The RX-396 provides 50 watts per channel with low distortion. It delivers enough power to comfortably handle the requirements of most rooms and most speakers. The versatile RX-396 receiver can handle up to six independent audio program sources, such as CD or cassette deck. The receiver has one tape monitor. The advantage of full range, 20 to 20,000 Hz, damping is that it improves the definition and resolution of the sound output throughout the audible frequency range.Ergonomically designed "paddle" remote control keypad allows you to control other Yamaha components, such as a CD player or cassette deck from the remote control transmitter included with the receiver. Power on/off button on the remote offers additional convenience. Infrared input/out ports make the RX-396 an ideal choice for custom installation applications. Yamaha's unique variable loudness control compensates for the ear's inability to distinguish bass at low volume by increasing the bass proportionally as the volume is decreased. A/B speaker selector allows selection of either a first set of speakers or a second - or both. Up to 40 preset AM and FM stations can be grouped in five groups eight stations. These groupings make it easy for family members to easily access their favorite stations or to have musical genres, such as all the jazz stations, grouped together. Sleep timer permits a delayed receiver turn off. You can set it for up to two hours in 30-minute increments. In addition, Yamaha's speaker terminals accept banana plugs and a variety of speaker wire.