Are you in the market for a new Onkyo AV receiver and weighing your options between two popular models? The battle between the Onkyo 646 and the Onkyo 656 is a common one for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike.
Both receivers promise impressive performance and a gateway to immersive sound, but subtle differences can significantly impact your viewing and listening experience. Deciding which one is the right fit for your setup requires a closer look at their features, capabilities, and overall value.
This comparison will dive deep into what sets the Onkyo 646 and the 656 apart. We’ll help you understand their strengths and weaknesses so you can make an informed decision without any buyer’s remorse.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Onkyo 646 | 656 |
|---|---|---|
| Channels | 7.2 | 7.2 |
| Power Output (Watts per channel) | 160W (1kHz, 10% THD, 6Ω) | 170W (1kHz, 10% THD, 6Ω) |
| HDMI Inputs | 7 (incl. 1 front) | 8 (incl. 1 front) |
| HDMI Outputs | 2 | 2 |
| HDMI 2.0a / HDCP 2.2 | Yes | Yes |
| Dolby Atmos Support | Yes | Yes |
| DTS:X Support | Yes | Yes |
| 4K Passthrough | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Phono Input | Yes | Yes |
| Zone 2 Pre-Out | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
HDMI Connectivity
- Onkyo 646: Offers 7 HDMI inputs (6 rear, 1 front) and 2 HDMI outputs. This is a healthy number for most setups, allowing for multiple sources to be connected simultaneously. The inclusion of a front HDMI is convenient for temporary devices.
- 656: Features 8 HDMI inputs (7 rear, 1 front) and 2 HDMI outputs. The additional rear HDMI input provides a slight edge in connectivity for users with a vast array of source devices.
- Winner: 656
Audio Processing
- Onkyo 646: Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with up to 5.1.2 channels. It boasts 165W per channel (6 Ohms, 1kHz, 10% THD). This provides a robust surround sound experience with immersive object-based audio.
- 656: Also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, but can handle up to 7.2.4 channels. Its power output is rated at 170W per channel (6 Ohms, 1kHz, 10% THD). The increased channel count offers greater flexibility for more complex speaker configurations and a potentially more expansive soundstage.
- Winner: 656
Network Features & Streaming
- Onkyo 646: Includes built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet, supporting streaming services like Spotify, Pandora, and TuneIn. It also offers AirPlay and Bluetooth connectivity for easy wireless audio playback.
- 656: Enhances network capabilities with dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and Ethernet. It supports a wider range of streaming services and offers improved network stability and speed due to the dual-band Wi-Fi.
- Winner: 656
Video Processing
- Onkyo 646: Features 4K/60Hz pass-through and upscaling to 4K. It supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision (via firmware update). This ensures compatibility with modern video formats and provides a crisp, clear picture.
- 656: Offers 4K/60Hz pass-through and upscaling, and also supports HDR10 and Dolby Vision. The primary advantage here is its more robust video processing engine, potentially leading to slightly better image refinement and color accuracy.
- Winner: 656
Room Calibration
- Onkyo 646: Utilizes AccuEQ room calibration to optimize speaker output for your listening environment. This is a standard, effective system for balancing sound.
- 656: Employs AccuEQ Advance room calibration, which offers a more sophisticated multi-point calibration process. This can result in a more accurate and finely tuned audio experience tailored to different seating positions.
- Winner: 656
Zone 2/3 Capabilities
- Onkyo 646: Provides Zone 2 pre-outs and Zone 3 pre-outs, allowing for audio to be sent to separate rooms. This offers good flexibility for multi-room audio setups.
- 656: Offers Zone 2 and Zone 3 pre-outs with amplified Zone 2 and Zone 3 audio output. This means you can power passive speakers in other rooms directly from the receiver, simplifying setup and reducing the need for additional amplifiers.
- Winner: 656
Front Panel Display
- Onkyo 646: Features a clear, informative front panel display that shows input selection, volume levels, and audio decoding status. It’s functional and easy to read.
