I have the 500 compared extensively with the AS 700. This at a rate Cantons that are considered very analytical. Basically: The combination is very good in both amplifiers. Differences: The 500 is what can be read anywhere, spiced up for use with subwoofers, thus has such an output, otherwise also has all sorts of bells and whistles, shutdown, prettier speaker outputs etc. Savings has the front of the input selector knob and the volume control knob. That would not have done that, because the one summarizes yes to constantly, and feels better in aluminum on. Cheap plastic compared with grade aluminum at 700. Tip: Have a 500, never barrel on the volume knob of a 700! Most important: Regarding sound and performance of the 700 appends the 500 completely. Simply put: 1) is the sound pressure at 700 with controller position 9 clock almost twice as high as the 500s. But that has not only more loudness result, but sounds at the same volume even better since my Speaker - respond better - just in the same volume. In short, understood my tower speaker is a lot better the 700s. Conclusion: The 500 is a good amplifier for home theater systems, because he has a sub-out. It is good for people who want to connect their iPhone directly, such a port has not the 700. He has two front plastic buttons, where the 700 metal, has the most important thing - what is not evident from the data: It has not nearly the sound and performance of the 700ers. If you want to enhance your home cinema so, it is good choice. Is it more of a music lover, I advise to 700, for about 130 euros more still has the better price-performance ratio. I would also lie down twice the price for the 700. I bought the 700, because I mostly listen to music, especially want to hear my own guitar well, I read it with Logic and GarageBand. For easy angecrunchte Strat sounds the Combi is the 700 almost ideal. Those who prefer a more soft and silky, is rather wrong. Both Yamahas help analytical listening. People who like to blur their acoustic world should choose another amplifier.