Introduction:
The Onkyo TX-SR504 Home Theater A/V Surround Receiver offers 7.1 channel processing, HDTV capable component video switching, is XM Radio ready, iPOD Dock compatible, and has AV Lip Synch Adjustment. The TX-504 is currently available and has an MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) of $300.
Video and Audio Inputs:
The TX-SR504 offers component video switching and can switch three high definition and progressive-scan source components. 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 - Sound Processing:
The TX-SR504 features extensive surround sound options, including: Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, DTS 96/24. In addition, DTS Neo:6 and Dolby ProLogic IIx processing enables the TX-SR504 to extract 7.1-channel audio from any stereo or multichannel source. The 504 also features Neural Surround, which decodes a 5.1 channel sound field from select XM Radio Broadcasts. The receiver features also features linear PCM 192 kHz/24-bit D/A converters and 32-bit DSP (Digital Soundfield Processing) modes.
Amplifier Characteristics:
The Onkyo TX-SR504 delivers 75 Watts per channel into 8-Ohms via its seven internal high-current WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) power amplifiers. With amplifier frequency response from 10 Hz to 100 kHz, the SR-504 can accomodate any source, including SACD and DVD-Audio.
Speaker Connections:
Speaker connection terminals consist of dual banana-plug-compatible multi-way speaker binding posts with color-coding for simplified wiring. Front channel "B" speaker terminals also enable the receiver to drive a set of stereo speakers in a second zone.
Additional Features - Front Panel Display and LFE Features:
The LED front panel display makes setup and operation of the receiver easy. Also featured is an adjustable crossover on the subwoofer pre-out channel. LFE channel signals can be cutoff at 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, 120, 150, or 200 Hz.
Additional Features - AM/FM /XM RadioTuner:
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 makes the 504 very easy to use.
In addition, the TX-504 has a built-in XM Satellite Radio Tuner and has the capability of decoding 5.1 channel broadcasts with its Neural Surround decoder. Subscription and optional antenna are required for receiving XM Satellite Radio Service.
Additional Features - iPOD Connectivity and Lip Synch Adjustment:
With the optional iPOD dock, in conjunction with the 504, you can incorporate your iPOD listening right into your home theater system.
In addition, the incorporation of Lip-Synch adjustment on the 504 allows the user to compensate for audio/video time discrepancies that may be encountered from various sources.
Price and Availability:
The TX-SR504 is currently available in either black or silver at a suggested retail price of $300. Compare Prices
Final Take:
With the TX-SR504, Onkyo has added useful features to the traditional home theater receiver, such as XM Radio with Neural Surround Processing, and iPOD compatibility; all at a very reasonable price. If you are planning to purchase a basic home theater receiver, with lots of flexibility, and good performance, then TX-SR504 may deserve your attention.
