Onkyo TX-SR308 Receiver Review (B003BEDQQM)
Now you can get Onkyo’s legendary sound performance at a budget price with this basic level TX-SR308 5.1 channel receiver.
Even though this is the base model, you still get great performance from the 65 watts per channel output. Input is also 5.1 channel which is an important distinction, as you get true surround sound – not just audio input spread over 5 channels. The unit is also engineered to decode from Dolby and DTS without sound loss.
This machine is ready to get the most from your entertainment systems, and it’s simple to hook them up too thanks to 3 HDMI 1.4 inputs.
Pros:
If it's quality sound that you are looking for, according to those who evaluated the Onkyo TX-SR308, you will not be disappointed. Several users describe a serious improvement in sound production compared with their previous receiver.
Adding to the quality of the audio end result is the 308’s handling of audio input, according to users with know-how. The SR308 produces the true 5.1 channel sound its developers advertise, as opposed to only receiving a stereo signal and spreading it over your 5.1 speaker system.
It was also praised because it has the latest decoders from both Dolby and DTS, so if you have a Blu-Ray DVD player, you'll get top-notch decoding from this receiver.
Even though this is a relatively low price receiver, it gets points for its ability to process HDMI 1.4. In addition, users are impressed with the device’s connectivity, as it features 3 HDMI 1.4 inputs, full 3D compatibility for down the road, two optical inputs, composite inputs, and more. Furthermore buyers state that it is easy to set up and easy to use.
Consumers really like the fact that they can reduce the amount of cabling between their various devices thanks to the HDMI connectivity options.
The majority of customers are more than happy with their purchase and believe that the Onkyo TX-SR308 is very good value for the price, particularly if you are looking for a basic set up.
Cons:
A complaint that comes up a few times is that there are limitations regarding the TX-SR308’s ability to upscale DVD material. Some users report that it would only upscale the audio and not the video in some scenarios. This is pointed out in the user manual but consumers feel that this information should be given more prominence.
Evaluations highlight that the alternate listening modes really do not add much to the audio experience. Reviewers also mention that there is no USB port and no way to play MP3’s.
A few users also felt disappointed with the FM tuner reception. One user felt that his cheap radio alarm clock had better FM reception.
The reviews also mention a complaint about the Zone 2 feature – one user described this description of Zone 2 capability as being inaccurate, stating that they believe the unit allows only for speaker A or speaker B choices. Several users criticize the remote control – it’s not universal and is worse than that of earlier models.
The Onkyo TX-SR308 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver delivers great quality audio, without loss, due to its excellent handling and decoding of audio input. This also means that it delivers true surround sound. All this comes at a brilliant low price.