Onkyo TX-NR656 vs Onkyo TX-RZ610

Onkyo TX-RZ610 vs Onkyo TX-NR656: Which High-end Amp Model is Better

Selecting a solid, Onkyo home theater to purchase, customers compare their features, performance and capabilities. Is Onkyo TX-NR656 vs TX-RZ610 more advanced or innovative? Are there any differences at all? Let’s check.

Features

The only difference of the newest, TX-NR656 model is the availability of the built-in DTS:X Master Audio decoder that enables impressive sound, accurate audio effects transfer. Multi-room option of the home theaters is supported by the innovative FireConnect technology that is not as advanced as MusicCast option typical to Yamaha devices. However, the upgraded model comes with the improved control app that restricts the system’s usability.

Connections

Both models are equipped with the same number of HDMI ports. 7 rear and 1 front HDMI input are very convenient. A phono input for turntables is available. Due to the innovative DAC (digital to analog converter), the audio signal is supplied to the second zone. Meanwhile, Onkyo TX-RZ610 is easier to set up and use versus its newest counterpart. It comes with the simplified remote and interface. The Bluetooth connection is intuitive to initiate. WiFi settings are straightforward.

Performance

Onkyo TX-RZ610 vs TX-NR656 is a bit more powerful, but the difference is very slight. As to the sound quality, the advanced model stands out by mellow bass performance, the TX-RZ610 amp produces the sound notable for impressive midrange and crisp dialogues.

Conclusion

Both Onkyo models are solid, feature-rich and high-performance. Meanwhile, due to the updated control app of the TX-NR656 amp that is not well-adjusted yet, some Bluetooth connectivity issues happen, zone 2 is complicated to control. The TX-RZ610 model is easier to set up and use. It is quite powerful, standing out by crisp dialogues and great midrange while its counterpart produces deeper bass sound.

Onkyo TX-RZ610 review

The home theater is advanced and feature-rich. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats, comes with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. This amp model was released in 2015, but it’s easy to set up, calibrate and control, coming with simplified interface and remote. It produces top-quality sound, notable for balanced, accurate dialogues and impressive mid-range. Additionally, it has a generous number of HDMI ports and a phono input is available.

Onkyo TX-NR656 review

The amp model that was released in 2016 is feature rich and high-end. It comes with the maximum number of HDMI ports, including the rear USB and a phono input. The device produces powerful sound, notable for deep, mellow bass performance, clear dialogues reproduction. The A/V receiver is solid and the simplified remote is available. But its control app is still not proven yet and some Bluetooth and set up issues happen.