Audio Performance
In using the AVR147, I found that this receiver delivered very good audio performance, doing well in both stereo and surround sound modes, and with both music-only and movie-based audio material. I also found that even with its modest 40wpc rating in surround mode (50 wpc stereo mode), that this receiver easily filled both small (12x12ft) and medium-size (15x20ft) test rooms with adequate audio output with the speaker systems used. The only variations in sound quality were the result of the characteristics of the speakers used, not the signal output of the receiver itself.Logic 7
In addition to the standard Surround Sound processing modes, Harman Kardon offers its own Logic 7 surround decoding system. Logic 7 operates in a similar fashion to Dolby Prologic II and DTS Neo:6, in that it is intended to bring out a 5.1, 6.1, or 7.1 channel sound field from incoming two channel material. However, I found that Logic 7 also added a little more body to the result than the straight Dolby Prologic II or DTS Neo:6 offerings, in addition to adding the surround effect.
iPod Features
With regards to iPod connectivity, I found that the AVR147 worked fine. I was able to both control and listen to my iPod easily using the remote control and the audio result was satisfactory. The only complaint I have about iPod connectivity (and this goes for just about all Receivers, regardless of brand - so I am not taking points off in this review) is: why is there a need for a separate docking station with a proprietary connection to the receiver?
The answer may be more income for requiring an additional accessory, or, may have something to do with the way license fees are calculated by Apple. Apple may require a higher fee when an iPod dock is actually built-in to the receiver, rather than using an external dock.
XM Radio
The AVR147 offers XM radio compatibility (optional tuner/antenna and subscription required) and I found the audio quality to be satisfactory. However, the AVR147 does not offer XM Neural Surround or XM-HD processing offered on many higher-end receivers.
Video Performance
In terms of video performance, the AVR147 delivered well in terms of its composite, S-Video, and Component video connectivity and switching. There was no visible signal loss using the AVR147 as the main controller of what video sources are sent to the televisions used.
However, it must be noted that this receiver has no analog-to-hdmi video upscaling or conversion. This means the provided HDMI inputs and outputs are pass-through only (up to 1080p), the AVR147 does not have access to the HDMI video or audio signals for further processing. This also means that in order to see the onscreen menus, you must connect either the composite or S-Video monitor output of the AVR147 to your Television.
What I Liked About the AVR147
1. Excellent sound quality in both stereo and surround modes. Practical surround sound processing options.
3 Incorporation of XM-Satellite Radio and iPod Control.
4. Incorporation of Automatic Speaker Setup System (EZ-Set/EQ). However, beware that the test tones used by this system are extremely loud for brief periods.
5. Very large, easy-to-read, front panel LED display.
5. 1080p Compatible HDMI Inputs (Pass-Through Only - See Below).
What I Didn't Like About the AVR147
1. No Multi-Channel Preamp Outputs that would enable the AVR147 to be used as a preamp in combination with a more powerful amplifier setup.
2. No Video Upscaling, No HDMI Audio Capability. This means that you must use multiple video connections to your television to access some sources (including the AVR147's onscreen menus), as well as separate audio and video connections for HDMI sources.
3 No Sirius Satellite Radio connectivity.
4. No front mounted HDMI or Component Video Inputs.
5. No Dedicated Phono Input. To connect a turntable to this receiver, you need an additional Phono Preamp, or a turntable with a built-in phono preamp.
6. At $449 ($399 at most retailers), the AVR147 is pricey for a 5.1 channel receiver with its feature package.
Final Take
Spending time setting up and using the Harman Kardon AVR147 was very easy. In unpacking this unit, I found that Harman Kardon really focused on the user experience.
The instruction manual and quick start guide were both excellent, containing color diagrams and easy-to-use text identifying each button, connection, feature, and setup procedures of the AVR147.
On the performance side of things, this receiver delivered excellent audio across the board, and had no problem, despite its modest wattage output specification, filling my 15x20ft living room with decent sound. The surround sound decoding options worked as advertised. However, I was disappointed in the lack of multi-channel preamp outputs that would enable the AVR147 to be used as a preamp, if paired with a larger wattage output capable multi-channel power amplifier setup.
However, the AVR147 has does have multi-channel analog inputs for sources, such as SACD, DVD-Audio, or decoded audio from Blu-ray Disc or HD-DVD players.
On the video side of things, the AVR147 lacks video processing and upscaling capability, but does offer composite, S-Video, Component, and HDMI video switching.
Although this receiver lacks some newer video features, its audio performance makes the AVR147 worth considering for a basic home theater.
I give the Harman Kardon AVR147 a solid 4 stars out of 5 rating.
However, if this receiver would have incorporated a dedicated phono input, multi-channel preamp audio outputs, and possibly one or two more HDMI pass-through inputs, or Composite and S-Video to Component video output conversion, I would have given it a higher rating, especially at the advertised price point.
