Onkyo TX-NR797 Review and Specs

The Onkyo TX-NR797 has plenty going for it, with abundant features, clean styling and very decent sound quality. Don’t miss a chance get into Onkyo TX-NR797 specs with this in-depth Onkyo TX-NR797 review.

Onkyo TX-NR797 review

Features

The TX-NR797 is the first Onkyo product to be released under the IMAX Enhanced program, which features DTS:X immersive audio decoding that is optimized to properly reproduce the full dynamic range of IMAX theatrical sound mixes available in digitally re-mastered IMAX Enhanced content. The IMAX Mode reproduces lMAX Enhanced content just as the filmmakers intended, and is perfectly timed as IMAX Enhanced are scheduled for 4K HDR streaming and Ultra HD Blu-ray release. The Onkyo TX-NR797 offers nine amplified channels and this includes a dedicated Zone 2. Using Dolby's nomenclature this would make the receiver a 5.2.2 model (with the last two digits indicating height). It offers 220 watts per channel at 8 ohms.

Design and build

The look is certainly cleaner and further "amplifies" the machismo factor. The function buttons are still there though, having been integrated into the LED display itself. On the right you'll find a plastic-feeling volume knob and on the left are two new control knobs. The left-hand dial is for fine tone control and the other is to change the listening mode. If you're an audiophile or use the calibration routine, however, you probably won't use these.

Connectivity

Connectivity includes eight 4K-compliant HDMI ports in addition to Bluetooth, Wi-Fi (Spotify, AirPlay and so on) and a dedicated phono input. The Onkyo has a powered Zone 2 in addition to a dedicated Zone 2 DAC for streaming and optical sources, enabling them to be sent directly to your second listening zone.

Setup

This receiver did not allow me to perform a manual speaker setup and calibration, so I went ahead and ran the TX-NR797's AccuEQ auto program. As soon as I started listening I was unhappy with the setup: The subwoofer was much too loud, and AccuEQ misjudged the RP-140SA height speakers' distance from the listening position, claiming they were 5.2 feet away when they were actually 13.

Pros and Cons