Onkyo TX-SR805 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black)

I have been shopping for a AV receiver for almost three years but the feature set I wanted has always been slightly out of range. With Onkyo's new line, I decided that rather than wait for the "perfect $2k receiver" I would compromise and pay $700 for one that would be sufficient.

On the upside:
The sound is amazing (even with my relatively cheap set of 5.1 speakers) the feature set is rich and its extremely easy to set up and use. Automatic set up was time consuming as the CNET review notes, but we were very satisfied with the adjustments it made.

On the downside:
Video transcoding to digital HDMI out is poor. I knew this before I bought it, but decided that I could handle it since the only thing I have hooked up analog is my Wii. It is a noticible difference to be sure, but acceptable for a 480p video game. This could probably be eliminated by buying a Wii output cable that converts to HDMI so the receiver isn't forced to do it. I probably will.

Zone 2 requires audio input separately, so if you have sound going into HDMI, you can't use that sound input in zone 2. You have to use RCA jacks and hook them up concurrently. This is annoying because I like to listen to MP3's through my PS3 both upstairs and downstairs, and the PS3 will not output audio over HDMI and RCA's at the same time, it's one or the other. My HD TIVO will though, so its not a deal breaker and Zone two's powered output sounds great.

Even considering these problems, I've been extremely with it. Some other reviews mention lip syncing issues, but I have experienced none. My guess is that those reviewers have TV's that cannot handle the video processing of HDMI inputs properly. It does have a lip syncing function in the receiver that will allow communication over HDMI to your TV, but only if the TV supports it.

Thats all I can think of, but I would certainly recommend this receiver if you are not planning on hooking up analog devices directly to it, as the sound, feature set, and price are amazing.

This is an excellent product, especially for the price. High quality all around, amazing features, and extraordinary performance. Everything works as expected and the phone and online support from Onkyo is exceptional. I compared against Denon, Yamaha, Sony and Pioneer receivers with similar features and much higher prices. I couldn't be more pleased.

Amazing components, especially the Burr-Brown PCM1796 DACs with 123DB SNR used on all channels, the same as you see on the top end Denon seperate processor AVP-A1HDCI for $7000.

It can decode pretty much anything (with caveats), tons of power, and connectivity is over the top for a receiver you can pick up for $600.

More than a few problems though:
1) Most receivers have a pure and a direct mode, the difference being the direct mode a crossover filter (although no other DSP). This receiver has both a direct and a pure audio mode but there is absolutely no difference. You can only set a manual crossover in stereo mode, which requires switching settings when you are changing sources, definitely a drag.

2) This thing can heat your house, it runs incredibly hot, some people have added a mini-fan to keep it warm.

3) "popping." All Onkyo's have an issue of popping noises when decoding DTS Master output, which can cause catastrophic damage to your speakers. Which is why I said decoding with "caveats."

This is a unit with great sound quality but has some operational issues, you might be battle off with a less hassle receiver from Denon/Yamaha/HK, although obviously you won't get the wondering amps and DACs this receiver has in this price range.

I got a great price of very near 1/2 off MSRP here at Amazon. Couldn't be happier with the purchase. Very future proof receiver with 3.1 HDMI inputs. Very easy to setup with the Audyssey Mic which calculates distances and room specifics of 8 positions. With 110 WPC this 7.1 channel beast drives even the most demanding speakers. Great place to start a upgrade of your HT. Next, I'll probably be upgrading to Salk Song Towers for my speakers. Using a Fluance 5.1 speaker setup now that of low end quality and even it sounds good. Buy this receiver. IT ROCKS !

I read up on this reciever for a long time and glad i waited for the price to oome down. Well worth the money!!! Highly recommend.