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Onkyo TX-NR906 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Black)
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Simply Amazing!
(5 out of 5) by B. Johnson on Nov 2, 2008 (Newport News, VA)Simply amazing! I must say, this has to be one of the most sophisticated pieces of electronic equipment that I've ever owned. I don't even know where to begin. Did I mention this thing is amazing?
I was running a Bose Lifestyle 48 prior to this, but when I finally decided to make the most of HDMI connections, I shelved the Bose and stepped up to the ONKYO. What a breath of fresh air! There are so many features of the TX-NR906 that I like. Starting with the remote control--I'm sure it's common practice nowadays for receiver remotes to be fairly smart, but this guy is really bright. I've managed to teach it all the commands from my three main remote controls (TV, BD & CD Players), more or less, just by pointing the controllers at each other and clicking. I'm referring to commands that aren't usually part of a universal controller's arsenal. The large number of connection choices are really coming in handy, as well. I'm maxing out the HDMI inputs and have one of the two outputs connected to my TV. There's a ton of digital audio options as well. The front panel offers a number of connection choices, including a USB port for playing MP3s.
Another aspect of this receiver that I really like is the fact that this system not only sounds phenomenal when playing movies, but sounds equally as incredible playing CDs or listening to music from my PC. With previous systems it always seemed like one was better than the other, but with the TX-NR906, I really feels like I'm getting audiophile quality sound from all components. Oh yeah, did I mention? HD FM radio sounds phenomenal! I don't have XM or Sirius yet, but that's on the short list of near term upgrades. There's an antennae connection for both.
This receiver is the hub of my home theater. Putting things in perspective, my setup includes a Samsung LN46A750 46-Inch 1080p DLNA LCD HDTV with RED Touch of Color, Panasonic DMP-BD30K 1080p Blu-ray Disc Player, a Sony 5-Disc Carousel CD Player, Dell XPS Pentium D 3.0 GHz/3.0 GB RAM/VisionTek Radeon HD4850 512MB GDDR3 PCI Express Graphics Card, Playstation 3 80GB, Motorola digital cable box/DVR , and Aperion Audio's Intimus 5T Hybrid HD speaker system. All this, combined with the TX-NR906, really sounds and looks incredible. I'm utilizing HDMI for video on all components. I'm also supplementing the digital cable box's audio with a coaxial cable. Similarly, I'm augmenting the BD Player's audio by connecting audio cables via the multichannel jacks.
I bought the TX-NR906 in October 2008 and so far, I haven't found anything I dislike. The only minor thing I will point out is with the remote control. When you are teaching it commands from your other remotes, you might have to try it a couple of times. At first, I thought that some of the commands weren't going to be able to be taught, but I stuck with it and eventually was able to teach it all commands. No big deal, just don't give up if it doesn't work right away.
Whether you're watching HD TV, listening to your favorite music, watching the latest release on Blu-Ray, or playing the hottest shooter on your PC or PS3--if you have the money, this receiver is the perfect addition to any home theater.
I was running a Bose Lifestyle 48 prior to this, but when I finally decided to make the most of HDMI connections, I shelved the Bose and stepped up to the ONKYO. What a breath of fresh air! There are so many features of the TX-NR906 that I like. Starting with the remote control--I'm sure it's common practice nowadays for receiver remotes to be fairly smart, but this guy is really bright. I've managed to teach it all the commands from my three main remote controls (TV, BD & CD Players), more or less, just by pointing the controllers at each other and clicking. I'm referring to commands that aren't usually part of a universal controller's arsenal. The large number of connection choices are really coming in handy, as well. I'm maxing out the HDMI inputs and have one of the two outputs connected to my TV. There's a ton of digital audio options as well. The front panel offers a number of connection choices, including a USB port for playing MP3s.
Another aspect of this receiver that I really like is the fact that this system not only sounds phenomenal when playing movies, but sounds equally as incredible playing CDs or listening to music from my PC. With previous systems it always seemed like one was better than the other, but with the TX-NR906, I really feels like I'm getting audiophile quality sound from all components. Oh yeah, did I mention? HD FM radio sounds phenomenal! I don't have XM or Sirius yet, but that's on the short list of near term upgrades. There's an antennae connection for both.
This receiver is the hub of my home theater. Putting things in perspective, my setup includes a Samsung LN46A750 46-Inch 1080p DLNA LCD HDTV with RED Touch of Color, Panasonic DMP-BD30K 1080p Blu-ray Disc Player, a Sony 5-Disc Carousel CD Player, Dell XPS Pentium D 3.0 GHz/3.0 GB RAM/VisionTek Radeon HD4850 512MB GDDR3 PCI Express Graphics Card, Playstation 3 80GB, Motorola digital cable box/DVR , and Aperion Audio's Intimus 5T Hybrid HD speaker system. All this, combined with the TX-NR906, really sounds and looks incredible. I'm utilizing HDMI for video on all components. I'm also supplementing the digital cable box's audio with a coaxial cable. Similarly, I'm augmenting the BD Player's audio by connecting audio cables via the multichannel jacks.
I bought the TX-NR906 in October 2008 and so far, I haven't found anything I dislike. The only minor thing I will point out is with the remote control. When you are teaching it commands from your other remotes, you might have to try it a couple of times. At first, I thought that some of the commands weren't going to be able to be taught, but I stuck with it and eventually was able to teach it all commands. No big deal, just don't give up if it doesn't work right away.
Whether you're watching HD TV, listening to your favorite music, watching the latest release on Blu-Ray, or playing the hottest shooter on your PC or PS3--if you have the money, this receiver is the perfect addition to any home theater.
35 of 42 people found the following review helpful:
Intense! Awesome! Feature Packed Hub of Power!
(5 out of 5) by Stuart Floyd on Jan 5, 2009 (New York, NY)This monster at some 55lbs is the center of my entertainment. I have a 52 120Hz Samsung HDTV, Xbox, Playstation 3, Nintendo Wii, Onkyo DVD player, HP Desktop all connected via HDMI ports being Onkyo at present is the only one to offer so many HDMI connections on one unit.
I am using 7.1 channel speakers which combined with this system put out such incredible clear sound and power driven whether the TV, the gaming systems, radio, DVD, windows Media Center, Apple itunes or Netflix via the xbox 360. Everything runs like a charm through this unit and all on one remote. However, that is another review for Logitech Harmony One Advanced Remote.
As for features, they are almost endless at least from my experience. I have had nice equipment in the past but this is in mid to upper lines of fine home audio and far surpasses all of the others I had researched in this class. I have had Onkyo in the past so I was at least familiar with their products, good service and online documentation as well as the big booklets provided, but if I had questions they were easy to reach and very knowledgable. I would recommend this item to anyone who does allot of movie, music, games for a complete entertainment control center. It is costly for most but it is something that used with care and cared for will last many, many years.
Like with any electronics always do allot of research from online reviews via retailers, pro reviews and of course if you find this item in a store see it, test it and ask loads of questions to make sure it's right for you and your needs or what you truly want in high end home entertainment power hub. See the endless list of superb features below.
FEATURES(To make a couple of the comment complainers happy, below is OBVIOUSLY some of the info from a downloaded PDF as well as the Onkyo website, which WAS NOTED and *** at the bottom of the post, D'oh):
*7.1 Channel Amplifier: The Onkyo TX-NR906 features a 145 watt x 7-channel amplifier (measured with two channels driven) into 8-ohms at 20 to 20,000 Hz with a maximum total harmonic distortion of 0.05%.
*WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology): This technology uses low-negative-feedback circuit topology for accurate signal reproduction, improved dynamic signal-to-noise ratio, and better delivery of power peaks.
***High Quality Transformers: The Onkyo TX-NR906 features a massive Toroidal transformer plus 2 separate transformers for audio and video processing.
*Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs): To decode and playback high-resolution recordings, this receiver is equipped with Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit DACs for all channels.
*Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry (VLSC): Conventional D/A conversion methods reduce digital pulse noise at the conversion stage but can't remove it completely. Previously only found on Onkyo's 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 is 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.
*Speaker Impedance: There is a menu adjustment for minimum speaker impedance; options are 6Ù (for speakers 6 to 16-ohms) and 4Ù (for speakers 4 or 5-ohms).
*Multi-Language On-Screen Display (OSD): An OSD can be displayed on your television for easy system setup. The joystick/enter button on the remote makes display navigation and setting adjustment simple and convenient. The setup OSD is passed through all the monitor outputs (composite video, S-video, component video, and HDMI). You can select a 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratio for the monitor output so the menu is displayed properly to match your TV's screen. You can choose from several languages for the receiver's on-screen display menu: English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Swedish, or Japanese.
*Component Video Switching: In addition to composite and S-Video switching, this unit can switch between high resolution component video sources. There are 3 component video inputs, each of which can be assigned to the DVD, VCR/DVR, CBL/SAT, GAME/TV, AUX 1, or AUX 2 input, and 1 component video monitor output. The component video inputs and outputs have a bandwidth of 5 Hz to 100MHz.
