Heck how many of us require component video or S-Video? Those options will be going in no time. Add to that services like Spotify, Dina, ISF, RIHD, HD Radio, Pandora, Last FM, Rhapsody, Slacker, Napster, Sirius FM, Mediafly.

Onkyo has W.R.A.T which shapes the power of the amp. Their $330 receiver has it as well as their $3200 AVR also has it. So is the entry level AVR almost as good as their flagship?

I have an Onkyo 906 and I beefed up the W.R.A.T. by adding an Outlaw 7500 to it. Now it is really, really Wide Range Amplifier Technology.

Way too much marketing to sell this stuff AND drive the costs up.