Onkyo TX-DS989 Receiver Preview

Quick Features

• THX Surround EX and Ultra Certification
• The Only True 7.1 Channel Receiver
• 192Khz/24Bit DACs for All Channels
• RS232 Upgrade and Communications Port
• Powerful, Programmable Processor
• DTS/Dolby Digital/MPEG Onboard

Introduction

Six years ago Onkyo rocked the industry with the release of the first THX receiver, and raised the bar for surround sound excellence. Today the TX-DS989 isn't just posed to change home theatre, its here to revolutionize it. AS the first receiver to offer True 7.1 amplification, true THX Surround EX playback ability (other 5.1 receiver offer THX Surround EX but all require an additional amp) and 192kHz/24Bit DACs for all channels, the TX-DS989 is built to be the absolute ultimate-home theatre centerpiece.

To ensure its greatness over time, the TX-DS989 is the first receiver to completely incorporate fully future proof architecture. Its versatile RS-232 port and powerful 4MB Flash Memory guarantee its ability to download software for IEEE 1394 upgradability, future formats like MPEG ACC, and virtually any other processing upgrade that may arise.

Matching its amazing power and technological prowess, the TX-DS989 also offers unprecedented sound quality. Onkyo's exclusive Wide Range Amplified Technology (WRAT) ensures bandwidth over 100kHz, which is necessary for accurate reproduction of DVD-Audio and SACD. Optimum Gain Volume Circuit reduces noise and improves signal output. And audiophile-grade parts used throughout provide a seemingly unlimited amount of pure, high current, low impedance power.

Peerless its capabilities, the TX-DS989's over-the-top performance will surpass even the most discerning home theatre aficionados expectations.

Amplifier Features

• 130 Watts Minimum of Continuos RMS Power to each of the 7 channels into 8ohms from 20Hz to 20khz with no more than 0.05THD
• clean high current amplification provides incredible dynamic range for seamless reproduction of even the most demanding cinema soundtracks, as well as animatedly rich music at any real volume.
• 7.1 Channel Amplifier (the first receiver to achieve this feat in one chassis)
• 192kHz/24Bit D/A Converters for all Channels- the first receiver in the industry to utilize these powerful converters for all 7 channels- the TX-DS989 DACs not only boast a dynamic range of 120DB they also process more information faster and are virtually resistant to clock jitter to ensure the best performance from DVD-Audio and other upcoming formats, while producing cleaner, clearer sound from DVDs and CDs
• WRAT virtually eliminates the adverse effects of counter-electromotive force by 1) applying a small amount of NFB (negative force feedBack), 2) using carefully selected, high tolerance, wide-range parts in all critical sections, 3) incorporating innovative circuit topology based upon decades of high-end amplifier-design experience-the final result is a flat response beyond 100Kh, making the TX-DS989 ideal for such high-resolutions formats as DVD-Audio and Super Audio-CD, and other upcoming digital formats.
• Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry- to produce volume at low levels conventional amplifiers must drop a signal close to the noise floor, permanently tainting it with a small amount of noise-when amplified, not only the signal, but also its newly attained noise are magnified- Onkyos Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry on the other hand adjusts the gain s that less than half the amount of attenuation is needed, ensuring the signal never comes close to the noise floor, thus avoiding noise contamination, an producing dramatically clearer, crisper sound.
• Extended Frequency Response 5khz to 100khz well beyond the 20hz to 20khz range of the CD Format and human hearing itself, this uncommon capability enables the receiver to reproduce audible frequencies more accurately, with less distortion, and ensures optimum playback of high result ion sources.
• High Current Low Impedance 6 Ohm Drive to accurately reproduce today's more demanding program sources, and drive higher quality, low-impedance home theater speaker systems.
• Oversized Custom Built ATR Capacitors to store huge reserves of electrical current, guaranteeing the TX-DS989 will never come up short on power.
• "Fine Gold" Electrolytic Coupling Capacitors, made with the finest materials available for audio capacitors, are employed throughout the TX-DS989 for their superb sonic qualities- they meet the most exacting audio-specification and provide extreme low dielectric losses, with measured ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance) values that are 5 to 10 times lower than conventional designs.
• Fully Discrete Output Stages for all 7 channels to ensure that no channel information is compromise, and to handle the wide dynamics of movie soundtracks and music cleanly and effortlessly, while keeping the sound from distorting, even at high volume.
• Dual Banana Plug Compatible Terminals for all 7 channels permit the use of heavy-gauge speaker cable all around for more speaker options and distortion free transfer.
• High Quality Aluminum Extruded Heat Sinks- not the flimsy, inexpensive corrugated foil type found in many receivers-to protects against signal loss and ensures longevity. -Massive Torodial Power Transformer thickly shielded to contain magnetic flux, firmly anchored in its casing with a special anti-resonant sealant, and acclaimed for its efficiency, the transformer eliminates power-supply noise, and reduces unnecessary power intake and heat.
• Extremely Thick Bus Bars and Ground Plate to diminish fluctuations in the electrical potential and eliminate ground hum, for more efficient power distribution, reduced noise, and crisper sound.
• Separate StandBy and Power Switches so the receiver is always ready to respond to remote control commands, or be turned off when away for an extended period of time.
• Super Silent Auto Switched 2 Speed Cooling fan- activates only under extended, extreme output and/or high temperature condition.
• Auto Protective Circuitry to ensure long-lasting reliability and comprehensive protection of sensitive components. Flexibility Features
• Future Proof interface Architecture- a versatile RS232 port allows the TX-DS989s powerful 4mb flash memory to be directly computer accessed for installing such future upgrades as new DSP algorithms, new surround formats/parameters, and other types of processing updates.
• RS232 Control Port= the TXDS989s window for both software upgrades and complete integration's with home media control systems like Panja, (Amx/Phast), Creston and others,.
• Zone 2 Multiroom/Multisource Capability- a full set of line outs for audio, composite video, and SVideo, allows for setup of an additional system in another room-connect an optional infared eye in Zone 2, and complete second room control can be achieved with such A/V distribution systems as Xantech, Niles, Russound, and Sonnance to name a few.
• IEEE 1394 Upgradeable- for convenient universal digital connection, and high-speed, single cable interface directly with practically any computer or peripheral application.
• Listening Mode Input Memory- remembers the last listening mode assigned to a source- DTS DVD, for example, or stereo for CD, and automatically selects the listening mode again when a CD or DVD is played.

