Product Description

In the mid-range category, credibility is gained through exceptional performance and a high degree of functionality.Theres no better example of this than the THX Select2 Plus Certified TX-SR706 A/V receiver.With a certified amplification design and ability to process full high-definition audio and video, the TX-SR706 marks the boundary between cost effectiveness and high-end functionality.

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Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #76 in Television
• Color: Black
• Brand: Onkyo
• Model: TX-SR706B
• Dimensions: 6.88" h x 17.13" w x 14.81" l, 27.00 pounds

Features

• 100 W/Ch Minimum into 8 Ohms, 20 Hz¿20 kHz, 0.08%, 2 Channels Driven, FTC
• HDMI (v.1.3a to Support Deep Color, x.v. Color, LipSync, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master)
• THX Select2 Plus Certified
• Audyssey MultEQ to Correct Room Acoustic Problems and to Calibrate Speakers
• HDMI Video Upscaling (to 1080p) with Faroudja DCDi Cinema and Upconversion

From the Manufacturer

Onkyo TX-SR706 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black): Meeting THX Benchmarks for Superior Performance and Reliability

In the mid-range category, credibility is gained through exceptional performance and a high degree of functionality. There's no better example of this than the THX Select2 Plus Certified TX-SR706 A/V receiver. With a certified amplification design and ability to process full high-definition audio and video, the TX-SR706 marks the boundary between cost effectiveness and high-end functionality. Look to some notable firsts at this level: (1) The ability to scale all sources, such as standard DVD, up to 1080p video with the industry recognized quality of Faroudja DCDi Cinema™; (2) an efficient push-pull amplification design originally created for Onkyo's high-end receivers; and (3) THX® Loudness Plus™ technology to maintain the impact of home theater even at low volume. To cap off a remarkable home entertainment component, we've also included RIHD (Remote Interactive over HDMI) system control; advanced Audyssey room acoustic correction technologies; and XM® and SIRIUS™ Satellite Radio and iPod® connectivity options.

Superior Performance and Reliability

Includes HDMI video up-conversion with DCDi Cinema technology (View larger)

To ensure that all mid-range and high-end A/V receivers in Onkyo's 2008 line-up meet THX's comprehensive performance standards, THX engineers spend countless hours testing and analyzing sound quality, usability, and interoperability for each model. This enduring relationship between Onkyo and THX guarantees even greater reliability and quality from certified A/V receivers. The 2008 range features two new THX standards: THX® Ultra2 Plus™ and THX® Select2 Plus™. These standards include THX® Loudness Plus™, which enables home theater audiences to experience rich detail and ambient sound in a surround mix at any volume level.

Advanced Faroudja Video Processing with 1080p/1080i Upscaling

The Faroudja name is synonymous with high-quality video processing. The Faroudja technologies incorporated into Onkyo's 2008 A/V receiver range give you the power to bring out the best from both high-definition and standard-definition video content. The Faroudja DCDi Edge™ video processor converts interlaced video signals to progressive scan signals and effectively eliminates video artifacts from HDTV images. The Faroudja DCDi Cinema™ video processor is a more sophisticated version that drastically reduces video noise without sacrificing image quality and sharpness. Both processors can scale standard-definition sources up to 1080i--and DCDi Cinema can additionally upscale to 1080p--for output to HDTVs.

This system features a high-bandwidth processor capable of transferring 1080p (Ver. 1.3a/Deep Color, x.v. Color) through the HDMI output; and 1080i HD upconversion is achieved with a powerful Faroudja DCDi processing chip. HDMI supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. With playback specifications that meet the standards of professionals, it features HD component video (2x inputs/1x output) switching for high-resolution low-distortion video reproduction.

Audyssey Technologies for the Ideal Listening Environment

Onkyo A/V receivers use Audyssey's MultEQ™ XT, MultEQ™, or 2EQ™ to counter distortion in dedicated home theaters. All of these solutions focus on the frequency response and time domain (where most of the problems lie) across the entire listening area. The results are immediately obvious--a clear, well-balanced and natural sound. The 2008 A/V receiver range features two new Audyssey technologies: (1) Dynamic EQ™, which selects the best frequency response and surround levels moment-by-moment, for the best listening experience at any volume; and (2) Dynamic Volume™, which maintains the desired listening level for all content while optimizing the dynamic range.

