As a devoted enthusiast of audio and technology, I recently embarked on a journey into the realm of home entertainment with the Onkyo TX-NR5100 AV Receiver, and the experience has been nothing short of exceptional. This AV receiver, hailing from the esteemed brand Onkyo and belonging to the TX-NR5100 model series, offers an enticing starting price of $389. In this in-depth review, I will guide you through the various facets, features, and performance aspects of the Onkyo TX-NR5100, helping you determine if it’s the ideal addition to your home audio setup.
Specifications :
- Power: Up to 165W per channel
- Channels: 5.2.2
- Video: 4K 120 Hz HDR pass-through
- HDMI: HDMI 2.1
- Audio: Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- Streaming: Built-in streaming support
- Zone B: pre-/line-out
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Room Calibration: AccuEQ
- Multi-room Audio: DTS Play-Fi
- Audio : Dynamic Audio Amplification (DAA)
- Voice Control: Google Assistant & Amazon Alexa
Pros:
- Powerful sound
- Dolby Atmos
- 4K gaming
- Streaming support
- Voice control
Cons:
- Pricey
- Limited app support
Design and Build Quality :
The moment I unboxed the TX-NR5100, I was immediately captivated by its sleek and contemporary design. The matte black finish and clean lines confer an air of sophistication that seamlessly complements any home theater setup. Measuring 17.1 x 14.9 x 6.8 inches and weighing approximately 22 pounds, it’s relatively compact and effortlessly integrates into most entertainment centers.
The front panel is elegantly uncluttered, featuring a clear, easy-to-read display and a user-friendly control knob. Additionally, there are convenient USB and HDMI inputs on the front for swift access. The unit’s build quality exudes sturdiness and reliability, offering a reassuring sense of durability. Overall, the design strikes an elegant and practical balance.
Audio Performance :
The most remarkable attribute of the Onkyo TX-NR5100 is its awe-inspiring audio performance. With the capability to deliver up to 165W per channel at 6 Ohms, this AV receiver provides a commanding and immersive auditory experience. Whether you’re watching movies, gaming, or indulging in music, the TX-NR5100 excels in all domains.
One of its most extraordinary audio features is its support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. These cutting-edge technologies conjure a three-dimensional auditory landscape that envelops you in a captivating soundscape. During my evaluations, I immersed myself in a variety of movies featuring Dolby Atmos soundtracks, and the contrast was truly remarkable. The height effects, spatial orientation, and overall immersion were nothing short of exceptional.
The inclusion of eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) is a game-changer, enabling high-fidelity audio transmission, supporting formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS:X, and Dolby TrueHD. This means that even if you own a modern TV with built-in streaming apps, you can relish high-quality audio by routing it through the TX-NR5100.
Another notable feature is the Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer, which ingeniously simulates the height effects of Dolby Atmos even when utilizing standard speakers. This feature is a superb addition for those without a complete Atmos setup but still yearn for a similar experience.
Video Performance :
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 does not disappoint in the video department either. With 4K 120 Hz HDR pass-through, it ensures that your video content is presented in a stunning and vivid manner. This feature proves particularly advantageous, especially if you own a 4K TV and utilize 4K video sources, as it delivers top-tier image quality.
The HDMI 2.1 support is another noteworthy feature, facilitating compatibility with advanced gaming features such as Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT). These technologies work in unison to minimize input lag and guarantee smooth, tear-free gaming experiences. When I connected my gaming console, I could distinctly discern the heightened responsiveness.
Connectivity :
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 truly shines when it comes to connectivity and streaming options. It features a diverse array of inputs and outputs, including 4 HDMI-In and 2 HDMI-Out ports. This versatility allows you to connect multiple sources, including gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices, while still maintaining the flexibility to connect to your TV and projector simultaneously.
The built-in streaming support is a valuable addition. It is compatible with well-known music streaming services like Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, TuneIn, and Pandora. I found this feature incredibly convenient, as it granted me easy access to my cherished music without necessitating additional devices.
The Onkyo Control app, available for both Apple and Android devices, enhances the streaming experience further. This app empowers you to control and stream music from your mobile device to the receiver. The app’s intuitive interface simplifies navigation and customization of your audio preferences.
Voice Control :
One of the modern features that I found particularly appealing was the voice control capabilities. The TX-NR5100 can be seamlessly integrated with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, enabling you to control your audio and entertainment using voice commands through compatible third-party devices in your home.
