Need help between two receivers

r.camacho1

OK, so I have decided between these two receivers. The Onkyo TX-NR901 and the TX-SR803. The deference in price is about $200.00, and I know that the 901 is a older receiver, but still considered superior. The new 803 has the hdmi switching, and is only 5 watts per channel lower. I have listened to the 901 many times, and I love how it sounds. I haven't had a chance to listen to the 803 yet, but I listened to the 801, and I really like how that sounds also. I would like to know from anyone who is familiar with these receivers if it is worth the extra money for the 901, or if the 803 is a better deal. btw, these are the only two receivers that I'm considering so please reframe from suggesting other brands. Thank you.

http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?m=TX-NR901&class=Receiver&p=i

http://www.onkyousa.com/model.cfm?class=Receiver&m=TX-SR803&p=i

louhamilton

Is HDMI switching that important to you?

What is more important to you? XM or NetTune?

How many digital inputs do you need? 6 or 7?

I would probably never use a receiver or pre/pro for my video duties, therefore, that is never a consideration to me. You can get an external HDMI switcher if you ever get more devices than your TV's inputs.

Just my two cents. BTW, I think you already have your mind made up for the 901. ;-)

-Lou

Early B.

Get the 901. If you actually needed HDMI, and all that other fancy stuff, you wouldn't be asking us this question. The difference in wattage is irrelevant, but the price difference is significant.

okiepolkie

Take a look at this thread on another forum(googled it): http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,15078096

I would "like" the features of the newer receiver, if they actually worked the way they are supposed to. I'm sure software and firmware updates will eventually work things out, but who knows when all of that will happen.

A separate hdmi switcher, which may or may not work, usually runs between $300 and $500, so if you don't mind waiting until it gets worked out, it may be worth the extra $$$ now. Another thing, is that most televisions are only coming with 1(at the most 2) hdmi inputs, which is a turnoff for me. I would like to be able to hook up my DVD, Cable Box, and possibly a game system in future using this type of input, so a switch would almost be manditory for me.

There, I've expressed my frustration.

Zach

Holydoc

Camacho,

I don't know anything about the 803 except for what you linked, but I do own the 901. It is an outstanding receiver. It has plenty of inputs for my needs.

BTW, I have no idea what IPOD ready or XM Ready means since I have my 60gp Video IPoD connected to my 901 through which I can watch slideshows, movies, or just play songs. I would not let the IPOD or XM ready logo sway you.

I also agree with Early B as far as the wattage being irrevelant. The power output is actually ran with a single speaker connected and at optimal settings. The actual power for All Speakers Running is much lower and actually would work out to be much closer in comparison than the single speaker rating reported.

So what I would decide on your part is whether I needed the extra connections offered by the 901 or the HDMI connections offered by the 803.

I am going to be honest with you and tell you that I have not ever used the nettune option of the 901, so don't ask. *smile*

For my lifestyle, the extra connections offered by the 901 gave me much more flexibility, plus the 803 was not available when I purchased my system. Unlike Louhamilton, my receiver is the heart and soul of my HT system and therefore is necessary to handle all my video and audio needs. And I have a lot:

IPOD
TV
CD
DVD
Video Camera
VHS deck
DVR
Cassette Deck
Phono
Digital Cam
Video Game Box
XM player

Good luck on your selection.

r.camacho1

Thanks for all the suggestions. I'm still not to sure which way to go, so I think I'm going to get both and try them out at home. I guess that's the best way to go. Then I'll see if the 901 is worth the extra money. Thank guys

wingnut4772

That sounds like a good plan. Let us know how it works out.