Onkyo TX-NR656 vs Pioneer VSX-834

      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 7.1 Channel Processing
      • 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/30Hz Upscaling
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 7.1 Channel Processing
      • 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough, 4K/30Hz Upscaling
      • Bluetooth

      Disclosure: We earn money from the affiliate links to products associated with content in this article.

      1. Overview

      Here we are comparing Onkyo TX-NR656 to Pioneer VSX-834 to reveal their common strengths and weaknesses as well as the differences between them which will help you in making a correct decision before the purchase. Both receivers have 7 channel amplifiers.


      Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834

      Onkyo TX-NR656 was introduced in 2016. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 7.1 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales 1080p to 4K video signal.

      Pioneer VSX-834 was introduced in 2019. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 7.1 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz and upscales 1080p to 4K video signal.


      We evaluated Onkyo TX-NR656 and Pioneer VSX-834 and gave them scores of 83 and 79 out of 100 recpectively. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Onkyo TX-NR656

      Pioneer VSX-834

      Amplifier
      74
      Amplifier
      84
      Audio Features
      86
      Audio Features
      87
      Video Features
      92
      Video Features
      95
      Connectivity
      83
      Connectivity
      57
      Zones
      77
      Zones
      55
      Radio
      90
      Radio
      66
      OVERALL
      83
      OVERALL
      79

      For more details about the ranking please go to    Evaluations section.

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Onkyo TX-NR656 and Pioneer VSX-834.

      PROS

      Onkyo TX-NR656

      Pioneer VSX-834

      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Analog Tuner

      CONS

      Onkyo TX-NR656

      Pioneer VSX-834

      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora
      •   Low Power Output - 80 W
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   No Wi-Fi
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   4 HDMI Inputs
      •   1 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No USB Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   No Ethernet
      •   No Zones
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Pandora
      •   No Spotify
      •   No Tidal


      And here are some specifications which fall into average criteria and are neither in PROs nor in CONs category:

      AVERAGE

      Onkyo TX-NR656

      Pioneer VSX-834

      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Power Output - 100 W
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   2 Zones
      •   Bluetooth 4․1 + LE
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   Bluetooth 4․2

      3. Advantage of Onkyo TX-NR656

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Onkyo TX-NR656 over Pioneer VSX-834.

      Check the Price

      Onkyo TX-NR656 vs Pioneer VSX-834
      Higher Power Output 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      DTS Neo Neo:6 until firmware update vs
      Jitter Reduction PLL (Phase Locked Loop) Jitter-Cleaning Circuit Technology for S/PDIF Audio vs
      Virtual Speakers T-D (Theater-Dimensional) vs
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite vs
      Wi-Fi vs
      Chromecast Built-In vs
      AirPlay AirPlay vs
      More HDMI Inputs 8 (1 front) vs 4
      More HDMI Outputs 2 (simultaneous) vs 1
      USB Input 1 (Rear) vs
      More Optical Inputs 2 vs 1
      More RCA Line Inputs 7 (1 Front) vs 3
      Phono Input vs
      More Composite Video Inputs 2 vs
      More Component Video Inputs 2 vs
      Ethernet vs
      Front A/V Inputs HDMI, Mini-Jack vs
      Detachable Power Cord vs
      More Zones 2 vs 1
      Internet Radio TuneIn vs
      Spotify vs
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      More Speaker Terminals 9 vs 7
      More Large Speaker Terminals 9 vs 2
      Bigger Power Supply 570 W vs 480 W
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) 175 W (10% THD) vs 155 W (10% THD)
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) 160 W (1% THD) vs 135 W (1% THD)
      Higher Dynamic Power per Channel, 3 Ω, Front) 240 W vs 160 W
      Higher Dynamic Power per Channel, 4 Ω, Front) 210 W vs 125 W
      Higher Dynamic Power per Channel, 8 Ω, Front) 120 W vs 85 W
      Higher Rated Headphone Power Output 90 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD) vs 80 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)
      Longer Warranty 2 Years vs 1 Year Parts & Labor

      4. Advantage of Pioneer VSX-834

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Pioneer VSX-834 over Onkyo TX-NR656.

      Check the Price

      Onkyo TX-NR656 vs Pioneer VSX-834
      Certified 4 Ω Performance vs
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization vs
      DTS Virtual:X vs
      Dialog Enhancement vs
      More Tone Control Channels Front L/R Channels vs All Channels
      HLG vs
      USB DC Out Port vs
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 106 dB vs 109 dB
      Newer Bluetooth Version 4․1 + LE vs 4․2

      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses

      We already listed pros and cons of each model. However, you may also find useful to look at their common strengths and weaknesses shown side-by-side.

