ONKYO TX-SR506B 7.1-Channel Receiver

Pros: There are lots of connections, and the whole thing is fairly easy to set up. The multi-channel input was a life-saver, since digital out from my media pc wouldn't work properly.

Cons: I have one real gripe with this - it puts off a LOT of heat. Before I installed it in my TV cabinet, I drilled out vents in the back and installed 4 120mm fans to cool the whole thing. Despite that, the receiver still began to overheat and freeze up. I moved it to a position with more airflow, bumped up the speed on the fans, and now all is well. But still... don't plan on putting this in an enclosed area without a lot of preparation.

Overall Review: Lots of people getting receivers for the first time don't realize that ones in this price range, even if they do have HDMI, will not output the audio to speakers - they will only pass it though to the TV. For a receiver that redirects an HDMI audio stream to the attached speakers, you have to spend a bit more. Companies don't exactly make this obvious, so I can see how this would be annoying. Another feature missing at this price range, that would have been nice to have, is independent volume controls for each input. Still, I'm quite happy with this purchase.

Pros: Setup was easy using the included microphone. Lots of inputs, good quality industrial design, GREAT sound!

Cons: The HDMI ports are just pass-through - they do not decode audio and push it out to your speakers. I bought this receiver before previous reviewer reviewed it, and so I was surprised by this - there wasn't a mention in the product description, and it didn't occur to me that HDMI inputs to an audio product would not result in audio. :/ It does run hot, but as long as you don't stack anything on top of it (or leave it on when not in use) it's fine.

Pros: High-current power x 7 channels, nice clean sound, a lot of surround decoding options, rock-solid Onkyo construction, plenty of connection options, Audyssey 2EQ auto speaker setup, Audyssey Dynamic EQ, zone 2 option, Newegg sale price and free delivery. Back surround speaker channels are bi-amping compatible. Incredible dynamic range even a low volumes!

Cons: I wouldn't have minded full HDMI outputs that carried sound as well video (Only pass-through HDMI on this unit) but at this price point I don't mind using the digital optical output for incredible digital 7.1 surround sound or stereo music. Using 2 cables instead of one is is not worth $150 more dollars to me to upgrade to the Onkyo SR 606.

Overall Review: I replaced my circa 1996 Sony 5.1 surround sound receiver that was supposedly rated at 100 watts per channel. This Onkyo SR 506 rated at 75 watts per channel has MUCH more power than the old Sony rated at 100 watts.

Pros: Sounds exceptionally clean and looks great. Gave my music and movies a new lease on life. All Onkyo makes is recievers and other home audio stuff so you know your getting a quality piece of home audio tech and at this price...well I just cant think of any other brand that can compare.

Cons: HDMI is pass thru only but I already knew that and won't take away from the overall rating. If you really need it the next higher model (TX-SR606) offers it for a tad more $.

Overall Review: Heat output is not as bad as some make it out to be. I have owned quite a few recievers and this units heat output is average. Try not to stuff it in a small space and you won't have any problems.

Pros: Automatic Setup using the including microphone Inputs/Outputs galore Outstanding sound and easy setup.

Cons: Size/Weight - When replacing an older (20 years) receiver, had to make extra room for this one. Not a big deal considering the performance, however.

Overall Review: If you're looking for a top notch receiver on a budget, don't look any further.

Pros: Audyssey 2EQ auto speaker setup, Audyssey Dynamic EQ, zone 2 option,bi-amping,remote controller

Cons: pass-through HDMI

Overall Review: everything works

Pros: Got it the day after Thanksgiving for half price with free shipping. Nice looking unit that sounds great. I would pay the full price at a brick and mortor store to replace if I had to. It's that nice

Cons: ?

Overall Review: Heavy

Pros: Very quick auto setup. The receive is simple yet powerful and feature loaded and its audio output is awesome. I have it hooked to a 5.1 set of Yamaha's and the whole setup sounds great! Shipping was very fast especially considering it was during the holidays!

Cons: None so far. Others have complained about heat and mine is in an entertainment center cabinet and it gets warm but not to the point of overheating. My previous Sony's did the same thing.

Overall Review: The interface and setup was much easier and user friendly than my older Sony's. Since the HDMI doesn't do audio, the 2 TOSLINK and 2 digital coaxial inputs are nice for now.