When it comes to enhancing your home entertainment experience, the choice of an AV receiver can be a game-changer. After getting my hands on the Onkyo TX-NR696, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. In this review, I’ll share my experience with the Onkyo TX-NR696, a 7.2-channel AV receiver designed to deliver outstanding audio quality and seamless connectivity. Let’s embark on this audio adventure.
Specifications :
- Channels: 7.2
- Power per Channel: 100W at 8 Ohms
- Support : Dolby Atmos & DTS:X
- Sound :AccuEQ Sound Calibration
- HDR : HDR UHD Pass-Through
- Resolution : 1080p to 4K Upscaling
- Support : HDMI with ARC & 3D
- Connectivity : Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth
- Certified : THX Certified Select
- Design : Discrete Amp Design
- Supports: Hi-Res Audio playback
- Support :IP control, automation via LAN
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Dolby Atmos & DTS:X support
- AccuEQ sound calibration
- Extensive connectivity options
- Smart AV integration
- THX Certified Select for theater-quality sound
Cons:
- No-Saving ECO mode
- No speaker A/B switching function.
Functional Design :
The Onkyo TX-NR696 left a strong first impression with its sleek and well-organized front panel. Its matte finish and minimalist aesthetics effortlessly blend with any home theater setup. The front display is clear and straightforward, providing all the essential information without overwhelming you with technical jargon.
Set-Up and Configuration :
Setting up the TX-NR696 was surprisingly straightforward. The receiver came with a comprehensive user manual, but to my surprise, I hardly needed it. Onkyo’s user-friendly interface and intuitive on-screen setup guide made the initial configuration a breeze. I connected my speakers, plugged in my sources, and the receiver handled the rest.
A standout feature, the AccuEQ Sound Calibration, optimized the audio to match my room’s acoustics. The result was a noticeable improvement in sound quality, almost like having a professional audio engineer fine-tune your sound system for your space.
Performance :
The TX-NR696 can deliver up to 100W per channel at 8 Ohms, allowing it to drive your speakers to their full potential and provide room-filling, high-quality audio. Whether I was watching a blockbuster movie or immersing myself in my favorite music, the sound quality was nothing short of exceptional.
The support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X is where the TX-NR696 truly shines. These technologies create an immersive, three-dimensional sound experience that’s like being right in the middle of the action, whether it’s a torrential downpour in a dramatic movie scene or the subtle nuances of your favorite music track.
Connectivity :
The TX-NR696 boasts a range of impressive connectivity options. With seven HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs, I had no trouble connecting all my devices. One HDMI output even supports Audio Return Channel (ARC), simplifying integration with my TV’s built-in streaming apps and reducing cable clutter.
In addition to HDMI, the receiver offers Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing seamless streaming from various devices. It served as a versatile hub for all my audio sources, handling everything from smartphone music to streaming services and gaming console audio.
Smart AV Integration :
One feature that stood out was the Smart AV integration. The TX-NR696 supports popular music streaming services like Amazon Music, Spotify, and more, making it incredibly convenient to access favorite playlists and tracks without needing to switch devices or inputs.
Even more impressive is its compatibility with multiroom audio systems like Sonos, enabling music playback throughout your home, synchronized or with different tunes in various rooms, all controlled from a single device. To top it off, you can even use voice control through Google Assistant or Siri. It’s clear that the future of home entertainment has arrived.
Theater-Quality Audio at Home :
The THX Certified Select designation assures a home theater experience on par with the sound quality of a commercial movie theater. This certification signifies that the TX-NR696 meets stringent standards for audio performance, a fact that becomes evident when you experience the Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies, which create a breathtaking three-dimensional audio experience.
Audio Performance :
The Onkyo TX-NR696 isn’t just about power; it’s about precision. The discrete amp design, High-Current Low-Noise Power Transformer, and enhanced power supply work in harmony to deliver an unparalleled audio performance. This translates to crystal-clear separation and precise localization of instruments, creating a rich and detailed soundstage that elevates your listening experience.
Sound Modes :
But the audio journey doesn’t end there. The TX-NR696 offers a range of sound modes to cater to your preferences. Whether you want to enhance vocals with the DSP-controlled Vocal Enhancer or switch to ambient listening mode with a simple button press, the options are at your fingertips. AccuEQ and AccuReflex work in harmony to enhance sound localization and deliver a 3D audio experience, immersing you in the heart of the action.
Immersive 3D Soundfield :
DTS Virtual:X takes immersion to a whole new level by transforming any speaker setup into a 3D soundfield, even if you don’t have height or surround speakers. This means you get a truly immersive audio experience regardless of your speaker configuration. The Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer further enhances traditional speaker setups by adding a virtual surround and height effect, making your audio more dynamic and engaging.
HDMI Support :
The TX-NR696 has all your HDMI needs covered, with HDCP 2.2 support, 4K/60Hz pass-through, and compatibility with various HDR formats. It can even upscale 1080p content to 4K, ensuring that your visuals match the exceptional audio quality. The result is a stunning, high-resolution viewing experience that complements the exceptional sound.
User-Friendly :
The Onkyo TX-NR696 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The one-touch volume memory presets allow you to switch between your favorite input levels with ease. Bluetooth technology simplifies device pairing, and the standby mode wakes up when you start playing content, saving you time and energy.
The receiver’s compatibility with home automation systems ensures control is effortless. Whether you want to manage your home theater with a universal remote or automate your entire entertainment system, the TX-NR696 has you covered.
Conclusion :
In conclusion, the Onkyo TX-NR696 is a remarkable AV receiver that has completely transformed my home entertainment experience. With its powerful audio capabilities, extensive connectivity options, and intelligent features, it’s undoubtedly the best choice for those seeking a sub-$500 AV receiver in 2023. Whether you’re a cinephile, a music enthusiast, or a tech aficionado, this receiver has everything you need to create an immersive and thrilling entertainment experience. The Onkyo TX-NR696 is more than just an audio device; it’s a portal to a world of sonic excellence. If you’re ready to elevate your home theater, I wholeheartedly recommend giving it a try.
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