      STRENGTHS Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
        Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
        DTS:X up to 5.1.2
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. AccuEQ with AccuReflex™ MCACC
        HDR10
        Dolby Vision
        New HDCP Version2.2 (3 inputs / 2 outputs)2.2
        Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC, AAC
        Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS FM/AM with RDS
      WEAKNESSES Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
        No Front Wide Channel Support
        No IMAX Enhanced
        No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        No HDR10+
        No eARC
        No 8K Passthroughup to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4)up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4)
        Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        Few 8K Inputs
        No RCA Pre-Outs0.20.2
        No Digital Radio
        No Pandora

      6. Amplifier

      Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834

      7 channel Amplifier: Onkyo TX-NR656 features 7 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven).

      7 channel Direct Energy Amplifier: Pioneer VSX-834 features 7 channel power amplifier with Direct Energy design. It is rated at 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      • Dynamic Audio Amplification: Onkyo TX-NR656 features Dynamic Audio Amplification which is Onkyo’s amplification philosophy that focuses on capturing the energy and dynamism contained in the audio signal and reproducing it without loss. Audio signals are not static like a test tone, but rather a countless collection of constantly moving waves. While static measurements such as S/N ratio and Total Harmonic Distortion are important, Onkyo believes that excellent dynamic and transient response is the key to emotionally involving sound. Dynamism - the “life” in music - is achieved when the amp can respond to changes in the signal instantaneously, so notes start and stop naturally and the nuances in attack, decay, sustain, and release are voiced with conviction. Onkyo home theater receivers represent the culmination of almost 70 years’ experience in amplifier design. The unique elements of their amplification system comprise high-current, low-impedance architecture to accurately control large speaker cones while enabling instantaneous response to dynamic changes, and discrete wide-range amplifier circuit topology to eliminate phase shift for clear and accurate audio imaging.


      AMPLIFIER Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Channels7.27.2
      Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Bi-amp Capability

      Check the Price

      7. Speaker Configurations

      Onkyo TX-NR656's and Pioneer VSX-834's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

      • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
      • Onkyo TX-NR656: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Pioneer VSX-834: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
      • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
      • Onkyo TX-NR656: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Pioneer VSX-834: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
      • Onkyo TX-NR656: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Pioneer VSX-834: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
      • 2-ch Bi-Amp: Both models are able to bi-amp up to 2 main channels simultaneously. During bi-amplification two amplifiers are used for one speaker. One amplifier powers the midrange and tweeter section of the speaker and another amplifier powers the low frequency woofers. Each amplifier is less loaded and performs better. In order to use this feature speakers must have 2 pairs of connectors.

      8. Immersive Audio Formats

      Dolby Atmos

      Onkyo TX-NR656 and Pioneer VSX-834 support Dolby Atmos.

      • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Both models support Dolby Surround Upmixer. If the content is not mixed in Dolby Atmos then the Dolby surround upmixer will expand the audio to all channels including ceiling speakers. The upmixer has replaced the Dolby Pro Logic II family with improved upmixing algorithms.
      • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization: Pioneer VSX-834 supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization which is a digital signal processing solution that leverages Dolby's deep understanding of human audio perception to create the sensation of overhead sound from the listener-level speakers.

      DTS:X

      Onkyo TX-NR656 and Pioneer VSX-834 support DTS:X.

      • DTS Neural:X: Both models feature DTS Neural:X which is an advanced upmixer that can take non DTS:X content and upmix it to the DTS:X speaker layout. It has replaced the DTS Neo family with improved flexibility.
      • DTS Virtual:X: Onkyo TX-NR656 supports DTS Virtual:X which bridges the gap between DTS:X codec and the reality of so many consumers' homes, allowing you to enjoy multi-dimensional sound regardless of room size, layout, or speaker configuration. If you have a limited speaker setup you will miss a full immersive potential of your entertainment system. DTS Virtual:X adds height and surround audio effect to your system without adding height speakers. It works with multiple configurations and delivers immersive sound experience out of 5.1 or even 2.1 speaker layouts.
      • DTS Dialog Control: Both models have DTS Dialog Control. This function adjusts the dialog levels during playback of the DTS:X stream. It allows you to separately increase the dialog levels in contrast with the background sound and hear dialog easily even under noisy circumstances.
      AUDIO DECODING Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic
      Dolby Digital EX
      Surround EX
      DTS:X up to 5.1.2
      DTS Neural:X after firmware update
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo Neo:6 until firmware update
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      DTS Express
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer

      Check the Price

      9. HDMI

      Onkyo TX-NR656 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 2 outputs which work parallelly and output the same signal.

