Best Performance vs. Price 7.1 AVR

Onkyo TX-SR606 (NOTE: Replaces Yamaha RX-V1300 AVR)

Order Placed: ............. August 4, 2008 (Amazon)
Received / installed: ... August 7, 2008 

FEATURES:
• HDMI V1.3a repeater (4 In/1 Out, 1080p compatible)
• HDMI Video Upconversion
• HDMI Deep Color Capable (36bit)
• 1080i Upscaling powered by Faroudja DCDi Edge
• Power: 90 watts per channel (8ohms 20-20kHz, 0.08% THD)
• High Instantaneous Current Capability - 36A
• Decoding: DD Plus, TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio
• DAC's: 192K/24 Bit DACs - Not Burr Brown!
• Audio I/O: 7 / 2
• Component Video (50MHz): 2 Inputs/1 Out
• Video Processing: Faroudja DCDi Cinema
• Adjustable Crossover: 40/50/60/80/100/120/150/200Hz
• Powered Zone2
• iPod Ready (requires optional iPod base)
• SIRIUS Radio Ready
• Audyssey 2EQ Room Correction 3-Location Calibration System
• Audyssey Dynamic EQ

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RESEARCH BEFORE PURCHASE:

POSSIBLE ISSUES:
1) BUZZ or HISS PROBLEMS???
I think some of the problems arose with a few TX-SR606 & PS3 HDMI combinations. I don't have a PS3 so I can't comment on that.

NON-ISSUE: NO Problems with HUMM or HISS or any artificial noise when I'm playing my Blu-ray or HD DVD Movies @ -10 dBc below REF Level (w/approx. 106 dBc Fast LFE SPL Peaks)!

2) HEAT:
Onkyo adds the following Caution Label ... http://img385.imageshack.us/img385/6150/onkyoheatcautionlabelaq0.jpg
... and my TX-SR606 is on top of a small 3-shelf equipment rack - so, NO Problems related w/HEAT!

NOTE: The first weekend, I left it on for 17 hours (6AM - 11PM) Saturday (8-30-08), playing CD's, AM/FM Radio, DVR and HD DVD / Blu-ray discs later in the evening @ near REF Level SPL's with no Buzz, Hiss or Heat issues!!! As of this review, the Onkyo TX-SR606 continues to perform admirably!!!

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SETUP:
Relatively easy (except pulling out the old dusty wires**)!

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EQUIPMENT:

Onkyo TX-SR606 - HDMI INput (for Video & Hi-Def Audio)
1) Sony BDP-S350 Blu-ray Player
2) Toshiba HD-A35 HD DVD Player
.... a) **Originally used 6-CH Analog to hear HD DVD Dolby Digital TrueHD 5.1!!! 8^D

Onkyo TX-SR606 - HDMI OUTput:
1) Toshiba 62HM196 HDTV

NOTE: Everything else (DVR/HDR RCA 80GB, etc.) connected directly to my Toshiba 62HM196 HDTV!

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PERFORMANCE:
1) -5 dBc BELOW REFERENCE LEVEL:
For kicks, I just put on the Blu-ray ID-4 - DTS HD 5.1 Master Audio, the final battle scene and turned-up the TX-SR606 volume to 55, which with this Blu-ray audio soundtrack turned out to be approx. -5 dBc below REF Level (w/approx. 1 LFE SPL Fast Peak hitting 110dB :) - most bombastic sub-sonic LFE SPL Fast Peaks around 103-107dB) and the sound didn't hardened up like my ole' Yamaha RX-V1300!!! It was Clear & Dynamic All-360-degrees-Around!!!

Pressing PAUSE and the speakers were SILENT!!!

The 360-degree seamless surround sound was smooth around me, w/more distinct discrete effects, the dialog track was very clear, balanced to the action scenes around it, and it sounded like the Onkyo was breathing life into a very familiar movie soundtrack effortlessly!!!

NOTE: HT/family room 20' x 30' w/10' high vaulted ceiling room.
http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/1132600699032577752nHNvsb

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ONKYO ADVANTAGE:

AUDYSSEY 2EQ / DYNAMIC EQ:
It's just amazing what the Audyssey 2EQ equalized HT System ... Sounds ... vs. a manually Referenced Audio Calibration (RS SPL Meter & Test Tone).

