AV Receiver Reviews

Comparisons & Conclusion
Interestingly, the TX-SR606 surpasses Sony's much more expensive STR-DA4300ES ($1299) in the power department at high volume levels, and the Onkyo has one additional HDMI input to boot. The Sony does boast better analog video processing with the Faroudja Cortez chipset, but this doesn't justify the $700 difference in price.

I own an Onkyo Pro PR-SC885 pre/pro paired with an Anthem PVA-7 multichannel power amplifier, and, as you would expect for $3600, that combination beats the TX-SR606 in nearly every area—with one exception. At low listening levels, the Dynamic EQ in the 606 provides a more active surround experience that the expensive combo. But the excellent video processing of the pre/pro and its rich feature set are worth every penny.

Of course, for $600, you must expect to sacrifice some of the bells and whistles found on more expensive units. For example, there are no analog pre-outs for use with a separate power amplifier, and the power cord is non-detachable. It also lacks HD and XM radio support and network capability, and it offers no switched power outlets on the rear, which is of particular importance to me since I use a powered HDMI cable to my display.

But in terms of performance, the TX-SR606 really shines. In fact, it rivals much higher priced competitors. When Onkyo claims to be on the forefront of affordable home theater with this AVR, I have to agree. It's a tremendous value.

Highs
4 HDMI 1.3a inputs
Clean, dynamic amplifiers
Decodes Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio
Passes above-white and below-black
Excellent Value

Lows
Video upscaling is disappointing
No switched power outlets
No analog pre-outs