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Harman Kardon AVR 340 7.1-Channel A/V Receiver, Silver | 
| Brand: Harmon Kardon
Category: CE
List Price: $899.99
Buy New: $599.99
You Save: $300.00 (33%)
Avg. Customer Rating:  7 reviews
Sales Rank: 18629
Color: Silver/Black
Media: Electronics
Autographed: No
Memorabilia: No
Batteries: 3
Batteries Included: Yes
Shipping Weight (lbs): 39.2
Dimensions (in): 17.4 x 15 x 6.7
MPN: AVR 340
Model: AVR 340
UPC: 028292502927
EAN: 0028292502927
ASIN: B000BQS5IW
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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| Features:
| • | 7.1-channel A/V surround sound receiver with quadruple crossover digital bass management system | | • | Built-in Dolby Digital EX, Pro Logic IIx, and DTS (including Discrete, Matrix, Neo:6, and 96/24) decoding | | • | High-bandwidth HD-compatible component video switching; proprietary Logic 7 enhanced audio reproduction | | • | Compatible with the Harman Kardon Bridge, which offers iPod navigation using AVR 340's preprogrammed remote control | | • | 55 watts x 7 high-current amplification; measures 17.3 x 5.9 x 13.8 inches (W x H x D); 2-year warranty |
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| Accessories:
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| Editorial Reviews:
Amazon.com Product Description
Harman Kardon's AVR 340 7.1-channel A/V surround receiver offers a vast feature set that's comparable to far more expensive models without sacrificing an ounce of music or movie enjoyment. Internally, the receiver is engineered for elite sonic performance, with an amplifier section that delivers seven channels of high-current (+/-35 amps), wide-bandwidth amplification--55 watts into 8 ohms, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, with less than 0.07 percent total harmonic distortion--in addition to employing state-of-the-art 192 kHz/24-bit audio digital-to-analog converters. 
Take a closer look at the AVR 340's connections. You can also view the unit's front panel in detail. | The receiver also offers a wide range of digital and matrix surround modes, including Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro Logic IIx (which provides an expansive, full-range 7.1-channel program from any stereo or 5.1-channel source), DTS, DTS ES Discrete and Matrix, DTS 96/24, and DTS Neo:6. Listeners will also delight in the Virtual Speaker mode, which creates an enveloping sound field when fewer than six speakers are available, and Dolby Headphone, which provides a much more open and realistic presentation through a pair of ordinary headphones. Adding to the receiver's versatility are such sound-enhancing features as Harman International's exclusive Logic 7 processing in both 5.1 and 7.1 versions, which creates a wider, more enveloping field environment and more defined fly-overs and pans; and VMAx, which uses proprietary processing to create an open, spacious sound field even when only two front speakers are available. The receiver's extensive bass management options, meanwhile, include four separate crossover groupings. Unlike many receivers in this class, the AVR 340 is also equipped for extensive multiroom use. In addition to offering assignable surround back amplifier channels, the receiver invites the listener to enjoy a separate source in a remote zone. Essentially, this means one family member can watch a movie in the living room while a second family member listens to a CD in the bedroom--both through the AVR 340. The receiver, which is A-Bus/Ready (enables remote component and speaker control), also comes with a Zone II remote control. Other receiver essentials include high-bandwidth, HDTV-compatible component video switching with assignable inputs, an onscreen menu and display system with the choice of a blue or black background screen, and compatibility with the Bridge, a Harman Kardon device that works with most iPod models. The Bridge lets you operate your iPod from across the room using the AVR 340's remote control, which has been preprogrammed with several iPod control codes. As a result, listeners can select tracks and navigate most iPod functions, charge the unit, or even view track information on the AVR 340's LED display or onscreen menu. The receiver's variety of audio and video connections include three wide-bandwidth, HDTV-compatible component video inputs, five S-video and five composite video inputs, and two analog audio inputs. Digital audio options, meanwhile, include four coaxial and four optical audio inputs, including one of each on the front panel. Other jacks range from a color-coded eight-channel direct audio input to a pair of video recording outputs to 7.1-channel preamp outputs that accommodate a DVD-Video, DVD-Audio, SACD, or universal player. Anyone that's ever suffered from technology overload when setting up his or her audio/video system can rest easy with the AVR 340. The unit's intuitive onscreen menus coordinate with the system's EzSet/EQ function to provide automated system calibration and room equalization, thus greatly simplifying installation. The resulting speaker output compensates for the effects of a room's acoustics to improve the overall system performance. In tandem with EzSet/EQ--which comes with its own microphone--the AVR 340 also includes a full set of manual configuration settings for those who wish to custom-trim their system even further. Lastly, the AVR 340 comes with an AM/FM tuner with 30 station presets. The AVR 340 measures 17.3 by 5.9 by 13.8 inches (W x H x D) and carries a two-year warranty on parts and labor. What's in the Box
AVR 340 receiver, two remote controls, power cord, AM and FM antennas, EzSet/EQ microphone, user's manual.
