Sony STR-ZA3100ES vs Onkyo TX-NR676

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Choosing an AV receiver is not an easy task and the Sony STR-ZA3100ES versus Onkyo TX-NR676 comparison is meant to help you with this. According to the results of our review, Sony STR-ZA3100ES received 6.3 points out of 10 possible, and Onkyo TX-NR676 was rated 7.2 points. Both AV receivers were introduced in 2017. As a result, it becomes clear that TX-NR676 is a better option for home theater than STR-ZA3100ES.

Main advantages Sony STR-ZA3100ES over Onkyo TX-NR676

Main advantages Onkyo TX-NR676 over Sony STR-ZA3100ES

Amplifiers

For the built-in amplifier, the models have rated 7 points out of 10.

The number of channels is equal to the number of possible connected speakers. Both receivers can handle the 7.2-channels configuration.

RMS stands for the actual power of the receiver. The higher this value, the louder the sound can be produced. The differences between the models in terms of RMS power are significant - for the TX-NR676 this value is 165/6 W/Ohm, and for the STR-ZA3100ES it is 90/6 W/Ohm.

Audio features

After reviewing the audio features of each model, we can rate the STR-ZA3100ES 7 out of 10, and the TX-NR676 - 9.

Most receivers now come with a microphone included. It is with the help of this microphone that the auto-calibration system functions, which adjusts the sound of the receiver to the room.

Connectivity

The connectivity of competitors in our comparison is markedly different, Sony STR-ZA3100ES scored 6, and Onkyo TX-NR676 scored 8 out of 10.

Bluetooth connection is now one of the main communication protocols for the receiver's control or even music broadcasting.

Streaming services

Now music streaming services are gaining more and more popularity. They allow users to listen to millions of songs by subscription.

Extensive connections

The presence of many connectors makes the receiver more versatile. But there are also narrowly targeted models, the number of connectors which are limited to a certain area of use. And when choosing their own receiver, users need to consider exactly your goals for using the receiver. For extensive connection, Sony STR-ZA3100ES got 9 points, but Onkyo TX-NR676 received 7 points.

Sony STR-ZA3100ES is equipped with 6/2 HDMI inputs and outputs, and Onkyo TX-NR676 has 7/2 HDMI inputs and outputs.

HDMI eARC is the next step in the development of audio return channel technology, which works in conjunction with HDMI 2.1. Using eARC provides the highest sound quality for home audio systems. HDMI eARC is available only on Sony STR-ZA3100ES.

Connecting a vinyl player or phonograph is possible using a Phono input which is represented by mini-jack or RCA connectors. Only the TX-NR676 has a Phono interface.

Video features

The AV receiver is the heart of the home theater. And in this case, support for all current video formats ensures the best user experience, so it is very important to consider this when choosing a device. Video features of rivals in our comparison were rated 7 out of 10.

Additional features

In terms of evaluating additional features, the STR-ZA3100ES got 6 points, but the TX-NR676 has 8.

Onkyo TX-NR676 has the ECO mode.

Multi-room

As the center of a home media system, each multichannel receiver has an additional set of terminals for connecting the second set of speakers to create additional audio space in Zone 2 or even Zone 3 where audio can have the separate source.

Multichannel surround

For the ability to create multichannel surround sound, each of the receivers received 7 points out of 10.

IMAX Enhanced is a licensing and certification program under which home theater devices deliver crisp 4K HDR pictures and powerful sound as it was designed by the IMAX engineers. Only the STR-ZA3100ES licensed by IMAX.