A:AnswerThe RX-V679BL receiver does not come with a phonograph/turntable pre-amp and to use a phonograph/turntable with it, you will need a phonograph/turntable pre amp to amplify the signal. Phonograph/turntable line levels typically range from 2-5mV. The line level inputs on the receiver want to see at least 150mV. So it will need the pre-amp to amplify the signal.
A:AnswerYes, it CAN still pass HDMI signals to the TV, both audio and video, when this receiver is off. I just tested it. (I didn't think it could do that so I learned something in the process too.)