onkyo power amplifiers

Overall Rating: ( 16 reviews )

1. Posted: Jul 4 2008

   About the only thing I didn't like about my 40-inch Sony LCD HDTV (KDL-V40XBR1) was the undistinguished sound of its built-in speakers. I solved the problem with this Onkyo power amp in combination with a pair of Polk Audio Monitor 40 2-way bookshelf speakers. The audio output of the TV is fed into the RCA-type audio input of the Onkyo amp. I set Onkyo's volume control (placed on the back of the unit) about a half-way point, and control TV's volume with the Sony TV remote. The resulting sound is much better than the low-fi sound from the TV's built-in sound system -- richer and better defined. The Onkyo amp just sits on a lower-level of the TV stand; I don't have to do anything with it. My black Onkyo unit is almost invisible. When I power up the TV, in a few unnoticeable seconds the Onkyo amp's IDLE mode changes to ON mode, and the sound comes out of the Polk speakers. When I turn the TV off, the amp returns to the idle mode. It's as though the Onkyo power amp were built into the TV. I don't detect any noticeable hum from it, and it does not generate excess heat, as some reviewers complained about. For my rather basic needs, this is an ideal solution. I am totally satisfied with this Onkyo power amp.

2. Posted: May 15 2008

   I have been using this amplifier for more than 3 years and it has always provided excellent results for me. The sound is clear, neutral and has plenty of power. I use it with a pair of Infinity Beta 20. It may sound a little expensive for an amplifier, but I believe it has excellent value.

3. Posted: May 3 2008

   I just used this amplifier for one day but I must say that it certainly fulfills the need. I needed a "new" amplifier that wouldn't break the bank. I am tired of buying used equipment to save a few bucks initially, only to pay for repairs soon after the purchase. This amplifier sounds good. It certainly is no giant killer, but it does sound better than any "classic" equipment that costs a couple of hundred dollars more. The sound is balanced. I was afraid the amp might be too bright, but no it was quiet flat. There is plenty of power with 100 watts per channel. I didn't notice any hum from the power supply. I am thinking that the people who experienced hum may be getting it from their AC lines. Hopefully, this amp will run for many years without problems. If so, I will consider this purchase a screaming deal.

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