Product Description

Onkyo 7.1 HDMI U/C, THX A/V Receiver TXSR804

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #27951 in Consumer Electronics
• Color: Black
• Brand: Onkyo
• Model: TXSR804

Features

• 105 Watts per channel minimum into 8 ohms, at 20 Hz to 20,000Hz x 7 channels
• Selectable modes for 2 channels stereo and 2.1, 5.1, 6.1 and 7.1 channel surround
• Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry (VLSC) for all channels
• Extended frequency response - (5 Hz to 100 kHz)
• Reduced NFB (Negative Feedback)

From the Manufacturer
With such complete home entertainment functionality, it woulld seem wrong to define the TX-SR804 by only two words--Power and simplicity. Take power, at a rock-solid 105 watts per channel. It's only a rating, but it's something completely different when you realize that the TX-SR804 is built on Onkyo's Wide Range Amplifier Technology. WRAT provides a sound amplification framework that combines a high instantaneous current capability with a distortion-preventing circuit design to channel power for the demanding sound requirements of today's high-definition movie sources.Simplicity might not be a word that you associate with an A/V receiver of thisi class, but with HDMI, that perception quickly changes. HDMI is not only the most technologically advanced transport available for delivering movies, music, and gaming, it's also the most straightforward. Virtually any componant can be connected to the TX-SR804, upconverted, and outputted via a single HDMI cable. Just what you need to complement your HD-ready display.

Key technology Features:

HDMI: HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) This high-bandwidth interface supports not only brilliant digital video, but digital audio as well. Up to 5 Gbps of data—more than twice what’s needed for a high-definition movie with surround sound—can be handled, with room for future requirements. All this data is kept in the digital domain, as there are no D/A or A/D conversions needed, to ensure the highest sound and video quality available.

THX Select 2: THX Select2 certified receivers deliver optimal quality audio and video presentations to small and medium sized home theaters. A viewing distance of approximately 10 feet / 3 meters from the display to the listening position is best served by these specifications, which translates to a 2,000 cubic foot room. Based on the same values and principles of THX Ultra2, THX Select2 certified receivers deliver exceptional quality to smaller home theater environments. THX Select2 specifications are designed to address the growing needs of the newest generation of home entertainment enthusiasts - those who crave immersive DVD, music, and video game experiences, but do not have the space for a dedicated home theater.

DTS-ES 96/24 Neo6:
There are two DTS®-ES™ (Extended Surround) formats: DTS®-ES™ Discrete 6.1 and DTS®-ES™ Matrix 6.1. The DTS®-ES™ Discrete 6.1 format is, as the name implies, a 6.1-channel system with a discrete back surround channel, while DTS®-ES™ Matrix 6.1, like Dolby® Digital Surround EX™, provides a matrix-encoded back surround channel. There’s also DTS® Neo:6, which derives a 6-channel surround output from a stereo soundtrack, and regular DTS®, which, like Dolby® Digital, is a discrete 5.1-channel system, but which uses less compression than Dolby® Digital. Receivers carrying the "96/24" designation are able to decode a new high-resolution audio format, DTS-96/24. This breakthrough allows for high quality, 5.1 channel audio encoded at 96kHz/24-bit resolution to be stored on a DVD-Video disc (or the DVD-Video portion of a DVD-Audio disc). This format is compatible with all DVD players, with those able to pass a 96kHz signal providing the highest quality output (DTS-96/24 is also backwards compatible with older 48kHz DVD player models).

Dolby Digital EX / Pro-Logic IIx: Home theater realism reaches new heights with the creation of Dolby Digital EX. By adding a matrix-encoded surround back channel derived from the existing discrete left and right surround channels, the lack of rear surround in 5.1 channel is eliminated. The result - a fuller 360º experience is created…even from 5.1-channel DVD releases. Best results are obtained when Dolby Digital EX is used with movie soundtracks recorded with Dolby Digital Surround EX. Pro-Logic IIx is the latest improvement on the original Pro-Logic and subsequent Pro-Logic II standards. Pro-Logic IIx adds post-processing to 5.1 channel and stereo signals, creating a realistic 7.1 channel surround environment from 5.1 channel movies and stereo sources, such as CD, Tape, FM Radio.

