Onkyo, which is distributed by Amber Technology is celebrating its 70th anniversary in style launching two new high performance 7.2 channel AV receivers, the TX-NR656 and TX-NR555. These latest releases are designed to satisfy the needs of home owners, film buffs, gamers and the tech-savvy.

In May 1946, Onkyo entered the market with its cartridge pick-up for record playersi. Now, the leading AV brand is making it easier than ever to enjoy an immersive home theatre experience.

The new models are packed with state-of-the-art technologies and join Onkyo’s growing range of Dolby Atmos ready and DTS:X AV receivers. Dolby Atmos produces object-oriented audio playback that can be heard from all directions, resulting in 360 degree, three dimensional sound. The audio effects move around the space to create a lifelike cinema experience at home.

For example, users can hear a rainfall moving throughout the room or feel the vibrations from an explosion.

Similar to Dolby Atmos, the DTS:X codec delivers object-based audio for a heightened, multi-dimensional effect. While Dolby Atmos requires a specific speaker configuration, DTS:X lets users enjoy a lifelike cinematic experience using a broader range of flexible speaker configurations. This gives intergrators more freedom to set-up the AV equipment as they like.

Correcting unwelcome audio delays, AccuReflex phase-calibration technology aligns the sound to ensure all audio is in sync with other speakers. Combined with AccueEQ Room Calibration, the new AV receivers deliver crystal clear acoustics.
Dynamic Audio Amplification controls the loudspeakers with exceptional accuracy to deliver crystal clear highs, intelligible speech and powerful bass. Both AV receivers feature a 384 kHz/32-bit hi-grade digital to analogue converter (DAC) designed to unlock the full potential of any music format. Unique, low-distortion filtering technologies ensure this hi-grade DAC helps to deliver a superior listening experience.

FireConnect technology gives users the option of sending any source – digital or analogue – wirelessly from the receiver to one or more of Onkyo’s soon to be released wireless speakers located in other rooms. Users can turn wireless zones on/off and switch music sources. It also allows users to link multiple zones, making it ideal for parties or for creating continuous flow of music throughout the home.
Music lovers will welcome WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity with access to streaming services including Spotify as well as AirPlay.

A number of these features will be activated via firmware upgrades in the coming months including DTS:X, FireConnect as well as wireless streaming services, Google Cast, Tidal and Deezer.

Both models feature a dedicated phono input ideal for vinyl fans who want to connect a turntable to the AV receiver. Connect existing home entertainment equipment to the AV receiver using one of the eight HDMI ports available on the TX-NR656 and the six ports on the TX-NR555. Select HDMI terminals also support 4K/60 Hz as well as HDCP 2.2 and HDR for next-generation UltraHD streaming and broadcasting.

High-current amplification allows the TX-NR656 and TX-NR555 to produce soundtracks with maximum impact at 160 watts per channel and 130 watts per channel, respectively.