Great HT Processing, True seven channel without needing additional apm,componant video,OSD, decent manual,

musical sound quality, Onkyo customer service,

On the first receiver I purchased the remote would lose functionality as the receiver heated up. First I would have to press the buttons several times then after a 3 or 4 hours it would not work at all. Dealer swapped out remote and it did the same thing. While waiting for the replacement receiver the optical 1 stopped working. Onkyo customer service has no parts for this receiver yet so everything has to be reboxed and sent back. Don't buy this receiver online until they have parts in stock.

Second receiver worked like a champ right out of the box. The HT processing in this reiceiver is second to none under $2000. You can't touch componant video in/out for $750 which really makes this future proof. THX is for the most part marketing but it is a standard for processing that most recievers in this price range avoid. The individual speaker audio options are excellent for setting up HT. I feel that the 100W per channel is a little overated but it will still shake the neighbors house running large fronts/center,a good sub and studio monitor rears.

Having older Marantz and Harmon Kardon receivers in another room clearly left the musical quality of the Onkyo disapointing. The bass is weak and the highs are definetly very bright. I would avoid metal dome tweeters for music lisening. It is however competative with the other AV receivers in this price range.
If HT is your primary concern and respectable audio is tolerable to you this is the best deal out there hands down.
I gave it 4 stars on overall because of the bad first receiver and because Onkyo has no parts at Corporate Service Center to support local authorized sevice centers.

Similar Products Used:

Marantz SR7000,HK AVR7000,Dennon AVR-3801,Yamaha RX-V1000

Strong,clean power at high levels with no sense of strain,very easy to use, built in zone 2 amp, component video inputs will pass HDTV signals without any signal loss,
(unlike every other manufucturer..yes, you too Denon and Yamaha), 24/96 capable on all channels,assignable digital inputs, 100w with ALL CHANNELS DRIVEN (unlike the Denon 3801 and Yamaha RXV 1000

None judging the limited availability of DVD audio and DTS-ES discrete software

I will just point out what needs to be known for people who are comparison shopping.

First off, one of the biggest beefs that I have when comparing receivers is that very few manufacturers will actually print the all channels driven power spec for their amplifiers. Onkyo does that and it is evident when comparing to other receivers in the same and even higher price ranges.

The Denon and Yamaha receivers mentioned above in this review are prime examples. With the Denon you only get about 83watts per channel when all channels are driven, the Yamaha RXV 1000 is about the same and it doesn't even have power to the rear center channel. The 2095 does give you all driven spec but without Surround EX/DTS-ES.

Advantage one goes to the Onkyo for dynamics, imaging, and musicallity.

The Denon and Yamaha products will always cost more, even if the list prices for these receivers is relatively the same.
The Denon and Yamaha dealers tend to rarely sell below 10% off of MSRP. If you are willing to pay that much go ahead.
Fact is, most Denon and Yamaha dealers are not large corporations but independentaly owned shops that generally won't move much because they need a higher profit margin to stay alive. If you want to pay these dealers that higher profit, go ahead. I'll go with a non-egotistcal Onkyo dealer and get the same or higher level of features and performance.

Advantage two goes to the Onkyo 787 for having the ability to be bought at a more competitive price.

The Denon and Yamaha products will degrade the signal from HDTV signals. The Onkyo will pass these signals without degrading the signal level. (Reference the January 01 issue of The Perfect Vision)

Advantage three goes to the Onkyo.

Neither the Denon or the Yamaha are THX rated. Is that a big deal? Well, if you are going to be in the same relative price range with these products the Onkyo's THX certification assures you that it has passed a stricter engineering standard than the normal corporate standard for certain performance specs. When THX certifies a product it has been tested at their labs to assure that those standards have been met. That is reassuring to me.

Advantage four goes to the Onkyo 787.

The Denon can do a second zone with its internal amps, but at the expense of not being able to use its Surround EX/DTS-ES capabilities (You have to reassign the rear centers to zone 2...thats too bad!). The Yamaha needs an outboard amp.

