Onkyo TX-NR525: Set of Modern Features and Streaming Services Support

The Onkyo TX-NR525 is a receiver with the Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio support. Moreover, it can perform the 3D video, and the real picture is complemented with a high-quality color rendering.

Design

The front panel is replete with a volume knob and various buttons, but their number does not deter, as they have the same color as the chassis. Here you can find the Music Optimizer button, the accesses to the Listening and Tuning modes, AUX input, phone input, and the 3.5mm headphone jack. A large LCD display demonstrates all the performed procedures. The volume control knob is rather sensitive (the smallest movement changes the volume level). The assembly quality is well; as there are no cracks on the body frame and all the elements are solid (even 4 stands don’t have the rubber smell).

Features

The Onkyo TX-NR525 works with a 4K Ultra HD signal when playing video via HDMI and scales the incoming signals to a resolution of 1080p. It has the InstaPrevue feature (visual viewing of all the active HDMI inputs) and hybrid standby mode (with HDMI inputs turned on and Ethernet port in standby mode). The Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless technologies are available (using the optional network adapters UBT-1 and UWF-1), which provide a high level of audio files playback quality in a streaming mode from smartphones. A good addition to the capabilities of the device is an AM/FM tuner with 40 preset stations.

Performance

Due to the decent Onkyo TX-NR525 specs, the receiver is capable of playing FLAC and WAV formats with parameters up to 24bit/192kHz both from the USB storage medium and with a network connection. The Pandora, Spotify, and Sirius services start up quickly and do not freeze during operation. The picture quality is out of the question and really demonstrates the realistic colors.

Sound Quality

Its high-quality sound is good most of the time, but there is one caveat. When the Onkyo TX-NR525 stereo receiver is used with floor speakers and plays at the max volume, the strong distortions appear (after 3 minutes of listening), so I have to reduce the loudness. In most cases, the sound is performed without claims. Top notes sound clear, while the bass is solid and brings the desired groove.

Connectivity

The Onkyo TX-NR525 review demonstrates that it is equipped with 6 line inputs (5 of which are for AV sources), digital audio inputs, linear 2.1 outputs for sounding the second zone, and an output for headphones connecting. 6 HDMI inputs have the ability to transmit video with 4K resolution. There are 2 USB-connectors on the front and rear panels. You can hook up iPod/iPhone in the front USB, the signal from which will be digitally transmitted. The Android devices can be connected via the USB port on the rear side.

Setup

The user interface is intuitive and simple. Just press the Home button on the remote control and a menu will appear on the screen offering the basic options of the receiver: network services, USB, configuration, firmware updating, etc. You can assign image output to one or two monitors and set the image resolution via the video settings. The Audyssey MultEQ can help you perform the basic setup procedures in an automated way.

Conclusion

The Onkyo TX-NR525 AV receiver has impressive connectivity possibilities and simplifies the setup process via Audyssey MultEQ. Its streaming services work seamlessly, but the sound on a max volume isn’t perfect.

See price