Onkyo launch new 3D Capable AV Receivers from £250!

Onkyo, the UK’s No1 home cinema receiver brand, is launching a slew of exciting new budget/midrange home cinema products including a replacement for the UK’s No selling receiver of 2009, all briefly summarised below…

Receivers

TX-SR608 – THX Select2-certified 7.2-channel HD home cinema receiver with 1080p upscaling, analogue RGB in, Dolby Pro Logic IIz/Audyssey DSX – £450

TX-SR508 – 7.1-channel HD home cinema receiver with Dolby Pro Logic IIz – £350

TX-SR308 - 5.1-channel HD home cinema receiver – £250

2.1 System

HTX-22HDX – 3D-ready 2.1-channel HD audio system - £300

SKS-22SX – optional centre/surround speaker package for HTX-22HDX – £100

Home Cinema Receiver/speaker packages

HT-S6305 - 5.1-channel Home Cinema receiver/Speaker package with iPhone/iPod dock - £500

HT-S5305 - 5.1-channel Home Cinema receiver/Speaker package - £400

HT-S3305 - 5.1-channel Home Cinema receiver/Speaker package - £330
Blu-ray player BD-SP308 - BD-Live equipped budget Blu-ray player - £200

Here are the full press releases!

New season Onkyo home cinema receivers put emphasis on innovation, performance and value

THX Select2 certification, Audyssey DSX and 1080p upscaling among the Springtime highlights…

Onkyo, one of the world’s leading hi-fi and home cinema brands (and the UK’s No1 home cinema receiver maker), has introduced three new entry-level and midrange home cinema receivers for 2010 that offer unparalleled performance, features and facilities at their price points… something, it has to be said, of an Onkyo tradition.

Common to all three models are Dolby TrueHD/DTS-HD Master Audio decoding, 3D video compatibility (via HDMI 1.4 connectivity) and Onkyo’s innovative Universal port, a connection that allows the addition of DAB+ tuners and iPod/iPhone docks via a single cable connection (no extra power socket needed).

Topping the list of is the mighty TX-SR608 7.2-channel HD home cinema receiver. Replacing the UK’s No1-selling receiver of 2009 (the TX-SR607) the TX-SR608 offers a hefty output of 7 x 160 watts.  What’s more this model is THX Select2 Plus certified, guaranteeing an assured high level of performance in rooms (up to 56 cubic metres) where viewers sit 3-4 metres away from the screen. No other receiver in this class has ever been awarded THX Select2 status…

The best-selling TX-SR607 was the first to market with Dolby Pro Logic IIz mode 2009 so Onkyo has decided to go one better with the TX-SR608… by providing it with Audyssey DSX too. This mode lets users reconfigure the surround back channel speakers as either front height or front width speakers, creating a more immersive home cinema experience with heightened ambience.

Onkyo are great believers in the notion that enhanced simplicity should accompany improved performance. That’s why the TX-SR608 also boasts HDMI video upscaling to 1080p, courtesy of Faroudja’s DCDi (Directional Correlational Deinterlacing) Cinema video processor. Smooth progressive looking video quality is now guaranteed, no matter what the original source resolution… all delivered via a single HDMI cable to a flatscreen display.

There’s currently a great buzz around the arrival of 3D video so Onkyo has decided to equip all its 2010 receivers with the necessary HDMI 1.4 connectivity. In the TX-SR608′s case there are five rear-mounted HDMI inputs and one on the front panel. When 3D-compatible TVs and Blu-ray players arrive Onkyo’s 2010 range of receivers will be ready and waiting for them.

The other more immediate advantage is that the new standard also allows us to provide an Audio Return Channel via HDMI. This means that Audio content received via an HDTV’s tuner can now be sent for decoding/amplification to the TX-SR608 (and all its siblings) via the HDMI connection, thus removing the need for an extra digital optical cable between display.

There’s more good news on the video front. The TX-SR608 comes with new connection… a PC-compatible analogue RGB video input. Multimedia fans and gamers alike will now be able to route the video output from their Desktop/Media Centre PC or netbook directly to the TX-SR608 and then through to their flatscreen via HDMI. Another first for Onkyo…

Naturally there’s full decoding of lossless formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, along with 192kHz/24-bit Burr-Brown DACS (PCM1690) used for all channels. The latter offer a high dynamic range of 113dB as well as a remarkable resistance to audio clock-jitter, thus improving sonic fidelity.

