Onkyo TX-NR616
Manufacturer: Onkyo Part number: TX-NR616
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Onkyo TX-NR616 is a tremendous AV receiver value, with eight HDMI inputs and a very low street price, although Onkyo's step-down models may be an even better buy.
Read more
Where to buy
| store | customer rating | inventory | tax & shipping | price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ![]() | In stock Get free shipping on orders over $25.00 | Enter zip code to get total price: Price +Tax +Shipping =Total price | as of 05/13/2013 |
| ![]() | In stock | as of 05/13/2013 | |
Free Ground Shipping! | ![]() | In stock | as of 05/13/2013 | |
| ![]() | In stock Free Shipping | as of 05/13/2013 | |
Savings, Selection & Service since 1971 | ![]() | In stock | as of 05/13/2013 | |
| Not yet rated | In stock Get 10% off on items over $397 | as of 05/13/2013 | |
| ![]() | In stock | as of 05/13/2013 |
CNET editors' review
Onkyo TX-NR616 price range: $329.99 - $699.00
- Reviewed by: Matthew Moskovciak and Steve Guttenberg
- Edited by: John Falcone
- Reviewed on: 07/17/2012
The good: The Onkyo TX-NR616 is feature-packed, with eight HDMI inputs, dual HDMI outputs, built-in networking, and extensive streaming audio support, including Pandora, Spotify, Rhapsody, and Internet radio. Wi-Fi functionality can be added with a tiny, inexpensive USB adapter. And the TX-NR616's street price is consistently well below its competitors.
The bad: Some users have complained about reliability problems. The eighth HDMI input cannot be accessed via direct button, only by navigating menus. And the TX-NR616 lacks built-in AirPlay.
The bottom line: The Onkyo TX-NR616 is a tremendous AV receiver value, with eight HDMI inputs and a very low street price, although Onkyo's step-down models may be an even better buy.
User reviews
-
-
Great Second Choice - Probably should have been first!
by DMoodyy on January 16, 2013
Pros: + Great sound quality!
+ Multi-room support (really cool when entertaining)
+ Great price
+ Internet apps add new level of coolness
+ Android app is a bit clunky at first, but works well when you get the hang of itCons: - Up-scaling is so-so, not much of a fan, but I don't really use it that much as most of my devices are HDMI
Summary: I originally bought the Harman-Kardon AVR 2650. It was simply amazing in both style and performance (in Blu-Ray). But when I watched HD sources (Cable, Satellite, OTA) a loud chirping ...
Summary: I originally bought the Harman-Kardon AVR 2650. It was simply amazing in both style and performance (in Blu-Ray). But when I watched HD sources (Cable, Satellite, OTA) a loud chirping noise was emitting through the speakers. H/K support was non-existent and so I returned it and "settled" for this ONKYO.
Other reviewers felt the GUI (graphical user interface) or OSD (on-screen display) was outdated and confusing. Having owned only the above referenced H/K AVR for a week and then this ONKYO, I am new to GUI/OSD on the home theater systems. Both were very similar. The menu structures are intuitive if you have the slightest clue of what you want to do. I see no reason to downtalk either receivers menu stuctures here.
The ONKYO turned out to be about 15watts per channel stronger than the H/K. The clamshell is a lot "cheaper" looking than the H/K but is certainly modern enough. The ONKYO has all the bells and whistles in it though (normal apps, Android apps, wifi, ethernet, bluetooth (optional). Plus, it's the guts inside the clamshell that tell the story. A slimebag used car salesman in a nice suit is still a slimebag used car salesman. So while the H/K was very nicely dressed on the outside, this ONKYO has delivered all of the performance expected, without the bugs or chirps. I have run this reciever through every possible configuration I will ever possibly use to try to "drum up" some of the issues you see in a lot of other reviews. I've been running it solid for only 4 days now, but I left it on overnight one night and the unit ran surprisingly cool during this time. Not sure if it has fans, dont care. It didnt make fan noises and it didnt run hot. That's all that matters.
I'm not technically inclined enough to give you a full-blown audiophile review. I have a set of JAMOs setup in 5.1 (condo not big enough to enjoy 7.1) and a 12" Polk Audio powered sub. I can say this AVR will deliver lows that will sterilize your neighbors within 200 feet!!! You've been warned. The auto speaker config tool, Audessey or something like that, does a good job of setting the levels (which is awesome if you arent an audiophile). The center channel is right on(you can hear dialogue well), the fronts and surrounds sound great. It will auto-select the correct surround mode (based on the source signal), which is actually convenient. I tried manually selecting other modes to see if it chose the best one for me and turns out, this AVR is smart enough to make the right selection. Throw in a Blu-Ray with one of those award-winning soundtracks, like Lord of the Rings or any Jason Bourne movie, or a concert like Pink Floyd Pulse and the ONKYO will deliver a theater sound unlike any I have ever experienced in a home system. For the mid-range dollar, this puppy packs a great punch!