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AUDYSSEY 2EQ RESULTS IN MY HT ROOM:
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2-2. Speaker Configuration
Subwoofer ........ Yes
Front ................ 60Hz (originally = FULL)
Center .............. 60Hz (originally = 60Hz)
Surround ........... 60Hz (originally = FULL)
Surr Back ......... 60Hz (originally = FULL)
Surr Back Ch .... 2ch
LPF of LFE ....... 120Hz (originally = 80Hz)

NOTE: Curious what the Onkyo Audyssey Setup Screen looks like??? Copy the following links to your browser!

http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/2242212490032577752zGktYQ

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2-3. Speaker Distance
Left .................... 9.0ft
Center ................ 8.0ft
Right .................. 9.0ft
Surr Right ........... 11.0ft
Surr Back R ........ 11.0ft
Surr Back L ........ 11.0ft
Surr Left ............. 10.0ft
Subwoofer .......... 12.0ft

http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/2131436910032577752UENPJn

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2-4. Level Calibration
Left .................... -2.0dB
Center ................ -10.0dB (changed to -8.0dB)
Right .................. -2.0dB
Surr Right ............ 0.0dB
Surr Back R ........ -2.0dB
Surr Back L ........ -2.0dB
Surr Left ............. -1.0dB
Subwoofer .......... -15.0dB (changed to -11.0dB)

http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/2181780600032577752ePRjrc

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I'm just surprised (using my example) how implementing a simple, 3-Measurement Location Calibration System** can IMPROVE the OVERALL 360-degree seamless surround soundstage w/greater clarity and depth!

You don't have to spend $799+ (think my ole' Yamaha RX-V1300) to achieve sonic bliss w/HD audio with the right speakers anymore, and products that utilize the Audyssey system makes it possible for modest HT Speaker Systems (w/TX-SR606) to compare and hear those subtle differences.

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**Onkyo TX-SR606 Audyssey System Description:
1) 2EQ: Measures 3 room positions, uses a basic resolution filter for the satellites. - Amazing results!!!

.... a) Audyssey 2EQ Features:
........ 1. Crossover
........ 2. Polarity
........ 3. Delays
........ 4. Levels
........ 5. Dynamic Frequency Allocation

2) Dynamic EQ: As you turn the volume up or down, Audyssey Dynamic EQ maintains consistent bass response, tonal balance and surround impression. - This is even more amazing!
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I can say that the claims that the Audyssey 2EQ takes into account the speakers, frequency response and HT room interaction during the 3-position measurement process does work & it's amazing!!!

Based on what I hear from my HD DVD & Blu-ray TrueHD & DTS HD Master Audio discs - blockbuster movies w/dynamics & seamless 360-degree surround soundtracks - it's like experiencing a new sound design w/the familiar movie soundstage because of a slightly more 3D-like seperation in effects, including their depth and distinct clarity as designed by the Sound Mixer.

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EXTERNAL PROFESSIONAL REVIEWS:
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1) David Vaughn - June, 2008 - UltimateAVmag review ... http://ultimateavmag.com/avreceivers/608onk606/index2.html

=============[quote]
(about "Jumper" Blu-ray - DTS-HD 5.1 Master Audio) "The Onkyo handled the many "jumps" with exceptional impact and clarity. "

(about M. Night Shymalan's "Signs" Blu-ray - PCM 5.1-channel soundtrack) "... Signs is a much more balanced affair with an engaging score, discrete sound effects, and effective silence. The 606 seamlessly blended the soundtrack's dynamics with amazing clarity."

(about "Cloverfield" Blu-ray - TrueHD 5.1) "... nearly perfect Dolby TrueHD 5.1 soundtrack. The Onkyo's ability to dispense tight, sternum-thumping bass was clearly demonstrated with one of the most bass-intensive mixes I have ever heard. In addition, panning effects moved effortlessly around the room, and dialog intelligibility was perfectly clear from this budget-class AVR. "

(concerning CD music) "Listening to CDs in default mode without the Audyssey room correction, the AVR was very bright, with an emphasis on the high end at the expense of the mid-range and bass. Employing Audyssey vastly improved the audio experience with both stereo and multichannel recordings.

Jimmy Buffet's classic song "Margaritaville" sounded lifeless with no room correction, but with Audyssey enabled, Buffet's six-string came alive, and the smooth rhythm of the lyrics had me looking for the tequila and margarita mix. The bass was powerful and dynamic within the 2-channel soundstage. Engaging All-Channel Stereo mode demonstrated the impressive power of the Onkyo's internal amplifiers, which never sounded strained, even at very high volume."
============= [unquote]

NOTE: Select the link above to read the entire Onkyo TX-SR606 Review. David Vaughn comments about the heat in the review, ... but had no comments or issues w/buzz, hiss, etc.


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2) Kim Wilson - August, 2008 Home Theater Magazine review ... http://hometheatermag.com/receivers/808onk/index.html

=============[quote]
Once you start listening to the high-resolution audio formats, you’ll never be satisfied with Dolby Digital again. There’s a marked improvement in coherency that brings the soundtrack to life. The various film elements (dialogue, music, and effects) are more defined, and a fuller and more robust presentation in the center channel makes dialogue clearer and more intelligible.

The soundtrack on The Matrix Reloaded is incredibly dynamic, and the Onkyo’s 90-watt-per-channel amp handled the movie’s high-velocity car-chase scene extremely well. I turned it up pretty loud to see if I could get the Onkyo to distort or show signs of stress, and it never did.