Advantage five goes to the Onkyo 787 for the ability to drive zone 2 with onboard amps withour having to reassign any amps or buy a seperate on at that.

Lets not mention that you can't read the freaking display on the Denon unless your within 6 feet from the receiver. I can read the Onkyo from almost 20 feet.

The Denon and Yamaha do not have 12v trigger outputs that allow you to automatically activate other equipment you own without having to do so seperatley.

Advantage six goes the the Onkyo 787.


These are just a few highlights that I have found when comparing these receivers before my purchase. I owned a Yamaha 2095 and loved it but wanted the Surround EX/DTS-ES ability. After buying the Onkyo 787 and listening to it with every variety of music and movies I must admit that it sounds even better that the 2095 did on movies and alot better than the Denon or Yamahas on music. If you like screaching highs and muddy bass along with everything else I mentioned above, buy the Denon or the Yamaha. If you truly want the best bang there is for the $1000 - $1200 receiver, buy the Onkyo 787 (or even better the (Onkyo)Integra 7.1).
Trust me, I have installed about 35 hometheaters and own about $14,000 in gear myself and I just want to pass along a good thing to people who care about getting the most for their money.

Similar Products Used:

Yamaha 2095, Denon 3801, Yamaha 1000

good sound quality, comprehensive inputs for all video and audio sources including component video switching, THX Select Certification, Dolby Digital EX & THX EX decoding, loads of power with 100WRMS x 6 @ 8 ohms, learning capable remote with macros.

No DSP modes for cinema sound...only music, DSP engine has very limited customisable parameters.

I have worked in the AV retail industry for some time now, but never had the chance until recently to setup a decent home cinema in my lounge.

Having been in the market for a good AV amplifier for the past 12 months, I finally decided to go with the Onkyo 787 in champagne gold finish (this is a really classy looking amp). This was after many hours of reading professional reviews and auditioning similar products. In the end the final decision came down to sound quality and features versus value for money.

Out of the amps I auditioned (see above) the most impressive in terms of in-your-face features would have to be the Yamaha RX-V2095. It is well built and has all the hallmarks of a quality amplifier. While it had good impact with home theatre reproduction, with more DSP for cinema and music than you would care to use in everyday listening, it was beginning to look like overkill. Plus it cost more than the Onkyo.

The Sony came closest to the Yamaha in terms of bang-for-buck with good home cinema reproduction and loads of DSP to boot. However, while both these amps were impressive, there seemed to be something lacking in their musicality.

The Denon (which really isn't in the same class as these other amps) seemed to lack mid to high range resolution when reproducing home cinema or music. The Denon is probably a fine amp for its class but against the other amps auditioned it couldn't even rate a mention.

Which leaves the Onkyo. One of the main criteria for me was to buy an amp that could reproduce both home cinema and music with equal authority and quality. After hearing all the amps it sounded like the Onkyo matched the bill. Not only does it sound fantastic at normal listening levels, it has heaps of headroom to spare to be able to really turn up the volume without distortion. In home cinema mode it provides a clear and balanced performance with precise placement of sound effects across the sound stage. Surround effects were reproduced with good accuracy, and the whole soundstage seemed to come alive and envelop you into the movie. In music mode, the Onkyo seemed a little more laid back requiring some tweaking up of the volume control to produce a dynamic reproduction of rock or R&B music, but it seemed ideally suited to reproducing jazz and classical music at lower volume levels. Nevertheless vocals were clear and musical peaks were capably handled by the ample power in reserve.

I also noticed that the noise-floor on the amplification stage was negligible. After turning up the volume to max without the selected source sending an active signal, there wasn't a hint of hiss. Definitely a mark of a good amp, which only the Yamaha matched. Also being a high current amp the Onkyo is capable of amplifying difficult loads, such as speakers with a resistance of under 6 ohms. This is despite the amp labelling cautioning against using speakers of under 6 ohms. My Mordaunt-Short are rated at 4 ohms nominal for the front mains and centre speaker. The Onkyo has displayed no problem whatsoever in running these speakers over the past 2 months. Must be something to do with the heavy heat-sinking and thermal fan efficiently doing their job. A note to those of you who are concerned about fan noise. I haven't noticed any fan noise during the quiter passages of a movie or music. In fact, I could not even tell if the fan was on unless I put my hand on the input vent and felt the suction going.

