Onkyo Unveils Three High-End A/V Receivers

line for 2012. The lineup includes the first full 11.4-channel implementation of DTS Neo:X, and the first use of Cisco Linksys' SimpleTap technology in an audio/video component.

This release includes a new nine-channel flagship, the TX-NR5010 Network A/V Receiver; a more moderately priced nine-channel alternative, the TX-NR3010 Network A/V Receiver; and lastly, a seven-channel solution, the TX-NR1010 Network A/V Receiver.

Technology found in these new receivers include:

- THX Ultra2 Plus certification to recreate the cinematic experience with dynamic Reference Level sound to larger home theaters up to 85 cubic meters in size and a viewing distance of approximately 3.5 meters

- 11.4-channel pre-outs with DTS Neo:X 11-channel upmixing support for both the TX-NR5010 and TX-NR3010

- Incorporate Cisco Linksys' SimpleTap technology

- Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room equalization with multi-channel upmixing from DTS Neo:X, Audyssey DSX, and Dolby Pro Logic IIz

- An additional HDMI output to enable 1080p playback in a second zone

- InstaPrevue picture-in-picture video input preview and selection technology

- Front-panel Mobile High-Definition Link HDMI port for phone/camcorder

- Extra HDMI inputs to support 3D Video plus Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio (8+1 inputs on all three models)

- Bluetooth 3.0 and aptX wireless audio streaming via optional adapter

The receivers also feature ethernet for access to preloaded audio streaming channels such as Spotify, and connectivity for smart phones, tablets, and PC via DLNA or Bluetooth.

Onkyo has been working with Cisco to incorporate SimpleTap. The company will also offer firmware updates to enable all 2012 Onkyo Network enabled receivers to take advantage of this new technology.

HDMI connectivity has also been enhanced by adding Zone2 HDMI connectivity that removes the need for a secondary analog connection in order to access audio in a second zone. Powered audio is available in up to three zones simultaneously - with multi-zone playback and setting controls managed by remote app.

Audio signals are passed through a digital-to-analog conversion stage, with PLL jitter-cleaning, VLSC noise-mitigation, and TI Burr-Brown DAC modules. Signals are then amplified through discrete Three-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry, with a triple transistor array that cuts distortion and boosts current flow to the speakers. Waves are then outputted through discrete transistors.

For optimum video performance, all three models feature Onkyo's Dual Core Video Engine video processing system. This system pairs the mighty HQV Vida VHD1900 module with Marvell?s Qdeo technology for upscaling to 4K. ISF video calibration further enhances smooth picture quality.

The flagship TX-NR5010 is aimed at the avid home theater enthusiast. The THX- certified receiver is housed in a rigid chassis with separate anti-resonant aluminum top and side panels. The unit has a massive toroidal transformer supported by two discrete transformers for audio and video processing. With gold-plated audio terminals and speaker posts, this unit is outfitted to audiophile-grade specifications.

Like its more powerful sibling, TX-NR3010 also boasts multiple transformers for A/V processing, but features a heavy-duty EI transformer in place of toroidal power. All models feature isolated power and preamp blocks to reduce interference with rigid chassis to prevent vibration.

A new Differential DAC Mode and Digital Crossover Processing Network are also included on all three models to optimize performance when bi-wiring and bi-amping the front channels.

With everything from an analog video input for PC to a generous mix of optical and coaxial digital audio inputs, all three models boast an exhaustive the list of A/V connections. In addition to the capacity to link with an iPhone, iPod, or flash memory device, these models include two USB ports in the front and rear to accommodate the UWF-1 Wireless LAN Adapter and UBT-1 Bluetooth USB Adapter (sold separately).

Onkyo made these heavyweights also easy to set up. The 1080p overlaid display with Quick Set-Up function enables fast mid-program adjustment, while remote control apps for Android-powered phones and iPhone offer access to system settings, as well as playback control from anywhere in the home.

The Onkyo TX-NR5010, TX-NR3010 and TX-NR1010 receivers will be available in July with suggested retail prices of $2999, $2299 and $1799, respectively.