      Pioneer VSX-834 comes with 4 HDMI inputs. It has 1 output.

      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough: On both receivers all inputs pass up to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4) video signal.
      • 4K Upscaling: Both receivers can upscale 1080p to 4K from HDMI sources. Onkyo TX-NR656 can also upscale from analog sources.
      • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Onkyo TX-NR656 supports analog to HDMI Upconversion, so you can input your analog video sources and output them digitally via HDMI. This means that you will need only one HDMI cable to connect to your TV.
      • BT.2020 Color Space: BT.2020 or Rec. 2020 is a color standard which delivers a wider color gamut compared to Rec. 709. It covers approximately 75% of the total visual spectrum while the Rec. 709 covers only 35% (available on both models).
      • HDCP 2.2 Copy Protection: Both receivers are HDCP 2.2 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
      • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

      HDR (High Dynamic Range)

      Onkyo TX-NR656 supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision.

      Pioneer VSX-834 supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma. High dynamic range video has greater dynamic range than standard dynamic range (SDR) video with brighter whites and deeper blacks. The result is greater contrast and more details in dark and bright areas, better color and depth.



      VIDEO FEATURES Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.2 (3 inputs / 2 outputs)2.2
      QMS (Quick Media Switching)
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4)up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4)
      Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K 1080p to 4K

      Check the Price

      10. Inputs and Outputs

      Audio

      • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Onkyo TX-NR656 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
      • Analog Line Inputs: There are 7 pair of line inputs on Onkyo TX-NR656 and 3 pair of line inputs on Pioneer VSX-834 for connecting sources with analog outputs.
      • Digital Inputs: 2 optical inputs and 1 coaxial input are available on Onkyo TX-NR656 and 1 optical input and 1 coaxial input are available on Pioneer VSX-834 for digital audio connections.
      • Headphone Output: There is a 6.3 mm (1/4") headphone output jack on the front panel of each receiver.

      Video

      • HDMI:
      • Onkyo TX-NR656
        Inputs:
        8 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (simultaneous)
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Pioneer VSX-834
        Inputs:
        4   Outputs: 1
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
      • Onkyo TX-NR656
        Inputs:
        2   Outputs: 0.
      • Pioneer VSX-834
        Inputs:
        0   Outputs: 0.
      • Component Video: Component video connection gives you the higher quality video compared to the composite video connection. So in case your old DVD player and other equipment do not have an HDMI output but have Component video output use this connection over the composite one.
      • Onkyo TX-NR656 supports up to 480i/576i resolution on Component video connectors. resolution on Component video connectors.
      • Onkyo TX-NR656
        Inputs:
        2   Outputs: 0.
      • Pioneer VSX-834
        Inputs:
        0   Outputs: 0.

      Front A/V Inputs

      • Onkyo TX-NR656: HDMI, Mini-Jack
      • Pioneer VSX-834: None

      Onkyo TX-NR656

      Image cannot be found Image cannot be found

      Pioneer VSX-834

      Image cannot be found Image cannot be found
      TERMINALS Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)4
      HDMI Outputs2 (simultaneous)1
      8K Inputs
      USB Input1 (Rear)
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs21
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs11
      RCA Line Inputs7 (1 Front)3
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input
      RCA Pre-Outs0.20.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs2
      Composite Video Outputs
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs2
      Component Video Outputs

      Check the Price

      11. Evaluations

      We evaluated Onkyo TX-NR656 and Pioneer VSX-834 and gave them scores of 83 and 79 out of 100 recpectively. We also gave separate scores for 7 different categories according to the available features and specifications some of which are listed below. These evaluations are relative and may change each time a new receiver is added to the database.


