Onkyo TX-NR3008 9.2-Channel Network Home Theater Receiver

by Onkyo

Product Features

• 140 Watts per Channel at 8 Ohms, 20 Hz?20 kHz, 0.05%, 2 Channels Driven, FTC
• 8 HDMI Inputs (1 Front/7 Rear) and 2 Outputs
• Dolby Volume for Reference-Quality Listening Experience at Any Volume
• HDMI Video Upscaling to 1080p with HQV Reon-VX
• Audyssey DSX and Dolby Pro Logic IIz for New Surround Channels

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 18.2 x 17.1 x 7.8 inches ; 55.1 pounds
• Shipping Weight: 64 pounds
• Shipping: Currently, item can be shipped only within the U.S.
• Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
• ASIN: B003UES8NE
• Item model number: TX-NR3008
• Average Customer Review: 3.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (36 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #72,989 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics)
• Date first available at Amazon.com: August 1, 2010

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

Once again upping the ante for high-end A/V receivers, Onkyo packs the TX-NR3008 with an extremely generous selection of cutting-edge home theater features. This 9.2-channel networking behemoth has the flexibility to handle the latest high-def and surround formats from DTs, Dolby, and Audyssey, while also giving you the scope for powered audio in two extra rooms. Among the connectivity highlights are an analog PC video input, a front-panel USB input, and eight new HDMI 1.4a inputs providing compatibility with 3D video content. All video sources can be upscaled via HDMI and HQV Reon VX to breathtaking widescreen 1080p, with ISF calibration ensuring optimal video performance. PC-based audio and Internet radio come into play too, thanks to DLNA 1.5-compatible network streaming. The key to the TX-NR3008's dynamic home theater performance is its high-end amplifier design: proprietary VLSC for all channels, a massive transformer, and two separate transformers for audio and video processing. So sit back, strap in, and prepare to be amazed.

A high-end network receiver that delivers precision, power, and pulse-raising performance. View larger.

HDMI 1.4a Support for 3D Video and Audio Return Channel

The eight HDMI 1.4a inputs on the TX-NR3008 let you simultaneously connect high-def sources such as a Blu-ray player, gaming consoles, and a cable/satellite tuner. And the two HDMI outputs let you send a pristine signal at the same time to two different high-resolution displays. As the latest version of this connector, HDMI 1.4a adds the exciting possibilities of 3D video and an Audio Return Channel. 3D video is the next big thing in home entertainment, with movie, game, and broadcast content on the increase and 3D-compatible TVs coming to market. The TX-NR3008 also offers the convenience of an Audio Return Channel via HDMI. Audio content received directly by your HDTV’s tuner can be sent "upstream" to you're A/V receiver, without the need for a separate S/PDIF audio cable.

PC Audio and Internet Radio with DLNA 1.5 and Windows 7 Compatibility

As one of Onkyo's new breed of receivers that can link directly to the internet or to your home PC via a local network, the TX-NR3008 takes streaming audio and Internet radio to a whole new level. MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless, FLAC, WAV, Ogg Vorbis, AAC, and LPCM audio files--whether on your PC or from the internet--can now be played back through your main system with unprecedented power and fidelity. The TX-NR3008 brings to life a huge array of Internet Radio channels from Pandora, Sirius Internet Radio, vTuner, and more*. As well as being compatible with earlier platforms, the receiver is compatible with Microsoft's Windows 7 platform, which includes the DLNA 1.5-specified "Play To" media-streaming feature. Another benefit of having the TX-NR3008 connected to the Internet is that you can then easily update its firmware.

All-in-one remote. View larger.

THX Ultra2 Plus Certified

The ultimate benchmark for home audio performance, THX Ultra2 Plus is specified for rooms where the screen-to-seat viewing distance is more than 12 feet and the room volume is 3000 cubic feet or greater. To achieve THX Ultra2 Plus certification, the TX-NR3008 must meet the world's most demanding standards for home theater audio quality and performance, and must play at reference volume levels with minimal distortion.

Advanced Video Processing and 1080p Upscaling with HQV Reon-VX

The Onkyo TX-NR3008 9.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver contains the HQV Reon-VX, the most sophisticated video-processing chip available for home theater. This chip provides the ultimate support for 1080p scaling and is invaluable for filtering of jaggies and artifacts and for the reduction of random, "mosquito", and block (codec) noise. HQV Reon-VX also enables color region enhancement and the rendering of more than one billion colors.