Although the voice control functionality works effectively, it’s important to note that it may necessitate setting up and configuring additional devices and accounts. Nevertheless, it is a valuable feature for those who seek a hands-free entertainment
Multi-Room Audio :
Onkyo has outfitted the TX-NR5100 with AccuEQ, a room calibration technology that optimizes audio performance based on your room’s unique acoustics. During the setup process, AccuEQ measures speaker distances, adjusts sound pressure levels, and sets speaker crossovers. The outcome is crystal-clear and balanced surround sound, tailored to your specific listening environment. This feature proves particularly beneficial in ensuring optimal audio quality for my home theater.
Multi-room audio playback is facilitated through DTS Play-Fi and the Onkyo Music Control app, available for compatible Apple and Android devices. This feature enables you to play music from various sources in multiple rooms simultaneously or in specific groups of rooms. The flexibility to stream from online services, home media servers, or other devices over Wi-Fi adds an extra layer of convenience.
Smart Home Integration :
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 is compatible with smart home devices that support Apple AirPlay, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant. This integration empowers you to use your voice to manage your entertainment. It marks a step toward creating a cohesive and streamlined smart home ecosystem, although it may require some setup and configuration to seamlessly interact with your existing smart devices.
Audio Amplification :
A notable feature that sets the Onkyo TX-NR5100 apart is its Dynamic Audio Amplification (DAA) technology. Onkyo, renowned for its audio quality, has masterfully implemented this technology in the receiver. The custom high-current low-noise power transformer, tailored capacitors, and discrete amp output stages give rise to a unique audio topology capable of driving 4-ohm loads across all channels. This not only mitigates phase-shift but also enhances speaker control for dynamic speed. The outcome is an audio experience that is crystal-clear, dynamic, and powerful, elevating your entertainment to new heights.
Additional Features :
The TX-NR5100 boasts a plethora of additional features that augment its overall appeal. It stands as a Roon Tested device, signifying its capacity for managed music playback via the Roon app, a valuable addition for audiophiles who rely on Roon for music management.
The Zone B pre-/line-out functionality allows you to play the main zone’s audio through a compatible headphone dock, providing a means to enjoy your favored content without disturbing others in your household.
The receiver incorporates a Vocal Enhancer, a valuable tool for enhancing dialogue clarity, especially during the viewing of content with intricate audio mixes. I found this feature particularly advantageous when watching such content.
The inclusion of Chromecast built-in is another feature that diversifies your streaming options. It is compatible with a broad spectrum of Chromecast-enabled apps, permitting the direct casting of content to the receiver from your mobile device.
Cons :
Despite the Onkyo TX-NR5100 being an impressive AV receiver, a few drawbacks warrant acknowledgment.
- Pricey: The TX-NR5100, with its advanced features and exceptional performance, comes at a cost. While it represents excellent value for the capabilities it offers, it may not be the most budget-friendly choice for all consumers.
- No Bluetooth 5.2: Although it boasts robust connectivity options, the absence of Bluetooth 5.2 support is a notable omission, particularly for individuals who prefer wireless audio streaming from their mobile devices.
- Limited App Support: While the receiver does support prominent streaming services, the app ecosystem is not as extensive as that of some other smart AV receivers. This may pose a limitation for users who rely on specific apps for their entertainment.
Conclusion :
In conclusion, the Onkyo TX-NR5100 stands as a superb AV receiver that offers an exceptional amalgamation of audio and video performance, connectivity, and convenience features. Its audio quality, coupled with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, is truly outstanding, and its video performance, featuring 4K 120 Hz HDR pass-through, is first-rate. The inclusion of HDMI 2.1 support for gaming represents a welcome feature for gamers seeking a responsive and immersive experience.
The receiver’s connectivity options, streaming support, and room calibration features render it a versatile choice for a diverse array of home entertainment setups. The integration of voice control and compatibility with popular smart home ecosystems presents a valuable addition for those aiming to construct a connected and voice-controlled entertainment system.
While the Onkyo TX-NR5100 arrives at a higher price point, its audio performance, build quality, and feature set render it a compelling choice for individuals who take their home entertainment seriously. The few drawbacks, including the absence of Bluetooth 5.2 and limited app support, are minor in comparison to the comprehensive package this receiver offers. If you are prepared to invest in a top-tier AV receiver that can revolutionize your home entertainment experience, the Onkyo TX-NR5100 emerges as a sound choice that
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