I remember an older review of CH P equipment. The reviewer had the unused inputs switched off by a CH P executive, with sonic benefit.
Is this something a mortal user can do, too?
I could not find the necessary information but might have missed it in my manuals.
No, doesn't matter which input you're on, just go into the settings and you can access all inputs, not sure if it's through the AUDIO option or something else and I don't have access to one to help you more specifically.
Detailed Set-Up Menus - Audio Settings - Input Type
That will list the eight inputs vertically. For each one you can then select it (central push), choose between Disabled, Normal or Byepass (for use with an AV processor) by rotating the volume control and then saving with another central push.
You don't switch the inputs off on the power amps, but you do select the one(s) that will be used.
GroundARAYs in the unused inputs are definitely a great upgrade!