Sleek, classic receiver styling with easy access to functionality and ports via an easy pop-open/close front control panel. View larger.

VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry)

Onkyo's VLSC employs a unique digital-to-analog conversion circuit to mitigate the effects of signal noise. Data is converted between discrete sampling points, which are then joined with analog vectors in real-time to produce a continuous output wave form. The result--a noiseless, smooth analog signal based on the digital source.

Harnessing Power for Audio Performance

Onkyo's H.C.P.S. (High Current Power Supply) concept is based around power transformers with the capability to respond to the wide dynamics of home theater. In the case of the TX-NR3008, a massive main transformer improves power efficiency and radiates very little noise into the surrounding circuitry, while two separate transformers cater specifically to audio and video processing. The TX-NR3008 also employs large, custom-designed transistors to drive the high currents that today's home entertainment demands.

140 Watts of power available on each channel, along with access to 8 HDMI inputs (2 out), component video and more. View larger.

Customized Audio via Audyssey and Dolby Technologies

The TX-NR3008 is equipped with MultEQ XT32, Audyssey’s most powerful room-correction technology. MultEQ XT32 gathers frequency and time-domain measurements from up to 8 positions in the listening area, to deliver a clear, well-balanced, and natural sound. Two other Audyssey technologies, Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume, work to optimize frequency response and dynamic range at all volume levels. In a similar vein, Dolby Volume performs independent loudness adjustments to different frequencies and channels to produce a listening experience that includes all the dynamics of the original mix at whatever volume you choose. It also offers the option of maintaining playback volume at the same user-chosen level across all input sources.

Audyssey dynamic volume control via included microphone. View larger.

Key Features

• Advanced Features
  • THX Ultra2 Plus certified
  • HDMI (version 1.4a to Support 3D and Audio Return Channel) with Deep Color, x.v.Color, LipSync, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, DVD-Audio, Super Audio CD, Multichannel PCM, and CEC
  • 8 HDMI inputs (1 front/7 rear) and 2 outputs
  • HDMI video upscaling to 1080p with HQV Reon-VX
  • VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) for all channels
  • Massive transformer and two separate transformers for audio and video processing
  • Burr-Brown 192 kHz/24-Bit DACs (PCM1796 x 6) for all channels
  • DSD Direct for Super Audio CD
  • Dolby volume for reference-quality listening experience at any volume
  • Network capability for streaming audio files (MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless, FLAC, WAV, Ogg Vorbis, AAC, and LPCM)
  • Internet Radio connectivity (Pandora, Rhapsody, SIRIUS Internet Radio, Napster, Mediafly, Slacker, and vTuner)*
  • Powered Zone 2/3 and Zone 2/3 pre outs for distributed audio playback in multiple rooms
  • Zone 2 monitor output (composite video)
  • Bi-Amping and BTL (Bridged Transless) capability
  • Gold-Plated, machined solid brass, 11/16" (18 mm)-pitch audio inputs (TV/CD and phono)
• Amplifier Features
  • 140 watts per channel at 8 ohms, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.05%, 2 channels driven, FTC
  • WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology)
  • Three-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry
  • H.C.P.S. (High Current Power Supply) massive high power transformer
  • Linear Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry
  • Large-size transistors for high-current drive
• Processing Features
  • Three 32-Bit processing DSP chips (DA830 x 1, DA788 x 2)
  • PLL Jitter-Cleaning circuit technology
  • Audyssey DSX and Dolby Pro Logic IIz for new surround channels
  • Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD high-resolution audio decoding
  • DTs neural surround decoding
  • 4 DSP modes for gaming: Rock, Sports, Action, and RPG
  • Music Optimizer for compressed digital music files
  • Direct Mode and Pure Audio Mode
  • A-Form Listening Mode memory
  • Theater-Dimensional virtual surround function
• Connection Features
  • Front-panel USB input for memory devices and iPhone/iPod models (enables display of album artwork)
  • Universal port for single-cable connection of optional Onkyo dock for iPhone/iPod or HD Radio tuner
  • Component video switching (3 inputs and 1 output)
  • 4 S-Video inputs and 1 output
  • Analog RGB video input (D-sub, 15 pin) and audio input for PC
  • 6 digital inputs (3 optical and 3 coaxial)
  • 5 A/V inputs (1 front/4 rear) and 1 output
  • Color-coded, 7.1 multichannel inputs
  • Video/S-Video outputs (monitor)
  • 1 audio input and 1 output
  • Color-coded, 9.2 multichannel pre outs (including 2 independent subwoofer pre outs)
  • RS232 port, IR (in/out), and 12 V trigger outs (Zone 2/3)
  • Color-coded, Banana Plug-compatible speaker posts
  • RIHD (Remote Interactive over HDMI) for system control
  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio ready** and HD Radio ready
• Other Features
  • ISF (Imaging Science Foundation) video calibration for optimal video performance
  • Certified with Windows 7 and DLNA version 1.5
  • Firmware updates via Ethernet and USB
  • Audyssey Dynamic EQ for loudness correction
  • Audyssey Dynamic Volume to maintain optimal listening level and dynamic range
  • Overlaid graphical on-screen display (OSD) via all video outputs
  • Crossover adjustment (40/50/60/70/80/90/100/120/150/200 Hz)
  • A/V sync control function (up to 250 ms in 5 ms steps)
  • 40 FM/AM/SIRIUS random presets
  • Compatible with RI (Remote Interactive) dock for iPod
  • Bi-directional, preprogrammed, and customizable RI remote control with backlight, on-screen setup, mode-key LEDs, and macro presets for four activities

