Get ready for a surprise with the newest midrange AVR from Onkyo. The Onkyo TX-NR575 7.2 channel unit presents an incredible amount of decoding capabilities to deliver a better home theater system experience. It was a treat to delve into the package and discover the amazing streaming capabilities available at a lower price than might be expected – only $549 MSRP.
About the Onkyo TX-NR575
It’s hard to choose which feature to talk about first. Since sound is one of the company’s most noted features, the Onkyo TX-NR575’s vibrant audio amplification is a natural place to start. The experience of resonant, clear sound is a result of amplified concise signal processing, made possible with accurate speaker control and high-current power. The use of a process called Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry, shortened to VLSC, results in promoting a smooth analog signal. The audio signal is reassembled to its original form after processing is completed. It’s one of the features that differentiates it from conventional filters. Premium high fidelity results from removing typical D/A conversion generated pulse noise.
The TX-NR575 Zone 2 performance is remarkable. I hooked up a pair of speakers in in another room to find out how well the Powered Zone 2 speaker outputs delivered amplified network or analog audio sources using its line outputs to connect the analog audio sources and home theater network to the separate hi-fi system. The deep bass sound enhances the overall performance and surpasses other receivers in a similar price range. I wasn’t disappointed with the results and particularly enjoyed the ability to use the Onkyo Controller to control the playback.
Below is the back panel layout. Click on image to enlarge for a clearer view.
Onkyo TX-NR575 Back Panel
Who doesn’t love Dolby sound? The Onkyo TX-NR575 delivers independently mixed sound thanks to the object-based soundtracks with the ability to play through any speaker in the system. The unit features 5.2.2-channel Dolby Atmos or DTS:X formats. A Dolby Atmos-enabled environment sends an amazing delivery of sound. The spatial effects of DTS Neural:X identify multichannel soundtracks and upmixes for 3D playback. Independent dialog volume control for movies is the result of DTS: X. Hearing the results creates a higher respect for the engineers and technicians of this company.
TX-NR575 has six HDMI inputs and supports HDMI pass-through on the video side, including:
- HDR10
- Dolby Vision
- 4K/60 Hz video
- BT.2020 4K Standard
Additional benefits include the ability to stream music from the device with Bluetooth or Airplay wireless technology. The Onkyo Controller is a user-friendly feature that makes navigation of content from Deezer, Pandora and other apps an uncomplicated process.
Performance
Powered by BlackFire, FireConnect creates a multi-room audition technology. It operates over 5GHz/2.4 GHz Wi-Fi. The result is distributed network and connecting analog audio sources with the ability to support wireless speakers.
The TX-NR575 supports 4K Ultra HD passthrough, such as High Dynamic Range (HDR) in HDR.10 and Dolby Vision formats. It’s easy to set up acoustics and object-based surround sound using Onkyo’s AccuReflex and AccuEQ Room Acoustic Calibration. The Dolby Atmos-enabled elevation speaker produce crystal clear reproduction thanks to those two attributes.
Comparison with Previous Model TX-NR555
The Onkyo TX-NR555 AVR displays many of the features of the newly-released TX-NR575. Both home theatre receivers provide 7.2 channels, entered the market at a surprisingly fair price, and feature the AccuEQ speaker setup system. Standby Passthrough is common to both units and permits video and audio signal to pass through the system to a television even if the receiver is turned off.
Both models deliver commendable upscaling from 480i to 4K, reducing handshake interference and improving resolution. While the TX-NR575 has BlackFire FireConnect that permits sending USB, Internet or Bluetooth audio wireless to compatible speakers within a middle-sized home, the previous model required a firmware update to achieve that capability. They are also similar with the use of AccuEQ and AccuReflex. The surround sound experience was slightly better with the latest model.
Pros
- Surround Sound and 3D ready
- Rated at 80 watts per channel
- Remote control is easy to use
- Streaming capabilities including Chromecast built-in and DTS Play-Fi
- Clear, bright video images
Cons
- USB connections on rear panel only
- Volume is better on small to medium speakers rather than large ones
Final Points and Conclusion
The two best features in the Onkyo TX-NR575 are the surround sound and the low price for a midrange receiver. Both DTS:X and Dolby Atmos create a very real feeling of ‘you’re there’. The sound of helicopters, crashing, and weather seem to come from the proper location emitting the sound. Height speakers have a moderate positive influence on the results. Onkyo embraces the idea of imaginative audio/visual experiences and delivers the results in its products.
Bluetooth playback lacks the full, rich sound delivered by CDs. However, the system is an excellent answer to the question of how to get most of the same features of a higher priced mid-level AVR home theater system at a more affordable price.
The company has been producing quality AV products for decades and continues its reputation with the 2017 releases. It’s particularly welcoming to know that upgrades are part of Onkyo’s practices. Firmware updates, including Dolby Vision technology, will be available for certain 2016 products. There is every reason to believe that future performance features will lead to updates for the efficient TX-NR575 7.2-channel A/V receiver.