*HDMI Switching: The TX-NR906 has four HDMI version 1.3 inputs and one HDMI version 1.3 output for connecting DVD players, HDTV set-top boxes, and other video components through the receiver to your TV or projector. The HDMI cables will pass digital audio and video. The HDMI inputs are compatible with DVI, so TVs and other displays with a DVI input can be connected using an HDMI-to-DVI adapter cable, along with audio cables (if desired). The receiver uses HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection), so only HDCP-compatible components can display the picture. The HDMI inputs can accept 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p signals. The HDMI output can be scaled; resolution can be set to Through (no scaling), Auto (resolutions not supported by the display are automatically converted), 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, or Source (resolution set for each source individually). Each of the HDMI inputs can be assigned to any of the six A/V inputs (DVD, VCR/DVR, CBL/SAT, GAME/TV, AUX 1, or AUX 2).
*Video Upconversion and Scaling: The Onkyo TX-NR906 utilizes HQV Reon-VX technology to convert interlaced video signals to progressive scan signals. The HQV Reon-VX chip supports standard definition and high definition deinterlacing, 1080p reconstruction of film sources, filtering of jaggies and artifacts, and the reduction of random, mosquito and block (codec) noise. HQV Reon-VX also enables color region enhancement and the rendering of more than one billion colors. The Onkyo TX-NR906 will upconvert incoming analog composite video, S-video and component video signals to HDMI so you can connect all your video sources through the receiver and then to your TV via a single HDMI cable. Incoming video signals can also be scaled, up to 1080p. The receiver can also convert composite video and S-video signal to component if your television does not feature an HDMI input.
***RIHD (Remote Interactivity Over HDMI): RIHD synchronizes RIHD-compatible displays and components for integrated control via HDMI connection and use of the receiver's IR remote control. RIHD provides the following integrated operations:
*Control: this function allows CEC-standard-compatible equipment connected to HDMI and RIHD-compatible equipment to be operated together with the Onkyo receiver
Power Control: provides an electrical power link between the TX-NR906 and RIHD-compatible components through the HDMI connection and allows for those components to turn on or off with the receiver
TV Control: allows you to control the TX-NR906 from an RIHD-compatible TV that is connected via HDMI, currently compatible with Panasonic Televisions featuring EZ Sync
Built-In HD Radio: In addition the analog AM/FM tuner, the Onkyo TX-NR906 features a built-in HD AM/FM tuner. HD Radio technology brings digital radio to conventional analog AM and FM radio stations with improved sound quality, better reception, and new data services. HD Radio technology provides CD-quality sound for FM stations and FM-quality sound for AM stations. In addition, FM HD Radio stations can transmit multiple programs on the same frequency by using multicast channels. HD Radio also features text data display which includes station name, song title and artist name. HD Radio stations broadcast on the same AM and FM frequencies they've always used and you can receive them by tuning into your favorite station as normal. You can store them a presets just like standard AM and FM stations. If a tuned AM or FM station supports HD Radio technology, the receiver's display HD indicator will light up.
*Satellite Ready: The Onkyo TX-NR906 features proprietary ports on the rear panel for XM and Sirius Satellite Radio connection. In addition to the following optional satellite tuners needed (sold separately), you will need a subscription to XM and/or Sirius Satellite radio.
*XM Satellite Radio Ready: The receiver can be connected to the optional XM Home Mini-Tuner and Home Dock (item number 700XMTUNPK, sold separately), allowing you to receive XM Satellite Radio through the TX-NR906. You can search XM radio stations by Channel, Category or Direct Tuning. You can also choose to display the following XM information on the receiver's display - Channel Name, Channel Number, Category Name, Artist Name or Song Title.
Sirius Satellite Radio Ready: The TX-NR906 can also be connected to the optional SiriusConnect Home Tuner kit (item number 607SCH1, sold separately), which allows you to receive Sirius Satellite Radio through the receiver. You can search Sirius radio stations by Channel, Category or Direct Tuning. You can also choose to display the following Sirius information on the receiver's display - Channel Name, Channel Number, Category Name, Artist Name or Song Title.
iPod Compatible: The DS-A1, DS-A2, or DS-A2X Remote Interactive Dock for iPod (current item number 580DSA2X) provide an interface between an iPod digital media player and Onkyo TX-NR906. Once the iPod is docked you can control basic functions such as play, stop, and skip via the Onkyo system's RI-compatible wireless remote control. The dock also charges the battery in the iPod, and allows you to view digital photos and video on your home theater system (photo/video transfer not available with iPod classic, 3rd generation iPod nano, iPod touch, and iPhone).
***Audyssey: This receiver is equipped with an Auto Setup and Room Equalization function, to achieve the most ideal sound field for your room. The Audyssey MultEQ XT function is designed to optimize the sound quality at each listening position in the room. The included microphone is used to measure test tones at each listening position. This measured data is then analyzed using a program to improve acoustic characteristics in the listening area. For best results multiple positions should be measured (up to 8), including a main position. The main position is given more weight in the calculations.
Audyssey Settings:
MultEQ XT: MultEQ function automatically determines the number of speakers and optimizes the crossover points, output levels, delay times, and equalization of all speakers based on speaker frequency response, speaker location, and room acoustics
Dynamic EQ: Audio engineers mix music and movie soundtracks at reference levels much louder than typical home listening levels. At lower volumes the human ear perceives sound differently; voices change, bass dissipates, and the surround effect becomes less enveloping. Dynamic EQ adjusts the frequency response curve based on volume to maintain consistent bass output, octave-to-octave balance, and surround impact, resulting in rich sound at any volume.
Dynamic Volume: Dynamic Volume addresses the issue of commercials that are too loud and movie soundtracks with vast differences between soft and loud passages; the results are more intelligible dialogue, loud passages maintain impact, and soft whispers are clearly heard. When the volume level changes, Dynamic EQ also adjusts the frequency response to maintain sound quality.
Speaker Distance: The distance from your listening position to each speaker can also be set manually; each of the 7.1 channels is set individually from 0.5 to 30 feet in 1/2-foot increments.
Speaker Levels: You can manually adjust the level of each of the 7.1 channel outputs from -12dB and +12dB in 0.5dB increments; -15dB to +12dB for the subwoofer.
**Double Bass: You can increase the bass output by activating the Double Bass function; this feeds both the LFE and left and right channel bass output to the subwoofer. Double Bass can be set only when the subwoofer is set to On and the front speakers are set to full range.
*Crossover: The TX-NR906 has a built-in crossover for the speaker system that can be set manually. The crossover points are set separately for the front, center, surround, surround back, and subwoofer channels. The sub crossover options are 80(THX), 90, 100, and 120 Hz. The other channels can be set to Full Range, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 (THX), 90, 100, 120, 150, or 200 Hz. The center and surround speakers can also be turned off.
LFE Level: You can set the level of the LFE channel individually for Dolby Digital, DTS, multi-channel PCM, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DSD sources. The level can be set to -infinity, -20 dB, -10 dB or 0 dB.
**Equalizer: Using the receiver's built-in electronic 7-band equalizer you can manually adjust the tone of the Front, Center, Surround, and Surround Back speakers; the bands are centered at 63, 160, 400, 1000, 2500, 6300 and 16000 Hz and are adjustable from -6 dB to +6 dB in 1 dB increments. The subwoofer is also adjustable from -6 dB to +6 dB in 1 dB increments at 25, 40, 63, 100, and 160 Hz.