Feature-wise, the Onkyo was also the only amp to provide THX Select certification, which is a bonus in terms of matching my THX speakers. Plus for the money you get component video switching (for the best picture quality from your DVD player), 6 channels of amplification AND Dolby Digital/THX EX and DTS ES decoding!! Talk about value for money.

The remote is a joy to behold. LCD screen, backlighting, learning capable and capacity for 16 macros. Of course, none of these features would mean anything if it wasn't user-friendly. I am glad to report that the layout of the buttons and frequently used functions can all be easily performed.

My only gripe with an otherwise excellant AV amp is the lack of DSP modes for cinema sound. Compared to the Yamaha and the Sony which give about 17 DSP programs, the Onkyo only provides you with the standard DD, DTS and THX versions of both (which is not really a sound mode in its own right). It would also be nice if Onkyo provided some extended ability to customise the DSP modes available (like the Yamaha). Currently, the parameters can only be modified in terms of room size and reverb effects. But this is being really pedantic. Otherwise, I could not fault the performance of the Onkyo.

Overall, I highly recommend the Onkyo 787 to those of you that would prefer an amp that sounds good in both cinema and music reproduction. With a list a features that will see you in good stead for some years to come (especially with the addition of 6.1 decoding and amplification all in the one unit) it is about as future-proof as you can get for this price bracket. And for those of you that want to go for a THX Select setup and have the necessary speakers to match, I strongly suggest you give the Onkyo a listen.
It definitely represents excellant value for money given its good sound quality and extensive features. The only other amps on the market that I would consider as giving better value for money (that is if you have the dough) would be the Onkyo 989 or the Yamaka RX-V1....if only!!

Current A/V system setup:
Mordaunt-Short Declaration 500 THX Select System speaker package (consisting of the 502 mains, 504 centre, and 506 surrounds);
Panasonic TX-43P15H Rear Projector TV;
Toshiba SD2100 DVD player;
Sony Hi-Fi VCR;
Van den Hull Royal Jade speaker cable;
Monster cable interconnects.

Similar Products Used:

Onkyo 777, Yamaha RX-V995 & RX-V2095, Sony STR-DA555ES & STR-D935, Denon AVR 2800.

Quality, build, adequate DSPs, THX, good remote

Looks, require separate amp for 7.1 channel, wish it had more DSPs to play with

I was a little skeptical about this unit at first due to my troubles with the 777. So far, no problems have occured. This has good, clean power with ALL channels driven unlike others where the ratings is actually one channel driven. The remote is above average with it being backlit and well laid out compared to what I have seen. It does not have more DSPs like the Yamahas and the Sonys which a majority no one really uses much in reality. I like the fact that it has THX meaning it means certain strict specifications which assure great performance. It did cost me more to purchase an additional amp just to have the additional two rear center speakers but it was worth it. Any normal DD 5.1 or DTS seem fuller with it while DD EX and DTS ES is an experience. I do not believe this decodes DTS ES discrete although the manual seems to imply it does. Regarding the quality, I like the good, clean sound it puts out. No hiss, just warm, neutral and uncolored. It does not run hot. The on screen guide is simple to follow. Performance with movies and music has been great. The DSPs can be customized as well all the other components hooked up to it. One can set the speaker settings, distance, room size etc. The all channel stereo is enjoyable when playing CDs. It must be mentioned that this unit is heavy thus which bodes well since it means that it is constructed properly with quality components. The display is large so the operator can see what information they need to see. The only thing I have a gripe about is the front faceplate and the displays. I wish it were attractive enough. Seems rather too simple [i.e boring]. If it had Harman Kardons style, this would be quite a catch but that is really irrelevant given how this unit performs. I am quite happy with this purchase. Highly recommended for those looking for a good receiver for under 1K.

