Onkyo TX-NR686 vs Onkyo TX-NR818

      Onkyo TX-NR686

      Onkyo TX-NR818
      88
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      80
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      North America
      Taiwan Europe Australia and Asia
      USA
      Others
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      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 7.1 Channel Processing
      • 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • THX™Select™ Certified
      • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
      • HDR10, Dolby Vision
      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough
      • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Highlights

      • 7.2 Channels
      • 9.1 Channel Processing
      • 135 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      • THX™Select™2 Plus Certified
      • 4K/30Hz Upscaling
      • Ethernet
      • Phono Input

      Disclosure: We earn money from the affiliate links to products associated with content in this article.

      Table of Contents
      1. Overview
      2. Pros and Cons
      3. Advantage of Onkyo TX-NR686
      4. Advantage of Onkyo TX-NR818
      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses
      6. Amplifier
      7. Speaker Configurations
      8. Immersive Audio Formats
      9. HDMI
      10. Inputs and Outputs
      11. Evaluations
      12. Specifications

      1. Overview

      Here we are comparing Onkyo TX-NR686 to Onkyo TX-NR818 to reveal their common strengths and weaknesses as well as the differences between them which will help you in making a correct decision before the purchase. Both receivers have 7 channel amplifiers with Onkyo TX-NR686's being less powerful.


      Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818

      Onkyo TX-NR686 was introduced in 2018. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 7.1 maximum channel processing. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, passes 4K/60Hz video signal.

      Onkyo TX-NR818 was introduced in 2012. It is equipped with 7 channel amplifier with 135 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz and 2 channel driven) power per channel and is capable of 9.1 maximum channel processing. It , passes 1080/60p and upscales up to 4K/30p (Marvell Qdeo) video signal.

      We evaluated Onkyo TX-NR686 and Onkyo TX-NR818 and gave them scores of 88 and 80 out of 100 recpectively. Our ranking system is based on the amplifier specifications, audio and video features, connectivity, multizone capabilities, radio and many other details.

      Onkyo TX-NR686

      Onkyo TX-NR818

      Amplifier
      89
      Amplifier
      92
      Audio Features
      86
      Audio Features
      79
      Video Features
      94
      Video Features
      58
      Connectivity
      85
      Connectivity
      84
      Zones
      77
      Zones
      89
      Radio
      92
      Radio
      90
      OVERALL
      88
      OVERALL
      80

      For more details about the ranking please go to    Evaluations section.

      2. Pros and Cons

      In this section we present pros and cons of Onkyo TX-NR686 and Onkyo TX-NR818.

      PROS

      Onkyo TX-NR686

      Onkyo TX-NR818

      •   THX™ Certification
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   DTS:X
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   HDR10
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      •   High Power Output - 135 W
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   THX™ Certification
      •   9.1 Channel Processing
      •   DSD via HDMI
      •   Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic.
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   3 Zones
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify

      CONS

      Onkyo TX-NR686

      Onkyo TX-NR818

      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   No HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No Dolby Vision
      •   No eARC
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   No Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   0 8K Input
      •   No Digital Radio
      •   No Tidal


      And here are some specifications which fall into average criteria and are neither in PROs nor in CONs category:

      AVERAGE

      Onkyo TX-NR686

      Onkyo TX-NR818

      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Power Output - 100 W
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   2 Zones
      •   Bluetooth 4․1 + LE
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   2 HDMI Outputs

      3. Advantage of Onkyo TX-NR686

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Onkyo TX-NR686 over Onkyo TX-NR818.

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      Onkyo TX-NR686
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      Onkyo TX-NR686 vs Onkyo TX-NR818
      VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) Front L/R channels vs
      Higher DAC Specs 384 kHz/32 Bit vs 192 kHz/24 Bit
      Dolby Atmos vs
      Dolby Surround Upmixer vs
      DTS:X vs
      DTS Neural:X vs
      Gapless Playback vs
      DTS Dialog Control vs
      Phase-Matching Bass Boost vs
      HDR10 vs
      BT.2020 color space vs
      Dolby Vision vs
      HLG vs
      Video Signal Passthrough up to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4) vs up to 1080p
      Wi-Fi vs via Front USB (optional UWF-1 sold separately)
      Bluetooth SBC, AAC vs
      Chromecast Built-In vs
      Works with SONOS requires firmware update & Sonos Connect vs
      DTS Play-Fi vs
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 after firmware update vs
      Smart Grid-Ready vs
      Tidal vs
      Deezer vs
      Higher DSD Sampling Rate via USB 2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz vs 2.8 MHz

      4. Advantage of Onkyo TX-NR818

      This section shows those features and specifications which are the reason to choose Onkyo TX-NR818 over Onkyo TX-NR686.