- 656: Boasts a more advanced, higher-resolution front panel display that provides even more detailed information, including network status and streaming service details. This offers a more modern and user-friendly interface.
- Winner: 656
Build Quality & Design
- Onkyo 646: Exhibits Onkyo’s typical robust build quality with a solid metal chassis. It has a functional, albeit somewhat utilitarian, front panel design.
- 656: Shares a similar sturdy build but often features a slightly more refined aesthetic, with a more premium feel to the front panel controls and materials. This subtle upgrade enhances the overall user experience.
- Winner: 656
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Power Output | 656 |
| HDMI Inputs | 656 |
| Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Support | Tie |
| 4K/HDR Passthrough | Tie |
| Connectivity (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth) | Tie |
| Value | 646 |
| Overall | 656 |
What They Have in Common
- Surround Sound Formats: Both the Onkyo 646 and 656 are equipped to handle the latest immersive audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, delivering a truly cinematic sound experience in your home.
- 4K and Hdr Support: Both models offer excellent video passthrough capabilities, supporting 4K resolution and High Dynamic Range (HDR) content, ensuring your visuals are as stunning as your audio.
- Connectivity Options: You’ll find a generous array of HDMI inputs on both receivers, along with essential features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making them versatile hubs for all your entertainment devices.
- Audyssey Room Correction: Both units utilize Audyssey MultEQ room calibration technology to automatically optimize the sound for your specific listening environment, providing a tailored and accurate audio performance.
- Streaming Capabilities: With built-in Wi-Fi, both the 646 and 656 offer seamless integration with popular music streaming services, allowing you to easily access your favorite playlists and podcasts.
- Multi-Zone Audio: Both receivers provide Zone 2 audio outputs, enabling you to send audio to another room, expanding your listening experience beyond the main viewing area.
Onkyo 646 vs 656 Buying Guide
Target Audience & Use Cases
The Onkyo TX-NR646 is an excellent choice for those seeking a robust and feature-rich AV receiver that offers excellent value for money. It’s ideal for home theater enthusiasts looking to upgrade from older models or build a solid 7.2 channel surround sound system without breaking the bank. Its comprehensive connectivity and robust audio processing make it a versatile centerpiece for any entertainment setup, from casual movie watching to dedicated gaming sessions.
The Onkyo TX-NR656, on the other hand, is designed for users who demand a slightly more premium experience and future-proofing. It caters to audiophiles and cinephiles who appreciate the subtle improvements in audio decoding and networking capabilities. If you’re building a high-performance home theater, particularly one with Dolby Atmos or DTS:X in mind, and want the latest advancements in streaming and control, the 656 offers a compelling upgrade path. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
Key Feature Differences
The most significant differentiator lies in the audio processing and connectivity. While both support 7.2 channels, the TX-NR656 often boasts slightly more advanced room correction software and potentially a more refined DAC implementation for superior sound quality. Furthermore, the 656 typically includes newer HDMI standards or more robust networking features, ensuring better compatibility with the latest audio formats and streaming services, offering a more future-proof solution for the discerning user.
While the TX-NR646 is no slouch in terms of features, the TX-NR656 often pushes the envelope with enhanced capabilities. This might include more advanced object-based audio decoding support, improved wireless connectivity options, or a more intuitive user interface. These subtle, yet impactful, enhancements contribute to a more seamless and immersive audio-visual experience for those who prioritize cutting-edge technology.
Budget Considerations
For budget-conscious buyers, the Onkyo TX-NR646 presents a fantastic opportunity. It delivers a high level of performance and a comprehensive suite of features that were once reserved for much more expensive receivers. You can often find the 646 at a more accessible price point, especially if you’re looking at refurbished or discounted models, making it an excellent entry point into high-fidelity home theater without significant financial commitment.
