Onkyo HT-S9100THX 7.1 Channel Home Theater-in-a-Box System - Product Profile

Introduction:

The Onkyo HT-S9100THX home theater system offers 7.1 channel audio processing, 1080p HDMI switching, and analog to HDMI 1080i video upscaling. The HT-S9100 is also THX-Certified which means that it incorporates audio processing and loudspeakers that insure consistent, quality, performance and that everything in the systems is both electronically and acoustically matched. The HT-S9100THX is currently available and has an MSRP of $1,099. Compare Prices

Video and Audio Inputs:

The HT-S9100THX offers HDMI video switching and can switch three high definition sources with degrading image quality. There are also Component (red, green, blue), Composite (yellow) and S-Video A/V inputs, plus a front panel A/V input for connection of an additional source, such as a camcorder . The receiver has four assignable digital audio inputs (two Coaxial and two Optical), RCA audio connections for a CD player and CD or Cassette audio recorder, and a subwoofer preamplifier output. The HT-S9100 does not offer 5.1/7.1 channel analog audio inputs.

Video and Audio Outputs:

The HT-S9100THX offers one each of HDMI, Component, S-Video, and Composite monitor outputs. The HDMI output can transfer resolutions up to 1080p and upscaled video from analog video inputs up to 1080i. The Component video output is restricted to 480i/480p, while the S-Video and Composite video outputs are restricted to 480i. The 9100 also has up to 7.1 channel analog outputs. This means that the 9100 can be used as preamp for much more powerful multi-channel amplifier system, if desired.

Audio Features - Surround Sound:

The HT-S9100THX features extensive surround sound processing options, including: Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital EX, DTS-HD, DTS-ES, DTS 96/24, and THX Cinema. In addition, DTS Neo:6 and Dolby ProLogic IIx processing enables the HT-S900to extract 7.1-channel audio from any stereo or multichannel source. The included receiver also features also features 192 kHz/24-bit D/A converters and 32-bit DSP audio processing modes.

Amplifier Characteristics:

The Onkyo HT-S9100THX delivers 130 Watts per channel into 8-Ohms via its seven internal high-current WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) power amplifiers. NOTE: The 130 Watt per channel rating is based on one channel driven using a 1 Khz tone. Actual power output with all channels running and all frequencies in real world conditions will be lower.

Loudspeakers and Subwoofer:

One of weak links of most home theater-in-box systems is the lack of good-quality loudspeakers. This is one reason why many home theater-in-a-box systems are so inexpensive. However, in order to obtain THX-Certification, loudspeakers must meet specific requirements. This is definitely the case with the loudspeakers and subwoofer included with the HT-S9100. The loudspeakers are a well constructed acoustic suspension design with a frequency response of 50Hz-45Khz. The included subwoofer has a 12-inch driver, 290 watt amplifier (maximum output), and decent LFE (Low Frequencies Effects) response of 20Hz to 100Hz.

B Speakers - 2nd Zone Function:

A useful feature is the ability for the HT-S9100 to be used in a 7.1 channel configuration, or a 5.1 channel configuration in the main home theater room, with 2 channel operation in a second room that can play from an analog audio source. However, if you want to use the full 7.1 channels, you can't the B-Speakers in the second room. You can have both the 7.1 channel setup in your main room, and two speakers connected to the B terminals at the same time, but when you turn the B speakers on, the surround back channels in the 7.1 channel setup automatically shut off and your main system is reduced to 5.1 channels.

Audyssey 2EQ:

The HT-S9100THX also features an automated speaker setup function called Audyssey 2EQ. By connecting the provided microphone to the HT-S9100THX and following the instructions outlined in the user manual. The Audyssey 2EQ 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 you own listening tastes.

Audyssey Dynamic EQ:

In addition to the automatic speaker setup system offered by the Audyssey 2EQ feature, the Onkyo HT-S9100 also incorporates the Audyssey Dynamic EQ feature. Dynamic EQ allows for real-time frequency response compensation when the user changes volume settings, For more specifics on how Dynamic EQ works in relation to volume settings and room characteristics, and how this can benefit the user, check out the official Audyssey Dynamic EQ page.

Additional Features:

The fluorescent front panel display and onscreen menus makes setup and operation of the receiver easy and fast.

The receiver's AM/FM tuner section has 40 random presets, and FM automatic scan tuning. The included RI (Remote Interactive) compatible preprogrammed remote control has been improved, making use easier for the consumer.

The 9100 is also iPod compatible when using Onkyo DS-A1 Dock.

Final Take

The HT-S9100 is an upgrade from its previously successful, HT-S990THX home theater-in-a-box system that was not only the first such system to incorporate THX certification and features, but was in the Onkyo product line for two years.

The HT-S9100 picks up where the HTS-990THX left off by adding HDMI 1080p switching and video upscaling of analog video input signals to 1080i using Faroudja DCDi Edge processing and onboard decoders for the latest surround sound formats Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD, which are the formats used on many Blu-ray disc soundtracks.

In addition, the HT-S9100 also incorporates the Audyssey 2EQ automatic speaker setup system which greatly simplifies the home theater setup procedure, especially for the novice.

On the other hand, one feature that is missing that was included in the previous HT-S990 and, in fact, most newer home theater-in-a-box systems and home theater receivers, is XM and/or Sirius Radio Compatibility. Although not a deal breaker for many consumers, satellite radio is becoming a more popular fixture in many home theater setups. Also, because XM radio compatibility is not present, Neural Surround is also not included.

Depsite some minor negatives, the Onkyo HT-S9100THX provides some desirable upgrades that make it definitely worth checking out if you are looking for a practical home theater system if you have an HDTV and Blu-ray Disc or DVD player. For all the details on how to setup and use the HT-S9100THX, you can download the User Manual.

The HT-S9100THX is currently available and has an MSRP of $1,099. Compare Prices