Onkyo TX-NR717 user reviews

Pros + 8 HDMI inputs
+ Network
+ HD upscaling
+ Assignable inputs for audio and video
+ more details see in summary...

Cons - No coaxial/optical output
- Pain to set up without your TV set
- more details see in summary...

Summary Onkyo TX-NR717

This Onkyo is replacing a 10 year old H/K receiver, so the tech inside is a huge upgrade, even if the prices would have been about even. I used to really into home theater back when I did it for a paycheck and I sold Onkyo and really had respect for them, so I looked at the features of the TX-NR717 as well as the price and decided that this would be the centerpiece of my home theater. It does not disappoint. With the exception of one issue this receiver has done everything I've asked of it and more. I've got my HD digital cable, Xbox 360, PS3/Bluray, Wii, all running through it and everything is so much better than it was with the older receiver, but of course that goes without saying.

Some things I really love about the 717:
+ 8 HDMI inputs. I want this thing to be useful for the next 3-5 years or so.
+ Network. For firmware upgrades, new internet radio options, etc.
+ HD upscaling, so I can plug in my Wii or older equipment and it looks better than ever.
+ Assignable inputs for audio and video, so you can just plug stuff in wherever and assign it afterwards. (ie the Wii goes on Component 2, the sound goes into CD. Assign it after and it's all taken care of.)
+ Programmable input names, so my wife and kids can figure out what's what. No more trying to figure out if the cable box is Video 1, 2, or 3. The on screen display/front panel tell you what you need to know.
+ Front USB for iPod or other personal music player (Though it did not work with my Zune or Samsung Galaxy S2 for whatever reason)

A few negatives about the 717:
- No coaxial/optical output. For those with 5.1 digital headphones, you'll be out of luck.
- A pain to set up without your TV set.
- A little slow to turn on and get all situated. Using my Logitech Harmony remote I hit 'Watch TV' and it takes 30 seconds to a minute before you're actually getting video. It's slightly annoying.

As a side note, after connecting everything and giving it a test run, my USB ports were not working, nor was the unit detecting my network, which was hardwired. After a hard reset everything was perfect, network detected, firmware upgraded three times, I was ready to roll. I was worried about my unit being defective, but it was just a weird glitch.

*for best deal of this receiver, I suggest check at this blog: Hometheateravreceivers.blogspot.com/p/onkyo-tx-nr717.html

Hope this review is helpful.