Audio/Video Features

• THX Surround EX Built in
• DTS Decoder built in
• DD Decoder Built in
• Dolby Prologic Decoder built in
• MPEG decoding
• Digital Upsampling mode- (on/off)- the first receiver to have 192khz/24bit DACS for all 7 channels enables the TX-DS989 to take a 48khz digital signal and double its sampling frequency to 96khz-twice as much signal information., for greater detail and clarity.
• A/V Sync Delay- most DVDs and other movies sources were originally mixed for large theatres, where sound must travel further to reach the viewer than it does in the home- applied in a smaller setting, one may often hear the action before seeing it, or lips may be put out of sync with the dialogue- the effect is similar to watching poorly dubbed movie-Onkyo's A/V Sync allows for adjustment of the audio/video parameter (in 0.5ms steps) for perfect simultaneous playback of sound and image.
• Non-Scaling Configuration- unlike conventional receivers that must "scale" the LFE signal in the absence of a subwoofer which narrows dynamic range and distorts the sound, the TX-DS989s DAC layout has been designed to convert all channels to analogue before the LFE channel is mixed with the left and right channel- the result is true full bit conversion of the LFE signal with no reduction in fidelity-especially advantageous for those who have invested in high frequency response L/R speakers.
• Lucasfilm THX Ultra Full Enhancement Package
• 50 DSP Soundmodes- to transform home theatres into practically any venue
• Theatre Dimensional Virtual Surround Mode- to transform two speakers into a complete virtual surround sound system.
• Mono Movie Mode- sends the original monophonic and a digitally reprocessed signal to all speakers for greater spaciousness and size.
• Academy Filter- (on/off) reduces hiss and other unwanted background noise from older monaural movies for more discernable dialogue and improved sound quality.
• All Channel Stereo- great for parties and background music- fills the entire room.
• HD DSP (High Definition) - uses start of the art Onkyo developed algorithms and architecture powered by advanced dual crystal 24bits ICs, t provide the sophisticated digital soundfields- the benefit is unmatched clarity, dynamic, precision and depth and more controls over factors exclusive to home theatres, such as room size, ambience, equalization and time delay.
• Surround Speaker Selection Mode to choose which surround speakers to use during 5.1 playback- for example use the sides for for cinema and rears for music
• Front Effect Function- to keep DSP reverberations from being applied to the front channels, so live r3ecordings that already contain reverberations will not lose their presence.
• Late Night Mode (High, low, off)- adjusts the dynamic range by making thunderous explosions more neighborhood friendly, and boosting hard to hear whispered dialogue
• Onscreen Graphical Display- for simple setup and simplified daily use-the onscreen display sports 7 different colors settings, a Superimpose mode to easily see the onscreen display over a TV picture, the ability to move the display to different positions on the screen, and an immediate (on/off) that shows operations for three seconds every time settings are changed. (European/Asian models are NTSC/PAL compatible)
• Extensive Bass Management Circuitry- provides for the correct hookup and adjustment of a subwoofer- supplies an 80hz 24 dp per octave low-pass crossover filter on the line level subwoofer output, as well as 80hz 12dB per octave high pass filtering on speaker outputs.
• Adjustable Reflect and Reverb Level & Room Size to customize the spacious of the surround effects, to match room size and the sonic characteristics of the audio program.
• Parameter Selector and Lock to customize the spaciousness of the surround effects to the dynamics of the room and the sonic characteristics of the audio program-the parameter settings can be locked so that even if they are changed during normal use, simply turning the power off and then on again will reset the TX-DS989 to its original programmed settings.