Bi-Amping Capability

Taking a cue from the world of high-end audio, you'll find bi-amping capabilities in Onkyo's 2008 line-up. This allows for a number of different home theater set-ups beyond the standard surround-sound configurations. Compatible front speakers can be bi-amped for separate tweeter and woofer inputs.

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Technical Specifications

• Power Output: 115 W/Channel (8 ohms, 1 kHz)
• THX Certified: THX® Select2 Plus™
• Amplifier Frequency Response: 5Hz-100kHz
• S/N Ratio (LINE IN): 106dB
• HDMI video up-conversion with DCDi Cinema technology
• Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD decoding
• DTS Decoder: DTS-HD Master Audio
• Music Optimizer: Yes
• Audyssey Dynamic EQ: Yes
• Faroudja DCDi Edge™
• 192K/24 Bit DACs: Yes
• Multi-Band Speaker EQ: 5 Band
• Audio I/O: 8/2
• Digital Audio IN (OPT/COAX): 3/2
• Composite I/O: 5/1
• S-Video I/O: 5/1
• Front-Panel Optical: Yes
• Component Video / Bandwidth: 2/1/50MHz
• HDMI V1.3a repeater: 4in/1out, 1080p compatible
• 480i to 480p Processing: DCDi Cinema
• 1080i Upscaling: DCDi Cinema
• 1080p Upscaling: DCDi Cinema
• Powered Zone2: Yes
• Zone 2 Line Out: Yes
• iPod Ready: DS-A2x, DS-A2, DS-A1

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Choosing an Onkyo A/V 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver for Your Home

Onkyo offers several quality A/V receiver system and speaker packages that are just right for your home. Which A/V receiver system you choose depends on how much you are willing to spend and which features you prioritize in a home theater environment. Here is a quick breakdown of these A/V 7.1 channel home theater receiver systems.

	The TX-SR806 (Black): The TX-SR806 occupies a unique position in the Onkyo line-up. Onkyo classes it as a mid-range A/V receiver. But with its advanced capabilities and THX Ultra2 Plus certification, it's a worthy challenger for high-end status. Built with high-definition entertainment in mind, the TX-SR806 accommodates up to five HDMI™ sources that can handle both 1080p video and studio master-quality surround sound. That's more high-def sources than you'll find on any other Onkyo A/V receiver. If that weren't enough, onboard Faroudja DCDi Cinema™ scales all standard definition sources to 1080p for HDMI output, or to 1080i for component video output. Endowed with the amplification power and dependability expected from an Onkyo A/V receiver, the TX-SR806 stands out as a natural choice for high performance home theater.
	The TX-SR806 (Silver): The TX-SR806 occupies a unique position in the Onkyo line-up. Onkyo classes it as a mid-range A/V receiver. But with its advanced capabilities and THX Ultra2 Plus certification, it's a worthy challenger for high-end status. Built with high-definition entertainment in mind, the TX-SR806 accommodates up to five HDMI™ sources that can handle both 1080p video and studio master-quality surround sound. That's more high-def sources than you'll find on any other Onkyo A/V receiver. If that weren't enough, onboard Faroudja DCDi Cinema™ scales all standard definition sources to 1080p for HDMI output, or to 1080i for component video output. Endowed with the amplification power and dependability expected from an Onkyo A/V receiver, the TX-SR806 stands out as a natural choice for high performance home theater.
	The TX-SR706 (Black): In the mid-range category, credibility is gained through exceptional performance and a high degree of functionality. There's no better example of this than the THX Select2 Plus Certified TX-SR706 A/V receiver. With a certified amplification design and ability to process full high-definition audio and video, the TX-SR706 marks the boundary between cost effectiveness and high-end functionality. Look to some notable firsts at this level: (1) The ability to scale all sources, such as standard DVD, up to 1080p video with the industry recognized quality of Faroudja DCDi Cinema™; (2) an efficient push-pull amplification design originally created for Onkyo's high-end receivers; and (3) THX® Loudness Plus™ technology to maintain the impact of home theater even at low volume. To cap off a remarkable home entertainment component, we've also included RIHD (Remote Interactive over HDMI) system control; advanced Audyssey room acoustic correction technologies; and XM® and SIRIUS™ Satellite Radio and iPod® connectivity options.
	The TX-SR706 (Silver): In the mid-range category, credibility is gained through exceptional performance and a high degree of functionality. There's no better example of this than the THX Select2 Plus Certified TX-SR706 A/V receiver. With a certified amplification design and ability to process full high-definition audio and video, the TX-SR706 marks the boundary between cost effectiveness and high-end functionality. Look to some notable firsts at this level: (1) The ability to scale all sources, such as standard DVD, up to 1080p video with the industry recognized quality of Faroudja DCDi Cinema™; (2) an efficient push-pull amplification design originally created for Onkyo's high-end receivers; and (3) THX® Loudness Plus™ technology to maintain the impact of home theater even at low volume. To cap off a remarkable home entertainment component, we've also included RIHD (Remote Interactive over HDMI) system control; advanced Audyssey room acoustic correction technologies; and XM® and SIRIUS™ Satellite Radio and iPod® connectivity options.

