| Onkyo TX-SR706 AV Receiver |
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| Written by Donald Tibbs | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Friday, 09 January 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
The Onkyo TX-SR706 THX Certified Seven Channel AV Receiver is a 7.1 channel AV receiver that builds on what was best about the previous TX-SR606 model. The TX-SR706 strengthens its value with vast improvements in video upscaling of up to 1080p, breathing new life into just about any DVD collection. It also has an Audyssey automatic speaker setup and room-equalization program that delivers more accurate sound. However, its top selling point (as detailed in its product name) is that the Onkyo TX-SR706 is THX Select2 Plus certified. To many home theater enthusiasts, this is a deal maker. This model was evaluated by THX (of George Lucas/Star Wars fame) against some very strict benchmarks. THX has indeed found the 100-watt-per-channel receiver more than capable of delivering accurate as recorded sound at volume levels typical of most home theaters. All in all, this means not only high-performance but also reliability. Priced below $800, the Onkyo TX-SR706 provides top-level video processing with upscaling of 1080p/1080i using advanced Faroudja Video Processing. The technology is incorporated into this model and optimizes both high-definition and standard-definition video content from, respectively, Blu-ray and DVDs. The Onkyo TX-SR706 also provides a choice of Audyssey’s MyltEQ™ XT, MultEQ™, or 2EQ™. This effectively counters distortions in your dedicated home theater system by focusing on frequency response and time domain (two of the most problematic areas in home theater systems). Furthermore, you don’t need a high-end audio system to enjoy bi-amping capabilities. Even at it’s under $800 price tag, the Onkyo TX-SR706 features bi-amping capabilities that can work well with many different home theater systems. The Upside Even at just 100 watts per channel, the Onkyo TX-SR706 manages to deliver strong and loud passages. Home theater owners with semi-inefficient speakers won’t even hear the difference due to powerful inner detail, sound-staging, and overall musicality found in this model. In addition, incorporating Audyssey’s latest EQ technologies is a step in the right direction. Furthermore, at this price point, you won’t expect but DO GET true Dolby TrueHD and DTS Master Audio support. Video also comes detailed and crisp thank to probably among the best in its class for video scaling and processing. For beginning home theater enthusiasts, setup is easy via well-defined, easy-to-navigate menus and a state-of-the-art interface. The Downside If you still use non-HDMI-capable components, you might find the Onkyo TX-SR706 lacking component and digital inputs. This model also tends to heat up pretty fast so we recommend placing it in a well ventilated place. In addition, while the menus and interface are easy to use, the remote control lacks some functionality when used in the dark or dimly lit rooms. Conclusion For under $800, the upsides of the Onkyo TX-SR706 far outweigh the model’s downsides. In this case, you get more than you pay for with THX certification alone. Moreover, the power supply, pre-amp, and processor are truly top-notch while the amplifier is satisfactory. Overall, the Onkyo TX-SR706 is a fantastic buy especially if you are looking for lots of high-end features without breaking the bank.
3.26 Copyright (C) 2008 Compojoom.com / Copyright (C) 2007 Alain Georgette / Copyright (C) 2006 Frantisek Hliva. All rights reserved."Like this article? Bookmark and share with any of the sites below.        |
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