Onkyo TX-SR343 vs Yamaha RX-A850 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Onkyo TX-SR343 vs Yamaha RX-A850, 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 - 5.1 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-SR343 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/6, while the RX-A850 has a power of 110/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the TX-SR343 it is 0.08%, but for the RX-A850 it is 0.06%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-SR343 received the model TI Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit, but the RX-A850 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-A850. The model RX-A850 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with RX-A850. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The RX-A850 has access to the Spotify service.

Video features

Support for the HDR function can only boast of the RX-A850. The quality of 4K/60Hz 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-SR343 and the RX-A850. Video scaling is only possible with the RX-A850. Review participants do not have the Dolby Vision feature.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the TX-SR343 has 4/1, and the RX-A850 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-SR343 and the RX-A850. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-SR343 and RX-A850 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Yamaha RX-A850. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in RX-A850. The Yamaha RX-A850 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the RX-A850. A DTS:X surround technology is not supported by devices from our comparison.