Video Upconversion: Converts incoming composite, S-Video signals (like a VCR to S-Video equipped TV), and component signals all the way to HDMI on most models.

192 kHz/24bit AD Converters: Costly, extremely powerful digital-to-analog converters , that not only boast a dynamic range of 120 dB, they process information faster and are virtually resistant to clock jitter, to ensure the best possible performance from DVD-Audio, DVD-Video and audio CD.

WRAT (Wide Range Amp Technology): Imagine turning up the volume and filling your entertainment room with noise-free, impressively powerful, true-to-life sound. That's the benefit of Wide Range Amplifier Technology. Originally developed for our most expensive high-end amplifiers to handle the sonic demands of today's digital age, you'll now find WRAT even in our lowest-priced A/V receivers. The WRAT family of technologies includes a broader frequency range with lower noise entering the signal path – perfectly suited for new high resolution DVD-Audio and SACD formats.

VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry): Conventional D/A conversion methods reduce digital pulse noise at the conversion stage but can’t remove it completely. Previously only found on our high-end components, VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) employs a unique D/A conversion circuit to overcome this problem. Data is converted between sampling points and these points are joined with analog vectors in real-time to produce a smooth output wave form. The result — a virtually noiseless, smooth analog signal based on the digital source to bring out even the most subtle of nuances in your music, movie soundtracks and even MP3s.

Powered Zone 2: By dedicating a pair of channels on receivers with this capability, you don’t need an external amplifier to enjoy an independent stereo audio source in a remote room. For example, on higher-end models this allows for a full 5.1 channel movie to be enjoyed in the home theater, while simultaneously sending a song from a CD (or other source) to speakers in another room.

XM Ready: The XM "Connect-and-Play," is a revolutionary technology platform designed to integrate XM into virtually any home or portable consumer electronics entertainment device. By matching XM Ready® audio systems with a simple, elegant antenna/receiver, getting XM becomes even easier for home audio listeners.

7.1 Multichannel Inputs: The emergence of HD-DVD and Blu-ray discs promises to bring unparalleled realism to home theater. Dolby and DTS have each developed improved audio formats to be encoded on these new DVD discs that will superbly complement the latest in highdefinition video. By connecting a player compatible with these new audio codecs to an Onkyo A/V receiver equipped with 7.1 multichannel inputs, you will be able to experience extreme sonic clarity from these new discs, while retaining the full use of the receiver’s other onboard codecs.

RI (Remote Interactive): With Onkyo’s exclusive RI (Remote Interactive) system capability, you can integrate and operate all compatible components through a single remote control. What’s more, RI capability enables you to simply connect the iPod® to your receiver through Onkyo’s RI Dock for the iPod (DS-A1). Your iPod effectively becomes another Onkyo component from which you can relish a fuller sound that just can’t be experienced through headphones. RI capability will also give you remote operability of your iPod for hands-off control over your digital music.

Customer Reviews

Great Receiver
I am by no means an expert on electronic audio equipment, but I wanted to replace my 5 year old Panasonic 300w THIB 5 disc DVD/CD system with separate components to get a better "bang" for my audio ear. I based my research on owner reviews and of course the capabilities of the units. I decided on the Onkyo TXSR804/B, almost went with the Onkyo TXSR674/B which would have saved me about $150.00 over the TXSR804/B unit, but I went all the way. I also purchased the Polk RM6750 5.1 Surround Speaker System - not the best I could have, but more than enough power for my 12 x 18 room size. So, now my system consists of a Sony KDS-60A2000 SXRD 60" rear projection TV, Onkyo TXSR804/B receiver, Polk 5.1 (expandable to 7.1) Speaker System, a Panasonic DVD/VHS Recorder, Onkyo DXC39 6 disc CD Changer, and my digital cable box. Here's what I think after just two days of use:

Pros: - Total system looks great, more than I could have asked for. I used the auto set-up micophone that comes with the receiver to adjust the speakers, and that worked well - but I did tweak the rear surround speakers slightly to get the sound I wanted. I put in the DVD movie "The Incredibles" as a test for the sound system - blew me away! shook the walls! Scared the kids! The Polk RM6750 speakers look and sound great - I am glad I didn't spend more to get the Polk RB6880 (from Circuit City)at twice the cost! You will not be disapointed with these speakers. I went from using 5 remotes to using just one - the one that came with the receiver. I also have only one HDMI cable from the receiver to my TV. You can also transfer specific remote functions of your choosing from each component remote - you don't have to transfer "all" remote functions if you don't need all of them.