***THX Ultra2 Plus Certified: THX surround technology was founded by George Lucas. THX utilizes stringent standards that ensure movies are reproduced in movie theaters and home theaters just as the director intended. The TX-NR906 offers the following THX surround modes:
***Neural THX 5.1/7.1: Neural-THX Surround employs psychoacoustic frequency domain processing, which delivers a more detailed sound stage, superior channel separation, and localization of audio elements; Neural THX 5.1 and Neural THX 7.1 modes can expand any 2-channel stereo source for 5.1/7.1-channel playback; XM Satellite Radio uses Neural THX encoding on select channels for decoding to 5.1 or 7.1-channel for playback (XMHD)
THX Cinema: carefully optimizes the tonal and spatial characteristics of the soundtrack for reproduction in the smaller home-theater environment
THX Music: designed for use with music (typically mastered at higher levels than movie soundtracks), THX Loudness Plus also configured for music
THX Games: designed for spatially accurate playback of game audio (mixed for a smaller environment than movies)
THX Ultra2 Cinema: expands 5.1-channel sources for 7.1-channel playback by analyzing the composition of the surround source and optimizing the ambient and directional sounds to produce the surround back channel output
THX Ultra2 Music: expands 5.1-channel sources for 7.1-channel music playback
THX Ultra2 Games: expands 5.1-channel sources for 7.1-channel game audio playback
THX Surround EX: expands 5.1-channel sources for 6.1/7.1-channel playback, especially suited to Dolby Digital EX sources
Stereo, Dolby and DTS Listening Modes: This receiver incorporates three powerful and accurate 32-bit DSP processors and a wide variety of listening modes to bring you maximum enjoyment from your audio and video software. The listening modes include:
**Pure: display and video circuitry are turned off, minimizing possible noise sources for high-fidelity reproduction
Direct: audio from the input source is output directly with minimal processing
Stereo: sound is output from the front left and right speakers and subwoofer
Mono: monaural sound is output from the front left and right speakers and subwoofer
Multi-channel: used with the 7.1-channel analog or multi-channel PCM inputs
Dolby Pro Logic II: expands any 2-channel source to 5.1 channels (includes PLII Movie, PLII Music, and PLII Game)
Dolby Pro Logic IIx: expands any 2-channel source to 7.1 channels (includes PLIIx Movie, PLIIx Music, and PLIIx Game)
Dolby Digital: decodes Dolby Digital soundtracks
Dolby Digital EX: decodes Dolby Digital EX or expands 5.1-channel Dolby Digital sources to 6.1 or 7.1-channels
Dolby Digital Plus: multi-channel audio format that supports up to 7.1 channels with 48 kHz sampling rate
TrueHD: delivers exceptional sound that is bit-for-bit identical to the studio master, unlocking the true high-definition entertainment experience on next-generation discs
DTS: decodes DTS soundtracks
DTS 96/24: decodes high resolution DTS 96/24 soundtracks
DTS-ES Discrete: decodes DTS ES soundtracks with additional discrete information
DTS-ES Matrix: decodes DTS ES soundtracks with additional matrix information
DTS Neo:6 Cinema: expands any 2-channel soundtrack to 6.1 or 7.1-channels
DTS Neo:6 Music: expands any 2-channel music source to 6.1 or 7.1-channels
DTS-HD High Resolution: multi-channel format supporting up to 7.1 channels with 96 kHz sampling rate
DTS-HD Master Audio: offers up to 7.1 discrete channels of digital audio with 48/96 kHz, up to 5.1 channels with 192 kHz sampling rate
DTS Express: supports up to 5.1 channels and a lower sampling rate of 48kHz
DSD: used with SACDs/ that feature multi-channel audio
Onkyo Original DSP Modes:
Mono Movie: suitable for old movies or other mono sources
Orchestra: for classical or operatic music
Unplugged: for acoustic instruments, vocals, and jazz
Studio-Mix: suitable for rock or pop
TV Logic: adds realistic acoustics to TV shows
All Ch Stereo: ideal for background music
Full Mono: all speakers output the same sound in mono
Theater-Dimensional (T-D): enjoy virtual 5.1 surround with two or three speakers (you can set the virtual surround imaging to Narrow or Wide)
Note: You can assign a default listening mode to each input source that will be selected automatically when you select each input source.
Combination Surround Modes: Multiple combinations of surround modes are also available:
5.1-Channel Source + PLIIx Music
5.1-Channel Source + PLIIx Movie
5.1-Channel Source + Neo:6
PLII Movie + THX Cinema
PLIIx Movie + THX Cinema
PLII Music + THX Music
PLIIx Music + THX Music
PLII Game + THX Games
PLIIx Game + THX Games
Neo:6 + THX Cinema
Neo:6 + THX Music
Neo:6 + THX Games
PLII Game + THX Ultra2 Games
Neural THX + THX Cinema
Neural THX + THX Music
Neural THX + THX Games
Dolby Pro Logic II & IIx Music Modes: While listening in the Dolby Pro Logic II or IIx Music format, there are three further enhancements you can adjust:
**Panorama: broadens the front stereo image to the surround speakers to provide a wraparound effect, especially effective when there is limited output from the surround channels, panorama can be turned on/off in the menu
Dimension: allows you to move the sound field forward or backward
Center Width: allows you to adjust the width of the center channel
Center Image: In the DTS Neo:6 Music mode, the Center Image feature adjusts the output of the left and right channels relative to the center channel, allowing you to make the center channel more or less dominant as needed. This improves the image of the center channel, especially when the listener is off-center.
**Re-Equalization Circuitry: Re-EQ (re-equalization) corrects a soundtrack with high frequency response that's too harsh, compensating for the fact that sound mixed for large theaters may sound too bright when played back through speakers in the home environment. This can be set to either On or Off.
Bass and Treble: You can adjust the bass and treble separately for the front, center, surround, and surround back speakers. Bass is also adjustable for the sub output. You can boost or cut low-frequency (20Hz) bass output from -10 to +10 dB in 1 dB steps. You can boost or cut high-frequency (20kHz) treble output from -10 to +10 dB in 1 dB steps.
**Late Night Feature: The Late Night feature limits the dynamic range of Dolby Digital recordings. Limiting the dynamic range makes it easier to find a volume that ensures the quiet sounds are not too quiet and the loud sounds are not too loud for night time listening. This allows you to comfortably listen without the need to constantly adjust the volume to keep from waking family/neighbors. The choices are Off, Low, and High for Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus sources; Auto, Off, and On for Dolby TrueHD sources.
Note: This feature only works with Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby TrueHD encoded software and the depth of the feature will vary based on the individual software package.
*A/V Sync: When the picture is not perfectly synchronized with the sound, this receiver can delay the audio from 0-250ms, in 5ms increments.
*IntelliVolume: The IntelliVolume setup function allows you set a volume correction value for each source, to prevent large jumps in volume when switching from one source to another. This feature eliminates the inconvenience of manually readjusting the volume control each time you switch from a source with a weak signal to a source with a strong signal and vice versa.
Volume Setup: The receiver volume can be configured in the following ways:
Maximum Volume: prevent the volume from being turned too high by setting independent maximum levels for the main zone, Zone 2 and Zone 3
Power On Volume: independently specify the turned-on volume for each zone; specify any volume or Last (the same level that was used when the receiver was turned off)
Headphones Level: set the headphone volume relative to the main volume, choose a level between -12dB and +12dB
Name Edit: You can enter a custom name for each individual input selector and radio preset for easy identification.
B Speakers: Unlike most receivers, the A and B speaker outputs on the TX-NR906 cannot be played at the same time. They are designed to connect two sets of speakers in the same room; for example the A speakers can be part of the 7.1-channel surround system used when watching movies, and the B speakers can be used for more critical music listening in stereo.
Amplifier Assign: There are seven amplifier channels built into the receiver. These channels are typically used for 7.1 channel surround in the main room (with the surround back terminals assigned the the surround back speakers), but the amplifier assign function gives you the option of configuring the system differently if you prefer (limiting the main room to 5.1-channel operation):
Bi-Amp Connections: Some loudspeakers are equipped with two sets of input terminals for bi-amplification; you can assign the surround back terminals to provide power to bi-amp the front speakers.
Bridging: Two sets of amplifier channels can be bridged, almost doubling the power output to the front speakers. When bridging the amp, use speakers with 8Ù or higher impedance.
Multi-Zone Operation: Two amplifier channels can be assigned to power stereo speakers in Zone 2.
Multi-room Capability: You can use three speaker systems with the TX-NR906 receiver, a surround-sound speaker system up to 7.1 channels in your main listening room (Zone 1), an audio/video stereo speaker system in a second room (Zone 2) and an audio only stereo speaker system in a third room (Zone 3). The zone 2 and 3 outputs allow you to enjoy one source in your main listening room, while other sources play in remote rooms. Depending on how you configure the receiver, using Zone 2 will require an additional monitor, amplifier and speakers, a set of powered speakers, or simply a set of non-powered speakers located in a remote location. You can connect the dedicated Zone 2 stereo AV RCA line outputs to a receiver/amplifier or powered speakers along with a monitor in the second room while powering a 7.1-channel speaker system in the main room; the output level of the RCA line outs for Zone 2 and Zone 3 can be fixed or variable, so they can be connected to an amplifier or powered speakers equipped with or without a volume control. You can also connect a pair of speakers to the receiver's dedicated Zone 2 speaker terminals and simultaneously power a 5.1-channel speaker system in the main room. When the Zone 2 speaker terminals are turned on, the Surround Back speaker outputs do not work. When the Zone 2 speaker terminals are off, the Surround Back speaker outputs work as normal. The Zone 2 speaker output volume setting can be controlled with the remote. Only analog sources can be played in Zone 2 and Zone 3. Zone 3 requires an additional amplifier and speakers or a set of powered speakers to listen to a different 2-channel stereo source in another room while still playing 2-channel audio in Zone 2 and multi-channel audio in your main room (Zone 3 does not offer speaker terminal connection).
ISF Mode: The receiver has been designed to incorporate setup and calibration standards established by the Imaging Science Foundation (ISF). The ISF has developed carefully crafted, industry-recognized standards for optimal video performance and has implemented a training program for technicians and installers to use these standards to obtain optimal picture quality from the receiver. Accordingly, Onkyo recommends that setup and calibration be performed by an ISF Certified installation technician.
