As a rule, A/V receivers should be heard and not seen. The latest model from Onkyo is no exception, but we’re more than willing to overlook the bulky exterior for the audio fidelity that lies beneath. The new TX-SR605 is the first mid-range unit to decode the fancy new sound formats from Dolby and DTS that are utilized by Blu-ray and HD-DVD discs. It also includes two HDMI 1.3 inputs, which can handle twice as much information as the old HDMI connections, meaning less fidelity-degrading compression between the player and your ears. And, to maximize that sonic potential, the Onkyo sports something called “automatic speaker calibration,” which uses a microphone to read the room and determine which levels will offer the best audio (note: your neighbors may disagree with the results). The SR605 also hits the basic marks: top-notch HD video, ample power (90 watts per channel), 7.1 surround sound, and even XM and Sirius radio connectivity. Sure, this black box won’t land in the MoMA’s permanent collection anytime soon, but sometimes what’s on the inside really is what counts.
More on the Onkyo Home Theatre receiver
