Onkyo TX-DS777 A/V Receivers

Onkyo TX-DS777 A/V Receivers 

USER REVIEWS

Showing 171-180 of 215  
[May 26, 2000]
J
Audio Enthusiast

Strength:

see below

Weakness:

Yes, my model is new and it clicks as you turn the volume up or down

I read a lot of reviews for this receiver, talked to a lot of seasoned audiophiles and auditioned this unit in the store. After all this research and testing, I was convinced that I should go buy it. I have been completely satisfied until today. I was listening to a particular CD and adjusting the volume when I noticed a faint clicking noise. As I turned the volume up, the clicks became more and more audible to the point where it was downright annoying. There are so many good things about this receiver it is a shame that I should complain about something so minute as "clicking" noises when the volume is turned up or down. The matter is, that the clicking is there. Period. I don't know if all units have this clicking problem, but mine certainly does. I cannot begin to say anything positive about this receiver without the clicking issue resolved. Perhaps then it is not good of me to write this review, and have people shy away from buying this product. If this review has any impact on readers whatsoever, I would wish that it would encourage people to LISTEN to the product before you buy it. Pop in some discs and adjust the volume. Turn the nob slow and fast. Experiment, and listen carefully. Wouldn't you agree that it is better to walk out of the store with a unit that works rather then finding out you have a problem when you get home and have to go through all the trouble of taking it back? I'm going to return my unit tomorrow and see if I can listen to a new one out of the box before I exchange it. If I have the same problem again, then I am seriously considering trading it in and purchasing the Denon AVR-3300.

OVERALL
RATING
5
VALUE
RATING
5
[Sep 30, 1999]
Onkyo USA
an Audiophile

At Onkyo we are proud of the quality of our products and the service that we provide our customers. At this time, however, we have become aware of a situation with the TX-DS 777.
In the case of the TX-DS 777 (USA model only), we have detected a minor software glitch in the microprocessor on several units in the initial product run of this model. This results in a momentary loss of audio in all 5 channels and an audible static noise. Not ALL TX-DS 777 have this problem. However, we have a clear responsibility to make sure that all the products that we ship are in 100% perfect working order.

Units bearing serial numbers that fall with in this category 1970020001-1970025000, and 2970020001-2970025000 could potentially contain this glitch.
We are contacting customers who have purchased this piece, and asking anyone who has purchased a TX-DS 777 with serial numbers that fall with in this category to contact Onkyo at 1-800-229-1687 and make arrangements to get their unit exchanged at our expense. So, we can be assured that they have a perfect working unit.

A UPS NEXT DAY pickup will be arranged and once the unit is received in our warehouse a new unit will be shipped out OVERNIGHT delivery to the customer. While we would certainly prefer not to have any problems with our products, we are very serious about our responsibility to our customers and will do our utmost to assure their satisfaction.


OVERALL
RATING
5
VALUE
RATING
[Sep 29, 1999]
Scott
an Audio Enthusiast

What a horror story...Are you having problems with Onkyo customer service? I purchased a TX-DS777 from Onecall a few weeks ago and liked the unit. On Monday the 27th I received a call from Joe At Onkyo (1-800-225-1946 ext 345)who informed me there were defective units out there and Onkyo was recalling them for replacement.
I was not happy, but at least they were taking the time to contact customers and get the problem resolved. What got me frustrated and angry was way Onkyo was handling the return. I specifically asked Joe how this would be handled. He said a UPS call tag would be issued, the receiver picked up and shipped to Onkyo via UPS gound and once it was received they would ship me a replacement. I querried how that would be handled and how long it would take...his reply..."Its all UPS gound and will take 3-5 days each way"

On Tuesday the 28th I got a follow up call from John the Tech Customer Service Supervisor (1-800-229-1687 Ext 331) who assured me a call tag had been issued and that Joe was not clear that the return shipping on the replacement would be overnighted to the customer. I was happy that they attempted to follow up but still frustrated the staff didn't have a good grasp of the details before they started the original calls to customers.

Today, Wednesday the 29th, the Unit still had not been picked up by UPS. I called (1-800-229-1687 Ext 331) and attempted to follow up with John. He was not available so I left my name and # with another rep who said he would check on it. Late that afternoon I got a call back from this same rep who claimed UPS had picked up the unit. He got rather indignant when I told him the unit was still sitting at my house! He said he'd check on it and call me right back.

Well, its after Onkyo's business hours and I haven't gotten a reply.

I contacted UPS customer service and asked about "Call Tags" The rep their informed me that they take 2 business days for pick up AFTER they are issued. Obviously Onkyo has not done their research and is just spewing out trash to their customers.

After Joe assured me the unit would be picked up on Tuesday, it is still sitting at my house! I don't know about the rest of you folks, but I can't sit around the house all day waiting for UPS, much less the time that I am out of a stereo that I payed big $$$$ for!

Anyone else have horror stories about Onkyo...I'd love to hear them.