Sleep Function: From the remote, you can set the unit to automatically turn off after a specific time; 90 minutes to 10 minutes in 10-minute increments.
Display Dimmer: The display illumination includes the green alphanumeric display and a blue ring around the volume knob. You can dim the display as follows: Normal and Volume light on, Normal and Volume light off, Dim and Volume light off, and Dimmer and Volume light off.
Lock Setup: With this feature, you can protect your settings by locking the setup menus.
Network Ready
Network-Ready: The TX-NR906 network-ready receiver gives you access to stored digital music files (AAC, WMA, MP3, WAV) or internet radio via an Ethernet network between the receiver and your computer. The receiver also enables you to access music files from a USB mass storage device or a portable audio player through the USB port on the TX-NR906's front panel. The network-ready receiver is compatible with Windows Media Connect or Windows Media Player (the TX-NR906 is Windows Certified for Vista/PlaysForSure). For internet radio, you can enter URLs (including those for podcasts) directly into your computer's web browser, or you can enter them with your remote control. The TX-NR906's user-friendly interface lets you easily store and access your favorite channels.
Supported Audio Files: The AV receiver supports the following music file formats during Ethernet server and USB mass storage device playback:
MP3: MP3 files must be MPEG-2 Audio Layer 3 format with a sampling rate of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, or 48 kHz and a bit-rate between 32 kbps and 320 kbps. Variable bit-rate (VBR) MP3 files are supported.
WMA: WMA files must have the copyright option turned off. Sampling rates of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, and 48 kHz and a bit-rate between 48 kbps and 320 kbps and lossless DRM are supported by this AV receiver. Variable bit-rates (VBR) are supported.
WAV: WAV files contain uncompressed PCM digital audio. Sampling rates of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz and a bit-rate of 16 kbps are supported.
AAC: Sampling rates of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, and 48 kHz and a bit-rate between 16 and 320 kbps are supported. VBR files are also supported.
USB Mass Storage Device Requirements: The AV receiver supports USB devices that support the USB mass storage device class. USB devices formatted with the FAT16 or FAT32 files system are supported. Each folder may contain up to 500 music files and folders may be nested up to eight levels deep.
Note: USB digital audio signals are not output by the receiver's digital outputs when playing music files.
Server Requirements: The AV receiver can play digital music files stored on a computer or media server and supports the following technologies:
Windows Media Player 11
Windows Media Connect 2.0
UPnP AV-Compatible Media Server
DLNA-Compatible Media Server
Network Requirements: The AV receiver's Ethernet port supports 10Base-T. For best results, a 100Base-TX switched Ethernet network is recommended. Your router should support NAT (Network Address Translation) and DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol). A shielded CAT5 Ethernet cable (straight-type) shot be used to connect the AV receiver to your home network.
Remote Control
Multi-brand/Learning Remote with Joy Stick Button: The supplied wireless remote is a multi-brand/learning remote. The remote is pre-programmed to operate Onkyo components. In addition, the remote is pre-programmed to operate other popular brands of equipment, including DVD players and recorders, CD players and recorders, TVs, VCRs, cable boxes, MD recorders/players, and satellite receivers. Also, the remote can learn up to 90 commands from infrared remotes of other components. A joystick button simplifies menu navigation and doubles as an enter button.
Macros: Three macros can be programmed to perform a sequence of actions with just one button press. Each macro button can perform up to 8 commands.
Input and Output Notes
Rear Panel:
HDMI Inputs/Outputs: This unit has 4 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs. The HDMI inputs are assignable to different input sources. The HDMI jacks support HDCP copyright protection. The HDMI circuit will accommodate a 1080p signal. The 2 HDMI outputs display the same video signal (but not simultaneously).
Assignable Digital Inputs: The TX-NR906 has 5 assignable digital inputs (2 optical/3 coaxial) allowing you to specify which input source is connected to which digital input jack.
Digital Output: An optical digital output is available for connecting a digital recorder.
Multi-Channel Input: The receiver is equipped with one set of 8-channel RCA type inputs for use with an outboard 5.1 or 7.1 channel decoder; there are inputs for left front, right front, center, left surround, right surround, surround back left, surround back right, and subwoofer.
Speaker Terminals: There are color-coded binding post connectors for the left front, right front, center, left surround, right surround, left surround back, right surround back, and Zone 2 left and right speakers (surround back and Zone 2 speakers are not live simultaneously). The binding posts are not 5-way because a plastic collar prevents their use with spade lugs; they will accommodate dual banana plugs.
XM: This proprietary jack is for use with an optional XM Mini Tuner home dock.
Sirius: This proprietary jack is for use with an optional SiriusConnect home tuner.
Ethernet: This port is for connecting the AV receiver to your Ethernet network for playing music files on a networked computer or media server or for listening to Internet radio.
IR Input/Output: The 3.5mm IR input jack allows you to control the receiver without line-of-sight access using an optional IR remote control system and locating the remote sensor in sight. The 3.5mm IR output jack allows you to send the control signals to an additional components.
RI Remote Control Jack: The 3.5mm RI (Remote Interactive) remote control jack allows you to connect this receiver to compatible Onkyo components.
12 Volt Trigger: This 3.5mm mini-jack output can be connected to the 12-volt trigger input on a power amplifier powering speakers in Zone 2; when Zone 2 is turned on, a 12-volt trigger signal is output.
RS-232C Port: The TX-NR906 has an RS-232C port for connection to external control systems from companies such as AMX or Crestron.
Front Panel: The unit's front panel connections are located behind a manual fold-down door.
Headphone Output: This receiver has a standard 1/4" headphone output on the front panel. The speaker outputs in the main zone are muted when headphones are plugged in. (If the surround back amplifier is assigned to power the Zone 2 speakers, they are not muted when headphones are plugged in)
**A/V Aux 2 Input: Aux 2, including composite video, S-video, optical digital, and Left/Right stereo RCA audio inputs, is on the front panel.
USB Port: A USB mass storage device, such as a USB flash drive or MP3 player, containing music files (MP3, WMA, WAV, M4A) can be plugged into the receiver's front panel USB port and the music selected played through the AV receiver.
Setup Mic: This 3.5mm input on the front of the receiver is used to connect the supplied Setup Microphone.
***Above is some information from an ONKYO PDF and their website***
I am using 7.1 channel speakers which combined with this system put out such incredible clear sound and power driven whether the TV, the gaming systems, radio, DVD, windows Media Center, Apple itunes or Netflix via the xbox 360. Everything runs like a charm through this unit and all on one remote. However, that is another review for Logitech Harmony One Advanced Remote.
As for features, they are almost endless at least from my experience. I have had nice equipment in the past but this is in mid to upper lines of fine home audio and far surpasses all of the others I had researched in this class. I have had Onkyo in the past so I was at least familiar with their products, good service and online documentation as well as the big booklets provided, but if I had questions they were easy to reach and very knowledgable. I would recommend this item to anyone who does allot of movie, music, games for a complete entertainment control center. It is costly for most but it is something that used with care and cared for will last many, many years.
Like with any electronics always do allot of research from online reviews via retailers, pro reviews and of course if you find this item in a store see it, test it and ask loads of questions to make sure it's right for you and your needs or what you truly want in high end home entertainment power hub. See the endless list of superb features below.
FEATURES(To make a couple of the comment complainers happy, below is OBVIOUSLY some of the info from a downloaded PDF as well as the Onkyo website, which WAS NOTED and *** at the bottom of the post, D'oh):
*7.1 Channel Amplifier: The Onkyo TX-NR906 features a 145 watt x 7-channel amplifier (measured with two channels driven) into 8-ohms at 20 to 20,000 Hz with a maximum total harmonic distortion of 0.05%.
*WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology): This technology uses low-negative-feedback circuit topology for accurate signal reproduction, improved dynamic signal-to-noise ratio, and better delivery of power peaks.
***High Quality Transformers: The Onkyo TX-NR906 features a massive Toroidal transformer plus 2 separate transformers for audio and video processing.
*Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs): To decode and playback high-resolution recordings, this receiver is equipped with Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit DACs for all channels.
*Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry (VLSC): Conventional D/A conversion methods reduce digital pulse noise at the conversion stage but can't remove it completely. Previously only found on Onkyo's 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 is 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.
*Speaker Impedance: There is a menu adjustment for minimum speaker impedance; options are 6Ù (for speakers 6 to 16-ohms) and 4Ù (for speakers 4 or 5-ohms).
*Multi-Language On-Screen Display (OSD): An OSD can be displayed on your television for easy system setup. The joystick/enter button on the remote makes display navigation and setting adjustment simple and convenient. The setup OSD is passed through all the monitor outputs (composite video, S-video, component video, and HDMI). You can select a 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratio for the monitor output so the menu is displayed properly to match your TV's screen. You can choose from several languages for the receiver's on-screen display menu: English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Swedish, or Japanese.
