Scheduled for release in May, 2006, the R-871 continues our long tradition of sonic excellence and exceptional build quality while adding virtually every feature demanded by advanced users and the Custom Install fraternity. Items like XM Radio connectivity, 100 MHz component video bandwidth, re-configurable amplifiers and RS-232 control are no longer confined to the upper pricing stratosphere. They are available today, reasonably priced, from Sherwood Newcastle.

The R-871 features fully discrete amplifiers with high current capability and equal power for all 7 channels. With bandwidth of 100 kHz and worst-case signal to noise ratio exceeding 96 dB, it's fully compatible with the playback requirements for today's most demanding sources: DVD-A and SACD.

For decoding and playback enhancements, the R-871 uses the the CS-49510, a new 32-bit DSP chip from Cirrus Logic. Critical D to A conversion is carried out superbly by the AK4358, a 192 kHz/24-bit device from AKM with dynamic range of 112 dB. The R-871 uses AKM's AK5380 for Analog to Digital conversion.

The R-871 offers impressive decoding. Its abilities include: DTS-ES Discrete and Matrix; DTS-96/24; DTS NEO-6 Movie and Music; Dolby Digital EX; Dolby Pro Logic IIx; Dolby Headphone Layers 1, 2, 3; and Dolby Virtual Speaker. This is virtually every format available today. It even ReMasters legacy PCM material such as CDs to 96 kHz sampling frequency and 24-bit word depth for improved sound.

The R-871 also offers automatic system set-up for channel level and distance and both offer SNAP (Sherwood Newcastle Automatic Parametric) Room EQ. SNAP uses up to 12 channels of Parametric EQ with adjustable center frequency and "Q" for each of the 7.1 channels to flatten system response. Once Auto-Setup and SNAP are enabled, system performance jumps into focus.

Field Upgradeable: The R-871 can be upgraded in the field to take advantage of new technologies as they become available via its rear-panel RS-232 connection, which also provides a means for advanced communications with third-party control systems such as touchpads, touchscreens or the like.

Universal Video: To ease system operation and video selection, the R-871 offers on-screen display and operational control from all three video outputs: composite, S-Video and Component Video. In addition, it transcodes (up-converts) all video inputs to a single component video output. With only one video connection necessary between the receiver and the TV, system installation and operation are significantly simplified.

Component Video Switching: With three wideband (100 MHz) component video inputs and 2 x 1 HDMI video switching, this Newcastle model makes it easy to hook-up advanced video sources. It is ready for HDTV.

Advanced Remote Control: Although virtually all functions can be accessed via the front panel controls most will find it much more convenient to operate their systems from the convenience of their easy chair. The R-871 comes with a preprogrammed remote that operates not only the Newcastle unit but virtually all other home electronics. It is even capable of executing a series of Macro commands to help automate system operation.

Rear Panel IR input: Even the most advanced remote control is powerless if the unit it’s designed to operate is located inside a closed cabinet. Thus, the R-871 has a rear panel IR input to facilitate operation even if the unit itself is hidden

ROOM 2 Feeds: Today, more and more consumers are interested in “whole house” audio and video. Both the R-871 and R-771 are capable of “Multi-Room/Multi-Zone” operation in which audio and video for a second source can be routed to another area of the home and operated even while a different program is running in the main room.

Powering ROOM 2: The R-871 offers several options for powering the Room 2 feed. It has preamp level outputs so it can be easily used with an outboard main amp, integrated amplifier or A/V receiver. (In fact, our Sherwood Newcastle RX-770 stereo receiver would be a great choice.) In addition, the R-871 can be reconfigured in the OSD menu to use the two rear center amplifiers to power the ROOM2 feed. Thus, the consumer can have 5.1 operating in the main room and stereo in the second zone—all powered by a single Newcastle receiver.

Independent Room 2 IR codes: Unlike several other products on the market, Room 2 operation of any of our Newcastle ADVANCED ROOM2 models is completely independent of Room 1. Using the supplied dedicated Room 2 remote, or by accessing the correct keys on the main remote, one can turn on the Room 2 feed, select source and operate the volume without disturbing Room 1 programs in any way.

On/Off operation: Anyone interested in automated operation of a home theater system will be delighted to know that these ADVANCED ROOM2 models incorporate dedicated codes for “on” and “off”. They will also be pleased to know that the R-771 has a built-in 12-Volt trigger to tell other equipment that it’s time to wake up and get on with the show.