Could anyone please tell me whether the hdmi inputs carry audio from your dvd player/x360 etc to the amp? Or would it need a seperate audio cable? Really wanting to buy this but a noob in audio systems, so would appreciate a reply, thanks.

This seems pretty good so far, but how do i check to see if i have the latest firmware

First impressions this looks great........can any one tell me where might get sony speakers with stands??

In the past few years I have tried/owned many brand receivers some at £1000 mark; but, I am amazed that Sony can produce a Home Cinema Receiver with this level of sound quality at this price. The clarity, seperation and low frequency grunt is astonishing. As with most Auto Calibration systems do check the subwoofer level, following directions from the manual my setting was far too low (which may account for a certain review panel to state explosions lacked some impact). Setting my PDR10 sub at 11 oclock mark for vol & xover & running Auto calibtation again, lo and behold the bass was back (setting went from -7.5 to +7. Setting the receiver volume around 42, slapping on a DVD - Gunshots and explosions were now tickling my back through my 5.1 system - To top all of this the receiver is not even run in yet! One last tip - always use top quality speaker cable and interconnects etc there is a huge improvement in sound!

Have just bought this today and was wondering if they are all being shipped with the updated firmware?

Re previous two reviewers questions, i received amp on 20/10/2008 and includes updated firmware for Sky.

Same question as previous - are your current models with the updated firmware - I would like to know before committing to buy.

Can anyone advise if the firmware issue has been sort now this item is back in stock?

So, I bought this amp through Play and received it on 27/10/2008 expecting a unit with the updated firmware. Sadly, that is not what I received. Speaking to Play they were polite but basically told me it's "as described" and if I returned it they would find it as such and ship it back to me at my expense. Sony will update the firmware for you through a local service centre, though it may take a while as they have to ship out a device that performs the update, but that's really not the point. I believe Play should make sure they have updated stock and only accept returns on stock that isn't.

Beyond all that however, the actual receiver is performing very well and has all the inputs most people will ever need. It looks very slick though the remote is somewhat light-weight both in feel and features.

I am defo going to buy this, but can anyone give suggestions to a good set of budget speakers to pair with it, cheers.