Looking to get a new Onkyo Receiver

thehalo8 · October 2003

I am currently running my HT with an Onkyo 696, and I am slowly looking to upgrade to a 7.1 system. I was looking at the Onkyo 801 or 901. Can anyone give me advice as to which I should go with?

The only real difference I can see is that the 901 has 10 more watts per channel, an extra optical in, and the sleek flip down in front to hide the controls. What is the rational for the big difference in price? Thanks in advance for you help.

Mike

steveinaz · October 2003

I don't know of those particular receivers, but as far as the power issue goes--keep in mind that a doubling of power results in only a 3db increase in output. You'd have to upgade your amp ten-fold to hear a doubling of output. Bottom line, 10watts is insignificant.

thehalo8 · October 2003

Thanks for the info Steve. That was one of my questions as to whether its worth the extra money or not. I used to be in car audio and know all about power and db. The 801 is 100/channel and the 901 is 110/channel. I just dont see what the advantage the 901 has over the 801 to justify a $500 price difference?!?!?!?! I am eventually going to get a 7.1 separate amp for my system, so the extra 10 watts per channel is not that helpful to my setup.

scottvamp · October 2003

I have the some two previuos Onkyo models and they are not like night and day but the larger model does offer more features.
The ten watts is not a big deal but it does have a little reserve power when you whatching at reference levels.

thehalo8 · October 2003

Do you think the 901 has enough features to justify the price difference?

scottvamp · October 2003

I would compare the two - features are only good if your going to use them. I would say in your case the $500 difference, the 801 is a no brainer. Buy the 801............ its a great reciever.

Looking to get a new Onkyo Receiver

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