The Onkyo TX-NR7100 is a THX-certified AV receiver with nothing more nor less than 9.2 channels of audio, which brings to the table all the functions and features coveted by home theater enthusiasts. This is the kind of device we turn to when we want a great audiovisual experience, but without breaking the bank, and that’s why it earns our attention today.
Going into details, this AV receiver offers innovative technologies such as DIRAC live room correction , enhanced IMAX mode, discrete zone 2 HDMI switching with up to 8K resolution at 60Hz and all the streaming options we could ever need.
Onkyo TX-NR7100 Review
Inputs for all needs
The Onkyo TX-NR7100 has a reasonable number of user- assignable analog audio inputs , plus zone 2 outputs (zone 3 must be powered by the receiver). By adding a phono input and a pair of digital inputs to the equation , we can confidently say that the Onkyo TX-NR7100 has what it takes to handle any source.
When it comes to video, the receiver includes composite and component video inputs , not to mention the presence of one HDMI 2.0 port on the front and six HDMI 2.1/HDCP 2.3 ports on the rear , with ports 1 -3 running at 40GBPS, while ports 4-6 run at 24GBPS. However, we must warn that, although all inputs operate at 4K@120Hz, only ports 1 to 3 are uncompressed.
With that said, on the back we can also find the following connectors: radio antenna loop, 12V switch, infrared port, Ethernet connector, RS232 connector for home automation and a USB input.
Speaker outputs
All nine channels (7.1.2 or 5.1.4) have five-way binding posts. The surround back and height channels are user assignable, allowing us to power Zones 2 and 3 or bi-amp the front left and right speakers. A pair of subwoofer Pre Out outputs complement the speaker connections.
The only complaint we have here is that the amplifier does not have independent subwoofer Pre Out outputs , so it counts as a single subwoofer. Therefore, it cannot be used as an AVR controller with external amplifiers either.
Video outputs
When it comes to video outputs, the Onkyo TX-NR7100 is equipped with two HDMI 2.1 Sub 8K ports to enjoy content with the best possible image quality and also to satisfy users who are looking for a smooth gaming experience, not in vano supports VRR (variable refresh rate), low latency mode and QFT (Quick Frame Transport).
Wireless connectivity and streaming options
The Onkyo TX-NR7100 has no shortage of wireless connectivity options. Naturally, it has Bluetooth (SBC, AAC and aptX codecs) and Apple AirPlay 2. In addition, it has support for Sonos, DTS Play-Fi, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Google and Alexa voice assistants, and Amazon Music streaming services , Tidal, Roon, Pandora and TuneIn. Oh, we can also connect a pendrive with our favorite songs in FLAC, AAC or MP3 formats to play them directly. Simply put, it has all the bases covered.
DIRAC live room and sound correction
Dirac’s room correction technology promises to unlock the full potential of the speakers connected to the Onkyo TX-NR7100 receiver by removing the room from the equation. This function improves the musical scene, the clarity of the dialogues and reinforces the bass making it sound deeper.
It is very important to note that to carry out the room calibration we will need either the Onkyo Connect application or Dirac Live . With that said, the Windows version of Dirac Live allows us to use the included microphone or upgrade to a calibrated microphone for audio tuning, so it’s by far the superior option.
When it comes to the sound itself, Onkyo rates the TX-NR7100’s stereo output at 100W per channel (20Hz-20kHz, RMS, 0.08% THD). In practice this boils down to around 75W output with all channels, but either way it’s more than enough to deliver truly cinematic levels from a powered subwoofer compatible system.
App and remote control
As an incentive, there is the Onkyo Controller application for iOS and Android phones , which allows us to control the AV functions, make calibrations, change equalization settings and more. Finally, a remote control could not be missing to control everything related to the Onkyo TX-NR7100 receiver. It is not backlit and is a bit narrow and crowded with buttons, but you can manipulate absolutely everything, so there are no complaints.
PROS:
- 100W power
- THX Certification
- Room correction
- Multiple inputs and connectivity options
CONS:
- Somewhat light housing and speaker outputs
Onkyo TX-NR7100 Specifications:
| ONKYO TX-NR7100 | |
|---|---|
| Brand | Onkyo |
| Dimensions | 534 x 265 x 468mm |
| Weight | 13.5kg |
| Channels | 9.2, THX Certificate |
| Output power | 100W |
| Audio and video technologies | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Neo:X, IMAX Enhanced |
| Response frequency | 10 Hz–100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct/Pure Audio) |
| video inputs |
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| video outputs | 2 x HDMI HDCP 2.3 8K UHD |
| Audio inputs |
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| Audio outputs |
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| Wireless connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2 |
| voice assistants | Yes, Amazon Alexa, and Google Chromecast |
| streaming services | Tidal, Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, Chromcast, Roon. |
| Radio | Yes, FM and AM |
| Package content | AV Receiver, Power Cord, Indoor FM Antenna, AM Loop Antenna, Speaker Setup Microphone, Quick Start Guide, Remote Control, Two AAA (R03) Batteries. |
