Onkyo TX-NR414
AV receivers tend to make pricey gifts, but Onkyo's TX-NR414 is more affordable than most. For less than $300, you get six HDMI inputs, plus it has built-in networking with extensive streaming-audio support, including Pandora, Spotify, Rhapsody, and Internet radio.
The good: The Onkyo TX-NR414 is an extremely affordable receiver with six HDMI inputs. It has built-in networking with extensive streaming-audio support, including Pandora, Spotify, Rhapsody, and Internet radio. Wi-Fi functionality can be added with a tiny, inexpensive USB adapter.
The bad: The TX-NR414 lacks several features that would have been nice, such as a graphical user interface, 7.1 channels, automatic speaker calibration, and AirPlay. User reviews of Onkyo products sometimes complain about unreliability, though the TX-NR414 has gotten good user reviews.
The bottom line: The Onyko TX-NR414 offers the best AV receiver value for those with a tight budget, although the step-up TX-NR515 model is worth the extra cash if you can afford it.
October 31, 2012 9:12 PM PDT
Photo by: Sarah Tew/CNET
