Onkyo TX-NR545 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver Review
If you’re the laid-back type who wants a sound system that’s more plug-and-play than a puzzle, the Onkyo TX-NR545 is right up your alley. It’s a champ in smaller spaces like city apartments or normal family rooms, where it fills the room without overwhelming it.
Our Verdict
The Onkyo TX-NR545 is like that reliable midfielder—not the star player but one you can count on. It delivers a solid audio performance that’ll satisfy most ears, but audiophiles and party hosts might find it lacking. It’s easy on the wallet and the eyes, making it a smart pick for the everyday user.
PROS
- High-quality audio performance
- Multiple HDMI inputs
- Dolby Atmos support
- Built-in Bluetooth
- Easy setup process
- Intuitive user interface
- Network streaming capabilities
- Compatibility with various devices
CONS
- Remote control complexity
- Limited power output
- The price may be high
GENERAL
| Receiver Type | |
|---|---|
| Number Of Channel | Channel |
| Number Channel Processing | |
| Audio Feature | |
| Video Feature | |
| Watts Per Channel | |
| Zones | |
| Radio | |
| Amplifier |
CONNECTIVITY
| Ethernet | |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | |
| Bluetooth | |
| USB | |
| RCA LIne Input: | |
| RCA LIne Output: | |
| RCA Pre-Outs: | |
| XLR Line Inputs: | |
| XLR Pre-Outs: | |
| Phono Input: | |
| Optical Inputs: | |
| Optical Output: | |
| Coaxial Inputs: | |
| Multi-Channel Input: | |
| Headphone Out: | |
| HDMI Inputs: | |
| HDMI Outputs: | |
| 8K Inputs: | |
| Composite Video Input | |
| Composite Video Output: | |
| Component Video Input: | |
| Component Video Output: | |
| Front A/V Inputs: | |
| Speaker A/B: |
AUDIO FEATURES:
| Maximum Channel Processing | |
|---|---|
| Dolby Atmos | |
| Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization | |
| Dolby Atmos Music | |
| Dolby TrueHD | |
| Dolby Digital Plus | |
| Dolby Surround Upmixer | |
| Dolby Pro Logic | |
| Dolby Digital EX | |
| Surround EX | |
| DTS:X | |
| DTS Neural:X | |
| DTS Virtual:X | |
| DTS Neo | |
| DTS-HD Master Audio | |
| DTS-HD High Resolution Audio | |
| DTS 96/24 | |
| DTS Express | |
| DTS-ES | |
| IMAX Enhanced | |
| PCM | |
| Music Playback via USB | |
| High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network | |
| High Resolution Audio Formats via USB | |
| Gapless Playback | |
| DSD via HDMI | |
| DSD via USB | |
| DSD to PCM Converter | |
| USB DAC | |
| Jitter Reduction | |
| DTS Dialog Control | |
| Dialog Enhancement | |
| Dialog Level Adjustment | |
| Dialog Normalization | |
| Dialogue Lift | |
| Compressed Music Enhancer | |
| High-resolution Music Enhancer | |
| Audyssey Dynamic EQ | |
| Audyssey Dynamic Volume | |
| Audyssey LFC | |
| Audyssey Sub EQ HT | |
| Audyssey DSX | |
| Direct Mode | |
| Pure Direct Mode | |
| Independent Subwoofer Outputs | |
| Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. | |
| Audyssey App Support | |
| Bass Sync | |
| Optimized Bass Redirection |
VIDEO FEATURES:
| HDMI Version | |
|---|---|
| Enhanced ARC | |
| HDCP Version | |
| HDR10+ | |
| Dynamic HDR | |
| Dolby Vision | |
| HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) | |
| QMS (Quick Media Switching) | |
| 3-D Ready | |
| Video Signal Passthrough | |
| Video Signal Upscaling | |
| Analog To HDMI Upconversion | |
| Component Video Upscaling | |
| isf Certified Calibration Control |
AMPLIFIERS
| Channels | |
|---|---|
| Front Wide Channel Support | |
| Current Feedback Topology | |
| Discrete Amplification | |
| HDAM | |
| THX™ Certification | |
| Continuous 6 Ω Rated | |
| Certified 4 Ω Performance | |
| Bi-amp Capability |
GAMING FEATURES
| Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) | |
|---|---|
| Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) | |
| Quick Frame Transport (QFT) |
ZONES
| Zones | |
|---|---|
| Powered Zones | |
| Zone 2 Outs | |
| Zone 3 Outs | |
| RS-232C Interface | |
| +12V Trigger Output |
RADIO
| Analog Tuner | |
|---|---|
| Digital Radio | |
| Internet Radio | |
| Pandora | |
| Spotify | |
| Tidal | |
| Deezer | |
| SiriusXM Internet Radio | |
| Napster |
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
| On-Screen Display | |
|---|---|
| GUI Languages | |
| Web Browser Control | |
| IP Control for CI | |
| Control4 SDDP | |
| PreAmp Mode | |
| Display | |
| Remote Controller | |
| Remote Control In/Out | |
| LCD Display | |
| Detachable Power Cord | |
| Setup Assistant |
POWER
| Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 | |
|---|---|
| Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) | |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front) | |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front) | |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front) | |
| Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 | |
| Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) | |
| Power Supply | |
| Toroidal Transformer | |
| Power Consumption | |
| No Sound Power | |
| Standby Power |
BUILD
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | |
|---|---|
| Weight | |
| Chassis | |
| Front Panel | |
| Speaker Terminals | |
| Large Speaker Terminals | |
| Color-Coded Speaker Terminals | |
| Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals | |
| High Grade Audio Components | |
| ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function | |
| Auto Power off | |
| Warranty |
SPECIFICATIONS
| THD digital | |
|---|---|
| Analog Distortion | |
| Phono Distortion | |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line) | |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM) | |
| Rated Lineout Level and Impedance | |
| Rated Output digital | |
| S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) | |
| S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) | |
| S/N Ratio (digital) | |
| Phono RIAA Deviation | |
| Frequency Response (Analog In) | |
| DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI | |
| DSD Sampling Rates via USB | |
| Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance | |
| Video Frequency Response | |
| Ethernet Standard | |
| Wi-Fi Standard | |
| Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency | |
| Bluetooth Version | |
| Bluetooth Frequency | |
| USB Terminal | |
| FM Frequency | |
| FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.) | |
| FM S/N Ratio | |
| FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz) | |
| AM Effective Sensitivity | |
| AM Frequency |
The Onkyo TX-NR545’s design is a nod to minimalism and practicality. Its lightweight nature means it’s a cinch to move around, but that same quality might leave you wondering about its resilience in the face of an accidental bump. It’s got a straightforward aesthetic that’s unlikely to turn heads, but it’s also unobtrusive enough not to disrupt your interior vibe.
It’s decked out with six HDMI inputs, all ready to support 4K and HDR, so you’re set for the ultra-high-definition experience. Plus, with HDCP 2.2 certification on the first three inputs, you’re future-proofed for Ultra HD content. Wi-Fi is onboard, which is a big win. It means you can connect to your home network wirelessly for streaming music or internet radio. And for those who prefer a wired connection, there’s an Ethernet port for more stability.
Additionally, Bluetooth is present, allowing you to stream audio wirelessly from your mobile devices. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to play something from your phone or tablet. The TX-NR545 supports a variety of streaming services like Spotify Connect, DLNA, and AirPlay, so you’ve got plenty of options for accessing your music. And for radio enthusiasts, there’s AM/FM support with the ability to preset up to 40 stations.
In terms of file support, the TX-NR545 can handle high-resolution audio files up to 24bit/192kHz and DSD 5.6MHz over a wired connection, while wireless streaming is limited to sampling rates of up to 88.2kHz2. DSD 2.8MHz and WAVs up to 16bit/48kHz are playable via USB, which is great for high-quality audio enthusiasts.
Performance-wise, the TX-NR545 is like that reliable friend who’s good at everything but not the master of anything. It’s been noted for its big, large-scale sound that doesn’t shy away from filling a room. The mids are nicely balanced, ensuring that vocals and main instruments are delivered with clarity and warmth, which is essential for an immersive listening experience. Whether you’re watching a dialogue-heavy drama or enjoying a jazz album, the TX-NR545 ensures that the mid-range frequencies are well-represented.
In terms of highs, the TX-NR545 provides a decent punch, power, and attack. The treble is crisp, allowing for the finer details in music, like the chime of a high hat or the strum of an acoustic guitar, to come through without being too sharp or piercing. This clarity in the higher frequencies adds to the overall definition of the sound.
The lows are where the TX-NR545 shows its limitations. While it can produce a punchy bass that adds depth to movies and music, it may lack the detail and solidity that some users are looking for. At higher volumes, the bass might not maintain its composure, leading to a less tight and controlled low-end response.
However, it’s worth noting that the TX-NR545 is limited to a 5.1.2 setup, which means it can’t provide the full Atmos experience with overhead sound that some might expect.
This receiver is your audio companion for those spaces where ambiance matters more than volume. It’s not the one you’d pick for an outdoor concert-level event, but for enhancing your personal entertainment space with quality sound, it’s just the ticket.
The TX-NR545 is quite an accommodating host for your array of devices. Whether you’re spinning vinyl classics or streaming the latest 4K content, this receiver doesn’t discriminate. However, as the tech world gallops ahead, this model may eventually lag, potentially making it a relic in a future-proofed setup.
Onkyo has streamlined the setup process, ensuring you won’t be scratching your head over complex configurations. The remote is user-friendly, and navigating the interface is intuitive. Yet, the absence of a dedicated app in an increasingly app-driven world might strike some users as a missed opportunity for convenience.
The TX-NR545 finds a balance between affordability and functionality. It’s priced within reach for those who prioritize sound quality without necessitating a hefty investment. It’s a middle-ground option that offers a respectable performance-to-cost ratio, making it a viable choice for the budget-conscious audiophile.
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