The RX-V1800 features all of the latest connection options, including four HDMI 1.3a ins and one HDMI output. The RX-V1800 can upscale legacy video sources to full 1080p quality via its internal ABT chipset, one of the best in the business. Along with its video prowess, the RX-V1800 can play back all of the latest surround sound codecs, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. The RX-V1800 features Yamaha's own YPAO automatic EQ system, which is similar to the Audyssey system found on many other receivers. However, I must say I prefer Yamaha's YPAO to the Audyssey. The RX-V1800 also features a robust set of simulated surround sound options, most notably Yamaha's Compressed Music Enhancer, which works wonders on compressed audio formats, such as MP3. Speaking of MP3s, the RX-V1800 can fully integrate with an iPod via Yamaha's own iPod dock (sold separately), turning it into a very simple yet effective music server.

Aside from the copious features contained inside, the RX-V1800 has its fair share of muscle to accompany its brains. The RX-V1800 features seven channels of amplification rated at 130 watts per channel, which is good enough to power just about any speaker available on the market today.

High Points
• The RX-V1800 is as easy to use as it is stylish, making it a wonderful and affordable centerpiece to any home theater, regardless of budget.
• The RX-V1800 is packed with nearly every bell and whistle out there, ensuring its longevity in an ever-changing marketplace.
• The RX-V1800, like all Yamaha products, possesses a lively, slightly forward sound that is never fatiguing or unnatural, though it can add a bit of oomph to any music or movie's performance.
• Yamaha's YPAO room EQ system is topnotch and far more accurate and engaging in my rooms than Audyssey's auto EQ found on other receivers.
• While there are more powerful receivers out there, trust me when I say the RX-V1800 is all you'll need and then some when it comes to powering any 5.1 or 7.1 channel home theater.
• Clearly the RX-V1800 is designed to be the cornerstone of a home theater rig. However, its stereo playback capability is first-rate for a receiver in this price range.

Low Points
• The RX-V1800's small display window isn't as clear or easy to decipher as some.
• The remotes - yes, the RX-V1800 has two - are functional and adequate. However, they are somewhat cluttered and feel a bit cheap, given how the RX-V1800's solid, smart design.

Conclusion
The $1,000 receiver market is hotter than ever, as manufacturers clamor to pack as much functionality and power into a simple box for less than the other guy. However, you get what you pay for and, while it may be easy to find a receiver that costs half as much as the RX-V1800 yet features most if not all of the same bells and whistles, I promise you it's not the same. If you only have five or six hundred to spend, look elsewhere in the Yamaha receiver line. However, if you're in that magical $1,000 club, consider the RX-V1800, for it may be all the receiver you'll ever need. If you're looking at spending more than the RX-V1800's asking price, take a listen before you do, because in these tough economic times, sometimes the greatest feeling comes from getting what you want while still hanging onto a bit more of what is already yours.