Onkyo unleashes its flagship multichannel preamp/processor

Onkyo PR-SC886

One of its key features is the inclusion of the Imaging Science Foundation's (ISF) certified calibration controls for all video inputs.

This technology allows for tailored video calibration of all video sources to be done using the PR-SC886, rather than the video display, allowing for individual calibration of every source while still using a single cable connection to the display.

The unit also includes high-definition video and audio processing and extensive switching capabilities. Onkyo has used Silicon Optix' premium HQV Reon-VX chip for upscaling of all sources to 1080p via HDMI.

There are four HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs, and and balanced audio outputs for every channel via XLR sockets. The technical spec of the PR-SC886 is so extensive, we've listed it all below:

FEATURES
* THX Ultra2 Plus Certified (with THX Listening Modes)
* DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution Audio, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus Decoding
* HDMI (Version 1.3a to Support Deep Color, x.v.Color, LipSync, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, DVD-Audio, Super Audio CD)
* HDMI Video Upscaling (Up to 1080p) with HQV Reon-VX
* HDMI Audio and Video Processing (4 Inputs and 2 Outputs [Main/Sub])
* Component Video Upscaling (Up to 1080i)
* Toroidal Transformer and Two Separate Transformers for Audio and Video Processing
* Burr-Brown 192 kHz/24-Bit Audio DACs (PCM1796) for All Channels
* Three TI (Aureus) 32-Bit DSP Chips for Advanced Processing
* Audyssey MultEQ XT* to Correct Room Acoustic Problems and to Calibrate Speakers
* Audyssey Dynamic EQ for Loudness Correction
* Audyssey Dynamic Volume for Optimal Listening Level and Dynamic Range
* VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry)
* Zone 2 and Zone 3 Pre Outs; Independent Control for Volume, Balance (Zone 2 and Zone 3) and Bass/Treble (Zone 2 Only)
* Component Video and Composite Video Outputs for Zone 2; Subwoofer Pre Outs for Zone 2 and Zone 3
* ISF (Imaging Science Foundation) Video Calibration Function
* RIHD (Remote Interactive over HDMI) for System Control
* Compatible with RI (Remote Interactive) Dock for the iPod
*Including installation with MultEQ Pro software application and Audyssey Installer Kit

CONNECTIVITY
* 7.1-Channel Balanced Line-Level XLR Pre Outs (with Front Bi-Amping Capability)
* 2-Channel Balanced XLR Audio Inputs
* Dual IR Inputs with Common Output
* 12 V Triggers (A, B, and C) with Adjustable Delay
* Bi-Directional Ethernet and RS232 Ports
* Component Video Switching (3 Inputs and 1 Output)
* 6 Digital Inputs (3 Optical and 3 Coaxial) and 1 Optical Output
* 6 S-Video Inputs and 2 Outputs
* 6 Composite Video Inputs and 2 Outputs
* Colour-Coded 7.1-Multichannel Inputs and Pre Outs
* 6 A/V Inputs and 1 Output
* 2 Audio Inputs and 1 Output
* Phono Input
* Front Panel Auxiliary Inputs (for Camcorders, Game Consoles, etc.)

OTHER FEATURES
* Music Optimiser to Support Compressed Music Files
* Theatre-Dimensional Virtual Surround Function
* Tone Control (Bass/Treble) for All Channels
* Independent Crossover Adjustment for F/C/S/SB (40/45/50/55/60/70/80/90/100/110/120/130/150/200 Hz)
* Newly Designed GUI for System Set-up
* Neural-THX(r) Surround Decoder
* Gold-Plated A/V Inputs and Outputs
* Pure Audio Mode
* Network Capability for Installing Crestron and AMX Controllers
* A/V Synchronisation Function (Up to 250ms in 5ms Steps)
* 40 FM/AM Radio Presets with RDS
* IntelliVolume
* Late Night Mode
* Aluminum Front Panel
* Pre-programmed RI (Remote Interactive) Learning Remote Control with Macros and Mode-Key LEDs