Setting up the receiver is as easy as it ever was, thanks to a suite of Audyssey  technologies (2EQ, Dynamic Volume and Dynamic EQ) while a new semi-transparent overlaid GUI (Graphical User Interface) will reinforce Onkyo’s reputation for proving the most easily operable receivers on the market.

Last but not least, a Powered Zone 2 facility means that it’s possible to enjoy a different audio source in a second room while dual subwoofer outputs will allow enthusiasts to create a properly balanced subwoofer configuration in larger rooms.

Those that don’t need so many facilities built into a receiver can instead opt for the 7.1-channel TX-SR508. This model offers 7 x 130w and offers a useful cost saving thanks to the very reduced feature set as it forgoes the TX-SR608′s front-panel mounted HDMI input (there are four at the rear), video upscaling, PC video connectivity and Audyssey DSX mode. The DACs (192kHz/24-bit Burr-Brown PCM1690) and 32-bit DSP chips, however, are exactly the same as those used in the models above it so there’s absolutely no compromise in audio resolution.

Last but definitely not least, comes the TX-SR308. Our entry-level 5.1-channel model boasts a trio of HDMI 1.4 inputs, a power output of 5 x 100w plus a front-panel audio input. What’s more the presence of Onkyo’s Universal port makes adding a UP-DT1 DAB+ tuner or a UP-A1 iPhone/iPod dock to the receiver very straightforward.

Prices and availability (all receivers available in black or silver)

TX-SR608 – £450 (available in April)

TX-SR508 – £350 (available in April)

TX-SR308 – £250 (available in March)

UP-DT1 DAB tuner module – £130 (available now)

UP-A1 iPhone/iPod dock – £80 (available now)

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Onkyo unveils the ultimate, fuss-free 2.1-channel HD Home Cinema system

3D video-compatible, can be upgraded for 5.1, iPhone/iPod Dock option available…

It’s common knowledge that many flatscreen manufacturers spend no more than a couple of dollars on the speakers built into their hi-tech displays so it’s no surprise that most owners feel an immediate need to improve sound quality.  If simplicity, performance and unobtrusiveness are the priorities then the new Onkyo HTX-22HDX will tick all their boxes.

Elegant looking in gloss black and very compact this 2.1-channel HD audio system (from the UK’s No1 selling home cinema receiver brand) represents amazing value for money when you consider what’s on offer. Comprising two satellite speakers and an active 50w subwoofer, the system incorporates a fully featured home cinema receiver, invisibly contained within the subwoofer.

But compactness certainly doesn’t mean compromise – this package uses the very latest technologies to bring your favourite movies to life. Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit DACs are employed for all channels to ensure high fidelity resolution and there’s a healthy 25w per channel output for the satellite speakers.

What’s more the system packs three of the latest specification HDMI 1.4 inputs. As well as being fully-compatible with upcoming 3D video-capable displays and Blu-ray players these connections also incorporate an Audio Return Channel which allows digital audio to be sent from your HD TV back to the receiver – there’s no need for an additional digital optical cable.

Naturally, the HDX-22HDX makes the most of the HD Audio soundtracks present on most modern Blu-ray discs… it decodes Dolby TruHD and DTS-HD Master Audio soundtracks to truly amazing effect. With four dedicated games modes onboard (Rock, Sports, Action and Role Playing Games) console owners are well catered for while music lovers will appreciate the new audio jitter-cleaning technology, designed to improve musicality.

An easy to read onscreen display menu, conveniently overlaid on top of the video image you’re watching, makes adjusting settings a cinch. Connectivity includes 2 x optical and 1 x coaxial digital audio inputs and the facility to hook up one of Onkyo’s award-winning iPod/iPhone docks.

As standard the system comes with two satellite speakers giving a convincing 2.1-channel surround sound effect. If you get bitten by the home cinema bug, however, and decide you want to upgrade to the full 5.1-channel experience there’s a painless way of doing it with the HTX-22HDX.

Onkyo has futureproofed the unit by building in five-channels of amplification. To get 5.1 sound all you need to do is purchase the optional SKS-22X speaker package (comprising a centre and two surround speakers), hook them up and away you go… full 5.1 audio with minimal extra fuss.

