Onkyo TX-NR5100 vs Onkyo TX-RZ70 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Onkyo TX-NR5100 vs Onkyo TX-RZ70, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 11.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-NR5100 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/8, 165/6, while the TX-RZ70 has a power of 140/8. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.

Audio features

Competitive models use the same DAC. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Onkyo TX-NR5100 and Onkyo TX-RZ70 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

These units have the same Wi-Fi modules. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay, AirPlay 2. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Onkyo TX-NR5100 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, but the Onkyo TX-RZ70 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, SiriusXM, Napster, SoundCloud, Amazon Music, Amazon Music HD, MOOD:Mix.

Video features

The HDR10+ function is present in each of the rivals. The quality of 4K/120Hz signal remains unchanged when transmitting from a source to a TV or projector via HDMI for both receivers. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the TX-NR5100 and the TX-RZ70. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the TX-NR5100 has 4/2, and the TX-RZ70 has 7/3. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is supported by the TX-NR5100 and the TX-RZ70. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-NR5100 and TX-RZ70 support the standard HDCP 2.3. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Onkyo TX-NR5100. Voice control is performed using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI in both models. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Onkyo TX-NR5100 and the Onkyo TX-RZ70 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.