If you’re looking for a future-ready receiver-and-speaker package that won’t break the bank, your search may be over. Meet Onkyo’s 5.1-channel HT S3300–a system packed with so much advanced technology that it redefines entry-level home theater. As with every A/V receiver in Onkyo’s 2010 line-up, you get the latest iteration of HDMI—version 1.4. Three HDMI inputs let you hook up your Blu-ray player, game console, and cable/satellite box–all of which can be output via a single cable to your connected high-resolution display. Not only is HDMI 1.4 compatible with next-generation 3-D video, it also enables a convenient Audio Return Channel. On top of this, the HT-S3300 supports lossless HD audio formats from Dolby and DTS–previously the domain of mid-range to high-end receivers only. The HT-S3300 also provides an overlaid On-Screen Display function for easy adjustment of settings, a Universal Port for one-cable connection of peripherals, Audyssey equalization, four gaming audio modes, and a fully immersive, beautifully balanced 5.1-channel speaker set.
These are some Pros and Cons on Onkyo HT S3300:
PROS:
-Has a HDMI repeater and do the switching, so you only need HDMI cables without extra audio cables.
-Supports all the new formats and it does pretty good job at decoding HD audio formats.
-On screen display is great to see the menus, setup options and volume level overlayed on the tv screen.
-Onkyo provides All the necessary options in the menus without going into unnecessarily detailed options. Pretty customizable yet easy to use and configure options.
-No background noise when not in use, or any sonic booms on power on/off.
-Speakers are surprisingly good for this price level, I am even impressed with the passive subwoofer as its power is adequate when paired with the other supplied speakers and it produces clean basses.
-Finally the sound is on par with systems I listened before which cost in the range of $400-$800. So, I consider this system a pretty damn good deal. I don’t think you can get anything for this price that would produce a better or even comparable sound.
-It runs cooler than the previous Onkyo receivers I have encountered.
CONS:
-it is 5.1 system, but it was actually a pro for me as I don’t like too many speaker around and I personally find 5.1 enough to create satisfactory surround effects. Most media out there is 5.1 anyway…
-It is not for large rooms, don’t forget it is 660W system and the subwoofer is passive with 130W output. My living room is about 15X15ft and its output is enough but for rooms that are considerably bigger, I recommend another system (perhaps ht-s5300).
-Only 3 HDMI input, so all the inputs are used up on mine. If I buy another device, I have hook one of them to component inouts.
If you want to buy “Best Bang for your Buck” home theater then it has to be the Onkyo HT S3300
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