1. Starting on the left is the Phono input connection. This is where you can only connect an audio Turntable for the playing of Vinyl Records. You will notice that this connection also includes a ground connection for the turntable. It must be noted that you cannot use the other analog audio inputs to connect a turntable directly due to the fact that the impedance and output voltage of the turntable cartridge is different than for other types of audio components. If you have a second turntable and need to connect it to the RX-V863, you will have employ an additional Phono Preamp in order to connect to one of the other audio inputs.
2. Moving right there are connections for both a CD player and both Input and Record Output connections for a CD Recorder. You can also use the CD Recorder In/Out connections for an audio cassette deck instead, if you prefer.
3. Next are the analog stereo inputs that are associated with the analog video inputs. These include a DVD inputs, DTV/CABLE input (for connecting audio output from a TV, Cable, or Satellite Box) and two DVR/VCR connection loops.
4. The next series of connections belong to the Multi-Channel Input. This allows direct analog audio connections between a DVD/Blu-ray Disc/HD-DVD player using the 6-channel analog audio connection option. In addition, this connection group can be used to access SACD and DVD-Audio content as well.
5. Still moving right, you will see a stereo preamp output for Zone 2. This option can be used to send a signal to an external amplifier in another room, instead of using the internal amplifiers of the RX-V863. This way you can still use the full 7.1 Channel capabilities of the main receiver and supply separate source signals to an external 2-channel stereo system in another location.
On the far right are the Preamp Output connections, including dual subwoofer preamp outputs. These connections allow the connection of external amplifiers to the RX-V863. This would be used in cases where the user prefers to bypass the internal amplifiers of the receiver and wishes to use higher-powered amplifiers, but still be controlled by the preamp functions of the R-V863. The subwoofer outputs are for connecting one or two powered subwoofers to the RX-V863.