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      Onkyo TX-NR818
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      Onkyo TX-NR686 vs Onkyo TX-NR818
      Higher Power Output 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) vs 135 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support vs
      Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry vs Linear
      THX™ Certification Select™ (previously known as Select2) vs Select™2 Plus
      Independent Block Construction (Amp/Preprocessor) vs
      More Channel Processing 7.1 vs 9.1
      Dolby Pro Logic vs PLIIz
      Dolby Digital EX vs
      DTS Neo vs Neo:X
      Music Playback via USB FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, MP3, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHD vs FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, WMA Lossless, Ogg, MP3, DSD, Dolby TruHD, LPCM, AAC
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USB FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHD vs FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, DSD, WMA Lossless, LPCM, AAC, Dolby TrueHD
      Dialogue Lift vs Screen Centered Dialog
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ vs
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume vs
      Audyssey DSX vs
      Pure Audio Mode vs
      Video Signal Upscaling vs up to 4K/30p (Marvell Qdeo)
      Component Video Maximum Resolution 480i/576i vs 1080p
      isf Certified Calibration Control vs
      MHL Input vs Front HDMI
      InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue vs
      More HDMI Inputs 7 (1 front) vs 8 (1 front)
      USB Input 1 (Rear) vs 1 Front (for iPod/iPhone) and 1 Rear
      More Optical Inputs 2 vs 3 (1 front)
      More Coaxial Inputs/Outputs 1 vs 3
      More RCA Pre-Outs 0.2 vs 9.2
      More Composite Video Inputs 2 vs 5 (1 front)
      More Composite Video Outputs vs 1
      More Component Video Outputs vs 1
      PC In vs
      Front A/V Inputs HDMI, Mini-Jack vs HDMI/MHL, USB, Composite Video, RCA Audio, Optical
      Detachable Power Cord vs
      More Zones 2 vs 3
      More Powered Zones 2 vs 2 and 3
      Whole House Mode vs
      RS-232C Interface vs
      +12V Trigger Output 0 vs 2 (Zone2, Zone 3)
      Remote (IR) Input/Output 0 / 0 vs 1 / 1
      ONKYO-RI System Control vs
      SiriusXM vs
      More Speaker Terminals 9 vs 11
      More Large Speaker Terminals 9 vs 11
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals vs
      Higher Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC) 100 W (0.08% THD) vs 135 W (0.08% THD)
      Higher Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) 210 W (10% THD) vs 230 W
      Higher Dynamic Power per Channel, 3 Ω, Front) 240 W vs 300 W
      Higher Dynamic Power per Channel, 4 Ω, Front) 210 W vs 250 W
      Higher Dynamic Power per Channel, 8 Ω, Front) 120 W vs 150 W
      Higher S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) 106 dB vs 110 dB
      Wider AM Frequency Range 530 kHz - 1710 kHz vs 522/530 kHz - 1611/1710 kHz

      5. Common Strengths and Weaknesses

      We already listed pros and cons of each model. However, you may also find useful to look at their common strengths and weaknesses shown side-by-side.

      STRENGTHS Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
        THX™ Certification Select™ (previously known as Select2) Select™2 Plus
        DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
        Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. AccuEQ with AccuReflex™ Audyssey MultEQ XT32
        New HDCP Version2.22.2
        Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite Component, Composite, PC
        Many HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)8 (1 front)
        USB Input1 (Rear)1 Front (for iPod/iPhone) and 1 Rear
        Many RCA Line Inputs7 (1 Front)7 (1 front)
        Phono Input
        Composite Video Inputs25 (1 front)
        Component Video Inputs22
        Ethernet
        Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM
        Pandora
        Spotify
      WEAKNESSES Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
        No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
        No IMAX Enhanced
        No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
        No HDR10+
        No eARC
        No 8K Passthroughup to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4)up to 1080p
        Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
        Few 8K Inputs
        No Digital Radio

      6. Amplifier

      Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818

      7 channel Linear Class A/B Amplifier: Onkyo TX-NR686 features 7 channel power amplifier with Linear Class A/B design. It is rated at 100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.

