Home Theater Systems Reviews

Features
Processing Modes: Dolby: Digital 5.1, EX, Pro Logic IIx
DTS: DTS, ES, 96/24, Neo:6
Other: THX Cinema2, THX Music, THX Games, Mono Movie, Orchestra, Unplugged, Studio-Mix, TV Logic, All-Ch Stereo, equalization specific to dedicated speakers and sub
THX Certification: Yes
Audio D/A Converter: 24-bit/192-kilohertz
Number of Amp Channels: 7
Power Rating (watts per channel): 110, into 8 ohms, 2 channels driven
Frequency Response: –3 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 15.9 x 17.1 x 14.8
Weight (pounds): 21.2

Connections
Inputs: Video: Component video (3), S-video (3), composite video (4)
Audio: Coaxial digital (1), optical digital (3), 7.1-channel analog (1), stereo analog (5)
Outputs:
Video: Component video (1), S-video (1), composite video (1)
Audio: Stereo analog (1), subwoofer (1), headphone (1)
Additional: XM Plug & Play, Onkyo R1 remote output (1)

At A Glance: Onkyo HT-S990THX Integrated Home Theater System

Subwoofer: SKW-940
Connections: Line-level, LFE mono input
Enclosure Type: Sealed
Woofer (size in inches, type): 12, poly cone
Power Rating (watts): 230 RMS
Crossover Bypass: No, fixed crossover
Available Finishes: Black with Gray trim
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 17.5 x 14.9 x 16.8
Weight (pounds): 34.2
Price: $1,099 for system

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Speaker: SKF-940F
Type: Two-way, front
Tweeter (size in inches, type): 1, soft dome
Woofer (size in inches, type): 5, A-OMF micro-fiber cone (2)
Nominal Impedance (ohms): 8
Available Finishes: Black with Gray trim
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 17.1 x 6.25 x 7.8
Weight (pounds): 11.7
Price: $1,099 for system

Speaker: SKC-940C
Type: Two-way, center
Tweeter (size in inches, type): 1, soft dome
Woofer (size in inches, type): 5, A-OMF micro-fiber cone (2)
Nominal Impedance (ohms): 8
Available Finishes: Black with Gray trim
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 6.25 x 17.1 x 7.8
Weight (pounds): 11.7
Price: $1,099 for system

Speaker: SKM-940S
Type: Two-way, surround
Tweeter (size in inches, type): 1, soft dome
Woofer (size in inches, type): 5, A-OMF micro-fiber cone
Nominal Impedance (ohms): 8
Available Finishes: Black with Gray trim
Dimensions (H x W x D, inches): 10.8 x 7.8 x 6.6
Weight (pounds): 7.7
Price: $1,099 for system

Ratigns: Onkyo HT-S990THX Integrated home theater System

Build Quality: 84
• Adequate—but costlier systems are better in this respect
• Speakers are trimmed with vinyl

Value: 93
• THX certification at an affordable price
• DVD player not included

Features: 87
• THX re-EQ and other modes
• Color-coded speaker cables
• No HDMI

Performance: 91
• Perfect tailoring of fixed-crossover sub
• THX even on a small scale
• Good soundfield

Ergonomics: 85
• Lack of onscreen menus complicates setup
• Simple, logical remote

Overall Rating: 89
With gourmet pizza well established in the restaurant world, why shouldn't THX be certifying integrated surround systems? The Onkyo HT-S990THX delivers reliably satisfying bass and a good soundfield at an especially affordable price. I recommend it as a starter system for surround neophytes.

General Information
HT-S990THX Integrated Home Theater System, $1,099
Onkyo USA
(800) 229-1687
www.onkyousa.com
Dealer Locator Code ONK