Product Description
Harman Kardon's AVR 40 series receivers incorporate a number of genuine engineering breakthroughs, including innovative iPod connectivity, and HDTV and multi-room capabilities, to take audio/video receiverdesign to never-before-available levels of performance and functionality. The AVR-340 features an exclusive iPod interface that, with a compatible iPod connected via The Bridge (HK's new iPod docking station), displays menus on a connected TV or video display and the receiver's front panel display, and the iPod can be operated via the receiver's remote control. Digitally-tuned AM/FM Radio Tuner CS49400 DSP processor with 32-bit Post Processor Dimensions (HxWxD) - 6-5/8 x 17-5/16 x 15 inches (168mm x 440mm x 381mm) Weight - 30.6 lbs (13.9 kg)
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| Customer Reviews: Read 2 more reviews...
 Great SOUND!!! May 14, 2007
6 out of 6 found this review helpful
Let me begin by saying I have owned several A/V and Stereo receivers over the years. I'm a retired electronic tech and appreciate good quality electronics. What you may call a moderate priced audiophile.
I usually go for the Yamaha's or Denon's for quality build, sound and price. This is my first HK and I must say it outperforms both. The sound is a much more full richer sound (more tube like for those who are old enough to remember) and does not strain at higher volume levels. Do some searching and you can find great deals on these HK's.
First off as a matter of taste these units are IMO the best looking of all the A/V receivers. I never did like that all black or all white look.
These are very heavy and well built high current amps which means they will run hotter then what you may be use to( simply more current more heat). The wattage specs are very consverative and don't be surprised if this blows your 100 watt speaker at full volume. Specs don't tell the story here but let your ears decide and there be no doubt.
Yes it is somewhat complicated to figure out everything this unit will do and manual set up will take awhile(few hours). Yes the manual could be more user friendly I actually had to read it(normally skip that). The auto EZEQ does a very good job and though not perfect will get you in the ball park to fine tune to taste. If you want an easy set up go with the Pioneers. Yes I have on of those too and must say there MACC does a much better job for those who want a one button solution. IMO they have the most accurate auto set up. However in my case ASAP there be another HK setting in it's place. The sound is just that much better.
I have mine in 7.1 format and movies are unreal. On Pearl harbor the battle scenes you were there. Planes over head, shell casings falling at your feet, guns firing left and right yep this is the real thing. True 3D sound not just left and right and a feel of some depth but real depth up down left right 2 feet 6 feet etc... Yamaha has always been well respected with some very good units for movies but these are better IMO.
Music is where these babies really shine. They can make a cheap speaker sound like a $400 speaker. Crisp highs solid mid range and bass response that meets or exceeds others at this price point. You'll hear instruments in the music you never noticed before.
Logic 7 is about as good as 2 channel stereo gets and creates a solid front stage while creating a realistic surround field.
FYI- This unit doesn't have HDMI switching so if that's a big deal you may want to go with the newer AVR 345 which does. My displays have 2 HDMI inputs so no big deal for with universal remote with macros does all the switching for you. If you're still using component it will upgrade to component and pass on the receivers OSD to component.
I feel I must add here component video is just a High Def analog cable which basically means the signal is converted to analog before it's sent out to the display. HDMI however keeps it digital till it gets inside the display then converts it back to analog (you ears eyes are analog can't see or hear digital). In most cases that 6 foot analog cable isn't going to make a lot of difference. I have found with some HD set ups component video picture is actually better then the HDMI. This of course assumes that the signal is already HD before beign sent to the display. HDMI will be a help where the display is doing upconvert duties in the digital domain before going to analog. Try both and use what looks the best on your display.
