I think I know what your problem is. The 990 has discrete on and off power commands - something that has been done because it is a huge help for macros. The "POWER" button on the remote is a discrete power "OFF" command. To turn it on, just pick whichever input you want to use (press "TNR" and then any input command -DVD, or VIDEO1 through VIDEO5, AM/FM, CD, AUX, TAPE, or 7.1 Direct). All of those serve as both input selection and discrete "ON".