      7 channel Amplifier: Onkyo TX-NR818 features 7 channel power amplifier. It is rated at 135 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) and is able to drive 4 ohm speakers.
      • Dynamic Audio Amplification: Onkyo TX-NR686 features Dynamic Audio Amplification which is Onkyo’s amplification philosophy that focuses on capturing the energy and dynamism contained in the audio signal and reproducing it without loss. Audio signals are not static like a test tone, but rather a countless collection of constantly moving waves. While static measurements such as S/N ratio and Total Harmonic Distortion are important, Onkyo believes that excellent dynamic and transient response is the key to emotionally involving sound. Dynamism - the “life” in music - is achieved when the amp can respond to changes in the signal instantaneously, so notes start and stop naturally and the nuances in attack, decay, sustain, and release are voiced with conviction. Onkyo home theater receivers represent the culmination of almost 70 years’ experience in amplifier design. The unique elements of their amplification system comprise high-current, low-impedance architecture to accurately control large speaker cones while enabling instantaneous response to dynamic changes, and discrete wide-range amplifier circuit topology to eliminate phase shift for clear and accurate audio imaging.
      • WRAT (Wide Range Amp Technology): Onkyo TX-NR818 features Onkyo’s Wide Range Amp Technology (WRAT) circuit layout that prevents phase shifting by pushing the roll-off point higher than the listening-level frequency. Amplifying sound without phase shift creates an uncommonly well-focused and realistic audio image. If phase shift occurs and signal timing is not accurate, then neither is the resulting audio image.
      • 3-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry: Onkyo TX-NR818 features 3-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry. Standard amplifiers employ a negative feedback (NFB) design that counters distortion by feeding back the opposite phase of the output signal into the input stage. Unfortunately, NFB is easily affected by inverse electromotive forces from the speakers, leading to an increase in circuit noise. Three-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry is a core Onkyo technology incorporating a low-NFB design that makes the sound more natural. Sensitive to oscillations, this circuitry requires very advanced control technology in order to be incorporated into the amplifier.

      THX™ certification

      Onkyo TX-NR686 is THX™ Select™ (previously known as Select2) certified. This means that it is for medium sized rooms, up to 2,000 cubic feet in size, with a 10-12 foot viewing distance from the screen.

      Onkyo TX-NR818 is THX™ Select™2 Plus certified. This means that it is ideally suited for a room where the screen-to-seat viewing distance is approximately 3 to 4 meters, and the room size is approximately 56 cubic meters.

      AMPLIFIER Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Channels7.27.2
      Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)135 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) Front L/R channels
      Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry Linear
      THX™ Certification Select™ (previously known as Select2) Select™2 Plus
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Discrete Output Stage Circuitry
      Independent Block Construction (Amp/Preprocessor)
      Bi-amp Capability
      BTL (Bridged Transless or Bridging)

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      Onkyo TX-NR686
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      7. Speaker Configurations

      Onkyo TX-NR686's and Onkyo TX-NR818's amplifiers can be assigned for different speaker configurations.

      • Dolby Atmos Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for Dolby Atmos:
      • Onkyo TX-NR686: 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Onkyo TX-NR818: Not supported.
      • DTS:X Configurations: The following speaker configurations are supported for DTS:X:
      • Onkyo TX-NR686: The speaker configurations for DTS:X are the same as for Dolby Atmos - 5.2.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Onkyo TX-NR818: Not supported.
      • Configurations without height channels: There are also other speaker configurations available which do not include height channels:
      • Onkyo TX-NR686: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier.
      • Onkyo TX-NR818: 5.2, 7.2 with internal amplifier and 9.2 with addition of external 2 channel amplifier.
      • Front Wide Channel support: With the presence of two front wide speakers you can enhance the front surround stage. The following speaker configurations are available for front wide channels:
      • Onkyo TX-NR686: Does not support.
      • Onkyo TX-NR818: 9.2.
      • 2-ch Bi-Amp: Both models are able to bi-amp up to 2 main channels simultaneously. During bi-amplification two amplifiers are used for one speaker. One amplifier powers the midrange and tweeter section of the speaker and another amplifier powers the low frequency woofers. Each amplifier is less loaded and performs better. In order to use this feature speakers must have 2 pairs of connectors.