*Component Video Switching: In addition to composite and S-Video switching, this unit can switch between high resolution component video sources. There are 3 component video inputs, each of which can be assigned to the DVD, VCR/DVR, CBL/SAT, GAME/TV, AUX 1, or AUX 2 input, and 1 component video monitor output. The component video inputs and outputs have a bandwidth of 5 Hz to 100MHz.
*HDMI Switching: The TX-NR906 has four HDMI version 1.3 inputs and one HDMI version 1.3 output for connecting DVD players, HDTV set-top boxes, and other video components through the receiver to your TV or projector. The HDMI cables will pass digital audio and video. The HDMI inputs are compatible with DVI, so TVs and other displays with a DVI input can be connected using an HDMI-to-DVI adapter cable, along with audio cables (if desired). The receiver uses HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection), so only HDCP-compatible components can display the picture. The HDMI inputs can accept 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p signals. The HDMI output can be scaled; resolution can be set to Through (no scaling), Auto (resolutions not supported by the display are automatically converted), 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, or Source (resolution set for each source individually). Each of the HDMI inputs can be assigned to any of the six A/V inputs (DVD, VCR/DVR, CBL/SAT, GAME/TV, AUX 1, or AUX 2).
*Video Upconversion and Scaling: The Onkyo TX-NR906 utilizes HQV Reon-VX technology to convert interlaced video signals to progressive scan signals. The HQV Reon-VX chip supports standard definition and high definition deinterlacing, 1080p reconstruction of film sources, filtering of jaggies and artifacts, and the reduction of random, mosquito and block (codec) noise. HQV Reon-VX also enables color region enhancement and the rendering of more than one billion colors. The Onkyo TX-NR906 will upconvert incoming analog composite video, S-video and component video signals to HDMI so you can connect all your video sources through the receiver and then to your TV via a single HDMI cable. Incoming video signals can also be scaled, up to 1080p. The receiver can also convert composite video and S-video signal to component if your television does not feature an HDMI input.
***RIHD (Remote Interactivity Over HDMI): RIHD synchronizes RIHD-compatible displays and components for integrated control via HDMI connection and use of the receiver's IR remote control. RIHD provides the following integrated operations:
*Control: this function allows CEC-standard-compatible equipment connected to HDMI and RIHD-compatible equipment to be operated together with the Onkyo receiver
Power Control: provides an electrical power link between the TX-NR906 and RIHD-compatible components through the HDMI connection and allows for those components to turn on or off with the receiver
TV Control: allows you to control the TX-NR906 from an RIHD-compatible TV that is connected via HDMI, currently compatible with Panasonic Televisions featuring EZ Sync
Built-In HD Radio: In addition the analog AM/FM tuner, the Onkyo TX-NR906 features a built-in HD AM/FM tuner. HD Radio technology brings digital radio to conventional analog AM and FM radio stations with improved sound quality, better reception, and new data services. HD Radio technology provides CD-quality sound for FM stations and FM-quality sound for AM stations. In addition, FM HD Radio stations can transmit multiple programs on the same frequency by using multicast channels. HD Radio also features text data display which includes station name, song title and artist name. HD Radio stations broadcast on the same AM and FM frequencies they've always used and you can receive them by tuning into your favorite station as normal. You can store them a presets just like standard AM and FM stations. If a tuned AM or FM station supports HD Radio technology, the receiver's display HD indicator will light up.
*Satellite Ready: The Onkyo TX-NR906 features proprietary ports on the rear panel for XM and Sirius Satellite Radio connection. In addition to the following optional satellite tuners needed (sold separately), you will need a subscription to XM and/or Sirius Satellite radio.
*XM Satellite Radio Ready: The receiver can be connected to the optional XM Home Mini-Tuner and Home Dock (item number 700XMTUNPK, sold separately), allowing you to receive XM Satellite Radio through the TX-NR906. You can search XM radio stations by Channel, Category or Direct Tuning. You can also choose to display the following XM information on the receiver's display - Channel Name, Channel Number, Category Name, Artist Name or Song Title.
Sirius Satellite Radio Ready: The TX-NR906 can also be connected to the optional SiriusConnect Home Tuner kit (item number 607SCH1, sold separately), which allows you to receive Sirius Satellite Radio through the receiver. You can search Sirius radio stations by Channel, Category or Direct Tuning. You can also choose to display the following Sirius information on the receiver's display - Channel Name, Channel Number, Category Name, Artist Name or Song Title.
iPod Compatible: The DS-A1, DS-A2, or DS-A2X Remote Interactive Dock for iPod (current item number 580DSA2X) provide an interface between an iPod digital media player and Onkyo TX-NR906. Once the iPod is docked you can control basic functions such as play, stop, and skip via the Onkyo system's RI-compatible wireless remote control. The dock also charges the battery in the iPod, and allows you to view digital photos and video on your home theater system (photo/video transfer not available with iPod classic, 3rd generation iPod nano, iPod touch, and iPhone).
***Audyssey: This receiver is equipped with an Auto Setup and Room Equalization function, to achieve the most ideal sound field for your room. The Audyssey MultEQ XT function is designed to optimize the sound quality at each listening position in the room. The included microphone is used to measure test tones at each listening position. This measured data is then analyzed using a program to improve acoustic characteristics in the listening area. For best results multiple positions should be measured (up to 8), including a main position. The main position is given more weight in the calculations.
Audyssey Settings:
MultEQ XT: MultEQ function automatically determines the number of speakers and optimizes the crossover points, output levels, delay times, and equalization of all speakers based on speaker frequency response, speaker location, and room acoustics
Dynamic EQ: Audio engineers mix music and movie soundtracks at reference levels much louder than typical home listening levels. At lower volumes the human ear perceives sound differently; voices change, bass dissipates, and the surround effect becomes less enveloping. Dynamic EQ adjusts the frequency response curve based on volume to maintain consistent bass output, octave-to-octave balance, and surround impact, resulting in rich sound at any volume.
Dynamic Volume: Dynamic Volume addresses the issue of commercials that are too loud and movie soundtracks with vast differences between soft and loud passages; the results are more intelligible dialogue, loud passages maintain impact, and soft whispers are clearly heard. When the volume level changes, Dynamic EQ also adjusts the frequency response to maintain sound quality.
Speaker Distance: The distance from your listening position to each speaker can also be set manually; each of the 7.1 channels is set individually from 0.5 to 30 feet in 1/2-foot increments.
Speaker Levels: You can manually adjust the level of each of the 7.1 channel outputs from -12dB and +12dB in 0.5dB increments; -15dB to +12dB for the subwoofer.
**Double Bass: You can increase the bass output by activating the Double Bass function; this feeds both the LFE and left and right channel bass output to the subwoofer. Double Bass can be set only when the subwoofer is set to On and the front speakers are set to full range.
*Crossover: The TX-NR906 has a built-in crossover for the speaker system that can be set manually. The crossover points are set separately for the front, center, surround, surround back, and subwoofer channels. The sub crossover options are 80(THX), 90, 100, and 120 Hz. The other channels can be set to Full Range, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 (THX), 90, 100, 120, 150, or 200 Hz. The center and surround speakers can also be turned off.
LFE Level: You can set the level of the LFE channel individually for Dolby Digital, DTS, multi-channel PCM, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, and DSD sources. The level can be set to -infinity, -20 dB, -10 dB or 0 dB.
**Equalizer: Using the receiver's built-in electronic 7-band equalizer you can manually adjust the tone of the Front, Center, Surround, and Surround Back speakers; the bands are centered at 63, 160, 400, 1000, 2500, 6300 and 16000 Hz and are adjustable from -6 dB to +6 dB in 1 dB increments. The subwoofer is also adjustable from -6 dB to +6 dB in 1 dB increments at 25, 40, 63, 100, and 160 Hz.
