 for a panasonic is steep. They need to start low, build a reputation that they can build nice receivers then go for higher end ones. I think Ill be sticking with my HK for now and Denon/Onkyo/Pioneer Elite for my next one.

[glenn s @ Sep 4th 2008 3:37PM]

Bi-amplifying and bi-wiring. How much did Monster have to pay them to include this "feature" ?
I think I just threw up in my mouth.

[Ironhide @ Sep 4th 2008 4:25PM]

Oddly enough Panasonic almost always has a stupidly high price point for just about everything they introduce, but when the product gets closer to release, the price drops down to a more respectable price. Speaking as a Panasonic/Technics fan, I'm looking forward to this. I've always liked the sound from Panasonic.