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An AV amplifier can do much more than just drive your speakers. Onkyo’s latest model, the TX-NR609, is an excellent amplifier which is also packed with extra features.
Initial impressions were excellent; the unit is smart and well made. Our review sample came in black, but Onkyo also produces a silver version. Most of the basic functions can be controlled on the unit itself using the numerous input switches and oversized volume knob, which lights up when switched on, but you’ll soon want to reach for the utilitarian remote control to navigate some of the more in-depth settings menus.
A simple yet attractive two-line LCD display shows which input is currently active, as well as volume and any active audio processing features.
Unlike many basic amplifiers, changing settings on the NR609 was simple because all the menus appear as an on-screen overlay on the connected display, as well in brief on the front-facing LCD. Menus are responsive and the remote control makes it easy to navigate through them.
Most AV receivers hide all their connections at the back, but the NR609 has several front-facing ports that make it easier to connect something temporarily, without having to reach around the back in a scramble for cables. A single HDMI input, headphone, microphone and USB ports cover all the major bases; the USB port is compatible with the optional wireless adaptor (£50, part code UWF-1), but for that price you can buy a pair of faster HomePlug network adaptors.
There are a huge number of connections on the back of the unit. Not content with basic surround sound, Onkyo has added enough binding post outputs for a 7.2 speaker setup, assuming you have two separate subwoofers. In addition there are analogue zone 2 outputs that can be connected to a second stereo set of speakers, so you can play music in another room while watching a surround sound film, for example. High-definition audio sources such Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio are supported, but only from an HDMI source.
Once we’d hooked up our set of reference home theatre speakers and Blu-ray player, we were instantly impressed with how warm the opening scenes of Casino Royale sounded. There was absolutely no interference from connected components and the near silent amplifier made it a joy to watch quieter sections just as much as the louder ones.
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Video inputs are just as comprehensive; five HDMI ports should be more than enough for most home entertainment setups, but an additional two component and five composite inputs should cover almost every situation. Owners of 3D TVs will be happy to hear that the NR609 can send 3D video signals from a compatible Blu-ray player to a connected display, as well as upscale 1080p content to ridiculously big 4K resolutions; screens capable of displaying images this big haven’t yet made their way to the UK, but when they do the NR609 will be ready for them.
Finally, an Ethernet port can connect the amplifier to your home network. With internet radio, Spotify and Last.fm streaming all built-in, you can use the amp to play downloaded music without the need for a connected PC or smartphone. Speaking of which, a free iPhone app can control the amp’s main features without having to reach for the remote control. DLNA music streaming is supported – every major file format works, including FLAC and OGG Vorbis.
We struggled to find any fault with the NR609, as it ticks all the boxes for connectivity, design and ease of use. At roughly £500 it’s not aimed at the budget-conscious, but if you’re serious about home cinema, there are very few alternatives at this price with such a wide selection of features.
