Onkyo’s THX-certified TX-NR737 and TX-NR838 network AV receivers combine sound quality with the latest in 4K/60Hz and HDCP 2.2-compliant video and wireless hi-res audio connectivity.
The TX-NR737 and TX-NR838 passed over 2,000 laboratory bench tests analyzing every aspect of audio quality in order to achieve THX Select2 Plus certification.
The THX-certified receivers focus on both multichannel and stereo sound quality, HDMI connectivity to enable UHD video at 60fps, and a simple approach to content selection.
The TX-NR737 and TX-NR838 passed over 2,000 laboratory bench tests analyzing every aspect of audio quality in order to achieve THX Select2 Plus certification. This guarantees the high-volume, low-distortion sound experienced in a multiplex theater.
A new slogan “Emotion Delivered” expresses Onkyo’s amplification philosophy, the cornerstone of which is high current. High instantaneous current realizes ultimate speaker control for accurate and musical audio reproduction while handling impedance fluctuations and the sudden dynamic changes common to movie soundtracks.
Both the TX-NR838 and TX-NR737 have wide range amplifier technology (WRAT) at their core, a system built around a custom high-output transformer, extra-large customized capacitors, and low-impedance copper bus-plates. Three-stage inverted Darlington circuitry amplification features a discrete low-impedance output stage with high-current transistors for instantaneous power and low distortion. The culmination of over 60 years’ audio engineering experience, WRAT preserves the life and character of the master recording.
High-current power amplification combines with dual DSP engines and 192 kHz/24-bit Burr-Brown D/A conversion to deliver sound that is wide, deep, and detailed.
The TX-NR737 and TX-NR838 both feature proprietary AccuEQ room calibration, which bypasses the front L/R channels, so the loudspeakers’ unique audio characteristics are preserved. The remaining channels are quickly and easily optimized for balanced surround-sound performance.
Advanced Music Optimizer DSP, meanwhile, enhances the quality of compressed audio streamed via Bluetooth to further improve two-channel fidelity.
On the TX-NR838, users can select pure direct analog path mode to physically shut down all digital circuitry in the receiver, eliminating electrical interference. Signals pass directly from the phono or analog audio inputs to the amplifiers and arrive at the front loudspeakers in analog form. The improvement in audio quality helps to showcase the unique tonal character of vinyl. Pure direct analog path lets the TX-NR838 double as a pure-analog power amp for high-quality source components, such as turntables, SACD players, and Blu-ray players.
Both receivers feature seven HDMI inputs (six rear, one front with MHL) and two outputs, with the first four inputs and the frontside input supporting Ultra HD video at 60fps.
The TX-NR737 and TX-NR838 feature HDCP 2.2 compatibility on HDMI input three and main out, allowing the receiver to play copy-protected Ultra HD media and other premium streamed, broadcast, or physical video content. Home theater receivers without HDCP 2.2 compatibility may only be able pass this premium content through to the display in standard definition (480i/576i).
Lower definition video from legacy consoles, DVDs, and streamed video via media player is converted to Full HD or 4K (depending on the display) with Qdeo upscaling technology.
As well as powering audio in another room equipped with a pair of speakers, the TX-NR838 transmits high-definition video to a second zone display via the HDMI sub out. Users can route 1080p content from media players connected to the receiver and enjoy it on a second display with easy smartphone control. The additional HDMI output on the TX-NR737 is designed for projector connection. The TX-NR838 also features 7.2 multichannel pre-outs, five digital audio inputs, and a 12V trigger-out for second zone audio.
Built-in Wi-Fi and DLNA compatibility allows streaming of high-resolution music libraries from a PC or media server, with search, track selection, and playback controls all enabled via the remote app. A variety of file formats are supported, including 5.6MHz DSD, Dolby TrueHD, and gapless 192kHz/24-bit FLAC and WAV.
Users can also stream music stored on handheld devices instantly to these receivers via Wi-Fi, or use onboard Bluetooth 2.1 +EDR to enjoy almost any audio playing on their devices wirelessly.
Both receivers provide access to an assortment of internet services, including Spotify, Pandora, SiriusXM Internet Radio, Slacker, AUPEO!, and TuneIn Radio; all of which are searchable from within the Onkyo remote app.
Graphical on-screen displays are overlaid via HDMI, so quick adjustments to audio or video can be made without interrupting the program. InstaPrevue technology allows users to see content playing on connected devices in thumbnail windows. The remote app provides a range of adjustment and control for video and audio in two zones, and also includes a variety of audio streaming options.
The TX-NR737 and TX-NR838 will both be available in May with suggested retail prices of $899 and $1,199, respectively.