Similar Products Used:

Denon 3801

Anything you could ever want for an A/V reciever that is under a $1000. The remote control is wonderful. Movies and Music sound great. Lost of power.

Nothing.

The only thing that I would have liked to seen on this unit, is a more detailed on screen display. Granted, the features are very numerous, and I suppose that what Onkyo is using is pretty efficient and works very well. I have thrown a lot of loud music at this receiver and it just keeps right up. It provides excellent power at any level and makes my speakers sound better than I ever thought. I would recommend this unit to anyone in the market for a quality A/V receiver that costs under a $1000.

Powerful amp section, Good reproduction of music (surround & 2 ch), Dead quite without any trace of hiss at full volume, Very flexible setup, Solid built and looks good.

none so far but of course it cannot be compared to a high end integrated.

I have downgraded my self from a Plinius, Meridian, Silverline Audio system to HT due to personal reasons. I have setup my HT about 3 months back consisting of Onkyo 787, Pioneer 333 dvd player and Energy speaker system.
I am quite amazed by the musicality of my present system. It gives me the satisfaction listing to all types of music. I was quite impressed by the Onkyo 787 which I purcahsed after auditioning the above mentioned receivers. I found the sound quality of the 787 to be the best with good dynamics, soundstage and frequency extention. Also the unit is dead quite.
The unit comes with a captive power chord. I replaced it with a good IEC connector and using a quality power chord from Audio-Magic. This lowered the noise floor and overall the presentation became smoother with better dynamics. I also grounded the chassis.
The DD and DTS decoding is fantastic.
Overall this is a great receiver and very happy with the purchase.
Present system:
Onkyo 787 with modifications.
Pioneer DV-333 dvd player extensively modified .
Monarchy Audio DIP jitter reducer.
Energy EXL series speakers with subwoofer
Audio Magic power chords
XLO digital cables
DH-Lab speakers cables
Monster HTs-2000 PLC.

Similar Products Used:

Kenwood, Denon 3801, Marantz SR8000

Bang for the buck! There's no way you can find a receiver with all those settings and connections for under $1000

None

I have used a Technics Master Prefrence receiver for 5 years.Until now, with the new audio technoloy I had to have this ONKYO receiver. THX Certified, Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Digital EX, DTS ES,6.1 or 7.1 hook up. I have this receiver hooked up to 7.1 Bose Home Theatre System. You gotta hear it to believe it!!!

I will bow, if you find this receiver brand new for under $600

Similar Products Used:

Technics Master Prefrence

Ease of setup, THX EX, Good clean power amps

not upgradeable like the 989, but this is a sub $1000 AVR after all.

This is a good AVR at a good price, I don't think you could ask for anything more for the money. I would say that this and the Denon 3801 are the AVRs to buy at this price point. The deciding factor between the two is only a matter of preference.
Taking the processor portion first and getting to the amps later, because you can always upgrade the amps not the processor. I would rate this reciever at the top of its class. The THX processing gives this reciever a leg up on its competition not only because it gives you THX EX but also because it gives you other useful features too, like the Bass limiter for the Sub and RE-EQ. I cannot even begin to tell you how usefull the Bass limiter is.
This reciever is so easy to set up it's unreal, I had the speakers calibrated to reference level and all the inputs dialed in correctly in less then 30 minutes. The manual provides pretty good explanation, but most of it is self expanitory thanks to a well designed OSD. The 787 even lets you turn the 12V Trigger n and off based on what surround mode you are using (All Ch Stereo, THX, Stereo). I personally have it turn the external amp for the surround back channels to standby for Stereo listening and for All Ch Stereo.
I leave the decoder in THX EX mode all the time for movies because I prefer the more involving surround the extra set of speakers in the rear offer me. I use a HK PA5800 to power those puppies.
The amplifiers are top notch performers, they can get a little stressed when pushed way too hard, but other then that they are pretty smooth. They also provide a pretty strong low end, not enormously powerful, but balanced.
If you are going to use this reciever in a room that's larger then 2500 cu. feet I would suggest investing in an external amp. I would also suggest this route if you are just looking for a good preamp without spending big bucks for inputs you don't need, because the 787 is certainly a top performer in the processing dept. This is probably what I'm going to do eventually.
I primarily use the Onkyo for movies and only occasionally for music, I'd say its a 90/10 ratio. So the Onkyo was a good choice for me because it does movies much better then music. Don't get me wrong the music section is not bad, far from it, it is just average to good. I think its performance on movies is just so good that music pales by comparison.
The last thing I would comment about is the All Channel Stereo mode for CD's. This is an example of a useful DSP. I find myself listening to this mode when I want to fill the entire room with music (I've got a pretty large room). I find that this mode does for music what THX EX does for Movies. Maybe this is not a pure form, but at least it doesn't introduce a reverb effect like other DSPs...even ones that are included in this unit.