Scott

OVERALL
RATING
1
VALUE
RATING
[Apr 12, 2000]
Lon
Audio Enthusiast

Strength:

Superb sound quality,with Dolby Digital..DTS..THX Certification and 5 Channel Stereo Capabilities, and Inputs galore. What more could one ask for in a Receiver??!?!!

Weakness:

None......being picky I will say it runs a little warm.

This receiver has to be the best I have owned. I must admit that reading the previous reviews I was a little apprehensive in purchasing this unit. Quite a few reviews have been posted concerning a "Hum & Hiss" problem. So I thought I'd move down to the next model or so and see if they were experiencing the same problem. I came across a review by a gentleman who was in close contact with Onkyo's Headquarters in Asia. I e-mailed him asking for some help, since I had not received a reply from Onkyo's customer service concerning the "Hiss & Hum" problem. What follows is the prompt response I received from him:

Onkyo Model#777 (USA model only)..detected minor software glitch in the microprocessor in initial process run, also an audible static noise. Units bearing serial numbers 1970020001-1970025000 and 2970020001-2970025000 could potentially contain this glitch. Customers with units that fall within these serial numbers are to call Onkyo at 1-800-229-1687 and make arrangements to get their units exchanged at Onkyo's expense. So, we can be assured that they have a perfect working unit. A UPS NEXT DAY pickup will be arranged and once the unit is received in our warehousea new unit will be shipped out OVERNIGHT delivery to the customer.

So after receiving this e-mail and checking with a sales consultant at the local audio store, I purchased the 777. And I couldn't be more pleased with its performance!! Pure, crisp, clear sound.....and not a "Hiss or Hum". I did run all new MONSTER CABLE. Hope this has cleared up some doubts on this receiver. Give one a listen, you'll be pleased with what you hear, and that is the most important factor!! I did audition the Denon, Yamaha, and Marantz receivers, but narrowed it down between the Yamaha 795a and the Onkyo 777. I decided on the Onkyo for the extra 5-channel stereo sound capabilities. It works out well in a large room, and mine is 25'x25' with 12' cathedral ceilings. Denon and Marantz were warmer in contrast to the Yamaha and Onkyo which were brighter and more detailed over the same music. Tried to keep speakers of the same quality and price range when auditioning. Used B&W 601s, NHT SuperZero & SuperOnes, Polk RT-55s, and Paradigm Minis, and PSB Image 2Bs. Took quite a few trips and as many hours to narrow the field down. In some cases; a very close decision!!

My setup:
Fronts: Paradigm Mini Monitors
Center: Paradigm CC-350
Rears: Paradigm Mini Monitors
Sub: Velodyne CT-100
DVD: Toshiba SD-3109
CD: Onkyo DX-C730
TV: Toshiba 61"

And here's the bottom line: If you LIKE what you SEE and
LOVE what you HEAR...go for it!!

Similar Products Used:

Nikko, Pioneer, Yamaha

OVERALL
RATING
5
VALUE
RATING
5
[Jan 09, 2000]
Carter Jackson
Audio Enthusiast

Strength:

Bright, full, sound at the store ... when working properly

Weakness:

Coaxial & optical inputs, signal distribution, remote & programming functions, NO return call from ONKYO ...

Sent it back ... NO, absolutely NO support after 2 calls to ONKYO ... All digital inputs were faulty ... remote and OSP were confusing ... manual is absolutely the pits.

I bought this product on its reputation only to find out the customer support was nil and quality control zero.

Similar Products Used:

Yamaha DSP A1000, Marantz 2270

OVERALL
RATING
1
VALUE
RATING
2
[Oct 24, 1999]
John
Audio Enthusiast

Strength:

Power, Ease of Use, THX,programable remote, assignable digital inputs

Weakness:

none found yet

Well, this was worth the wait for the 777(B) model. I love the 5 channel Stereo mode. I have been going through my laser disc and DVD collection and properly hearing some movies for the first time. I have really enjoyed listening to CD’s in the 5 channel stereo mode. I love the fact that the Sub outputs are on all the time. The remote is really easy to use and programmable. It will probably take me a week to program the remote, but it will be worth it to consolidate to one remote and one source selection. The pure 105watts of power drives my Infinity Studio Monitors incredibly. I also like the fact that the 777 lets you set a base level limit so your sub will never clip.

I previously had to change SVHS inputs on an outboard JVC video switch.

I previously tested the Sony ES STR-DA333 and it lacks flexibility, and the controls and remote were horrible. The sub outputs were only active during DSP or Surround modes and when the sub output was active their output levels were always too high. After only a week with the Sony I was sick of waiting for the 2 way remote to talk to the receiver. Thank god for Crutchfields 30 day return policy. Enough about the Sony.

I heard no hiss or had any problems with this model. The only problem I had was that this unit is so heavy (huge power transformers!! ) I think it is going to bend my bakers rack.

