7.1-Channel models include XM Satellite Radio capability, Enhanced iPod RI dock compatibility, plus available THX Select2 certification and HDMI switching.
Onkyo has introduced three new home theater receivers that mark the first integration of XM satellite radio capability in any of the company’s products. Each model features a full suite of 7.1-channel processing, automatic speaker setup with included microphone, enhanced compatibility with Onkyo’s recently introduced DS-A1 Remote Interactive (RI) iPod control dock, and the company’s exclusive Powered Zone2 capability. The top two models, the TX-SR803 and TX-SR703 feature THX Select2 certification. The TX-SR803 also includes the capability to switch between two HDMI sources.
“If you look at the recent history of consumer audio, the two developments that stand out above everything else are Satellite radio and the iPod,” comments Onkyo USA National Product and Marketing Manager Don Milks. “This new receiver line makes it simpler than ever for consumers to bring both of these technologies into their living room.”
The Onkyo TX-SR803, TX-SR703, and TX-SR603X include XM Satellite Radio’s Connect and Play capability that allows consumers to subscribe and receive 150 commercial-free music, news, talk, and entertainment programming. Onkyo has also designed each of the new models to take complete advantage of the company’s recently introduced DS-A1 Remote Interactive iPod dock. With the iPod placed in the dock, it becomes a source component for not only audio playback, but also for photography stored in iPod photo units. Controls for the iPod such as play, pause, stop, skip, random and playlist access can all be operated via the Onkyo receiver’s remote controller. Additionally, the dock is capable of recharging the iPod batteries while it is in use.
Each of the new receivers includes an automatic speaker setup feature that makes calibrating a home theater system to its acoustical environment simple and fast. With the included microphone in the listening position, the receiver sends test signals to each speaker in turn, then uses the input from the microphone to adjust channel level and time delay settings for each speaker.
The Onkyo TX-SR703 and TX-SR803 are among the first home theater receivers to carry the THX Select2 certification, which incorporates many elements of the THX Ultra2 standard, including Ultra2’s multichannel audio and game modes, and the ability to deliver 7.1-channel playback of any 5.1-channel source material. THX Select2 certification ensures that these receivers meet all THX performance standards and specifications in small to medium sized listening rooms.
Price and Availability
- The Onkyo TX-SR803 is rated at 105 watts per channel into an 8-ohm load. It will be available in October in both black and silver finishes at a suggested retail price of $1,000.
- The Onkyo TX-SR703 is rated at 100 watts per channel into an 8-ohm load. It will be available in October in both black and silver finishes at a suggested retail price of $800.
- The Onkyo TX-SR603X is rated at 90 watts per channel into an 8-ohm load. It will be available in September in both black and silver finishes at a suggested retail price of $500.
Onkyo, which means ‘audio’ or ‘sound’ in Japanese, has been producing precision audio components for over a half-century. The company’s philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit www.onkyousa.com or call 800-229-1687.
