Sherwood VS Onkyo AV Receivers

Onkyo AV Receivers

 In the world of home entertainment, the pursuit of captivating audio experiences often leads enthusiasts to the world of audio-visual (AV) receivers. Among the many options available, Onkyo AV receivers have emerged as icons of innovation, performance, and dependability. This article will delve into the unique features, pros, cons, and reasons why Onkyo AV receivers deserve a spot in your home theater setup. Understanding Onkyo AV Receivers Onkyo AV receivers form the backbone of your home entertainment system. They are meticulously designed to decode, amplify, and distribute audio and video signals with precision and clarity. Armed with advanced technology and a dedication to audio excellence, Onkyo receivers offer an immersive audio-visual experience that takes you to the heart of the action. 

Feauturs you need to know about Onkyo AV Receivers

Number of Channels

Onkyo, a reputable brand in the AV receivers category, offers a diverse range of products with varying numbers of channels. The number of channels in an AV receiver essentially determines how many separate audio signals it can process and output, which directly impacts the surround sound experience. Onkyo models range from 5.1 channels, suitable for standard home theater setups, to 11.2 channels for a more immersive, cinema-like audio experience. For instance, the Onkyo TX-NR696 comes with 7.2 channels, while the high-end model Onkyo TX-RZ3100 offers 11.2 channels, equipped with the latest technologies like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for three-dimensional sound. While the number of channels offered by Onkyo is a significant advantage, it's important to consider the practicality and cost. More channels typically mean a higher price, and not all users may fully utilize the additional channels, especially in smaller spaces. In comparison to other brands, Onkyo holds its ground well. Brands like Denon and Yamaha also offer receivers with similar channel ranges, but Onkyo often stands out for its affordability and consistent performance. However, some users have noted that Onkyo's user interface and setup process can be less intuitive than its competitors.

Connectivity Options

Onkyo, a well-known brand in the AV receivers category, offers a wide range of connectivity options that align with the latest technologies. Their AV receivers, such as the TX-NR696 and TX-NR595, support multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, digital audio inputs, and analog audio inputs. The receivers also have built-in Wi-Fi for wireless connectivity, and Bluetooth for streaming audio from compatible devices. They also support AirPlay 2 and Chromecast, allowing users to stream music, internet radio, and podcasts from their mobile devices directly to the receiver. Compared to other brands, Onkyo stands out for its inclusion of both legacy and cutting-edge connectivity options. For instance, the TX-NR696 includes a phono input for turntables, which is a feature not commonly found in modern AV receivers. However, one potential downside is that Onkyo's AV receivers do not have HDMI 2.1 ports, which are necessary for passing through 8K video signals. Brands like Denon and Marantz have already started including HDMI 2.1 ports in their AV receivers. Despite this, Onkyo's comprehensive connectivity options and support for various streaming technologies make it a competitive choice in the AV receivers market.

Supported Audio Formats

Onkyo, a renowned brand in the AV receivers category, supports a wide array of audio formats, making it a versatile choice for audio enthusiasts. The brand is known for its compatibility with numerous high-resolution audio formats, including DSD 5.6 MHz/2.8 MHz, FLAC, WAV, AIFF 192 kHz/24-bit, and ALAC 96 kHz/24-bit. This broad range of supported formats ensures that users can enjoy their music collections in their original quality without any compromise. In comparison to other brands, Onkyo's support for such a wide spectrum of audio formats is commendable. However, it's worth noting that some users have reported challenges with certain formats, such as AAC. On the flip side, Onkyo AV receivers also support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, the latest in audio formats, offering an immersive, three-dimensional sound experience that many competing brands are yet to incorporate. This cutting-edge technology sets Onkyo apart, making it a preferred choice for those seeking high-quality, immersive audio experiences.

Power Output

Onkyo, a renowned brand in the AV receivers category, is recognized for its power output capabilities. The brand's AV receivers, such as the Onkyo TX-NR696, come with high power output ratings, delivering up to 210 watts per channel. This high power output ensures that the audio is clear, loud, and distortion-free, even at high volumes. The receivers utilize Onkyo's WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) that offers a broader frequency range and improved signal-to-noise ratio, resulting in a more precise and dynamic audio experience. However, while the high power output of Onkyo's AV receivers is a significant advantage, it could also be a potential downside for some users. High power output often means increased energy consumption, which could lead to higher electricity bills. Compared to other brands, such as Denon or Yamaha, Onkyo's power output is generally higher, but this also means that their AV receivers may consume more power. Therefore, users who prioritize energy efficiency might prefer other brands. Nevertheless, for those who value powerful, high-quality sound, Onkyo's AV receivers stand out in terms of power output.

Advantages and Disadvantages 

On the plus side, Onkyo AV receivers excel in audio quality, versatility, user-friendliness, and reliability. They offer advanced features, intuitive interfaces, and excellent performance, providing a superior home entertainment experience. On the downside,Complexity of Setup and Use: Onkyo AV receivers can be complex to set up and configure, especially for users who are not familiar with AV equipment. The user interface and menu system may be daunting for beginners, requiring time and effort to navigate effectively. Additionally, the extensive array of settings and customization options may overwhelm some users.
Onkyo AV receivers have been associated with reliability issues in the past, particularly related to HDMI board failures and other electronic components. While Onkyo has made efforts to improve product quality and customer support, reliability remains a potential concern for some users. It's important to research and consider warranty coverage and customer reviews when purchasing an Onkyo AV receiver.

