While not carrying the same brand cachet as audio heavyweights like Denon and Marantz, Japanese hi-fi stalwart Onkyo has quietly been producing quality receiver models for over seven decades. That’s why I wanted to write this Onkyo TX-SR393 review.
In my opinion, this device will not only find (or rather has already found) its fans and customers but also will be a worthy competitor to the recognized industry leaders. So, without wasting time, let’s look at its main features, and of course, let’s talk about the sound.
Features and specs
The TX-SR393 receiver features a 5.2-channel device that is in the mid-to-low price range. With 8 Ohm speakers, the receiver offers 80 Watts per channel at 0.08% THD with 20-20kHz frequency. These technical specifications are pretty solid for its class. Another interesting aspect is the great build quality, equal to similar price-range models from Denon and Yamaha.
With its control knob, buttons, and clear display, the TX-SR393 has a classic AV receiver appearance. This model furthers Onkyo’s goal of balancing design innovation and heritage. To be honest, the brand does it rather effectively without seeming to attempt to imitate others. Sturdy design and materials imply dependability and longevity. There are 4 HDMI inputs and 1 output, 5 sets of spring-clip speaker terminals (binding posts are only on the front channels, though), 3 analog audio inputs, 1 assignable coax/optical input, pre-outs for zone B and subwoofers, and even traditional FM/AM antenna connections. Built-in Wi-Fi is the only feature lacking. However, I missed streaming capabilities a lot.
Although zone B and parallel subwoofer outputs don’t allow for multi-zone management, they let you harmoniously distribute music across your room. The 4 HDMI inputs listed above support 4K/60Hz, 4:4:4 chroma, and HDCP 2.2 copy protection. The video quality is nearly excellent at the 4K resolution. This receiver won’t hamper your setup. Alongside exclusive goodies like Onkyo’s Subwoofer EQ for bass amplification, the specs sheet features audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS-HD Master. You didn’t expect it? I told you Onkyo can surprise you!
Sound
When I fired up action flicks like Inception, Mad Max: Fury Road, and John Wick: Chapter 4, I enjoyed an expansive sound stage and crisp dialogue—no manual tweaking required. The TX-SR393 worked its auto-calibration magic perfectly.
Gaming was also impressive, with titles like Mass Effect Legendary Edition, Helldivers 2, and Hogwarts Legacy filling the room with rich audio.
Talking about stereo and music in particular, performance grew noisier and rougher around the edges as volumes and bass levels increased. In this aspect, Onkyo loses a bit to its competitors.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Lots of connectivity options.
- Supports Dolby Atmos и DTS:X.
- Very good auto-calibration and sound with movies.
Cons
- No Wi-Fi/streaming capabilities built-in.
- Sound quality decreases at high volumes with music.
- Not as feature-packed as more expensive models from other brands.
Key specs
- Channels: 5.2.
- Power output: 80W/8 Ohm, 155W/6 Ohm.
- HDMI inputs/outputs: 4/1.
- Video functions: 4K/60Hz, video upconversion (up to 1080p and 4K) for analog and HDMI sources.
- Bluetooth/Wi-Fi: yes/no.
- Streaming services: AirPlay2, Deezer, Tidal, Pandora, Spotify, Amazon Music HD, TuneIn, SoundCloud, Mood Mix.
- Supports: HDMI ARC, HDMI eARC, HDR, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, HDMI CEC.
- Surround sound: DTS HD Master, DTS:X, DTS Neural:X, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, Dolby Atmos Music, Dolby Surround, IMAX Enhanced, Auro-3D, 360 Reality Audio, MPEG H, Audyssey DSX, Multichannel Stereo2.
