Onkyo announced two entry-level home theater in a box (HTiB) packages. Each system combines a high-value audio video receiver with a matched set of home theater speakers to take the guesswork out of purchasing a surround sound system.
The HT-S3500 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver/Speaker Package offers outstanding audio performance, abundant HDMI connectivity, and unbeatable value for money. Users seeking to power larger rooms might consider investing in the step-up HT-S5500 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver/Speaker Package, which includes an Audyssey room acoustic correction system and an upgraded speaker package.
HT-S3500
Four HDMI inputs on both receivers facilitate Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio high-resolution soundtrack decoding. HDMI implementation also supports an Audio Return Channel for TV audio through the home theater system, 3D video, and an overlaid on-screen display.
Both receivers also feature a frontside USB port for direct digital connection of an iPod, iPhone, or music-filled flash memory device. Users can control playback using the system remote, and enjoy improved sound quality thanks to Onkyo’s onboard advanced music optimizer system.
The A/V receivers included in this release now come equipped with WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology), a proven amplification concept that reduces signal noise and provides large amounts of controlled power instantaneously. Top-quality TI Burr-Brown 192 kHz/24-bit DACs on all channels, a powerful 32-bit DSP processing chip, and discrete output-stage components–not inexpensive ‘all-in-one’ amplifier chips–contribute to exceptionally good audio performance.
The HT-S3500 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver/Speaker Package consists of the HT-R391 A/V receiver, two high-gloss bass reflex front speakers, two satellite surrounds, and a powerful bass reflex center speaker. A subwoofer with 8-inch (20 cm) down-firing cone is also included to add impact to movie scores and game soundtracks.
HT-S5500
Users can step up to seven-channel surround with the higher-powered HT-S5500 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver/Speaker Package. With Dolby Pro Logic IIz expanding any audio source to include two additional Front Height channels, users can enjoy a more detailed and realistic entertainment experience.
A carefully matched Onkyo speaker set delivers clear, dynamic audio reproduction. Two-way front speakers feature a 5-inch (12 cm) OMF Diaphragm woofer for fast and accurate mid-range response, plus a balanced-dome tweeter for well-separated highs. The center speaker has twin cone woofers and tweeter, while the four bass reflex satellite speakers feature a single full-range driver. A gloss-finished 120-watt powered subwoofer allows the receiver to operate more efficiently by concentrating all its power on the mid-range and upper-end frequencies.
To ensure a perfect install, an Audyssey 2EQ room acoustic correction system with microphone is included, while Audyssey’s Dynamic EQ loudness correction and Dynamic Volume guarantee a smooth, consistent performance regardless of sudden changes in dynamic levels.
For users making their first foray into the world of home theater, these two packages offer simple installation, stress-free operation, and sparkling performance. The attractive price points may even prompt many current home theater owners to invest in a second surround sound system for another room in the home.
Price and Availability
Onkyo HT-S5500 (7.1 System) → $649 (available March 2012)
Onkyo HT-S3500 (5.1 System) → $399 (available March 2012)