Inputs, Connections & Circuitry

• Automatic Signal Detection to detect the input signal format (THX Surround EX, Dolby Digital, DTS, PCM) and execute the necessary decoding process.
• 7.1 Channel External Inputs- to connect an additional external 7.1 channel or 5.1 channel decoder, for DVD-Audio or other future formats (high-quality 7.1 cannel DB-25 connector cable included)
• Selectable Character Display Input of up to 8 characters to write a descriptive input for each input source
• Line Level Outputs for All 7.1 Channels gives you the option of upgrading the power of all channels via an external amplifier
• Pre Amp In/Out Jacks with Loop Back- to connect an equalizer and adjust the frequency response, for the most satisfying reproduction from any source, in any type of room. -9 Digital Inputs (5 Coaxial, 3 optical, 1 AC-RF)
• 2 Digital Outputs (1 coaxial and 1 optical)
• HDTV Ready- the TX0DS989s has all the necessary circuitry, bandwidth and inputs/outputs for HDTV, for easy and immediate HDTV enjoyment.
• Professional Grade Maxim video Switching Amp- unlike competitors, which don't even go up to 30mhz, the TX-DS989s is capable of transferring component video signals at 40mhz (-3dB), ensuring its readiness for HDTV and other systems capable of high grade wide bandwidth picture output.
• 3 Complete Sets of Component Video Input Terminals for the highest quality, unaltered, wide bandwidth video-signal transfer from a DVD player, DSS, HDTV set top boxes, DTV decoders, or digital VCRs.
• Component Video Outputs for the highest quality, unaltered, wide bandwidth video-signal transfer to a HDTV, or an additional monitor, projector.
• 6 SVideo Inputs
• 5 SVideo Outputs
• 2 SVideo Monitor Outputs
• 6 A/V Inputs
• 4 Audio Inputs
• 2 Dedicated Line Level Subwoofer Pre Outs to connect 2 subwoofers, and provide greater low-frequency impact to more spacious rooms.
• Phono Input- a must for vinyl lovers and a feature many manufacturers leave off.
• Full Tape and VCR Input/Output Loops to eliminate the hassle of hooking and unhooking cables between components, and make video-to-video and tape-to-tape copying monitorable and easy.
• Rec out Selector (sound & picture) to dub audio sources on videotapes (background music, for example), or for recording while listening to or watching different sources, or for simulcast viewing/listening.

