What is better - Onkyo TX-SR383 vs Onkyo TX-NR696?
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-SR383 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 135/6, while the TX-NR696 has a power of 165/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the TX-SR383 it is 0.09%, but for the TX-NR696 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-SR383 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-NR696 is equipped with AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Onkyo TX-NR696. The model TX-NR696 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with TX-NR696. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The TX-NR696 has access to the Spotify service. 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-SR383 and the TX-NR696. Video scaling is only possible with the TX-NR696. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the TX-NR696.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the TX-SR383 has 4/1, and the TX-NR696 has 7/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-SR383 and the TX-NR696. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-SR383 and TX-NR696 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Onkyo TX-NR696.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in neither AV receiver. The Onkyo TX-NR696 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the TX-NR696. Only in the TX-NR696 realized a DTS:X surround technology.