Out of the box, hooked up, ready to fire away in 5 minutes. Spent maybe 15 minutes performing the initial setup. Then, after reading all of the reviews and ONKYO's website, I had already setup a USB stick with the latest Firmware update. I performed the Firmware update exactly as the instructions read (important to follow the directions completely, per the website). This update process (as they warn you about) is about an hour long. While the unit will update over the network connection, this particular Firmware update required use of a USB stick, which most of us have laying around somewhere. If not, they're cheap. Go get one.
As stated above, I ran this thing through it's paces pretty solidly over the past 4 days and it would appear (as indicated in the reviews too) the OCTOBER 2012 firmware update resolved all of the issues other users were reporting. Granted, the reviews indicate it took ONKYO around 8 months to tackle a pretty serious video issue, which is not very impressive. My unit has run flawlessly thus far, but I fear if a problem arises, I could be in for a long wait on a resolution. You pay your money and you take your chances... That's the way the cookie crumbles. Hopefully I wont fall prey to any issues.
I would highly recommend this ONKYO AVR to anyone I consider a human-being. For those out there who I do not like, go buy the H/K!!
P.S. I suggest you have to check for low price at: Networkav-receivers.blogspot.com/p/onkyo-tx-nr616.html
Hope this review is helpful, good luck.6 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
-
Simply do not buy this receiver
by wiseclam on September 8, 2012
Pros: It's a great receiver, on paper. The features and capabilities are fantastic for the price. But none of them matter if the unit does not work.
Cons: HDMI failed after 2 days. You can read this everywhere this receiver is reviewed.
As a side note, I found it very difficult to set it up.Summary: I never write reviews but I'm taking the time to write one now because I don't want anyone else to spend 4 hours setting this up only to ...
Summary: I never write reviews but I'm taking the time to write one now because I don't want anyone else to spend 4 hours setting this up only to unplug it, box it up and ship it back.
4 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
-
THE worse reviews I have ever read on review sites
by dan herrman on August 28, 2012
Pros: All the features you would want for a terrific price
Cons: All top internet retailers give this the lowest rating I have seen. 3 firmware updates that just do not seem to fix. HDMI issues with sync and video. Power issues with amount of volume running at 80% plus to put out medium room theater audio.
Summary: The product was issues 6 months ago and the number of refurbished units available plus story marking price down 50% is a warning sign.The CNET one review may be ...
Summary: The product was issues 6 months ago and the number of refurbished units available plus story marking price down 50% is a warning sign.The CNET one review may be one of the 40% bogus reviews that are posted on sites according to the New York Times.
I trusted CNET all these years and now I finally removed from my bookmarks2 out of 3 users found this user opinion helpful.
-
A great receiver with loads of features.
by philwilks on February 15, 2013
Pros: This is a superb receiver and excellent value. I love the networking features and the vast array of connectivity options. It drives my DALI Zensor speaker system beautifully and with ease - I rarely have it above 55%.
Cons: Very few. The networking interface looks aged and isn't easy to use without the mobile app. Zone 2 connectors are low quality. Other buyers have reported HDMI issues.
Summary: I am extremely pleased with this receiver. It is a perfect replacement for my old Yamaha RDX630 which served me for many years.
It provides more than enough power for ...Summary: I am extremely pleased with this receiver. It is a perfect replacement for my old Yamaha RDX630 which served me for many years.
It provides more than enough power for my DALI Zensor speakers, driving them with ease and beautiful clarity. The Audessy EQ setup was easy and effective, and a USB key was supplied containing the latest software release along with clear instructions as how to install it.
The networking features are excellent, although the interface is dated and awkward to use with the factory remote. Download the Onkyo mobile app and the experience changes completely. It's far easier to use and delivers a much more enjoyable networking experience.
I have not experienced any of the quality issues regarding power output or HDMI that have been mentioned in other reviews, but I too have seen a large number of complaints on forums.