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Customer Reviews

A BRILLIANT receiver! Look no more.
I am an audio/videophile. I know about almost every piece of audio system, TV, IPod, gaming, speakers, cars, etc. on the market. I have followed the advancement of electronic technology for the past 25 years. This is not to impress you, but so you know Bozo the Clown is not writing this review.

OK- I was a Denon fan. I was a Marantz fan. Yamaha makes great stuff and you will most likely be happy with any "new toy" you buy ....but after extensive research I chose the Onkyo.

1. Why did I not go for a Denon? Denon's are great. However, over the past few years their overall quality and feel has declined. Simply put, the premium on their name no longer justifies their price. I own three Denon receivers so I am not slamming them. If your heart is set on a Denon look at the 1909.

2. Why did I not get a Marantz? My new Onkyo replaced my Marantz 5200. Marantz, back in the day made the best stuff (in my opinion). Then they went down hill and resurfaced strong about ten years ago...right about the time Dolby "Digital" technology hit the market. I believe you do not get your bank for your buck until you go over $1000 with Marantz. Marantz just does not have the switching, high quality video AND audio, or inputs at sub $1000.

3. Why did I not buy a Yamaha? Yamaha is a tough competitor to the Onkyo. Yamaha has always made incredible a/v equipment. Sound, video and build quality are amazing. The AVR-663 is awesome, but at a higher price than the Onkyo 706 and two less HDMI inputs it was eliminated day one for me. However, if you must buy a Yamaha- under $1000 the AVR-683 is fantastic. The price is $100's more than the Onkyo...for what? A name? Not enough in my book when your a/v receiver is the least important component in your system (I'll explain more later on that topic).

4. Why the Onkyo?
a. Onkyo has a fantastic name and reputation
b. Build quality and design are terrific.
c. 4 HDMI's!!! This IS huge and WILL BE even more important in the future.
d. 1080p upscaling. This not really important now, but in the next few years, if you have a 1080p TV, you will regret not having this ability. This is the sole reason NOT to get the Onkyo 606. However, if this is not important to you -get the 606 and save your money.

Sound: All I can say is crisp and brilliant. Again, any new receiver you buy will sound great. My ears prefer the Onkyo.

Lastly, for those of you who are not educated on this stuff, here are a few KEY points to remember when you build your system:
1. Speakers are the most important part of your system...PERIOD. Who cares about HDMI, 1080p, watts, etc. if the "ears" of your system sound like crap. Put your money into speakers first.
2. Your TV. DLP will be gone in the next few years. Plasma's are very bright (a good thing), but have glare (they have a piece of glass over the screen). If you have a dark(er) room plasma's are great. LCD's are the best bang for your dollar. Samsung's are the best brand right now. LCD's have more pixels than Plasma's and to most people LCD's look the best.
3. Your receiver. Yes, your a/v receiver is important, BUT it should be the last thing you choose. Again, in my humble opinion, spend those extra dollars on speakers.

In conclusion, if you are in the market to spend less than $1000, the Onkyo TX-SR706 is an easy choice. Everyone has a favorite and this is mine. I love it!!! Happy hunting!

706 vs 806/905. A nice receiver package in ~500$ range
It is hard to rate products like this. It is a super duper feature packed product. You get a lot of bells and whistles. Integrated amp has three main parts,

1) Power supply
2) Pre-amp, processor
3) AMP

1) Power Supply: 4/5 stars
It is quite noisy and doesn't have very good isolation. There is no easy way to connect a external ground. Also the power rating for the entire unit is very deceiving. 100+ W while driving only the main two. In 7.1 it is probably 20 W per channel. 80x and 90x have far better power supply than this puppy. That is the main reason they are so heavy. There is also no easy way to replace the fuse to a noise free one.

