Introduction:
The Onkyo TX-SR875 THX Ultra2 Certified Home Theater Receiver is a high-end home theater receiver that offers 7.1 channel processing, HDTV capable HDMI audio and video switching and video upscaling, is XM and Sirius Radio ready, Multi-Zone capable, and iPod Dock compatible. For more details and perspective on this receiver's specifications, features, and operation, keep reading this profile.
Video Inputs and Outputs:
This receiver offers four HDMI inputs and one output, as well as three HD Component inputs and one output. There are five Composite Video and S-Video inputs, two additional analog audio-only inputs, plus a front panel A/V input for connection of an additional source, such as a camcorder. The TX-SR875 also features a VCR/DVR/DVD Recorder connection loop.
The TX-SR875 can also upscale all standard definition analog video and Component video input signals to 720p/1080i/1080p for output via HDMI video outputs. This simplifies Receiver connections to an HDTV.
Audio Inputs and Outputs :
The receiver has six assignable digital audio inputs ( 3 Coaxial and 3 Optical), Analog stereo audio connections for a CD player and CD or Cassette audio recorder, and a subwoofer preamplifier output. The SR875 also has one Digital Optical audio outputs and a set of 5.1 channel audio inputs to accommodate DVD-Audio, SACD, Blu-ray, or HD-DVD 5.1 channel analog audio connection options. The TX-SR875 can also access multi-channel audio via its HDMI 1.3a connections. In addition, the SR875 also has a two sets of stereo preamp outputs for multi-zone operation.
Audio Features - Sound Processing:
The TX-SR875 features extensive surround sound processing options, including: Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, DTS 96/24. In addition, DTS Neo:6 and Dolby ProLogic IIx. processing enables the TX-SR875 to extract 7.1-channel audio from absolutely any stereo or multichannel source. In addition, the TX-SR875 is also has the ability to decode DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby TrueHD soundtracks on Blu-ray Discs and HD-DVDs via its HDMI 1.3a compatible inputs. The TX-SR875 also includes Neural Surround processing, which allows access to surround sound programing that may be on XM satellite radio.
Multi-Zone Capability:
Another useful audio feature is the ability for this receiver to be used in a full 7.1 channel configuration, or in a 5.1 channel configuration in the main home theater room, with simultaneous 2 channel operation in a second room. However, if you want to use the full 7.1 channels for your home theater environment, you can still run two additional independently controlled 2-channel systems in other rooms by using the Zone 2 and Zone 3 preamp outputs. However, you will have to add secondary amplifiers to power the speakers in Zone 2 and 3.
Amplifier Characteristics:
The TX-SR875 delivers 140 Watts-per-channel of continous power(measured with 2 Channels driven) into 8-Ohms. This receiver has seven internal high-current WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) power amplifiers. With a measured frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz and a THD rating of .05%, the SR875 is up to challenge from any source, including SACD and DVD-Audio, Blu-ray Disc, or HD-DVD.
Speaker Connections:
Speaker connections consist of dual banana-plug-compatible multi-way speaker binding posts for all main channels with color-coding for simplified wiring. The speaker connections are arranged in a well-spaced row along the bottom of the receiver's rear connection panel, rather than clustered together in a square area. From my perspective, I think this speaker connection layout is very logical, making the speaker wire connections more spread out, rather than all the speaker wires crammed into a small area of connections.
Video Processing:
The TX-SR875 features both Component and HDMI pass through of high definition signals up to 1080p. Also, all standard definition video input signals are deinterlaced using and converted and upscaled to 1080p employing Silicon Optix REON VX Video Processing via the Component or HDMI monitor outputs.
Front Panel Display and On-screen Menu:
The fluorescent front panel display and On-screen menu, used in conjunction with the provided wireless remote control, make setup and operation of the receiver easy and fast.AM/FM/XM/Sirius Radio:
The TX-SR875 not only has the standard AM/FM tuner, but also has built-in XM and Sirius Radio connectivity, and also has the capability of decoding XM 5.1 channel broadcasts with its Neural Surround decoder. Subscription and optional antenna are required for receiving XM or Sirius Satellite Radio Service. Their also 40 station presets provided that can be used for setting any combination of favorite AM/FM/XM or Sirius stations or channels.
iPod Docking Capability:
With the optional iPod dock, in conjunction with this receiver, you can incorporate your iPOD listening right into your home theater system.Subwoofer/LFE Crossover Adjustment:
A 10 step crossover (from 40Hz to 200Hz) on the Subwoofer LFE (Low Frequency Effects) pre-out channel is provided. This allows the user to provide a smooth frequency response transition from the main and satellite speakers to the subwoofer. This is done by using one of the ten available steps to find the best point at which the Subwoofer will produce its highest low frequency response and the rest of the speakers will produce their lowest frequency response. Setting points vary depending on the size and frequency response characteristics of the both the Subwoofer and rest of the speakers being used in the system.
Lip-Synch Adjustment:
The incorporation of a Lip-Synch adjustment on the SR875 allows the user to compensate for audio/video time discrepancies that may be encountered from various sources.
Audyssey MultiEQ:
Another practical feature of this receiver is the automated speaker setup function called Audyssey MultiEQ XT. By connecting the provided microphone to the 875 and following the instructions outlined in the user manual, the Audyssey MultiEQ uses a series of test tones to determine the proper speaker levels, based on how it reads the speaker placement in relation to the acoustical properties of your room. However, keep in mind that you may still have to some minor adjustments manually after the automatic set up is completed in order to conform to your own listening tastes.
Final Take:
With the TX-SR875, Onkyo has incorporated high end features in a receiver priced under $1,700 that weren't even available at any price as recently as two years ago. Incorporation of HDMI 1.3a video and audio switching enhanced by analog to HDMI video conversion and upscaling using Silicon Optix video procesing, both XM and Sirius satellite radio capability, and iPOD connectivity and control, makes this receiver one of the most feature-packed receivers available. The only features lacking, that are available on some receivers, is home networking and internet streaming capability - and, of course, a built-in popcorn popper! If you are planning to purchase a high-end home theater receiver with lots of flexibility, and good performance potential, then the TX-SR875 may deserve attention.The TX-SR875 is available in either black or silver finishes at a suggested retail price of $1,699. Compare Prices
For an additional close-up look at the Onkyo TX-SR875, check out my Photo Gallery
For more specific details on setup and operation, download the User Manual.
