Although AV receivers have fallen a bit out of favor in recent years as simpler gear gets the big marketing bucks, models like the TX-NR807 from Onkyo just might keep the category relevant. The NR807 has an Ethernet connection that can directly access online music services like Pandora and Rhapsody, not to mention any music on your PC. And yes, it's Windows 7 compatible.

Of course, you get all the supercalafragalistic technology that you'd expect from a state-of-the-art home theater component: The TX-NR807 does 7.2-channel sound, is THX Select2 Plus certified, has no less than six HDMI 1.3a inputs, and upconverts all your video to 1080p. Onkyo also says it's one of the first receivers with Audyssey DSX technology, which "allows the back surround channels to be retasked for front-wide speakers to expand the width of the soundstage, or for front height speakers to provide vertical ambience effects." Sounds kind of complicated, but possibly worth it.

The power rating is an impressive 135 watts per channel. I doubt many will spend the $1,100 list price for this baby, but those who do will no doubt be pleased. Hit the jump for pictures of the back panel and remote control.

Via Onkyo