Easy to use, easy to upgrade and easy to live with… the Onkyo HTX-22HDX really is a brilliant solution for instant HD home cinema sound in the home.

Prices/availability

HTX-22HDX – £300 (available in May 2010

SKS-22SX – £100 (available in May 2010)
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Onkyo’s latest Home Cinema receiver/speaker packages keep things simple… and affordable!

All offer ‘lossless’ HD audio decoding, HDMI 1.4 connectivity and a best-in-class line-up of features…

As much as many people might like the notion of owning a top quality home cinema receiver and speakers, they’re horrified by the thought they’ll have to visit retailers, research components and evaluate umpteen different brands before finally taking pot luck on a selection. Who can blame them?

That’s why Onkyo is taking the confusion and legwork out of the process. It’s launching three new, fully-matched home cinema receiver/speaker packages that are designed to be easy to set up, simple to operate and a blast to listen to… properly integrated home cinema without the tears, in other words.

HT-S6305 – 5.1-channel Home Cinema receiver/Speaker package with iPhone/iPod dock

Our top of the range package offers a specification that’s bleeding edge in every respect. Comprising the TX-SR508 7.1-channel receiver (see separate release for full details) and gloss-black finished HTP-638 5.1-channel speaker system (with wall-mountable satellites) this high-performance combo will leave your senses dizzy with excitement when fed a Blu-ray with a HD audio soundtrack.

Like all Onkyo 2010 packages this one decodes ‘lossless’ Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, as well as every other surround sound format. Powerful 192kHz/24-bit DACs from Burr-Brown have been fitted, offering crisp, clear audio with a high inherent resistance to sonically degrading jitter.

Delivering 130w per channel (plus 150w from the active subwoofer) there’s more than enough power held in reserve to deal with the most challenging of soundtracks. Gamers’ needs, too, are addressed with four specific DSP modes that’ll genuinely enhance their playing experience.

A quartet of 3D video-compatible HDMI 1.4 inputs are provided to hook up all your audio/video sources, along with two sets of component video inputs. Having the latest incarnation of HDMI onboard also means that audio from your HDTV’s tuner can be sent direct to the receiver, saving the owner having to run an extra optical cable.

The receiver at the heart of the system is the 7.1-channel TX-SR508, also sold separately as a standalone receiver.  You might wonder why a 7.1-channel receiver is being supplied with a 5.1-speaker system… the answer is to give consumers a choice.

A quick explanation: the receiver has a built-in Dolby Pro Logic IIz mode that allows owners to enhance the sense of home cinema ambience by placing an extra pair of satellite speakers above their screen, making seven in total (plus the subwoofer). Understandably, many package purchasers are quite happy to use the five speakers and subwoofer supplied but the potential to upgrade the experience is at least there, ready to be taken advantage of as and when required.

Alternatively, owners might wish to use the receiver’s Powered Zone 2 multi-room facility and place the extra pair of speakers in a second room (a kitchen or dining room perhaps) and listen to a different stereo source there.

The ease with which a system can be set up is of primary importance to package buyers so Onkyo has made the process as simple as possible with a straightforward quick start guide. The company was the first to colour-code all its loudspeaker inputs for ease of connection (identification labels are supplied for the colour-coded speaker cables) and there’s also an informative Onscreen Display that’s overlaid on top of the video picture you’re watching.

Getting the speaker system correctly installed will take just a matter of minutes thanks to the Audyssey 2EQ auto set-up system fitted to the receiver. Just connect and place the supplied microphone and the system works out all the distance/levels automatically using a set of sound pulses… easy!

Included in this package is Onkyo’s excellent UP-A1 iPhone/iPod dock, enabling audio and video playback via one cable to the receiver without the need for a separate power supply (front-panel audio and AV inputs are also fitted for non-Apple devices). Want to add a DAB+ tuner? No problem, the optional UP-DT1 can be daisy-chained via the Universal port.

As a total, one-stop home cinema solution the HT-S6305 really takes some beating… just add a HDTV and your favourite audio/video source and you’ll be at the movies in no time at all.

HT-S5305 – 5.1-channel Home Cinema Receiver/Speaker Package

Don’t need all the power and features of the HT-S6305? This option will save you a tidy sum of money while delivering all the essentials for a knock-out home cinema experience.

