Onkyo releases HT-S9100THX home theater package

[iceman]

Onkyo press release and images

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (10/28/08) – Onkyo, which two years ago introduced the world's first THX Certified packaged home theater system, has now updated this proven concept with state-of-the-art high-definition audio and video connectivity and performance capabilities for optimal enjoyment of Blue-ray and other HD sources.

The new Onkyo HT-S9100THX combines a very well equipped and powerful home theater receiver with a high-performance, 7.1-channel home theater speaker system, all of which were designed to conform to THX's demanding Integrated System Plus™ certification protocols, and includes the new THX Loudness Plus technology which compensates for the tonal and spatial shifts that occur when the volume level is reduced below the reference levels. It also boasts a broad set of other high-demand features including 1080p capable HDMI v.1.3 connectivity, Faroudja DCDi video upscaling, Audyssey 2EQ and Dynamic EQ, and complete decoding for the latest high resolution audio formats.

The HT-S9100THX A/V receiver features four HDMI v. 1.3a inputs, and is fully compatible with 1080p video and Deep Color™. Additionally, thanks to onboard Faroudja DCDi Edge™ technology, all component, composite, and S-Video sources are upscaled to 1080i HD resolution for output over HDMI. Audio processing includes decoding of the full range of current formats, including the Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio lossless audio codecs as well as Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio formats.
The HT-S9100THX receiver also features Audyssey 2EQ automatic calibration, which analyzes the system's acoustical output at three unique positions in the listening area, then automatically tailors the system output for optimal performance throughout the room. Additionally, Audyssey's Dynamic EQ algorithm adds moment-by-moment refinement of the receiver's frequency response and surround levels in order to compensate for volume-dependent deteriorations in the listening experience, particularly at low volume levels.

For ease of integration, the receiver has a wide range of legacy connectivity options, including HD-capable component video switching for two high definition A/V source components such as HDTV tuner, DVD player, and gaming console. There are also three composite/S-Video inputs and two outputs, as well as four assignable digital audio inputs. Additionally, the HT-S9100THX features Onkyo's exclusive Music Optimizer circuitry, for improved audio performance from digital audio files such as MP3 or AAC, making the system an excellent match for an iPod or other portable music device. Finally, the system is completely compatible with Onkyo's iPod RI (Remote Interactive) iPod dock/charger.

The HT-S9100THX’s powerful 130 Watts per channel receiver is accompanied by an impressive speaker package that has been designed for outstanding audio performance with simple setup and installation. It features seven two-way speakers that are tonally matched to each other for optimal localization and seamless surround transitions. The front and center channel speakers each include a 1-inch soft-dome tweeter and dual 5-inch woofers constructed from Onkyo's acclaimed A-OMF (Onkyo Micro Fiber) cones. The front and center channels are also magnetically shielded to prevent interference with video reproduction when placed near a TV. Side and rear surround speakers all feature 5-1/8 inch a-OMF woofers and the same tweeter found in the front channels to deliver a seamless 360-degree soundstage. Deep bass reproduction is handled by a powerful 12-inch subwoofer with an integrated 290-Watt amplifier.

The Onkyo HT-S9100THX home theater system is currently available with a suggested retail price of $1,099.

Onkyo, which takes its name from the Japanese "On" meaning 'sound' and "Kyo" meaning 'harmony,' has been producing precision audio components for over a half-century. The company's philosophy is to deliver products that are superbly designed and built to a consistently outstanding standard of excellence. Today, Onkyo is at the forefront of the home theater and digital revolutions. For more information about this and other fine Onkyo products, visit www.onkyousa.com or call 800-229-1687.