FM/AM Tuner Features

• Outstanding Selectivity and Sensitivity- rare today when most manufacturers view tuners as little more than an afterthought.
• 40 AM/FM Random Presets- especially convenient if there are many radio stations in the area- a number can be assigned to each favorite FM and AM station, then accessed simply at the touch of a button.
• FM Auto Tuning to make finding FM stations in the area a breeze.
• RDS (European Models Only) for additional broadcast information via the front-panel display.
• FM/Cable TV Simulcast Recording/Playback to combine the higher sound quality from simultaneous Satellite and Cable stereo broadcast with the picture, without the need for re-wiring or arcane adjustments.
• 75 ohm Antenna Input to easily connect an outdoor antenna for clearer FM reception.
• Supplied AM and FM Antennas- loop antenna for AM and T-shaped FM wire antenna for optimum radio reception and hook up.

Other Features

• Intellivolume- an intelligent Onyko calibration system to make level corrections for each source input in advance, in the range of +/-12dB in 1dB steps eliminates the need to adjust the volume every time the user switch from DVDs to CDs or from videotapes to TV for example.
• Precision Digital Speed Sensitive Volume Control-adjustment in precise steps-turning the knob faster causes the setting to jump increments more quickly, plus eliminate worry of having the volume set to high when the power is turned on, even if the volume knob was turned while the power was off.
• Absolute/Relative Switchable Volume Display- Absolute provides the output level on a scale of Min(0:no sound) to Max(100: extremely loud), and relative provides the output on a scale which is measured in plus or minus, relative to the calibrated reference volume.
• Separate PC (Printed Circuitry) Boards- one for audio sources and one for video sources- keeps the audio and video paths completely separate, ensuring pristine sound and high resolution image purity.
• Headphone jack (standard size) for private listening-automatically cuts off sound to the speakers when used.
• Large, Bright, Fluorescent, 35 Dot Matrix Display- logically laid out for ease of use, and brightly lit to make checking the system status from the favorite listening spot, or a darkened home theater effortless and simple.
• 4 Mode Dimmer (bright, normal, low, off) to match the ambience of any room lighting situation for maximum home theater enjoyment- front panel and remote operation.
• Audio Mute (remote) instantly switches off the sound- convenient when receiving phone calls, or for recording without listening.
• Sleep Timer (remote) to set the system to shut down automatically after 90 minutes in advance (10min steps)
• Battery Free Memory Backup protects memory contents during a power outage or if the unit is temporarily unplugged.
• Detachable Heavy Duty Power Cord built to handle the heavy power loads tat big home theatres demand, but also detach to affix and power cord of choice.
• 2 Switched AC Convenience Outlets with a total 120 watts max (100 watts for European/Asian models) to easily plug in other components.
• Large Non Resonant Feet with unique star configuration and thick rubber pads to prevent subtle outside vibrations from reaching the signal.
• Heavy Gauge, Anti-Resonant, Reinforced Steel Chassis with ribbed side panels for greater strength and maximum vibration damping characteristics-helps maintain signal purity.
• Vibration Resistant Cover made of heavily slotted sheet metal to facilitate heat dissipation- also designed to suppress external resonance and minimize vibration.
• Motorized Control Door (Cool if it is motorized ) Slides down to fit in cabinets and tight custom installations and hides the lesser-used buttons- when shut, it keeps the front panel sleek and uncluttered.
• Brushed Aluminum Front Panel made from a thick sheet of aircraft grade aluminum- scratch resistant, easy to clean, provides long term elegance, and enhances overall chassis rigidity.
• Powerful Backlit Learning Remote Control with Macro Functions and LCD Display- Up to 16 operations per 1 button etc etc etc.

Specifications

Amplifier Section

Power Output

• North American Model at 8ohms 130 Watts at 6 ohms 170 watts
• European Model at 6 ohms 160 watts
• Asian Model at 6 ohms 200watts

Dynamic Power

• 3 ohms 2x300W/Ch
• 4 ohms 2x230W/Ch
• 8ohms 2x150W/Ch

Total Harmonic Distortion

• 0.05% at 1W Frequency Response 5Hz-100Khz +1dB -3dB

General

• Dimensions 435x196x451 mm
• 17-1/8" x 7-11/16" x 17-3/4"
• Weight 22kg 48.5lbs
• Arrival Date- Australia 1st week of April - US the same time.
• Price- Australia $6499-$5999
• US ($3200-$2200)