Onkyo TX-NR6100

In this onkyo tx-nr6100 review, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 is a 7.2-channel AV receiver that ranks sixth out of eight picks in our best AV receivers guide, and it holds the Best budget pick with THX label at $649. It carries a 4.1-star average from 990 Amazon ratings, the largest review sample in the guide, plus a 2-year parts and labor warranty. That mix suits a first surround system or a living room upgrade where THX certification matters more than channel count. For example, a 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos layout with two subwoofers fits comfortably here. However, a 9.2-channel layout does not.

The 210-watt per channel dynamic rating means short peaks in loud action scenes stay clean instead of clipping, and the seven amplified channels drive a full 7.2 speaker layout. On top of that, three HDMI 2.1 inputs accept 40Gbps 8K signals, so a game console and a streaming box can both run at full bandwidth. THX Select certification applies a fixed tuning target, which takes guesswork out of speaker setup. Meanwhile, 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X add height effects above the listener. Streaming is built in as well: Amazon Music, Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, Pandora and TuneIn over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. In practice, Apple HomeKit and Google Assistant handle voice control, and discrete Zone 2 audio and video send a second source to another room.

At $649, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 undercuts most THX-certified receivers, which is why it holds the budget slot in this guide. By contrast, the step-up models above it add Dirac Live room correction and 9.2-channel processing, features this unit cannot match at any price. Even so, the 4.1-star average is the second lowest among the eight picks, so expect some setup complaints inside those 990 ratings. The receiver measures 21 by 18.64 by 10.64 inches and weighs 10.4 kg, which means it needs a deep shelf with open airflow. If you run a 7.2 system with Atmos height speakers and want THX tuning under $700, this is the one to get. Skip it if Dirac or four height speakers are on your wish list.