OTHER TECH

Finishing Touches There are a few more things you should know to get the most out of your receiver.

• Surround modes Many DVDs have both Dolby Digital and DTS surround sound, and all newer receivers let you pick which format you want as the default. You should also check out processing modes like Dolby Pro Logic II or IIx and DTS Neo:6 that let you listen to stereo sources and older surround sound formats like Dolby Surround in 5.1 to 7.1 channels. Some receivers even let you assign a different surround mode for each program source.

• Recording options Most receivers let you select any input as the source for recording on a hard-disk (like TiVo), DVD, CD, or VCR. They also let you watch or listen to one source while recording another.

• Radio options All receivers will let you choose FM and AM station presets, and some let you assign names to them.

• Other features Your receiver might also have such features as Night mode, which compresses the dynamics to avoid loud jumps in volume during nighttime listening; alternate subwoofer crossover settings; and processing that upconverts composite- and S-video from sources like a VCR to higher-quality, progressive-scan video output.

Now you're ready to let her rip! Whether it's for that new home theater in the family room, a bedroom system to drift away from the day's trials and tribulations, or the ultimate "man cave" system you've been promising yourself, a digital surround receiver is the cornerstone of a thrilling home-entertainment experience.

Related Links: Back to Basics: Surround Sound Speakers Whether you're immersing yourself in surround sound for the first time or just want to fine-tune your system, we show you who to set up your speakers.

Back to Basics: How to Set Up Your New HDTV Everything you need to know to get your new high-def set hooked up right and looking great