Onkyo HT-RC160

Onkyo HT-RC160

Comparing the features of competing AV receivers is already a difficult chore, but many manufacturers, such as Denon and Yamaha, invite more complexity by offering two lines of nearly identical AV receivers: a custom-install-friendly line and a more-consumer-based line. For better or worse, Onkyo has followed suit with the HT-RC160, which is the consumer-friendly analogue to the TX-SR607. As much as we dislike the confusion created by the duplicated models, the HT-RC160 is a good deal. The differences between TX-SR607 and HT-RC160 are simple: no front panel HDMI input, no onboard Sirius support, and slightly less power. Otherwise, they are virtually identical and the HT-RC160 is selling for about $100 less online. The HT-RC160 isn't our favorite midrange receiver (that would be the Pioneer VSX-1019AH-K), but taking value into account, it's the next best choice. The trend in home audio is to make gear smaller and sleeker, but Onkyo receivers are unapologetically big and bulky, coming in at 17.13 inches wide by 6.94 inches high by 12.94 inches deep. You'll want to leave plenty of space in your home theater rack to fit the receiver, especially since it tends to run hot.