Cons: TIME to set this up - It took my about a good 10 - 12 hours to get all components connected to the receiver and to set all the imputs and programs into the remote. You will need to read the instructions over & over until it finally "clicks" in your mind and things start to work the right way. So give yourself time. Call Fire Dog service if you need help getting this set up the right way. I almost did. My last "Con: is you'll have to teach the rest of your family members how to use the new remote, or you may find yourself mystified when something doesn't work the way you programed it to.

Bottom line: I made the right choices for my system components. They look great together and the sound is "WOW".. I may do a little more tweaking, but overall, I am very happy with my new system. I recommend this receiver highly, without any hesitation.

Great Mid-Priced HDMI Receiver!!
I shopped and researched for several months for a new HDMI receiver. I was all set to buy the TX-SR674 but I stumbled upon this model in my search. The 804 model has 10 more watts per channel than the 674, THX sound and a cleaner front via a drop down panel. Set-up was quite easy since I was using HDMI connections for the TV, DVD & Cable Box. (Don't waste your $$ on expensive HDMI cables! I had to buy a $70 cable from the big red CC box until my $6.00 HDMI cable arrived in the mail, guess what? No difference in sound!) The instruction manual is decent but does not cover every possible scenario. ie.) To get the XM Radio Info. displayed on the TV screen you have to choose choose VIDEO 2-4, then choose the TUNER (took a little trial and error). The remote is a little big, but is easy to use and does have 3 separate MACROs available to use. I was able to program all my components into this remote. The 804s on-screen display is basic white lettering on a black screen. The new Sony's have a slick on screen GUI like the PS3s but don't get sucked into this 'nice to have'. Once you get your system set up you will rarely go back to your on-screen displays. I'm running a 5.1 speaker system for now until I can afford a new 7.1 setup. However, the 5.1 sound on my old speakers sounds terrific. My speakers actually sound better than they did on my old Yamaha. XM Radio sounds great and is super easy to add on. I did not purchase the DS-A2 iPod dock because DLO is coming out with a new dock in March with on screen album art that the DS-A2 does not have. I'll let you know how this works as soon as I get it! The only feature I wish it had was a 3rd HDMI out, this would have been an even better upgrade over the 674! You can buy better HDMI receivers but you will spend well over $1000.00. Most people will be quite happy with this receiver at this price point.
Sound: Excellent Style: Clean and Slick Power: More than adequate Features: A- Initial Setup: Medium
My System:
Samsung LN-S4695D LCD TV
Samsung HD-960 DVD (waiting for the HD-DVD/Blu Ray battle to play out and a price drop!)
Sci.Atl. HD cable box/DVR w/HDMI
Audiovox CNP2000H XM Radio Mini Tuner Home Dock with Antenna
Monster HTS 1000 MKII Powercenter with Clean Power (Needed this due to unstable power in my area.)

I hope this helps you to make a decision!

A good receiver, but has video problems
I like this amp but it causes my TV (Sharp Aquos 42" LCD) to lose synch whenever the video has a sudden white flashes (NFL sports transitions, War of the Worlds death-beam blasts, Drawn Together transitions, explosions, stuff like that). The synch loss takes about 5 or so seconds for my particular TV to recover from, which is pretty annoying. When I had the problem I searched the web and found that numerous others had similar problems with this and other Onkyo receiver models, but Onkyo doesn't seem to acknowledge the issue. It's a good receiver, but if you buy it save the packing for a few weeks just in case it causes problems for your TV as well. Given that these problems seem to have been around for a good year or more and Onkyo isn't fixing them, I can only give this 2 stars.