Onkyo TX-NR696 vs Onkyo TX-SR494 – that is a question.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the TX-NR696 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 165/6, while the TX-SR494 has a power of 135/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the TX-NR696 received the model AK4458 384 KHz/32-bit, but the TX-SR494 is equipped with AKM 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Onkyo TX-NR696 and Onkyo TX-SR494 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 HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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-NR696 and the TX-SR494. 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-NR696 has 7/2, and the TX-SR494 has 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the TX-NR696 and the TX-SR494. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. TX-NR696 and TX-SR494 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 and the Onkyo TX-SR494 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.