Price paid $899.00 Where:???

Similar Products Used:

Sony STR-DA333

OVERALL
RATING
5
VALUE
RATING
4
[Jan 30, 2001]
ross
Casual Listener

Strength:

Too many to list

Weakness:

none

I can only repeat what most have said already. A fantastic unit with heaps of power for both music and watching movies. I purchased it based on reviews and features. The digital inputs are adequate, backlit remote helps while watching movies and the extended warranty was appealing. Won out in all the in-store comparisons I did over the Yamaha and Sony. Highly recommend any Onkyo reveiver.

OVERALL
RATING
4
VALUE
RATING
4
[Jan 25, 2000]
Audiophile
Audiophile

Strength:

Clean, Clear Sound.

Weakness:

HUM NOISE in Center Channel(serial number ends with a B); HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE

I have read the many reviews posted here about the hum
noise. I figured these were older unit and Onkyo had
finally resolved the problem. Unfortunately, I also
have the HUM NOISE in the center channel. When I change
the volume using the remote, I can hear the pulses of the IR being sent to the receiver. Keep in mind, I have the
unit connected to a Monster Cable HTS-2500 Line Conditioner
so it is not my AC line that is dirty but poor quality QA
of Onkyo. So far I have had no success in getting support
from them for a service center for repair.

They Only have 2 phone number to contact them and you will
never reach anyone but have to leave a message. It has been
3 days and no one has called me back. One of the customer
service reps that I have been in contact via email has
given me the brush off and said my warranty is void because
I did not not buy the 777 from an authorized dealer which is BS. He never answered any questions I have regarding features of the Onkyo but just told me to call him at the
number that you can never reach anyone.

I am very upset and disappointed in getting the Onkyo.
I should have gone with Denon or Sony instead. Before you
buy, check for the customer service support and see if
you will be able to contact anyone for support!

From my first and last experience with Onkyo, I rate the
unit itself a 3 and customer service a ZERO!

Similar Products Used:

Denon 3300

OVERALL
RATING
1
VALUE
RATING
3
[Jan 28, 2000]
Tim Moore
Audio Enthusiast

Strength:

Incredible sound stage, useful DSP modes, pre-amp I/O, nice bass adjustment for near sub-woofer low end.

Weakness:

Poor manual detail and clarity, center channel hum problem.

Macro programmable control, 2 video I/O connects, 2 video in connects, 2 digital ins, 1 digital out + usual tape, phono et al. Excellent sound. Working with retailer and Onyko rep to determine if the center hum is a manufacturing lot problem, otherwise [sadly] back it goes. If you buy from a store make sure to listen to only the center channel under signal load and noload conditions. Difference between the 777 and 676 is THX, pre-amp I/O and 105 vs 85 watts per channel at a $200 premium. The Re-EQ might be an acceptable THX replacement to most ears so give the 676 a listen. Paid $949 at Cambridge SoundWorks.

Similar Products Used:

First Surround/digital capable receiver. Replaced Denon PMA500.

OVERALL
RATING
5
VALUE
RATING
4
[Jan 31, 2000]
Mike Aclin
Casual Listener

Strength:

Beautiful sound, solid build

Weakness:

manual could be a little clearer in spots

Well, after looking at all the web sites and reviews for HT receivers, I was going to decide between the Onkyo 676 and the Denon AVR-2800. I really wanted the Onkyo, but about half the reviews tended to memtion the 'hiss and hum' which had me concerned, but I decided to go with it anyway. Now,
a word of warning. I contacted a local Onkyo repair shop, and asked him if it mattered if I bought the unit from an "authorized" Onkyo seller or not. He said it did. Onkyo would not honor otherwise. The best price I could find on the 676 was $569 fro Bestpriceaudiovido.com. The told me they were an authorized Onkyo dealer. Sinse I was worried I would get one of the "hiss or hum" models, I asked them about their return policy. There's is a 30 day exchange or refund policy. I was just about ready to order when I found out they were selling refurbished TX-DS777 models for $650!
I thought, these units being just from the factory, they should already be clear of the hiss and hum problem, so I went ahead and ordered one. It came in about a week ago, and
the sound out of this thing is great. No hiss or hum anywhere. The imaging using Dolby digital, and the THX enhancement is amazing to listen to, especially if your watching a "action" type movie. One bad thing about getting a refurbished unit. Onkyo only backs them for one year, instead of their usual two. I bought mine with a credit card that adds an additional year to the warranty, so I end up with two anyway!
So, my advise is, if you really want an Onkyo, but are worried about the hiss and hum, consider a refurbished unit.
$650 for a 777 that most retailers sell for $1000, can't be beat. Plus, having the factory recently work on it, should
guaratee that the hiss and hum not be a problem. Hope this helps any future Onkyo buyers.

Mike

Similar Products Used:

Sony

OVERALL
RATING
5
VALUE
RATING
5
Showing 171-180 of 215  

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