Pioneer AV Receivers

Pioneer Corporation, a Japanese multinational corporation, has a rich history in the television industry. The company was established in 1938 in Tokyo, Japan, by Nozomu Matsumoto - a man with a passion for music that he hoped to share with the world through high-quality audio speakers. The brand later expanded into various electronics including television sets. Pioneer is particularly renowned for its plasma televisions and was one of the first brands to introduce this technology to the market. In 2006, Pioneer launched the Kuro line of plasma displays, which were lauded for their superior black levels and color accuracy compared to other brands on the market at the time. However, with the advent of LCD and LED technologies, Pioneer faced stiff competition and eventually decided to withdraw from the television market in 2010. Despite this, the brand's legacy in the television industry is still recognized today. Pioneer televisions, particularly their plasma models, are often compared favorably to other brands for their exceptional picture quality and color accuracy. However, the brand's televisions were often more expensive than their competitors, which may have contributed to their decision to exit the market.

What we appriciate?

Resolution

Pioneer, a renowned brand in the television industry, offers high-resolution displays that significantly enhance the viewer's experience. The brand's televisions are equipped with the latest 4K Ultra HD technology, providing four times the resolution of Full HD. This results in a sharper, more detailed picture quality that brings a cinematic experience right into your living room. The high dynamic range (HDR) support further enhances the image quality by delivering brighter, more realistic colors and greater detail. Compared to other brands, Pioneer holds its ground in terms of resolution. While brands like Samsung and LG also offer 4K Ultra HD TVs, Pioneer's implementation of the technology is commendable. However, it's worth noting that Pioneer TVs may fall short when compared to brands like Sony and LG that have moved a step further to offer 8K resolution TVs. Overall, while Pioneer offers excellent resolution quality, it may not be the top choice for consumers seeking the highest resolution available in the market.

Smart Features (Streaming apps, voice control)

Pioneer, in the television category, has made significant strides in incorporating smart features into their models. Their televisions come equipped with various streaming apps like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and YouTube, which offer a wide range of content to the users. Furthermore, Pioneer TVs are also compatible with voice control technologies such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, which allow users to control their television with simple voice commands, enhancing the overall user experience. However, while Pioneer has made commendable efforts in integrating these smart features, it does fall short when compared to some other brands like Samsung or LG. These brands offer a more extensive range of pre-installed apps and more sophisticated voice control features. Additionally, some users have reported a slightly more complex user interface on Pioneer's smart TVs compared to its competitors. Despite these drawbacks, Pioneer TVs still offer a robust range of smart features that cater to the needs of most users and provide a seamless streaming and control experience.

Screen size

Pioneer is well-known for its wide range of television sizes, catering to various customer needs. They offer smaller sizes perfect for bedrooms or kitchens, and larger models that are ideal for living rooms or home theaters. One of their latest offerings is the Pioneer Kuro KRP-500A, which boasts a size of 50 inches. This model features full HD 1080p resolution, providing viewers with a detailed and immersive viewing experience. However, when compared to other brands such as Samsung or Sony, Pioneer's size range might be considered somewhat limited. These competitors offer TVs that go up to 85 inches or more, catering to a market that desires a cinema-like experience at home. Despite this, Pioneer's focus on quality over quantity is evident in their products. Their televisions, regardless of size, are known for their excellent picture quality and durability. The brand may not offer the largest TVs on the market, but they certainly hold their own in terms of performance and reliability.

Output

Pioneer, a well-known brand in the AV receivers category, is highly regarded for its output capabilities. The brand utilizes the latest technologies to deliver high-quality sound output, making it a favorite among audiophiles. One of the most recent models, the Pioneer VSX-534, comes with a Direct Energy Design and can deliver up to 150 W/Ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, THD 10 %, 1ch Driven) and 80 W/Ch (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, THD 0.08 %, 2ch Driven FTC), providing an immersive audio experience. However, while Pioneer's output is generally praised, some users have noted that it may not be as powerful as some other brands in the same price range. Compared to brands like Denon or Yamaha, Pioneer may fall slightly short in terms of raw power output. Yet, Pioneer excels in delivering a well-balanced, clear, and detailed sound, which many users find preferable. It's also worth noting that Pioneer AV receivers come with advanced calibration systems like MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System), which optimizes sound output based on the room's acoustics, giving it an edge over many competitors.

Sound Quality

Pioneer is a well-known brand in the television industry, particularly recognized for its exceptional sound quality. The brand's televisions come equipped with advanced sound technologies, such as Dolby Atmos, that provide a more immersive audio experience to the users. The sound system of Pioneer televisions delivers clear and powerful audio that enhances the overall viewing experience. The brand's focus on sound quality is evident in its use of multiple speakers that ensure balanced and well-distributed sound. However, while the sound quality of Pioneer televisions is generally impressive, it might not always match up to the high standards set by some other brands in the market, such as Sony or Samsung. Some users have reported that the bass could be more robust, and the sound may sometimes appear less dynamic compared to the competitors. Despite these minor drawbacks, Pioneer televisions still offer superior sound quality than most brands and stand out for their consistent performance in this aspect.