2) Pre-amp, processor: 5/5 stars
Number of input connections, hdmi control, all the DSP and format support. Wow Wow... there is no other receiver in this price range that handle it all. Dolby True HD, DTS, LPCM, TOS Link any thing you ever want is available here.

One minor complaint is input impedance. It is quite low for a active pre-amp. It will require a nice sturdy analog source to provide the full punch. Phono inputs are OK at best.

If you are looking for 4 HDMI inputs, DSD processing, 1080 up-scaling you wont find another one in the ~500 range. This one is feature packed.

3) Amplifier: 3/5 stars

Amp gain relies of a big negative feedback circuit. The dynamic slam is very meager with fast music. Especially when you play SACD driving all the 5 channels. It does fare well when i connect only my two fronts. To get the best power, i just connect my two fronts in bi-amp mode. The bass seems lot clear and music flows more naturally. It is easy to hear the difference in clarity when you just hook only the front two, rather than all 7 channels. 706 is strictly for speakers with 8 ohm+ rating. If you have speakers with odd phase shifts, every thing will sound mushy.

Similar to the pre-amp, the amp is not linear. There is a lot of coloration going on. The sound is not natural. I use my creek audio and neutral NAD as comparison, sounds come very different with Onkyo. It is pleasant but you do hear other artifacts that the Amp has introduced.

Also the bass seems to vary a lot. For movies I have to turn the bass down. For music I have to increase it. I never had this problem with NAD integrated and other amps. The sound is very rounded, you lose some of the low and high end. It probably has a 60-16K range.

Negative feedback loop also affects the bass extension. On a large explosion that lasts for few seconds the feedback just builds upon itself and makes it too loud. In music bass is fast and tight, feedback is not fast enough to provide the punch.

Another big complaint is the channel isolation. It is less than 20 db. So stereo image seems to float. Sound transition from speaker to speaker is never crisp and clear. Sound always seems to leak to rest of the speakers in the system. It is not ideal for SACD or DVD-Audio.

Over all rating for the entire unit: 4.5/5 stars

For this price, you cant ask for more. It is a good unit, you are getting lot more than you pay. This amp is clearly meant for HT Movies. Dont try to use it for 2 channel music.

If you have more money to spare, I would suggest getting a 90x with toroidal transformer. It has much more smooth sound. Dont get fooled by numbers. Music is art, not technology. You need a amp that can be fast, responsive and color less. 905/80x also uses draws more power and they run quite hot. They isolate more nose, if you have other noisy sources connected to the main line.

A simple analogy is a automobile, dump truck and corvette both have 500 Hp. Just power rating and numbers are not enough. Dynamic slam, agility are also important for a amplifier. 905/806 is a huge difference in performance. If you are looking for stereo only amp, look at Creek Audio 5350SE. But if you have a strict <600$ budget there is nothing better than 706.

Wow!
I bet I read opinions for 3 weeks before I decided on the Onkyo TX-SR706. For 99% of home theater users, this will MORE than do. Coupled with my Harman/Kardon HKTS 18 speakers system w/powered subwoofer, it will seriously rattle the windows and provide good balance at the same time. Mesh that with the Panasonic TH-50PZ800U and a Panasonic DMP-BD30 Blu-ray player and we're talking serious home theater.

Currently, I have a 5.1 audio set-up (even though this product has the capability of 7.1). The Onkyo TX-SR706 has the very latest in audio technology with Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD. If you want the very best performance, match it with a Blu-ray player that can also decode Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD....and you'll need a 7.1 speaker system for the very best sound reproduction.

Yes, the Onkyo TX-SR706 does heat up and get pretty warm, so allow for good ventilation and you should be fine. Some had complained about a loud fan. Mine has been virtually silent.

There are plenty of HDMI connections on this unit. More than I need. HDMI is the ONLY way to go these days. Ugrade to HDMI quality and do yourself a favor.

Some have complained the illuminated dial screen is green. If the product is excellent, I don't care what color the screen is.

In conclusion, unless you are investing half a year's salary in your home entertainment system with 8 rows of seats, and someone to take tickets, the Onkyo TX-SR706 is an outstanding choice.