towwang

Regarding the deal posted on 2005 01 10 for eTronics, compare the Kenwood VR-8070 with the Sony STR-DE997:

Kenwood has, and Sony does not have:
IR repeater and sensor
More video inputs (Sony 2,4,5 vs. Kenwood 3,5,5)
7.1 pre-amp output
More tuner preset stations (40 vs 30)

Sony has, but Kenwood lacks:
S-video to component up-conversion
4 optical inputs (Kenwood only 2)
7.1 analog input
5.1 analog input
Remote with learning capabilities

I went for the STR-DE997, reviewed at:
http://www.epinions.com/content_169478557316
If anyone has the Kenwood, let me know how good it is!

In either case, use code "cj" at checkout and eTronics will include a free "home theater cleaning kit". In my case it was a "Kimpaku" kit, consisting of head-cleaners for cassette and VHS, and lens cleaner for CD player.