Technical Specifications

Amplifier Section Power Output Front L/R - 140 W/Ch (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.05%, 2 channels driven, FTC) Center - 140 W/Ch (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.05%, 2 channels driven, FTC) Surround L/R - 140 W/Ch (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.05%, 2 channels driven, FTC) Surround Back L/R - 140 W/Ch (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.05%, 2 channels driven, FTC) Front High L/R, Front Wide L/R, or Zone 2/3 L/R - 140 W/Ch (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.05%, 2 channels driven, FTC) Dynamic power - 320 W (3 ohms, front), 270 W (4 ohms, front), 160 W (8 ohms, front) THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) - 0.05% (rated power) Damping factor - 60 (Front, 1 kHz, 8 ohms) Input sensitivity and impedance - 200 mV/47 k-ohms (line), 2.5 mV/47 k-ohms (phono MM) Rated RCA output level and impedance - 200 mV/470 ohms (pre out) Maximum RCA output level and impedance - 5.5 V/470 ohms (pre out) Phono overload - 70 mV (MM, 1 kHz, 0.5%) Frequency response - 5 Hz-100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct Mode) Tone control - ±10 dB, 50 Hz (bass), ±10 dB, 20 kHz (treble) Signal-to-noise ratio - 110 dB (Line, IHF-A), 80 dB (phono, IHF-A) Speaker impedance - 4 ohms-16 ohms or 6 ohms-16 ohms

Video Section Input sensitivity/output level and impedance video 1.0 Vp-p/75 ohms (component and s-video Y) 0.7 Vp-p/75 ohms (component PB/CB, PR/CR) 0.28 Vp-p/75 ohms (s-video C) 1.0 Vp-p/75 ohms (composite) Component video frequency response - 5 Hz-100 MHz/0 dB, -3 dB Tuner Section Tuning frequency range FM: 87.5 MHz-107.9 MHz AM: 530 kHz-1,710 kHz FM/AM/SIRIUS preset memory - 40 stations General Power supply - AC 120 V~, 60 Hz Power consumption - 11.6 A Dimensions (W x H x D) - 17 1/8" x 7 13/16" x 18 1/4" (435 x 198.5 x 463.5 mm) Weight - 55.1 lbs. (25.0 kg) Carton dimensions (W x H x D) - 23 3/8" x 13 1/4" x 22 11/16" (594 x 337 x 596 mm) Shipping weight - 66 lbs. (29.5 kg)

*Availability of services depends on region.
**SIRIUS Satellite Radio requires separate purchase of subscription, compatible tuner, and antenna.