      Onkyo TX-NR656

      Pioneer VSX-834

      OVERALL
      83
      OVERALL
      79

      Amplifier

      GOOD
      74
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Power Output - 100 W
      GOOD
      84
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Low Power Output - 80 W

      Audio Features

      EXCELLENT
      86
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI
      EXCELLENT
      87
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI

      Video Features

      EXCELLENT
      92
      •   HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      EXCELLENT
      95
      •   HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   No 8K Passthrough

      Connectivity

      GOOD
      83
      •   No eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 4․1 + LE
      AVERAGE
      57
      •   No eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   No Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   4 HDMI Inputs
      •   1 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No USB Input
      •   Few RCA Line Inputs
      •   No Phono Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Composite Video Inputs
      •   No Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 4․2

      Zones

      GOOD
      77
      •   2 Zones
      AVERAGE
      55
      •   No Zones

      Radio

      EXCELLENT
      90
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   No Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      AVERAGE
      66
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   No Pandora
      •   No Spotify
      •   No Tidal

      12. Specifications

      GENERAL Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      BrandOnkyoPioneer
      ModelTX-NR656VSX-834
      TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
      CountryAustraliaAustralia and Asia
      Release Year20162019
      PredecessorOnkyo TX-NR646 Pioneer VSX-832
      SuccessorOnkyo TX-NR676E
      AMPLIFIER Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Channels7.27.2
      Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      Amplifier DesignDirect Energy
      Dynamic Audio Amplification
      Non-Phase Shift Amplifier
      VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) Front L/R channels
      Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry
      THX™ Certification
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Discrete Output Stage Circuitry
      3-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry
      PUSH-PULL Design
      Independent Block Construction (Amp/Preprocessor)
      Bi-amp Capability
      BTL (Bridged Transless or Bridging)
      AUDIO FEATURES Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Engine32-bit Digital Signal Processing EnginessDigital Quad-Core 32-bit DSP (Cirrus Logic)
      DACAKM AK4458 (8 Channels x 1)AKM AK4438
      DAC Specs384 kHz/32 Bit384 kHz/32 Bit
      Maximum Channel Processing7.17.1
      Air Studios Monitor Certification
      Dolby Atmos up to 5.1.2
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic
      Dolby Digital EX
      Surround EX
      DTS:X up to 5.1.2
      DTS Neural:X after firmware update
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo Neo:6 until firmware update
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      DTS Express
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      Network Audio FormatsFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, MP3, DSD, AIFF, MPEG-4 AAC, LPCM
      Music Playback via USBFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, MP3, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHD
      High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 192 kHz
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USBFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHD
      Gapless Playback
      DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      DSD via USB 2-ch Input 2-ch Input
      DSD to PCM Converter
      USB DAC
      Jitter Reduction PLL (Phase Locked Loop) Jitter-Cleaning Circuit Technology for S/PDIF Audio
      DTS Dialogue Control
      Dialog Enhancement
      Dialog normalization
      Dialogue Lift
      Sound Retriever Advanced
      Sound Retriever AIR
      Digital noise Reduction
      Tone Control Front L/R Channels All Channels
      Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Music Optimizer (bluetooth included) Advanced Sound Retriever
      High-resolution Music Enhancer
      THX Processing Mode
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume
      Audyssey LFC
      Audyssey Sub EQ HT
      Audyssey DSX
      Phase-Matching Bass Boost
      Direct Mode
      Pure Audio Mode
      Pure Direct Analog Path Mode
      Pure Direct Mode
      Auto Surround
      Optimum Surround
      Advanced Surround10 + 1
      Wide Surround
      Front Stage Surround Advance
      Headphone Surround
      Virtual Speakers T-D (Theater-Dimensional)
      Virtual Depth
      CALIBRATION Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. AccuEQ with AccuReflex™ MCACC
      Manual MCACC
      MCACC Memory1
      Reflex Optimizer
      Phase Control
      Auto Phase Control Plus
      Full Band Phase Control
      Standing Wave Control
      EQ Bands9-Band
      Symmetric EQ
      Distance Adjustment0.1 feet
      Precision Distance
      Polarity Check
      Auto Subwoofer Crossover
      VIDEO FEATURES Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.2 (3 inputs / 2 outputs)2.2
      QMS (Quick Media Switching)
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4)up to 4K/60p (YCbCr 4:4:4)
      Video Signal Upscaling 1080p to 4K 1080p to 4K
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite
      Component Video Upscaling
      Analog to Analog Video conversion
      Component Video Maximum Resolution480i/576i
      Stream Smoother
      Pure Cinema
      Video Parameter Adjustments
      Super Resolution
      isf Certified Calibration Control
      CONNECTIVITY Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Wi-Fi
      Bluetooth SBC, AAC SBC, AAC
