Others say...

"Didn't work out for me."
The receiver came, I noticed I was getting static with it that I never got from the TX-SR604 I had. It also had the PS3 buzz, but that wasn't a big deal for me. So I got the unit replaced and same static and buzz, but then after a few days the receiver blew out. The amp entirely went out. I sent for another replacement but Amazon sent me an email saying they are just going to refund me because this is a wider spread problem then they originally thought.

"Mixed Feelings"
I replaced my ten year old Sony 5.1 receiver with the Onkyo 606. The Onkyo cost half as much as the Sony and the sound was much better. The surround sound on my old system was weak. I'm blown away about how much better it is with the Onkyo. I'm still not sure if it is the technology, settings, or improved system setup.

Since my TV doesn't have HDMI connections, I was disspointed that the Onkyo doesn't down-convert HDMI to component. This is a problem for me since all my devices are HDMI or component and there are only two component inputs. In addtion, S-video and composite are not upconverted to component. Because of this, I have to run addtional cables to my TV and can't use the video switching function of the Onkyo as I would like.

The biggest issue I have had so far, and a big part of the reason I gave this a three instead of a four is the quality. The first Onkyo I purchased had a bad board and couldn't display all colors through one of the component connections. Onkyo customer support quickly identified the problem. Amazon was excellent and sent a replacement before they even recieved my return. I was really impressed with the way they managed the return. All shipping was paid for by Amazon. Well, the second receiver has video problems as well, the picture goes in and out with some programs. I verified that it wasn't the satellite reciever. Onkyo customer support wasn't so great this time. They basically blamed it on the Directv receiver even though it works fine when hooked directly to the TV. Amazon initially offered a refund only. However, I explained to them that I feel like I just got a couple of bad systems and would like to try one last one. They agreed and the third one is in the mail. After all the research I did on this, and given how highly recommended it is, I just don't won't to go with another receiver. And you can't beat this price.

In short, I love the receiver but hope the quality is better with my third try.

"Great receiver"
Probably the best value out right now for any receiver. Has all the options and features of much more expensive units - a truly great buy.

7.1 sound along with 4 HDMI inputs make this hard to beat. And it sounds amazing.

"Quite A Performer!"
After considerable shopping, reading of reviews, I decided on the Onkyo 606. I have been very pleased with its performance at all levels. As others have mentioned, it has inputs that will accommodate all of your needs that I can think of. Set up was easy, though thin fingers will help with speaker wire installation! Plenty of power to run my system (7.1). I was also influenced by the "hedge against the future" advantage of this unit. The Audyssey speaker calibration was easy to use and very effective in a room with some unique demands. It will calculate distance, volume, and tone of each speaker to create a full surround sound from the listening area. (You take 3 readings - not just one.) If you don't like the sound, you can redo the readings, or manually calibrate to suit your taste. The available Listening Modes are numerous & quite impressive, including some unique to Onkyo receivers (such as Modes for unplugged, rock, studio, classical, to TV shows set in a studio vs. cinema settings and game settings). I find the chart in the manual very helpful in choosing a mode for my listening or viewing choice. Unlike some receivers, the different Listening Modes are noticeably different from one another, giving you more choices for what sounds good to your ear.

Many of the reviews have focused on its video pluses, and there are many, but my primary use is for audio. (Though its upconversion of a DVD to an LG LCD was quite stunning via HDMI.) I have played FM stations, CD's,DIV Audio, and SACD's through this receiver and its range and power render a clear, accurate, balanced surround field. It can read the signal from an SACD via the HDMI cable, eliminating the need for the 5 or 7 analog cables usually required for multi channel devices (though it can take them, too). The 90 wts. per channel is more than enough to drive my Bose 601 floors, Bose 301 surrounds, and Bose 201 surround back speakers with plenty of oomph left for the subwoofer. I did tweak the center speaker a bit and dialog is clear and audible in all Listening modes.

I have had no problems with hum or noise that some have reported. Running hot? All receivers make heat, so allow some top space and exhaust for ventilation. I have about 6-8 inches above and leave a cabinet door open for extended play and have had no problems or heat issues.

This is a good receiver with tons of options and capabilities. For the price, it outperforms the field. I can recommend highly.

"Best unit for the money"
My husband researched the individual units of our surround sound system and this receiver was in C-Net's top 5; Amazon had the best price by far and we could not be more pleased. The sound is incredible and set-up with our components was a snap. Word to the wise--if you use your PS3 as your Blu-Ray player, use the "game" input instead of the "DVD" input to get the sound right. It'll work using the DVD input, but not in surround sound!