Product Description

Once again upping the ante for high-end A/V receivers, Onkyo packs the TX-NR3008 with an extremely generous selection of cutting-edge home theater features. This 9.2-channel networking behemoth has the flexibility to handle the latest high-def and surround formats from DTS, Dolby, and Audyssey, while also giving you the scope for powered audio in two extra rooms. Among the connectivity highlights are an analog PC video input, a front-panel USB input, and eight new HDMI 1.4a inputs providing compatibility with 3D video content. All video sources can be upscaled via HDMI and HQV Reon VX to breathtaking widescreen 1080p, with ISF calibration ensuring optimal video performance. PC-based audio and internet radio come into play too, thanks to DLNA 1.5-compatible network streaming. The key to the TX-NR3008’s dynamic home theater performance is its high-end amplifier design: proprietary VLSC for all channels, a massive transformer, and two separate transformers for audio and video processing. So sit back, strap in, and prepare to be amazed.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

38 of 40 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent room correction, great AVR so far! December 3, 2010

By Michael J. Fink

Amazon Verified Purchase

This is a cross post of my review on AVSforums, a discussion thread is also over there about this AVR and my experiences thus far. Also, there are some pics of my install and of the OSD for this device (which I could not find anywhere), including the HDMI overlay:

[...]

Unfortunately, the first one I purchased from Amazon (warehouse deals) was bad, it has a hiss/click in the 2 front speakers. They were great doing the return, and sent me another one that; so far, has been perfect..

To begin, here's a list of my gear:

Epson 8500
Axiom M60v2, VP150, and QS8s for surround, surround backs (7 channel)
Epik Castle subwoofer
Dedicated theater, ~20X17
Room treatments (NO bass trapping, just for highs)
HTPC w/5500 series video card (HD bitstreaming)

I'm coming from a Pioneer 1018, a ~500 dollar AVR that's ~2-3 years old. This is a good AVR, and I've been happy with it. The biggest reasons for my upgrade is to get OSD (all my gear is behind me in a closet; I can't see what mode/volume/etc I'm in on the Pioneer on screen, and it's driving me nuts), better room correction, and dual sub balancing EQ correction. The Pioneer also supported HD sound, so that's consistent between the systems; as well as the speakers (everything is the same).

First off, for those who have been reading the 3008/5008 thread, I'm on my second 3008; the first one sent had a "hum/buzz" in the front two speakers (L/R). So my initial impression was "how about some QC!". 2nd AVR seems fine so far, the buzz/hum is gone..

As soon as I got the AVR I upgraded the firmware to the most recent available. I did it once via USB, and once via network. Both times it took a long time to finish (30+ minutes), but went without a hitch. As such, I can't comment on the "old" firmware or what the upgrades "fixed".

After running the FW updates, I then ran through Audessey. Easy process, took about 1-1.5 hours to measure 8 positions and calculate the results. The calculation took much longer than I expected (10 minutes or so), on the Pioneer the room calculation was much faster (but much less sophisticated). As you can see, I mounted the Audessey mic on my photography rig using some blue painters tape. I think that the tape adds a nice "color" and "transparency" to the final EQ calculations.

Anyway.. On to listening. I setup the default audio modes, a feature I didn't know I wanted, but man, I couldn't live without it now. For those who don't know, it allows you to select the default mode for different types of audio; stereo is output as 2.1, TrueHD is output at 7.1 in THX Cinema mode, etc. Once you set this, all the switching between modes is fully automated. Really nice when you have one source (HTPC) that can play tons of different types of audio/video files! I set stereo to 2.1 and the HD audio codecs to 7.1 THX Cinema mode.

First thing I played was music. Bass was significantly/dramatically better (depending on the source material). From the main listening position, it was tight, clear, and very easy to listen to. Also, stereo separation was better; there's a much higher "sense of space" with the new AVR. Not sure how to explain it, but I'm very happy with the results. Set the sub volume a little higher (apparently I'm a bass head, I like it louder than reference) but that was my only listening tweak. Music was much "easier" to listen to; probably because some of the ringing or smearing is being processed out by the room correction software in the 3008. Regardless, very happy with the music results!

On to video.. I've watched a few movies since the install (I haven't slept very much), and all of them were "improved" to "much improved" over the Pioneer. Again, the bass is SO much better that it's really hard to say if that's causing everything else to "sound better" too. The surrounds are much more noticeable (not in a bad way, just more ambient sound), and the system sounds better "blended" than it did with the 1018. I'm in love with the immediate OSD, for folks with gear in a closet (or out of sight) it's exactly what the doctor ordered! I haven't been through all the listening modes yet; I'm stuck on THX Cinema because I like the results so much! Overall, again, very happy with the video results.