Conclusion:
Isn’t it obvious? I really liked the TX-SR606. If this is any indication of the AVRs to come, the future is brighter and happily less expensive for a quality A/V experience. The TX-SR606 performs solidly with a feature set that is difficult to beat at $579. Audio reproduction was very good, with excellent dynamic range and channel separation. Video conversion of standard-def sources also impressed me. The TX-SR606 is squarely aimed toward the consumer who wants a reasonably priced AVR but wants to get the most out of their new HDTV and Blu-ray player. This is far and away the best AVR under $600 (heck, under $1,000) that I have had the pleasure to review.

Highlights
- Four HDMI (version 1.3a) inputs provide access for up to four high-definition sources
- Built-in decoders for Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio
- Exceptional sonic performer
============= [unquote]

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FINAL THOUGHTS:
I've been evaluating my Onkyo since August 7th and can honestly say that the Onkyo TX-SR606 is The Best Priced vs. Performance ... TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio w/4 HDMI AVR today!!!

Playing around with different sound formats as mentioned above, ... I agree with David & Kim's review concerning the Audyssey 2EQ / Dynamic EQ system & it's effectiveness w/Blu-ray & HD DVDs!!!

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Highly Recommended!!!

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--- Some GREAT Blu-ray Movie Demo's to SHOW OFF Onkyo TX-SR606 Hi-Def Audio:

dts-HD Master Audio 5.1 Great DEMOs!
1) I, Robot (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
2) Independence Day (that is if you like that movie, ... which I do!!! - Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
3) Flyboys
4) The Day After Tomorrow
5) Flight of the Phoenix (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
6) Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)

dts-HD Master Audio 6.1 Great DEMO!
1) Wall-E (impressive 360-degree seamless surround)

dts-HD Master Audio 7.1 Great DEMO!
1) Forbidden Kingdom (impressive 360-degree seamless surround)

Dolby Digital TrueHD 5.1 Great DEMOs!:
1) Ironman (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
2) Dark Knight (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
3) Transformers (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
4) Spiderman 3
5) The Fifth Element (Re-Issue)
6) Legend of Zorro
7) Hancock 

PCM 5.1 Uncompressed Surround:
1) Chicago  (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
2) Bridge to Terabithia
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--- Some GREAT HD DVD Movie Demo's to SHOW OFF Onkyo TX-SR606 Hi-Def Audio:

Dolby Digital TrueHD 5.1 Great DEMOs!:
1) Batman Begins (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
2) I Am Legend
3) Superman Returns
4) The Phantom of the Opera (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
5) Bourne Ultimatum
6) Happy Feet (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)

dts-HD Master Audio 5.1 Great DEMO!
1) Tristan & Isolde (Dutch Import)
2) Musicares Person of the Year Tribute - James Taylor

Dolby Digital Plus 5.1 Great DEMOs!
1) Transformers (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
2) Sahara (Impressive & dynamic INTRO - Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
3) Serenity (Excellent 360-seamless discrete surrounds - Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
4) Bourne Identity
5) Seabiscuit
6) King Kong (Turn it up to -10 below REF LEVEL!!!)
7) Tremors
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NOTE: -10 dBc below REF Level (w/approx. 105/106 dBc LFE SPL Fast Peaks --- Radio Shack Analog SPL Meter settings: Dial = 100 / Speed = FAST / Weight = C)

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Associated equipment:
SPEAKERS: JBL Studio (Original) Series Speakers:
1) CENTER (Feb. '02): .................... JBL S-Center
2) FRONTS (Feb. '02): .................... JBL S26
3) SIDE SURROUNDS (Feb. '02): .... JBL S26
4) REAR CENTERS (Apr. '03): ......... JBL S26
PWR-SUB: .................................... SVS 25-31PCi 320w BASH Amp 12" Sub-woofer (Apr. '02)
BLU-RAY DVD PLAYER: ................ Sony BDP-S350 1080i/p HDMI Blu-ray (Aug. 6. 2008)
HD DVD PLAYER: ......................... Toshiba HD-A35 1080i/p HDMI HD DVD (Nov. 23. 2007)
HDTV: ........................................... Toshiba 62HM196 62" 16:9 1080p DLP HDTV (Nov. 2006)
CD: ............................................... Technics SL-MC410 110+1 Mega CD Changer
DVR / HDR: ................................... RCA DRC8030N 80GB HDR-DVR Recorder
DVR/VCR: ..................................... Samsung DVD-VR330 DVR-VCR Combo
SATELLITE RADIO: ........................ DELPHI XMSKYFI Home Kit w/Remote
CABLES: ....................................... Monster & Interconnects

FYI: Visit my HT Website for more INFO: http://www.geocities.com/p_iturra/