Based around the HT-R538 5.1-channel receiver and HTP-538 Gloss Black 5.1-speaker system this option is slightly more modestly powered, offering 5 x 100w plus 100w from the active subwoofer.

Rearwards you’ll find three 3D video-compatible HDMI 1.4 inputs instead of four, banana plug-compatible outputs for left/right channel only, and there are no front panel AV inputs. Internally, however the receiver uses the same DACs and DSP as the more expensive model, ensuring that the quality of audio resolution is on a par.

Set-up is manual instead of automatic but the clear and unambiguous overlaid Onscreen Display will help you get the job done in a few minutes.  While there’s no iPhone/iPod dock supplied with the package the inclusion of Onkyo’s Universal port means that it can be added at any time in the future (along with a UP-DT1 DAB+ tuner, should it be required).

HT-S3305 – 5.1-channel Home Cinema Receiver/Speaker Package

Calling this an entry-level package really doesn’t do it justice. Built to the same impressive standards as its two higher-end cousins this package is based around the slightly simpler HT-R380 5.1 channel receiver, delivering a hefty 5 x 100w of power.

The accompanying HTP-338 5.1 speaker system features a slimline, slightly less substantial active subwoofer than found with the HT-S5305, making this well-specified package eminently suitable for smaller rooms. Unusually at this low-price point, buyers still get the intuitive overlaid OSD, simplifying both set-up and day to day operation.

With a trio of 3D-capable HDMI 1.4 inputs, however, you can connect just as many HD sources so you won’t lack for anything when it comes to connectivity there – once again adding a DAB+ tuner module or iPhone/iPod dock (or both!) is simplicity itself, thanks to the included Universal port.

Onkyo believes this package, the most affordable of the trio, will appeal strongly to the gaming fraternity, in particular, and to those on the tightest of budgets – it’s where ‘real’ home cinema truly begins…

Prices (all available in April 2010 in either black or silver)

HT-S6305 – £500

HT-S5305 – £400

HT-S3305 – £330

Options

UP-DT1 DAB tuner module – £130 (available now)

UP-A1 iPhone/iPod dock – £80 (available now)

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Onkyo delivers new BD-Live equipped budget Blu-ray player

Jaw-droppingly good audio/video performance in a slimline package…

Onkyo, one of the world’s leading AV and hi-fi manufacturers (and the UK’s No1 home cinema receiver maker), is pleased to announce the launch of its latest budget Blu-ray player. The slimline BD-SP308 delivers pristine pictures and audio from Blu-ray disc at a price that makes it an ideal match for Onkyo’s entry and mid-level receivers.

Available in a silver or silver/black finish the BD-SP308 offers a brilliant standard of video replay from both Blu-ray (1080/24p, full HD) and conventional DVDs (upscaled to 1080p). Images are processed via an ultrafast 162kHz/12-bit Video DAC in order to deliver maximum resolution.

Audio output is scarcely less impresive. Capable of internally decoding both Dolby TruHD and DTS-HD Master Audio Essential soundtracks, the BD-SP308 employs a 192kHz/24-bit Audio DAC, normally seen on players from a class above. With ‘lossless’ surround sound and up to 7.1-channels of discrete audio on offer owners really can enjoy studio-quality sonics at home.

And watching a High Definition movie is just the beginning. A vast array of extra entertainment options can be accessed via the BD-Live function (with suitable discs) once the player is hooked up to the internet via the fitted ethernet port. The very same port is used to download Firmware Updates, ensuring the player can take advantage of any future technical advances.

Want even more entertainment choices? Well, a wide and rich selection of media content (including DivX HD files) downloaded from a computer can be replayed via the front-mounted USB port while AVCHD-format compatibility means that you can enjoy smooth, convenient playback of your hi-definition home movies (BD-R/RE 2.0 and BD-Rom discs are supported too).

With a HDMI v1.3a output fitted the BD-SP308 supports the x.v.Color output standard (on appropriate AVCHD discs) and renders images with nearly twice as many viewable colours compared to the current RGB standard.

Finally, the inclusion of HDMI CEC control means that compatible HDMI-linked components can be operated in unison for maximum convenience while a custom-designed OSD makes setting-up and operation blissfully simple.

Which is as it should be…

Price

BD-SP308 – £200 (available May 2010)