General stuff.. This thing runs MUCH hotter than my Pioneer did (driving the same speakers and at the same volumes). It's not "dangerous" hot (IMHO), but much, much hotter than it's predecessor, that's for sure. Also, this thing weighs a TON compared to the Pioneer.. A TON! It's hard to move with one person (you can do it, but don't put in into a glass rack (which is what I have) without help!). The rear of this device is laid out really nicely! I'm very happy with it; easy to connect the speakers (takes bananas securely) and the source component(s). Audessey was easy to run, and correctly detected all my speakers and room layout both times.

The OSD (overlay and full menu) is pretty snappy (it could be better), much faster and nicer to look at the the older Pioneer. However, it's nothing "great", it's still mostly text; it get's the job done, but isn't going to wow you with graphics (I'd much prefer simple and fast over pretty and slow, so this works well for me).

AVR seems to be able to handle high volume just fine; I played some music at 5 under reference and it kept right up. Didn't hear any clipping or distortion; but, to be honest, my Pioneer was just as good at this volume and didn't get as hot..

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful

1.0 out of 5 stars Sounds Great When It Works June 26, 2011

By J. Main

Amazon Verified Purchase

Of the 10 receivers I've owned over the decades, this is the best one for controlling sound (and video in this case). But, there are some of these models that have a known deficiency with the power module that could have disastrous consequences. Here are the symptoms; the remote stops working with no control of the power. Then other buttons fail, but the receiver still works with the front panel buttons - Onkyo technical service will tell you it is the remote. A couple of days later the receiver will turn on by itself (this is really bad if you aren't at home) and the only way to shut it off is unplugging the power cord. Finally, the power fails entirely.
The first one failed after two weeks was returned to Amazon and replaced immediately. Unfortunately, after reading outstanding reviews, I chose a replacement which failed within 5 weeks. This now puts me into warranty delays with Onkyo service providers.
Here's my issue; Onkyo admitted they had a problem with a number of the TX-NR3008 models - one that had the potential of starting a fire. This is a safety issue - they should have pulled the affected lot(s) from the market until the problem could be fixed before selling them to consumers.
I am very disappointed!

15 of 16 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome receiver. January 21, 2011

By jrodATC

Amazon Verified Purchase

I decided to go with Onkyo after having a Pioneer Elite (VSX-92XH) that lived most of its life at a repair facility more than on my home theater stand. I conferred with several people who own Onkyo equipment, one of whom has a high-end Klipsch setup, as well as read many reviews on their latest line of high end products (TX-NR1008, 3008 and 5008) before deciding to purchase the TX-NR3008. I made the right choice. For the money, you get many more features and power out of Onkyo than you would with Pioneer or Denon ($$$). Setting up this beast (50+lb) was a breeze and it sounds no different than my Pioneer Elite. I know this is a point of contention because there are camps out there that believe receiver X is better than receiver Y--which very well may be the case, however, for the purposes of watching movies, I can't really tell the difference between my Pioneer Elite and this Onkyo. Before I get flamed, keep in mind that most if not all high end receivers are THX U2 certified and the mode that allows you to up-convert from 5.1 or fewer channels to 7.1 is arguably the same from receiver to receiver as it is a process proprietary to THX. Beyond that, the only major differences are listening modes which I largely don't/didn't touch. I leave BD movies whose digital tracks are 7.1 alone and those that are 5.1 I listen in THX U2 Mode. I have no complaints. This receiver is driving my 'prosumer' setup consisting of a Klipsch RC-64 II center, SUB12HG sub woofer, Polk towers and Polk surrounds (working on upgrading the Polks to Klipsch Reference towers and surrounds).

As far as cons go nothing major but it should be said that the TX-NR3008 generates a ton of heat. I do not recommend placing this unit in a cramped TV stand or near other hot components as you are probably sure to experience heat related failures if you do so. After watching a movie, I can feel the heat emanating from my receiver from about a foot or so away and for that reason it stands on a tower in a well ventilated area. Secondly, it clicks a lot when switching from analog to digital modes or between different sound tracks. This mainly happens when watching TV (Cable, satellite, whatever) and moving from analog to digital signals. If you change the channel once or twice, no big deal, if you're channel surfing, you'll hear a lot of clicking. I read online that this isn't really an issue at all and that there is no real way to 'fix' this so its something you'll have to deal with if you purchase an Onkyo receiver. Having said that, this 'issue' wont prevent me from buying another Onkyo as it seems to be unique to them in some way.