Pioneer Elite Network Stereo Receiver

First, I would just like to say that thanks to modern technology, we are able to enjoy great sound from such an affordable receiver as the Pioneer SX-N30. This unit is full of features (features that most of us can appreciate) and very easy to use on a daily basis. I am currently using these with a pair of Sonus Faber Venere 2.0 and a REL T5i subwoofer as a bedroom setup. I mainly listen to either CD or Apple Airplay. Here are a few things I can comment on this receiver:1. Network connection - Wifi works great and never dropped signal. I am currently running an ethernet cable directly to it, but I would not hesitate to use the Wifi if cable is not available. Connecting to a wireless network is fairly easy given its limited space on the display screen.2. Bluetooth - this feature works correctly and never dropped a connection either. The sound quality of bluetooth might not be as good as through Apple Airplay, but it works regardless. The option is there in case you need it.3. Construction - this is where Pioneer cut cost to bring us all the great thing about this receiver. The metal of the chassis is thin and the speaker connectors are okay, not too durable. The unit flexes a bit when I was pushing the banana plugs into the speaker terminals. The RCA connectors are okay and at least they're gold plated. The electronic design is very minimal, but works well for this application. The transformer is surprisingly large and heavy, which equates to most of the weight of the unit. One good thing is the fact that Pioneer decided to make the front face plate out of solid aluminum, which give it an "elite" look. My unit has a slight hum that can be heard when you place your ears next to the unit, but cannot be heard once you are about a foot away.Connections - this receiver has all the connections you'll ever need in a music receiver. RCA, coaxial digital, and optical digital inputs are all provided.Sound quality - this is probably the most important part of the review and I am happy to say that in my experience, this is a fine sounding receiver. I like the sound most when using "direct" mode. I would not mess with the tone control since it makes the music sound unnatural, and this unit is no exception. As most of you have figured out, this unit is the same as Onkyo's stereo receivers. They are of the same design and probably have the same sound signature.Comparison - the only other amplifier that I currently have for comparison purpose is the Yamaha A-S1000. The Yamaha tend to sound fuller and more rich, almost fat at times. The bass is more extended with the Yamaha also. The Yamaha A-S1000 is more forceful in the midrange and must be matched carefully when it comes to speakers. This is not to say that this Pioneer receiver doesn't have these qualities, it's just not to the extent of the Yamaha (costing 4 times the money). On the bright side, the Pioneer SX-N30 sound more balance and work better for many different speakers. While the receiver is rated at 80 watts per channel, never have I felt that the unit is not bringing enough power to the table. It drives my speaker with ease and never stressed.Overall, this is a fine stereo receiver that possesses many refined qualities from more expensive HiFi gears (at a much lower price of course). I am impressed that modern age audio equipment can offer much finesse, sophistication in sound, and features at such an entry price tag. Highly recommended.