Introduction : The Onkyo HT-S990THX consists of a 7.1 channel AV receiver, 7 satellite speakers, and a powered subwoofer. The system offers 7.1 channel audio processing, HDTV capable component video switching, is XM Radio ready and iPOD Dock compatible. The HT-S990 is also THX-Certified which means that it incorporates audio processing and loudspeakers that insure consistent performance and that everything in the system is both electronically and acoustically matched. The HT-S990THX has an MSRP of $1,099.
Audio and Video Connections: The HT-S990THX offers component video switching and can switch three high definition and progressive-scan sources without degrading video quality. There are three composite 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 (one coaxial and three optical), RCA audio connections for a CD player and CD or Cassette audio recorder, and a subwoofer preamplifier output.
Audio Features - Surround Sound: The HT-S990THX features extensive surround sound processing options which enables the user to fine tune their listening option. Surround sound processing options include: Dolby Digital EX,, DTS-ES, DTS 96/24. and THX Cinema2. In addition, DTS Neo:6 and Dolby ProLogic IIx processing enables the HT-S990 can extract 7.1-channel audio from absolutely any analog stereo or multichannel source. The receiver features also features linear PCM 192 kHz/24-bit D/A converters and 32-bit DSP modes.
Audio Features - Amplifier Section: The Onkyo HT-S990THX delivers 110 Watts per channel into 8-Ohms via its seven internal high-current WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) power amplifiers. With amplifier frequency response from 5 Hz to 100 kHz, the HT-S990 is up to challenge from any source, including SACD and DVD-Audio.
Features - Tuner Section : The receiver's AM/FM tuner section has 30 random presets, and FM automatic scan tuning.
In addition to a standard AM/FM tuner, the HT-S990 also includes XM-Satellite radio compatibility, with XM Neural Surround Processing. This enables the consumer to listen to XM surround broadcasts, when available. Just add an XM radio antenna and pay the subscription fee.
Additional Features: The fluorescent front panel display makes setup and operation of the receiver easy and fast. Other features include iPod compatibility using optional iPOD dock, front panel headphone jack for private listening, and an RI (Remote Interactive) compatible remote control, which enables the control of several components using one remote.
Loudspeakers : The weak link of most all-in-one systems is the lack of good-quality loudspeakers. This is a reason many home theater-in-a-box systems are so inexpensive.
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-S990. The 990's loudspeakers are a well constructed acoustic suspension design with a maximum power handling capability of 130 watts, and frequency response of 50Hz-45Khz.
Subwoofer: The included subwoofer has a 12-inch driver, 230 watt amplifier, and a decent LFE (Low Frequencies Effects) response of 20Hz to 100Hz. The subwoofer connects to the Receiver via a Sub-pre out connection. Also featured is an adjustable crossover on the subwoofer pre-out channel.
Additional Features: The fluorescent front panel display makes setup and operation of the receiver easy and fast. Also featured is an adjustable crossover on the subwoofer pre-out channel.
Final Take: If you want to have a home theater system, and skip all the hassle of buying everything and figuring out how to install it, the a home theater-in-a-box system may just right for you.
However, when shopping for one, you will see a lot of bargain basement priced systems that seem attractive, but don't really deliver the quality, especially in terms of loudspeaker construction, that buying separate components and speakers will get you.
Fortunately, there are growing number of all-in-one home theater systems that can deliver the goods, and the Onkyo HT-S990THX is one that is designed to do just that. With a THX Certified Receiver, loudspeakers, and subwoofer, everything in this system is a good match.
When trying to decide to buy a home theater-in-box system, consider a variety of options based on what you want the system to provide you, in terms of audio and video quality and connectivity, not just what the price is.
If you are looking for a possible choice to complement an HDTV or video projector, and DVD Player, then take a listen to the Onkyo HT-S990THX Home Theater-in-a-Box System.
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