However, based on my own experience I'd highly recommend this receiver - It's amazing value for money and performs brilliantly.1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
-
Best AVR in its Class
by hiloboy72 on August 8, 2012
Pros: Super easy to use, works right out of the box, tons of options, tons of HDMI, very intuitive, great price for all that it can do, internet integration is good (I use the wireless connector)
Cons: Apple play is not clear, still trying to make it AirPlay. Remote kind of bulky, but not a big deal
Summary: It works excellent. Its cheap for all the features it has. Sound is excellent. Great product. Love to show it off.
Summary: It works excellent. Its cheap for all the features it has. Sound is excellent. Great product. Love to show it off.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
-
HDMI Problems plague the Onkyo line
by akn99 on November 15, 2012
Pros: Price and number of ports
Cons: ONKYO HDMI Problems are horrific across many versions of their AV receivers over the last several years - DO NOT BUY THIS BRAND
Summary: It is appalling that CNET appears to completely ignore the quality and reliability issues that Onkyp have exhibited across multiple AV receivers and multiple years. The problems are clearly not ...
Summary: It is appalling that CNET appears to completely ignore the quality and reliability issues that Onkyp have exhibited across multiple AV receivers and multiple years. The problems are clearly not a single product problem - having just had to trash my Onkyo 616 (recommended here at the time of purchase) after just over 2 years I had to investigate the problems - the Internet has hundreds of issues recorded - a product with this many problems over so many years should not qualify as any kind of best buy
Try searching for Onkyo and HDMI problems - don't waste your money unless you believe $339 is a good price if you only get 28 months of use out of it2 out of 4 users found this user opinion helpful.
-
Awesome receiver !!!!!K
by Anton1964 on April 27, 2013
Pros: EXCELLENT SOUND AMAZING FEATURES !!!!!!
Cons: Non so far
Summary: I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS GREAT RECEIVER TO ALL MY FRIENDS !!!!!
Summary: I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS GREAT RECEIVER TO ALL MY FRIENDS !!!!!
-
What the heck is C-net thinking.
by odessit3 on March 18, 2013
Pros: not very expensive
Cons: This receiver has major issues with HDMI
Summary: The receiver keeps loosing HDMI connection to my PC. I don't understand why Cnet gave it such a good review. Even after FW update that was supposed to fix ...
Summary: The receiver keeps loosing HDMI connection to my PC. I don't understand why Cnet gave it such a good review. Even after FW update that was supposed to fix the issue, nothing got fixed. Never buying Onkyo again.
-
Do NOT purchase this system...
by ScienceGuy70 on January 19, 2013
Pros: Sounds and capabilities are great when working.
Cons: System does not work consistently.
Summary: I have now purchased 2 TX-NR616s for my home. The first I returned immediately as the HDMI pass through did not work at all, and with the system on it ...
Summary: I have now purchased 2 TX-NR616s for my home. The first I returned immediately as the HDMI pass through did not work at all, and with the system on it would drop HDMI signals frequently. My second unit worked out of the box, but within a couple of days the same problems started. I updated the firmware, which improved the situation, but did not resolve it. I frequently turn my home theater system on after it has been off for several hours to have the HDMI signal dropped (both in pass through and powered mode. I have spoke with Onkyo customer service several times. They recommended replacing the HDMI cables (brand new and work on every other device in my house) and then wanted me to send it in for warranty repair (with me paying the cost for shipping). The next tech I talked to told me to return the unit and buy something else. He stated that they have a known issue with the 616 and 515 systems and recommended purchasing a 717 or higher. I returned the last system and went with a different brand. Onkyo puts a lot of features into this system, but what difference does it make when the basic features fail to work. CNET, you disappoint me with your review of this device. The HDMI issues are well known and widely documented, yet you still give this unit some of the highest ratings of this year's receivers.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Onkyo
- Part number: TX-NR616
- Description: Movie, music, and gaming enthusiasts can now step up to realistic THX Select2 Plus-certified surround sound for less money down with the new TX-NR616 Network A/V Receiver. Onkyo's acclaimed WRAT amplifier with three-stage inverted darlington circuitry delivers cinema-like power in the home. With Audyssey DSX expansion, you can add extra wide or height channels for more enveloping surround sound, while 2EQ acoustic correction guarantees optimal performance in any room. Eight HDMI inputs handle 3D content, HD audio, and video display upscaled to 4K with onboard Qdeo technology. The MHL/HDMI input lets you connect a smart phone for smooth 1080p playback on your TV. Wireless home networking, meanwhile, opens up an exciting world of Internet radio and cloud-based music streaming. Intuitive system control - including audio distribution in multiple rooms - is provided by Onkyo's remote apps for iPod touch/iPhone and Android phone, or press the quick set-up button on the supplied remote for instant mid-program adjustments. Visual input selection with InstaPrevue technology rounds out what is an exceptionally refined and affordable THX receiver.