This is a greet reciever give it a listen, I would also suggest listening to the Denon 3801.

System:
3500 cu. foot room
Onkyo 787
Pioneer Elite DV-37
Toshiba TW40X80
HK PA5800 amp....back surround only

NHT SuperTwos Front L&R / Surround L&R
NHT Super Center
NHT SuperZeros Back Surrounds
NHT SubTwos (pair) Subwoofer
Monster M Series Speaker Cable
Monster M Series Conponent Video
Monster Data Link Digital Cable Coaxial (upgrading soon)

Test Discs: Toy Story 2, Desperado, T2, Tomorrow Never Dies, The first Chapter of Psycho(including the intro for Tri Star with the Out of Sight zippo lighter thing), and Austin Powers 2.

Similar Products Used:

Kenwood 3080, ATI 1505, Rotel RMB1095, HK PA5800, Denon 3801

Amazing theater sound, lots of features, well thought out design

metallic, forward highs on music

As a music major in college right now, music is obviously my main concern with a receiver. This one is very good, don't get me wrong, but the highs are a little to forward on my Paradigm mini-monitors. I'll soon upgrade to Paradigm Studio/Reference 40s, so we'll see if that helps. By the way, the price I listed is correct. My family owns a music retail business so we get many audio components for below cost at certain times of the year. For what I paid, you can't beat it. For retail, give it serious consideration, but figure what is most important to you in a reciever and then begin your search.

Current set-up:
Onkyo TX-DS787 Receiver
Panasonic DVD-A120
Paradigm Mini-monitors (main)
Paradigm Atoms (rear l&r)
Paradigm CC-70 (center)
Paradigm PRD8 (sub)

Similar Products Used:

Old Onkyo 2-channel reciever from the early 90s

THX Select certification, build quality (!), 7.1 compatible, component video switching (!!), brainy backlit learning remote, and FULL BANDWIDTH power ratings!

Marketing: It's plain appearance and honest (unexaggerated) power ratings mean it has less mass market appeal, sadly.

I felt compelled to write because of the undeservedly sub-5-star rating this receiver is getting. Skimming the reviews, it's clear that some very uninformed or irrelevant reviews are pulling down what would other wise be a straight five-star rating. For example, witness the gentleman who posted his one-star review twice (apparently his opinion is twice as important as the rest of ours'): He acknowledges that -- astoundingly! -- he's NEVER EVEN USED OR HEARD THIS RECEIVER. Wow. It's a shame malicious reviewers like that can prevent this receiver from making the Hall of Fame list. Because Onkyo is doing everything right by audiophiles: Concentrating on things that really matter, like THX select and 7.1 compatibility and CONSERVATIVE power ratings and 96Khz DAC's and antiresonant construction, etc., rather than on the unnecessary bells-and-whistles that Sony et al. favor.
Many manufacturers' power ratings are misleading. For example, Sony measured my 5.1 receiver's 5-channel power "at 1Khz", rather than the expected 20hz-20Khz full bandwidth measurement! So, sometimes 100 watts is just not 100 honest watts.
Onkyo has taken the high road, refusing to mislead customers with exaggerated power ratings. Keep it up, Onkyo!

Similar Products Used:

Sony, Sony ES, Yamaha, Denon, NAD