[maverick02]

Hi Everyone. I really want to pull the trigger on the TX-NR636 but the only thing holding me back is the lack of the Audyssey EQ (replaced by their proprietary EQ that apparently doesn't do much). The $500 price is about what I am looking to spend and it seems like the 636 comes with the most value in its category and price. Do you guys find it reasonable that the missing Audyssey EQ may be a deal breaker? Are there any other AVRs at this price point that maybe I should be considering? Should I maybe wait a couple months to see what the 2015 lineup looks like? Thanks!

 

[Kini62]

Hi Everyone. I really want to pull the trigger on the TX-NR636 but the only thing holding me back is the lack of the Audyssey EQ (replaced by their proprietary EQ that apparently doesn't do much). The $500 price is about what I am looking to spend and it seems like the 636 comes with the most value in its category and price. Do you guys find it reasonable that the missing Audyssey EQ may be a deal breaker? Are there any other AVRs at this price point that maybe I should be considering? Should I maybe wait a couple months to see what the 2015 lineup looks like? Thanks!

Onkyo will not have Audyssey in the future so don't wait for it.

Only you can determine whether accu EQ does anything or not. IMO people place to much importance on auto EQ software.

Pioneer is releasing new avrs with comparable features and price as the lower end onkyos.

If you want atmos at $500 you don't have much choice.

 

[maverick02]

Do you know if Onkyo updating their lineup for 2015? I can't seem to find much information on this, but if they are and I am willing to forgo Audyssey, I would wait anyways for their 2015 models.

 

[jdsmoothie]

Every major mfr is updating their 2014 models with new 2015 models with announcements in April/May. Pioneer has already announced some new 2015 lower level models that will be Atmos capable.

 

[gene4ht]

Hi Everyone. I really want to pull the trigger on the TX-NR636 but the only thing holding me back is the lack of the Audyssey EQ (replaced by their proprietary EQ that apparently doesn't do much).

Only you can determine whether accu EQ does anything or not. IMO people place to much importance on auto EQ software.

Audyssey EQ is a polarizing subject as it is also a major marketing bullet. Those who have it (particularly XT32 but less so on previous versions) will swear by it. Those that don't don't. Current model Onkyo owners who had Audyssey previously don't seem to miss it at all...check out all the Onkyo threads. I've owned Denon, Marantz, Pioneer, Sony, and Pioneer with auto EQ. My last two AVR's have been Onkyo...with and without Audyssey. Although I'm probably in the minority here, I agree totally with Kini62's statement: "People place too much importance on auto EQ software."

BTW: If you intend to stay on budget, the 636 goes on sale periodically at Amazon and Best Buy for $449 and I've seen it as low as $429. Otherwise, my suggestion would be to wait for the April/May product announcements.