***THX Ultra2 Plus Certified: THX surround technology was founded by George Lucas. THX utilizes stringent standards that ensure movies are reproduced in movie theaters and home theaters just as the director intended. The TX-NR906 offers the following THX surround modes:
***Neural THX 5.1/7.1: Neural-THX Surround employs psychoacoustic frequency domain processing, which delivers a more detailed sound stage, superior channel separation, and localization of audio elements; Neural THX 5.1 and Neural THX 7.1 modes can expand any 2-channel stereo source for 5.1/7.1-channel playback; XM Satellite Radio uses Neural THX encoding on select channels for decoding to 5.1 or 7.1-channel for playback (XMHD)
THX Cinema: carefully optimizes the tonal and spatial characteristics of the soundtrack for reproduction in the smaller home-theater environment
THX Music: designed for use with music (typically mastered at higher levels than movie soundtracks), THX Loudness Plus also configured for music
THX Games: designed for spatially accurate playback of game audio (mixed for a smaller environment than movies)
THX Ultra2 Cinema: expands 5.1-channel sources for 7.1-channel playback by analyzing the composition of the surround source and optimizing the ambient and directional sounds to produce the surround back channel output
THX Ultra2 Music: expands 5.1-channel sources for 7.1-channel music playback
THX Ultra2 Games: expands 5.1-channel sources for 7.1-channel game audio playback
THX Surround EX: expands 5.1-channel sources for 6.1/7.1-channel playback, especially suited to Dolby Digital EX sources
Stereo, Dolby and DTS Listening Modes: This receiver incorporates three powerful and accurate 32-bit DSP processors and a wide variety of listening modes to bring you maximum enjoyment from your audio and video software. The listening modes include:
**Pure: display and video circuitry are turned off, minimizing possible noise sources for high-fidelity reproduction
Direct: audio from the input source is output directly with minimal processing
Stereo: sound is output from the front left and right speakers and subwoofer
Mono: monaural sound is output from the front left and right speakers and subwoofer
Multi-channel: used with the 7.1-channel analog or multi-channel PCM inputs
Dolby Pro Logic II: expands any 2-channel source to 5.1 channels (includes PLII Movie, PLII Music, and PLII Game)
Dolby Pro Logic IIx: expands any 2-channel source to 7.1 channels (includes PLIIx Movie, PLIIx Music, and PLIIx Game)
Dolby Digital: decodes Dolby Digital soundtracks
Dolby Digital EX: decodes Dolby Digital EX or expands 5.1-channel Dolby Digital sources to 6.1 or 7.1-channels
Dolby Digital Plus: multi-channel audio format that supports up to 7.1 channels with 48 kHz sampling rate
TrueHD: delivers exceptional sound that is bit-for-bit identical to the studio master, unlocking the true high-definition entertainment experience on next-generation discs
DTS: decodes DTS soundtracks
DTS 96/24: decodes high resolution DTS 96/24 soundtracks
DTS-ES Discrete: decodes DTS ES soundtracks with additional discrete information
DTS-ES Matrix: decodes DTS ES soundtracks with additional matrix information
DTS Neo:6 Cinema: expands any 2-channel soundtrack to 6.1 or 7.1-channels
DTS Neo:6 Music: expands any 2-channel music source to 6.1 or 7.1-channels
DTS-HD High Resolution: multi-channel format supporting up to 7.1 channels with 96 kHz sampling rate
DTS-HD Master Audio: offers up to 7.1 discrete channels of digital audio with 48/96 kHz, up to 5.1 channels with 192 kHz sampling rate
DTS Express: supports up to 5.1 channels and a lower sampling rate of 48kHz
DSD: used with SACDs/ that feature multi-channel audio
Onkyo Original DSP Modes:
Mono Movie: suitable for old movies or other mono sources
Orchestra: for classical or operatic music
Unplugged: for acoustic instruments, vocals, and jazz
Studio-Mix: suitable for rock or pop
TV Logic: adds realistic acoustics to TV shows
All Ch Stereo: ideal for background music
Full Mono: all speakers output the same sound in mono
Theater-Dimensional (T-D): enjoy virtual 5.1 surround with two or three speakers (you can set the virtual surround imaging to Narrow or Wide)
Note: You can assign a default listening mode to each input source that will be selected automatically when you select each input source.
Combination Surround Modes: Multiple combinations of surround modes are also available:
5.1-Channel Source + PLIIx Music
5.1-Channel Source + PLIIx Movie
5.1-Channel Source + Neo:6
PLII Movie + THX Cinema
PLIIx Movie + THX Cinema
PLII Music + THX Music
PLIIx Music + THX Music
PLII Game + THX Games
PLIIx Game + THX Games
Neo:6 + THX Cinema
Neo:6 + THX Music
Neo:6 + THX Games
PLII Game + THX Ultra2 Games
Neural THX + THX Cinema
Neural THX + THX Music
Neural THX + THX Games
Dolby Pro Logic II & IIx Music Modes: While listening in the Dolby Pro Logic II or IIx Music format, there are three further enhancements you can adjust:
**Panorama: broadens the front stereo image to the surround speakers to provide a wraparound effect, especially effective when there is limited output from the surround channels, panorama can be turned on/off in the menu
Dimension: allows you to move the sound field forward or backward
Center Width: allows you to adjust the width of the center channel
Center Image: In the DTS Neo:6 Music mode, the Center Image feature adjusts the output of the left and right channels relative to the center channel, allowing you to make the center channel more or less dominant as needed. This improves the image of the center channel, especially when the listener is off-center.
**Re-Equalization Circuitry: Re-EQ (re-equalization) corrects a soundtrack with high frequency response that's too harsh, compensating for the fact that sound mixed for large theaters may sound too bright when played back through speakers in the home environment. This can be set to either On or Off.
Bass and Treble: You can adjust the bass and treble separately for the front, center, surround, and surround back speakers. Bass is also adjustable for the sub output. You can boost or cut low-frequency (20Hz) bass output from -10 to +10 dB in 1 dB steps. You can boost or cut high-frequency (20kHz) treble output from -10 to +10 dB in 1 dB steps.
**Late Night Feature: The Late Night feature limits the dynamic range of Dolby Digital recordings. Limiting the dynamic range makes it easier to find a volume that ensures the quiet sounds are not too quiet and the loud sounds are not too loud for night time listening. This allows you to comfortably listen without the need to constantly adjust the volume to keep from waking family/neighbors. The choices are Off, Low, and High for Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus sources; Auto, Off, and On for Dolby TrueHD sources.
Note: This feature only works with Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby TrueHD encoded software and the depth of the feature will vary based on the individual software package.
*A/V Sync: When the picture is not perfectly synchronized with the sound, this receiver can delay the audio from 0-250ms, in 5ms increments.
*IntelliVolume: The IntelliVolume setup function allows you set a volume correction value for each source, to prevent large jumps in volume when switching from one source to another. This feature eliminates the inconvenience of manually readjusting the volume control each time you switch from a source with a weak signal to a source with a strong signal and vice versa.
Volume Setup: The receiver volume can be configured in the following ways:
Maximum Volume: prevent the volume from being turned too high by setting independent maximum levels for the main zone, Zone 2 and Zone 3
Power On Volume: independently specify the turned-on volume for each zone; specify any volume or Last (the same level that was used when the receiver was turned off)
Headphones Level: set the headphone volume relative to the main volume, choose a level between -12dB and +12dB
Name Edit: You can enter a custom name for each individual input selector and radio preset for easy identification.
B Speakers: Unlike most receivers, the A and B speaker outputs on the TX-NR906 cannot be played at the same time. They are designed to connect two sets of speakers in the same room; for example the A speakers can be part of the 7.1-channel surround system used when watching movies, and the B speakers can be used for more critical music listening in stereo.
Amplifier Assign: There are seven amplifier channels built into the receiver. These channels are typically used for 7.1 channel surround in the main room (with the surround back terminals assigned the the surround back speakers), but the amplifier assign function gives you the option of configuring the system differently if you prefer (limiting the main room to 5.1-channel operation):
Bi-Amp Connections: Some loudspeakers are equipped with two sets of input terminals for bi-amplification; you can assign the surround back terminals to provide power to bi-amp the front speakers.
Bridging: Two sets of amplifier channels can be bridged, almost doubling the power output to the front speakers. When bridging the amp, use speakers with 8Ù or higher impedance.
Multi-Zone Operation: Two amplifier channels can be assigned to power stereo speakers in Zone 2.
Multi-room Capability: You can use three speaker systems with the TX-NR906 receiver, a surround-sound speaker system up to 7.1 channels in your main listening room (Zone 1), an audio/video stereo speaker system in a second room (Zone 2) and an audio only stereo speaker system in a third room (Zone 3). The zone 2 and 3 outputs allow you to enjoy one source in your main listening room, while other sources play in remote rooms. Depending on how you configure the receiver, using Zone 2 will require an additional monitor, amplifier and speakers, a set of powered speakers, or simply a set of non-powered speakers located in a remote location. You can connect the dedicated Zone 2 stereo AV RCA line outputs to a receiver/amplifier or powered speakers along with a monitor in the second room while powering a 7.1-channel speaker system in the main room; the output level of the RCA line outs for Zone 2 and Zone 3 can be fixed or variable, so they can be connected to an amplifier or powered speakers equipped with or without a volume control. You can also connect a pair of speakers to the receiver's dedicated Zone 2 speaker terminals and simultaneously power a 5.1-channel speaker system in the main room. When the Zone 2 speaker terminals are turned on, the Surround Back speaker outputs do not work. When the Zone 2 speaker terminals are off, the Surround Back speaker outputs work as normal. The Zone 2 speaker output volume setting can be controlled with the remote. Only analog sources can be played in Zone 2 and Zone 3. Zone 3 requires an additional amplifier and speakers or a set of powered speakers to listen to a different 2-channel stereo source in another room while still playing 2-channel audio in Zone 2 and multi-channel audio in your main room (Zone 3 does not offer speaker terminal connection).