Yes you can nit pick plastic knobs, (I think last metal knob on a TV was about 1970 something). Yes on the old mechanical tuners they broke but your not turning 14 tuner strips in a circle pushing against spring contacts. I believe these are about the best built mid priced receivers out there and again much superior sound especially with older 2 channel stereo which HK's Logic seven does a very respectable job, much better then the fake sound of PLII. Compare these to the upper end of Denon,Yammy's $1000 plus range and there hold there own and may just sound a bit better. The 100% perfect receiver hasn't been made yet but John Carver is getting close but as a mid priced unit this is about as good as it gets under $1000.
NIICE! December 5, 2006
9 out of 9 found this review helpful
Okay, I like this amp.
I recently had a Panasonic surround receiver die, and I decided it was time to get a big boy amp, something built to last longer than a couple of years.
So, first of all, the setup.
I hate to say this, but no surround amp is at all easy to set up. All those speakers require a lot of wires, and all the hookups have to be done.
The 340 was no worse than anything else I've done. The microphone for setting-up the volumes and equalization seems to have done a rather nice job, though I see where I can make some practical tweaks based on some of the things I watch or listen to. (I have a tad too much bass at times, probably compensation for the slab floor I'm on.) Regardless, the initial auto-setup did a respectable job, and got me spitting close to where I want to be.
The remote is as complicated an affair as any other, and I have to do some more reading to use it fully. It works, and controls my tv as well so far, though I can't seem to control the dvd player yet.
The on screen display is great, except that every time the digital audio stream is interrupted, say, between programs, it flashes on again. This is REALLY annoying at times, and I'm sure there's a way to work around it, I just haven't done it yet.
Sound quality is excellent, no complaints there.
Video quality is superb as well, I feel like the video quality to my boring old standard television is actually improved.
There is PLENTY of power to drive my speakers, I certainly don't have to worry about that. Harman Kardon is wonderful about giving conservative power ratings to their amps, meaning that you get a LOT of power, even though it's rated far less powerful than other amps.
I really like the power switches - I hate having anything on standby, and the fact that I can not only go to standby but truly shut off all power as well is really welcome.
The implementation of the different audio processors sounds great, they don't bring too much attention to themselves, but simply keep the sound natural, yet expanded. For instance, when using a stereo source but profcessing into 5.1, the changes are not outrageous, but rather natural instead. It's very impressive. Of course, 5.1 and 6.1 sources sound fantastic.
The front connections may be switched to either output or input. Nice touch.
My major con is the lack of a turntable input. Sure, I can get a preamp and set up that way, but I like having it built in. Oh well.
Nice stuff. Highly recommended.
 Unreliable, Quit After 2 Months November 9, 2006
5 out of 13 found this review helpful
I like the receiver but it died after only two months. It randomly shuts down. The kicker is there aren't any service centers in the San Francisco Bay Area (2nd or 3rd largest metropolitan area in the country) and I have to ship this heavy paperweight on my own dime. Also, Harman Kardon has some of the rudest service center/tech support reps I've spoken with. Thought I was buying the best...
 An O.K. unit, but I expected more. August 4, 2006
5 out of 26 found this review helpful
The H.K. AVR-340 is Heavy. At first look and feel it seems to be built rather well. Some of the things that I found later that were of poor quality were the instruction book to set it up properly. It was, in my judgement, poorly written. A loy of the set up became "try this and see if it works".
There was a sticker on the front panel that said "Remove after unpacking". Unfortunately this is difficult. I pulled to get it off, but only the top layer of tape came off. I scraped withmy thumb nail for quite a while, but did not have much success. I tried alcohol to remove the sticky residue, which worked, but has left me with a dull section of the plastic.
The volume knob is plastic instead of metal and feels like plastic.In summary, I think that H.K. could have done a better job.
 Awesome Receiver June 23, 2006
6 out of 8 found this review helpful
I just got the avr340 and I am loving it. I love the fact that I can be watching a movie and have a different source be playing in our patio for the kids to entertain. The EZ speaker set up option makes configuring your speakers a breeze. The remote can be alittle overwhelming but over all its great.
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