General
- Product type Home Theater Network Receiver
- Dimensions (WxDxH) 17.1 in x 12.9 in x 6.9 in
- Color Black
- Available Body Colors black, silver
Audio
- Surround System Class 7.2 channel
- Amplifier Output Details 100 Watt - 8 Ohm - THD 0.7 % - 7 channel(s) ( Surround )
- Sound Output Mode Surround Sound
- Audio D/A Converter 24bit / 192kHz
- Built-in Decoders Dolby Digital Plus,
Dolby Digital,
DTS decoder,
DTS-ES Discrete 6.1,
DTS-ES decoder,
Dolby Digital EX,
DSD decoder,
DTS-HD High Resolution,
DTS-HD Master Audio,
DTS-ES Matrix 6.1,
DTS Neo:6,
Dolby Pro Logic IIz,
DTS Express,
Dolby TrueHD,
DTS 96/24 - THX certified Yes (THX Select 2 Plus)
- Surround Sound Effects Audyssey DSX,
Theater-Dimensional Virtual Surround - Digital Sound Processor (DSP) Yes
- Input Impedance 47 KOhm
- Input Sensitivity 200 mV
- Response Bandwidth 5 - 100000 Hz
- Signal-To-Noise Ratio 106 dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion 0.08 %
- Bass Control Yes
- Treble Control Yes
- Additional Features Bi-Amplifying,
Wide Range Amplifier Technology (WRAT),
Audyssey DSX,
Audyssey 2EQ,
Audyssey Dynamic EQ,
DLNA technology,
Graphical User Interface (GUI) Networking & Digital Media
- Connectivity Ethernet ,
Wi-Fi ready, adapter sold separately - Internet Streaming Services Spotify,
Last.fm,
Rhapsody,
vTuner,
MP3Tunes,
Aupeo!,
Pandora - DLNA Yes
- Network audio standards AAC,
WMA,
WAV,
FLAC,
MP3 - USB features USB flash drive playback
- USB audio standards LPCM,
WMA,
FLAC,
Ogg Vorbis,
AAC,
WAV,
MP3 Tuner
- Tuner Type Radio tuner - AM/FM - Digital
- Preset Station Qty 40
Inputs & Outputs
- HD connectors HDMI connection(s) on this receiver make it a great choice for your High-Def home theater. One cable carries digital audio and video data directly to your display.
- Connections 1xHeadphones-Front,
1xHDMI input(19 pin HDMI Type A)-Front,
1xComposite video input(RCA phono)-Front,
1xUSB(4 pin USB Type A)-Front,
7xHDMI input(19 pin HDMI Type A)-Rear,
2xHDMI output(19 pin HDMI Type A)-Rear,
1xUSB(4 pin USB Type A)-Rear,
1xEthernet(RJ-45)-Rear,
2xSPDIF input(RCA phono)-Rear,
2xSPDIF input-Rear,
1xRemote control-Rear,
1xComponent video input(RCA phono x 3)-Rear,
1xComponent video output(RCA phono x 3)-Rear,
2xAudio line-in(RCA phono x 2)-Rear,
4xComposite video/audio input(RCA phono x 3)-Rear,
1xMonitor output(RCA phono)-Rear,
2xAudio output (multi zone)(RCA phono x 2)-Rear,
2xSubwoofer output(RCA phono)-Rear,
7xSpeakers output(Banana/spade x 2)-Rear,
2xSpeakers output (multi zone)(Click-fit x 2)-Rear - Headphone Jack Yes
- Coaxial Digital Input Yes
- Optical Digital Input Yes
Signal Processing
- HDMI Switching Yes
- Upscaling via HDMI Up to 4K
- DVD/Bul-ray upscaling Yes
- HDMI features Audio return channel (ARC) ,
Supports 3D video ,
Marvell Qdeo processing,
4K upscaling Display
- Display dimmer Yes
Accessories
- Type of remote control Universal remote control - Infrared
- Included accessories FM antenna,
AM antenna,
Universal remote control,
Auto calibration microphone Miscellaneous
- Microsoft Certifications Compatible with Windows 7
Power
- Power Device Power supply - Internal
- Power Consumption Stand by / Sleep 0.2 Watt
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Onkyo products on Shopper.com
-
- Manufacturer:Onkyo
- Address:
18 Park Way, Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458 - Phone: 1-800-229-1687
- Fax: 1-201-785-2650