ISF Mode: The receiver has been designed to incorporate setup and calibration standards established by the Imaging Science Foundation (ISF). The ISF has developed carefully crafted, industry-recognized standards for optimal video performance and has implemented a training program for technicians and installers to use these standards to obtain optimal picture quality from the receiver. Accordingly, Onkyo recommends that setup and calibration be performed by an ISF Certified installation technician.
Sleep Function: From the remote, you can set the unit to automatically turn off after a specific time; 90 minutes to 10 minutes in 10-minute increments.
Display Dimmer: The display illumination includes the green alphanumeric display and a blue ring around the volume knob. You can dim the display as follows: Normal and Volume light on, Normal and Volume light off, Dim and Volume light off, and Dimmer and Volume light off.
Lock Setup: With this feature, you can protect your settings by locking the setup menus.
Network Ready
Network-Ready: The TX-NR906 network-ready receiver gives you access to stored digital music files (AAC, WMA, MP3, WAV) or internet radio via an Ethernet network between the receiver and your computer. The receiver also enables you to access music files from a USB mass storage device or a portable audio player through the USB port on the TX-NR906's front panel. The network-ready receiver is compatible with Windows Media Connect or Windows Media Player (the TX-NR906 is Windows Certified for Vista/PlaysForSure). For internet radio, you can enter URLs (including those for podcasts) directly into your computer's web browser, or you can enter them with your remote control. The TX-NR906's user-friendly interface lets you easily store and access your favorite channels.
Supported Audio Files: The AV receiver supports the following music file formats during Ethernet server and USB mass storage device playback:
MP3: MP3 files must be MPEG-2 Audio Layer 3 format with a sampling rate of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, or 48 kHz and a bit-rate between 32 kbps and 320 kbps. Variable bit-rate (VBR) MP3 files are supported.
WMA: WMA files must have the copyright option turned off. Sampling rates of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, and 48 kHz and a bit-rate between 48 kbps and 320 kbps and lossless DRM are supported by this AV receiver. Variable bit-rates (VBR) are supported.
WAV: WAV files contain uncompressed PCM digital audio. Sampling rates of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz and a bit-rate of 16 kbps are supported.
AAC: Sampling rates of 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, and 48 kHz and a bit-rate between 16 and 320 kbps are supported. VBR files are also supported.
USB Mass Storage Device Requirements: The AV receiver supports USB devices that support the USB mass storage device class. USB devices formatted with the FAT16 or FAT32 files system are supported. Each folder may contain up to 500 music files and folders may be nested up to eight levels deep.
Note: USB digital audio signals are not output by the receiver's digital outputs when playing music files.
Server Requirements: The AV receiver can play digital music files stored on a computer or media server and supports the following technologies:
Windows Media Player 11
Windows Media Connect 2.0
UPnP AV-Compatible Media Server
DLNA-Compatible Media Server
Network Requirements: The AV receiver's Ethernet port supports 10Base-T. For best results, a 100Base-TX switched Ethernet network is recommended. Your router should support NAT (Network Address Translation) and DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol). A shielded CAT5 Ethernet cable (straight-type) shot be used to connect the AV receiver to your home network.
Remote Control
Multi-brand/Learning Remote with Joy Stick Button: The supplied wireless remote is a multi-brand/learning remote. The remote is pre-programmed to operate Onkyo components. In addition, the remote is pre-programmed to operate other popular brands of equipment, including DVD players and recorders, CD players and recorders, TVs, VCRs, cable boxes, MD recorders/players, and satellite receivers. Also, the remote can learn up to 90 commands from infrared remotes of other components. A joystick button simplifies menu navigation and doubles as an enter button.
Macros: Three macros can be programmed to perform a sequence of actions with just one button press. Each macro button can perform up to 8 commands.
Input and Output Notes
Rear Panel:
HDMI Inputs/Outputs: This unit has 4 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs. The HDMI inputs are assignable to different input sources. The HDMI jacks support HDCP copyright protection. The HDMI circuit will accommodate a 1080p signal. The 2 HDMI outputs display the same video signal (but not simultaneously).
Assignable Digital Inputs: The TX-NR906 has 5 assignable digital inputs (2 optical/3 coaxial) allowing you to specify which input source is connected to which digital input jack.
Digital Output: An optical digital output is available for connecting a digital recorder.
Multi-Channel Input: The receiver is equipped with one set of 8-channel RCA type inputs for use with an outboard 5.1 or 7.1 channel decoder; there are inputs for left front, right front, center, left surround, right surround, surround back left, surround back right, and subwoofer.
Speaker Terminals: There are color-coded binding post connectors for the left front, right front, center, left surround, right surround, left surround back, right surround back, and Zone 2 left and right speakers (surround back and Zone 2 speakers are not live simultaneously). The binding posts are not 5-way because a plastic collar prevents their use with spade lugs; they will accommodate dual banana plugs.
XM: This proprietary jack is for use with an optional XM Mini Tuner home dock.
Sirius: This proprietary jack is for use with an optional SiriusConnect home tuner.
Ethernet: This port is for connecting the AV receiver to your Ethernet network for playing music files on a networked computer or media server or for listening to Internet radio.
IR Input/Output: The 3.5mm IR input jack allows you to control the receiver without line-of-sight access using an optional IR remote control system and locating the remote sensor in sight. The 3.5mm IR output jack allows you to send the control signals to an additional components.
RI Remote Control Jack: The 3.5mm RI (Remote Interactive) remote control jack allows you to connect this receiver to compatible Onkyo components.
12 Volt Trigger: This 3.5mm mini-jack output can be connected to the 12-volt trigger input on a power amplifier powering speakers in Zone 2; when Zone 2 is turned on, a 12-volt trigger signal is output.
RS-232C Port: The TX-NR906 has an RS-232C port for connection to external control systems from companies such as AMX or Crestron.
Front Panel: The unit's front panel connections are located behind a manual fold-down door.
Headphone Output: This receiver has a standard 1/4" headphone output on the front panel. The speaker outputs in the main zone are muted when headphones are plugged in. (If the surround back amplifier is assigned to power the Zone 2 speakers, they are not muted when headphones are plugged in)
**A/V Aux 2 Input: Aux 2, including composite video, S-video, optical digital, and Left/Right stereo RCA audio inputs, is on the front panel.
USB Port: A USB mass storage device, such as a USB flash drive or MP3 player, containing music files (MP3, WMA, WAV, M4A) can be plugged into the receiver's front panel USB port and the music selected played through the AV receiver.
Setup Mic: This 3.5mm input on the front of the receiver is used to connect the supplied Setup Microphone.
***Above is some information from an ONKYO PDF and their website***
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
An up-to-date and excellent receiver
(5 out of 5) by saranterry on Apr 17, 2009 (Bellevue, WA)An up-to-date and excellent receiver
Pros: While it has almost all current features as of 2008-2009, Onkyo TX-NR906 remains faithful to Onkyo's origin - excellent sound reproduction in stereo or surround. I thought the remote control is very functional and practical in all devices I have tried (TV, Blu-Ray player, DVR, old DVD/CD players).
Cons: Onkyo TX-NR906 seems to produce more heat than others even when it is not actively operating, so it can be annoying and concerning to whom are not used to this type of receiver. Keep in mind that, unlike the old days with traditional amplifiers, today's receiver is essentially a mini-PC that performs lots calculations plus amplifying triple number of sound channels.
Other thoughts: I am not sure what happened, I purchased Onkyo TX-NR906 for $1,500 in Dec-2008, but now in April-2009 it is listed as $2,190 almost everywhere. Its supply doesn't seem to be not in shortage, so it should go down as time goes by. Is there something going on that we should know?
Pros: While it has almost all current features as of 2008-2009, Onkyo TX-NR906 remains faithful to Onkyo's origin - excellent sound reproduction in stereo or surround. I thought the remote control is very functional and practical in all devices I have tried (TV, Blu-Ray player, DVR, old DVD/CD players).
Cons: Onkyo TX-NR906 seems to produce more heat than others even when it is not actively operating, so it can be annoying and concerning to whom are not used to this type of receiver. Keep in mind that, unlike the old days with traditional amplifiers, today's receiver is essentially a mini-PC that performs lots calculations plus amplifying triple number of sound channels.
Other thoughts: I am not sure what happened, I purchased Onkyo TX-NR906 for $1,500 in Dec-2008, but now in April-2009 it is listed as $2,190 almost everywhere. Its supply doesn't seem to be not in shortage, so it should go down as time goes by. Is there something going on that we should know?
7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
Great for movies, also great for serious stereo !
(4 out of 5) by Paulo Deiudicibus on Feb 15, 2009 (Coral Gables,FL)* IN CAPITAL LETTER MY REVISIONS AFTER 3 MONTHS OF TUNNING.
