has anyone seen any reviews for this a/v receiver? or has anyone heard about HDMI encoding problems with this unit to be specific?

DJ Z

djziggy,

It's been my experience as a former AV magazine editor and reviewer for many years that you'd be wise to avoid all Sony AV receivers and preamp/processors. In tests, most have some glitch or really annoying design screw-up.

This does not extend to Sony HD or non-HD video products.

You would be better off staying with AV receiver brands like Denon, H/K, Rotel, and the Pioneer 615,815,1015 series receivers.