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Onkyo TX-SR606: Review

Posted to Audio Components 2009-04-05

Onkyo TX-SR606 review :

If you are looking for the performance of a high end receiver but can't afford the high end price, then you may want to check out the 7.1 channel, 90 watts per channel, Onkyo TX-SR606. Offering users a variety of features as well as a plethora of ports, this receiver provides high end functionality at a down to earth price.

Measuring 17.1 in x 6.9 in x 14.8 in and weighing 24.9 lbs, the TX-SR606 offers users a wealth of features that will not cost a fortune. This receiver supports standard Dolby Digital EX, DTS ES, DTS 96/24, Dolby Pro Logic II, and DTS NEO: 6. What makes this device stand out from the rest is the fact that it also supports Dolby digital plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Dolby TrueHD is Dolby's newest technology that was developed specifically for HD media. This allows the receiver to deliver sound that is nearly identical to the studio recording. This allows you to enjoy the movie theater experience in the comfort of your own home. DTS-HD provides similar audio quality in the fact that it delivers crisp, clear sound quality that matches the clear, vivid images supplied by HD video. Regardless of which audio option you choose, the TX-SR606 can provide quality audio performance that can quite possibly eliminate your need to go to the movie theater again.

Rating:

4.0 out of 5

Features

When it comes to features, the TX-SR606 comes equipped with more that you would expect to find on a receiver in this price range. This receiver comes equipped with auto calibration, Audyssey 2EQ and Dynamic EQ, it can provide quality audio regardless of your rooms configuration. The auto calibration feature sends out test signals, measures the distance and then adjusts the channel level and time-delay settings for each speaker.

When combined with the 2EQ feature, the receiver can measure acoustical output for up to 3 different positions and optimizes sound performance based on the layout of your room and not just a specific seat in the room. The Dynamic EQ will select the best frequency response and surround levels as the volume changes. This provides real time loudness that can compensate for a variety of abnormalities that can occur in your home theater setup. This feature eliminates those abnormalities so all you experience is quality sound.

This receiver also has the ability to up-convert video signals to 1080i with the assistance of the Faroudija DCDi Edge Technology. The DCDi stands for directional correlation deinterlacing and this feature allows the TX-SR606 to convert interlaced video signals to progressive scan signals. This helps to eliminate video artifacts that can occur, resulting in quality images time after time.

Those who may not require the functionality of 7 speakers are given the option to utilize the extra speakers for a different audio zone. With the powered zone 2 feature the receiver provides the user the ability to dedicate a pair of channels for independent stereo audio in another room. This allows one family member to watch a movie while another enjoys music from either a CD or another media source in a separate room.

Those looking for theater quality audio performance, but can't afford the cost of extra speakers will be happy to know that the TX-SR606 can provide theater quality audio with as few as two speakers. With the use of its theater-dimensional circuitry the receiver can be configured to output quality theater sound that doesn't require 5 or more speakers.

The TX-SR606 also offers Sirius radio subscribers the option to utilize their receiver to receive Sirius channels. Subscribers will need to purchase the SiriusConnect accessory that connects directly to your receiver and provides you with the ability to receive all that Sirius has to offer. Users also have the option to hook up their iPod to the receiver. In order to utilize this option, users will need to purchase the iPod dock which is sold separately.

This receiver also offers users a wealth of audio/video inputs/outputs, many of which may be unheard of on a receiver in this price range. It offers 4 HDMI V1.3a Inputs, 2 component inputs, 4 S-Video inputs, 5 composite inputs, 2 digital optical inputs, 2 coaxial inputs and 7 audio inputs. The TX-SR606 output amplifier is also continuous 6 ohms rated.

Performance

When it comes to performance the TX-SR606 does quite well for a receiver in this price range. This receiver provides users with theater quality sound that will not end up costing you an arm and a leg. While most receivers perform quite well when it comes to movie theater sound, most fail when it comes to handling two-channel music. The TX-SR606 performs quite well in this area as well by delivering quality, enjoyable sound.

Summary

In conclusion, the Onkyo TX-SR606 provides quality home theater sound at a price that the average home theater enthusiast can afford. If you are looking for a quality performance on a budget, the Onkyo TX-SR606 may be the way to go.

Pros

4 HDMI Inputs
Dolby digital plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio
Audyssey 2EQ and Dynamic EQ
Sirius connectivity with optional equipment
iPod connectivity with optional dock

Cons

There are no cons for this product