It's been my experience that the only way to get to 7.1 input is through the remote. I think it's kind of lame. You should be able to get to all inputs from the front panel. But hey, it's one shortcoming I'm willing to live with given the great sound quality and i/o options with this unit.

later,
simp
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Marantz av7005 Proc.
Oppo BDP-83
Rotel RB-991 (mains)
Outlaw Audio Model 2200 (center)
Rotel RMB-1075 (ss, rs)
f, B&W DM604S3
c, B&W LCR600S3
ss, B&W DM302
rs,Polk M3II
HSU VTF-3 MK3
APC H-15 Power Conditioner
Display: Panny PT-AE4000 Proj. + 92" DIY Screen
Little Dot MKIII Headphone Amp
Denon AH-D1100 Headphones (needed a quick, cheap set. looking for an upgrade worthy of the h/p amp.)