The Onkyo TX-NR656, while offering superior features, will generally command a higher price tag. This is reflective of its enhanced capabilities and more recent technological integration. If your budget allows for it, and you’re looking for the best possible performance and the latest features, the investment in the 656 can be well worth it for the long-term satisfaction and future-proofing it provides. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
Upgrade Paths & Future-Proofing
The TX-NR646 offers a solid foundation for a home theater system and can be upgraded with external components if needed. However, its internal processing and connectivity might eventually become a limiting factor as new audio and video formats emerge. For users who plan to keep their receiver for many years and want to stay at the forefront of home entertainment technology, the 656 provides a more robust and future-proof investment.
The TX-NR656 is designed with future-proofing in mind, often incorporating support for emerging audio codecs and higher bandwidth HDMI specifications. This means it’s better equipped to handle the demands of future content and devices, reducing the likelihood of needing an upgrade purely due to technological obsolescence. If you’re building a system for the long haul and want to ensure compatibility with upcoming innovations, the 656 is the more forward-thinking choice.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Onkyo 646 If…
- You’re looking for a capable 7.2-channel AV receiver with excellent modern audio and video format support.
- You want a solid foundation for a Dolby Atmos or DTS:X setup without needing the absolute bleeding edge of features.
- Your budget is a primary consideration, and you want the best value for a feature-rich receiver.
- You don’t require the absolute highest power output or the most extensive connectivity of the top-tier models.
Buy 656 If…
- You desire a slightly more powerful receiver with a marginally higher power output per channel.
- You need an extra HDMI input for a more extensive array of connected devices.
- You want the most up-to-date features and are willing to invest a bit more for those incremental improvements.
- You are building a high-performance home theater system and appreciate every small advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of the TX-NR656 over the TX-NR646?
The primary advantage of the TX-NR656 typically lies in its more advanced audio processing capabilities, including potentially better support for object-based audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X with more configurations. It also often features enhanced networking features, improved room correction software for more accurate calibration, and slightly more up-to-date HDMI specifications, offering a more refined and future-ready audio-visual experience.
Are both receivers capable of 4K video pass-through?
Yes, both the Onkyo TX-NR646 and TX-NR656 are capable of 4K video pass-through. They were designed to handle the demands of high-resolution content, ensuring that your 4K sources are seamlessly passed through to your compatible display without any degradation in picture quality. This makes them suitable for modern high-definition entertainment setups. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
Which receiver is better for music listening?
While both offer excellent audio performance, the TX-NR656 might have a slight edge for critical music listening due to potentially more refined DACs and advanced audio processing. However, the TX-NR646 is still a very capable receiver for music and provides a rich, detailed soundstage that will satisfy most audiophiles. The difference often comes down to subtle nuances and personal preference.
What are the connectivity options like on these models?
Both models offer a comprehensive array of connectivity options, including multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, optical and coaxial digital audio inputs, analog audio inputs, and USB ports. The TX-NR656 may feature slightly more modern HDMI versions or additional network-related ports for enhanced connectivity with smart home devices and streaming services, offering a broader range of integration possibilities.
Is the TX-NR656 significantly more expensive than the TX-NR646?
Generally, the TX-NR656 is positioned as a slightly higher-tier model and will typically be more expensive than the TX-NR646. This price difference reflects its more advanced features, enhanced processing power, and potentially newer technological integrations. However, the exact price can vary significantly based on availability, sales, and whether you are purchasing new or refurbished units.
Final Verdict
The Onkyo TX-NR646 stands as a superb value proposition, delivering impressive performance and a wide array of features for its price point. It’s an excellent choice for most home theater enthusiasts. However, for those seeking the absolute best in audio processing, enhanced connectivity, and a more future-proofed system, the Onkyo TX-NR656 offers a compelling upgrade, justifying its slightly higher cost with superior capabilities for an elevated home entertainment experience.
Winner: Onkyo TX-NR656