      Works with Amazon Alexa
      Google Assistant
      Chromecast Built-In
      Apple Siri
      Works with SonoS
      DTS Play-Fi
      MHL Input
      DLNA 1.5
      AirPlay AirPlay
      Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad
      Remote AppOnkyo Remote App for iPod touch/iPhone and Android-Powered Devices
      InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
      TERMINALS Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      HDMI Inputs8 (1 front)4
      HDMI Outputs2 (simultaneous)1
      8K Inputs
      USB Input1 (Rear)
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs21
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs11
      RCA Line Inputs7 (1 Front)3
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input
      RCA Pre-Outs0.20.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs2
      Composite Video Outputs
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs2
      Component Video Outputs
      Ethernet
      Ethernet Switch
      PC In
      Front A/V InputsHDMI, Mini-Jack
      Speaker A/B
      Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
      Detachable Power Cord
      uport
      adapterport
      ZONES Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Number of Zones21
      Powered Zones 2
      Zone 2 OutsRCA Line Out
      Whole House Mode
      RS-232C Interface
      +12V Trigger Output0
      Remote (IR) Input/Output0 / 00 / 0
      MISCELLANEOUS Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      On-Screen Display Overlaid On-Screen Display (OSD) via HDMI with Quick Set-Up User-Friendly GUI with System Setup Menu
      GUI Languages99
      AV Navigator
      IP Control
      PreAmp Mode
      Versatile Speaker ConfigurationSpeaker 7ch Out (FRONT, CENTER, SURROUND, SURROUND BACK/HEIGHT, Bi-AMP/ZONE B)
      FL Dimmer
      ONKYO-RI System Control
      RIHD (Remote Interactive Over HDMI)
      Pre-Pro/Learning Remote /
      Smart Grid-Ready
      RADIO Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Analog Tuner FM/AM with RDS FM/AM with RDS
      Presets4040
      Digital Radio
      Internet Radio TuneIn
      Pandora
      Spotify
      Tidal
      Deezer
      Napster
      SiriusXM
      CONSTRUCTION Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Front PanelBrushed
      Solid Aluminum Front
      Speaker Terminals97
      Large Speaker Terminals92
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
      Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
      3D Space Frame Construction
      Gold plated RCA terminals
      POWER Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Power SupplyAC 220-240 V, 50/60 HzAC 220-240 V, 50/60 Hz
      Independent Power Supply
      H.C.P.S. (High Current Power Supply) Massive High Power Transformer
      Toroidal Transformer
      Low Leakage Flux Power Transformer
      Transformer Stabilizer
      Power Consumption570 W480 W
      No Sound Power65 W38.7 W
      Standby Power0.15 W0.2 W
      ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
      PHYSICAL Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Dimensions (W x H x D)435 mm x 173.5 mm x 378 mm
      17-1/8" x 6-13/16" x 14-7/8"
      435 mm x 148 mm x 321 mm
      17-1/8" x 5-13/16" x 12-5/8"
      Dimensions of Package (W x H x D)525 mm x 230 mm x 390 mm
      20-11/16" x 9-1/16" x 15-3/8"
      Weight10.0 kg (22.0 lbs)8 kg (17.6 lbs)
      Weight of Package10.5 kg (23.1 lbs)
      SPECIFICATIONS Onkyo TX-NR656 Pioneer VSX-834
      Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)175 W (10% THD)155 W (10% THD)
      Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)160 W (1% THD)135 W (1% THD)
      Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front)240 W160 W
      Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)210 W125 W
      Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)120 W85 W
      THD0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, Half power)0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, half power)
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ (1 kHz, 100 W/8 Ω)200 mV/47 kΩ
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)3.5 mV/47 kΩ
      Rated Headphone Jack Output Level and Impedance330 Ω8 Ω - 600 Ω
      Rated Headphone Power Output90 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)80 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)
      Phono Overload70 mV (MM, 1 kHz 0.5%)
      S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)106 dB109 dB
      S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)80 dB
      Frequency Response (Analog In)10 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct/Pure Audio)10 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Pure Audio)
      DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
      DSD Sampling Rates via USB2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz
      Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
      0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
      1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
      Ethernet Standard10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
      Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
      Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
      Bluetooth Version4․1 + LE4․2
      Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz2.4 GHz
      USB Terminal5 V, 1 A
      FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz87.5 MHz - 108.0 MHz
      FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 1.0 µV (11.2 dBf)
      AM Frequency522/530 kHz - 1611/1710 kHz522/530 kHz - 1611/1710 kHz
      Warranty2 Years1 Year Parts & Labor

      * - 480i/576i and 480p/576p only
      ** - 480i/576i only
      *** - no 1080p/24 upconversion
      **** - 1080p signal is not converted

      Amazon Affiliate Disclosure
      ZKelectronics is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for website owners to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon (.com, .co.uk, .ca, etc) and any other websites that may be affiliated with Amazon Service LLC Associates Program.