Onkyo Intros Two New Home Theater Systems and Dock for iPod/iPhone

Today Onkyo announced two new home-theater-in-a-box (HTiB) receiver-and-speaker systems, along with a new iPod/iPhone dock designed to connect to most A/V receivers.

The new home theater receivers feature HDMI connectivity with support for 3D video, lossless audio from Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, and an Audio Return Channel feature which sends an audio signal “upstream” from a connected HDTV tuner, eliminating the need for a separate audio cable. Along with four HDMI inputs and one output, each receiver also includes digital and analog A/V inputs.

The amplifier on the receivers incorporates a massive transformer, optimum gain volume circuitry, and PLL jitter-cleaning circuitry to preserve signal accuracy. Other features include TI Burr-Brown audio DACs, a new Advanced Music Optimizer, and an on-screen display for adjusting the settings. Both receivers also include Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Audyssey Dynamic Volume.

The HT-S5400 is the higher end model of the two, featuring two extra audio channels supporting Dolby Pro Logic IIz. The HT-S5400 boasts slightly better audio DACs compared to the HT-S3400. It includes a USB port on the front panel for connecting your iPod/iPhone, along with a powered subwoofer, subwoofer pre-out, and Audyssey 2EQ. It comes with a seven-channel speaker set consisting of mid-size, two-way front LCR speakers and four satellites. Available in April, it will sell for $599.

The more affordable 5.1-channel HT-S3400 leaves out the USB port, subwoofer pre-out, and Audyssey 2EQ, but does include Onkyo’s proprietary Universal Port to enable single-cable connection of Onkyo peripheral devices. A down-firing subwoofer and five full-range surround speakers are included with the HT-S3400. The HT-S3400, also available in April, will sell for $379.

The Onkyo DS-A4 Remote Interactive Dock for iPod/iPhone provides audio, video outputs, charging, and full function remote control when used with most AV receivers, and advanced functionality and integration when connected to an Onkyo receiver’s proprietary RI interface jack. The dock is compatible with all current iPod/ iPhone models up to the latest iPhone 4. It has outputs for stereo audio as well as composite and component video. Menu navigation is aided by an On-Screen Display and supplied remote control; RI-enabled systems allow the use of the AV system remote control.

The Onkyo DS-A4 will hit stores in April for $139.

For more information visit www.onkyousa.com.