Onkyo's new entry level TX-SR503 and TX-SR303 are not just upgrades from popular TX-SR502

The US division of Onkyo has announced a new TX-SR503 series of entry level AV receivers that are derived from, and improve the fashionable TX-SR502. They come equipped with a 7th channel, improved connectivity and processing. A wide array of home theater charateristics are available, of which HDTV capacity, 7.1 channel processing, and even a new remote control. Finishes come in both black and silver. The suggested retail price in the US will be around $300.

TX-SR503

The TX-SR503 features three A/V inputs (composite and S-Video), it has better video quality, thanks to wide bandwidth component video switching that can operate up to 3 progressive-scan and high definition sources.A front panel A/V input connects with portable devices. Four assignable digital audio inputs (three optical and one coaxial), RCA line-level for CD player and audio recorder. A subwoofer preamplifier output ispresent as well.

The TX-SR503 is a full Home Theater device that comes with DTS-ES, Dolby Digital EX, and also DTS 96/24, which is quite seldom in this price range. Full 7.1-channel audio can be derived from any stereo or multichannel source, thanks to DTS Neo:6 and Dolby ProLogic IIx. Linear PCM 192 kHz/24-bit D/A converters, plus 32-bit DSP engine allow for high quality reproduction of soundtracks and multichannel audio.

The Onkyo TX-SR503 delivers continuous output of 75 Watts/channel at 8 Ohms, thanks to seven high-current, low-impedance power amplifier channels. The TX-SR503 can process SACD and DVD-Audio as it comes equipped with the company's Wide Range Amplifier Technology (WRAT) that allows for a linear 10 Hz to 100 kHz frequency response. The wiring is easy with color-coded dual banana-plug-compatible multi-way speaker binding posts for the mains. In addition, the receiver can drive a stereo in a secoond zone through its "B" terminals.

The device is user friendly with a fluorescent front panel display for fast and easy setup and operation. It includes variable speaker configuration and distance settings in order to optimise speaker arrangements. A new adjustable crossover on the subwoofer pre-out channel allows for seamless integration of satellite and subwoofer.

AM/FM tuner comes with 30 random presets and FM automatic scan tuning. The new preprogrammed remote control provides greater simplicity.

The 5.1-channel TX-SR303 A/V receiver is a 65 Watt/channel entry level device that can process ProLogic II, Dolby Digital, DTS, and is equipped with the abovementioned 192kHz/24-bit DACs, four A/V inputs (composite and S-video). This silver finish device is priced at $200 in the U.S. We will let you know about availability of these new products in the UK market.

TX-SR303

For further information please visit : www.eu.onkyo.com