Bought it to replace the great and classic Onkyo TX-DS989 after 8 years of good services. After these 8 years I became a semi audiophile appreciating hi def audio sources such as DVD Audio,SACD and audiophile CDs. I wanted another DS989 with all the new modern features brought by HDMI such as 1080p, DTS-HD, Master audio etc. I also wanted something that could make my hi def audio sources sound better. The new Onkyo TX-NR906 looked like the perfect promise : the best in video processing with promising pure audio and bi-amp/biwire fetures for stereo or hi def audio lovers. So I decided to give it a shot. I am writing this review after a couple of weeks of acquiring the product. Since it is so packed with features I might certainly add comments in the near future.
A) Pros and positive surprises:
1. Video processing seems really great, full control of all video sources. Isf seems a nice surprise. You can relly on your receiver to adjust any video properties possible.
2. Audissey processing works pretty well for MOVIES only. Don't reccomend it for Stereo. DynamicEQ allows you to listen to movie sound effects even at low volumes. Great feature for my case who is always alone, locked in my home theater late at night trying not to bother wife and kids
3. Sound effects for movies are great. Great sound pressure makes movies come to live. Same movies have a different experience driven by the good dynamics and good chanel separation and effects from 7.1.
4. Internet radio was a nice surprise. Works well. Reasonable good sound quality from some of the internet stations. Allows us to appreciate the most crazy transmitions from all over the world
5. AFTER 3 MONTHS OF USE AND TWEAKS, THE BRIDGING(BTL)FEATURE THAT DOUBLES THE POWER FOR THE FRONT SPEAKERS HAS IMPROVED BASS RESPONSE SIGNIFICANTLY. PRETTY GOOD FOR STEREO.
B) Cons and negative surprises
1. Pure audio stereo or with multi channel hi-res sources don't sound better than the old TX-DS989. Dynamic, composure and sound stage sounded better on the old model. Maybe it is a matter of fine tune. Let's see. Did not try bi-amp features yet.(CHANGED MY OPINION AFTER 3 MONTHS OF USE AND TUNNING. FOUND OUT THAT DYNAMICEQ MODE FROM AUDISSEY SEEMS TO BE NICE FOR MOVIES ONLY. SEEMS TO SCREWS UP STEREO OR HI-DEF AUDIO EXPERIENCES. SOUND WILL SOUND FLAT LOSING SOUND STAGE, DYNAMICS, TEXTURE....IF YOU ARE LIKE ME AND WANT ALSO TO USE IT AS A HI-FI STEREO AMP, SETUP THE EQUALIZER MANUALLY WHEN LISTENING TO SERIOUS STEREO SOURCES)
2. Sync time of hdmi takes a little too long. Nothing too serious
3. CONTRARY TO WHAT SAYS THE MANUAL IT CAN DRIVE 5.1 CHANNELS EVEN IF YOU BRIDGE THE FRONT SPEAKERS DOUBLING THE POWER SENT TO THE MAIN SPEAKERS. THE MANUAL STATES THAT IT COULD ONLY DRIVE 2.1 SPEAKERS AT THE MAIN ROON WHEN BRIDGING. WRONG. IT DOES BETTER THAN THAT ! MANUAL IS NOT GREAT OVERALL
Overall a very good product, very solid build and loaded with features. Great for very complete home theater AND STEREO EXPERIENCES. MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE. RECCOMEND NOT TO USE DYNAMICEQ IF YOU WANT TO LISTEN TO STEREO MUSIC. WOULD GIVE 5 STARS NOW.
Bought it to replace the great and classic Onkyo TX-DS989 after 8 years of good services. After these 8 years I became a semi audiophile appreciating hi def audio sources such as DVD Audio,SACD and audiophile CDs. I wanted another DS989 with all the new modern features brought by HDMI such as 1080p, DTS-HD, Master audio etc. I also wanted something that could make my hi def audio sources sound better. The new Onkyo TX-NR906 looked like the perfect promise : the best in video processing with promising pure audio and bi-amp/biwire fetures for stereo or hi def audio lovers. So I decided to give it a shot. I am writing this review after a couple of weeks of acquiring the product. Since it is so packed with features I might certainly add comments in the near future.
A) Pros and positive surprises:
1. Video processing seems really great, full control of all video sources. Isf seems a nice surprise. You can relly on your receiver to adjust any video properties possible.
2. Audissey processing works pretty well for MOVIES only. Don't reccomend it for Stereo. DynamicEQ allows you to listen to movie sound effects even at low volumes. Great feature for my case who is always alone, locked in my home theater late at night trying not to bother wife and kids
3. Sound effects for movies are great. Great sound pressure makes movies come to live. Same movies have a different experience driven by the good dynamics and good chanel separation and effects from 7.1.
4. Internet radio was a nice surprise. Works well. Reasonable good sound quality from some of the internet stations. Allows us to appreciate the most crazy transmitions from all over the world
5. AFTER 3 MONTHS OF USE AND TWEAKS, THE BRIDGING(BTL)FEATURE THAT DOUBLES THE POWER FOR THE FRONT SPEAKERS HAS IMPROVED BASS RESPONSE SIGNIFICANTLY. PRETTY GOOD FOR STEREO.
B) Cons and negative surprises
1. Pure audio stereo or with multi channel hi-res sources don't sound better than the old TX-DS989. Dynamic, composure and sound stage sounded better on the old model. Maybe it is a matter of fine tune. Let's see. Did not try bi-amp features yet.(CHANGED MY OPINION AFTER 3 MONTHS OF USE AND TUNNING. FOUND OUT THAT DYNAMICEQ MODE FROM AUDISSEY SEEMS TO BE NICE FOR MOVIES ONLY. SEEMS TO SCREWS UP STEREO OR HI-DEF AUDIO EXPERIENCES. SOUND WILL SOUND FLAT LOSING SOUND STAGE, DYNAMICS, TEXTURE....IF YOU ARE LIKE ME AND WANT ALSO TO USE IT AS A HI-FI STEREO AMP, SETUP THE EQUALIZER MANUALLY WHEN LISTENING TO SERIOUS STEREO SOURCES)
2. Sync time of hdmi takes a little too long. Nothing too serious
3. CONTRARY TO WHAT SAYS THE MANUAL IT CAN DRIVE 5.1 CHANNELS EVEN IF YOU BRIDGE THE FRONT SPEAKERS DOUBLING THE POWER SENT TO THE MAIN SPEAKERS. THE MANUAL STATES THAT IT COULD ONLY DRIVE 2.1 SPEAKERS AT THE MAIN ROON WHEN BRIDGING. WRONG. IT DOES BETTER THAN THAT ! MANUAL IS NOT GREAT OVERALL
Overall a very good product, very solid build and loaded with features. Great for very complete home theater AND STEREO EXPERIENCES. MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE. RECCOMEND NOT TO USE DYNAMICEQ IF YOU WANT TO LISTEN TO STEREO MUSIC. WOULD GIVE 5 STARS NOW.
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:
Outstanding Onkyo
(5 out of 5) by Steve Fisher on Jan 18, 2009 (Heaven, er, Iowa)I was looking for a receiver with all the connections needed to connect it to the world, and this Onkyo has them. I particularly wanted a network connection, HD radio, iRadio and HDMI inputs and outputs, with upwards conversion, plus a 'real' power transformer, which happens to be a torroidal type in this case, and this model featured all of what I needed. The Onkyo replaced a Yamaha RX-V2095, and was purchased over a Denon 4308 that I had been considering. Aside from what the Onkyo specs are and what the manual says, both of which I won't repeat here, it does have very good sound and video quality, along with very good sound stage imaging on 5.1 surround mode. I lack two extra speakers for 7.1 surround, but I have no doubt it'll sound just as good. Setting it up does take a little time, which can be done anytime. There is a plethora of adjustments to make if you so desire (an A/V lover's dream come true for tweaking), or you can leave them at their default settings. The built-in EQ adjustment using the supplied microphone is a combination warble and sweep tone generator. My home built speakers and subs sounded great to start with, and now they sound even better. To program it for internet radio stations, you can either input the URL through the remote, or access through your home network on your computer, and type in the URL's from there, which is much easier. Accessing an online media storage device for music is easy, which displays a directory type structure layout. The menu system for navigating networked media could have been better, but it is very simple to use and straight forward. It does take a few seconds or so to switch from one source to the next, but I believe that has more to do with testing the HDMI audio/video signals to see how they are encoded from the source and what viewing/listening mode they are in, plus some encoded copyrights stuff is passed along the HDMI connections, further delaying the switching. It's a little annoying, but you get used to it. As more things become more compatible with each other, this kind of annoyance will probably go away. I'm not disappointed at all in this Onkyo. It has a great price point and has more value than other competing models priced higher. I have an Xbox 360, networked media, a regular DVD player and DirecTV receiver connected, and all are happily co-existing.