      8. Immersive Audio Formats

      Dolby Atmos

      Onkyo TX-NR686 supports Dolby Atmos.

      • Dolby Surround Upmixer: Onkyo TX-NR686 supports Dolby Surround Upmixer. If the content is not mixed in Dolby Atmos then the Dolby surround upmixer will expand the audio to all channels including ceiling speakers. The upmixer has replaced the Dolby Pro Logic II family with improved upmixing algorithms.

      DTS:X

      Onkyo TX-NR686 supports DTS:X.

      • DTS Neural:X: Onkyo TX-NR686 supports DTS Neural:X which is an advanced upmixer that can take non DTS:X content and upmix it to the DTS:X speaker layout. It has replaced the DTS Neo family with improved flexibility.
      • DTS Dialog Control: Onkyo TX-NR686 supports DTS Dialog Control. This function adjusts the dialog levels during playback of the DTS:X stream. It allows you to separately increase the dialog levels in contrast with the background sound and hear dialog easily even under noisy circumstances.

      Audyssey DSX

      Onkyo TX-NR818 supports Audyssey DSX which allows you to augment a standard five-channel home theater with either two Front Wide or two Front High speakers. The Wide channels create an expansive soundstage and bring out convincing directional effects. Alternatively, Height channels can add a vertical dimension to movie and game soundtracks.


      AUDIO DECODING Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Dolby Atmos
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz
      Dolby Digital EX
      DTS:X
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo Neo:X
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      DTS Express
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer

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      Onkyo TX-NR818
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      9. HDMI

      Onkyo TX-NR686 comes with 7 HDMI inputs. It has 2 outputs which work parallelly and output the same signal.

      Onkyo TX-NR818 comes with 8 HDMI inputs. It has 2 outputs which work parallelly and output the same signal.

      • 4K/60Hz Passthrough on Onkyo TX-NR686: All inputs pass up to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4) video signal.
        1080/60p Passthrough on Onkyo TX-NR818: All inputs pass up to 1080p video signal.
      • 4K Upscaling on Onkyo TX-NR818: It can upscale up to 4K/30p (Marvell Qdeo) from HDMI and analog sources.
      • Analog To HDMI Upconversion: Both receivers support analog to HDMI Upconversion, so you can input your analog video sources and output them digitally via HDMI. This means that you will need only one HDMI cable to connect to your TV.
      • BT.2020 Color Space: BT.2020 or Rec. 2020 is a color standard which delivers a wider color gamut compared to Rec. 709. It covers approximately 75% of the total visual spectrum while the Rec. 709 covers only 35% (available on Onkyo TX-NR686 only).
      • HDCP 2.2 Copy Protection: Both receivers are HDCP 2.2 compliant which is a requirement for 4K/HDR copy-protected content transmission.
      • 3D Ready: Both receivers are able to pass 3D video through HDMI.

      HDR (High Dynamic Range)

      Onkyo TX-NR686 supports HDR10, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma.

      Onkyo TX-NR818 does not support HDR. High dynamic range video has greater dynamic range than standard dynamic range (SDR) video with brighter whites and deeper blacks. The result is greater contrast and more details in dark and bright areas, better color and depth.



      VIDEO FEATURES Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.22.2
      QMS (Quick Media Switching)
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4)up to 1080p
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K/30p (Marvell Qdeo)

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      Onkyo TX-NR686
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      10. Inputs and Outputs

      Audio

      • Phono Input: There is an MM phono input on Onkyo TX-NR686 and Onkyo TX-NR818 with built-in phono stage for connecting the moving magnet cartridge output of the turntable directly to the receiver.
      • Analog Pre-Outs: Onkyo TX-NR818 has 9.2 preamplifier outputs which allows you to connect the receiver to the external power amplifier. You may want to use a high quality external amplifier for certain channels, usually for front L/R and center, and use the receiver to power the rest. Also, Onkyo TX-NR818 has 9 channel processing but has only 7 channel amplifier, so it needs external amplifier connected to the analog pre-outs in order to reach its maximum speaker configuration.
      • Analog Line Inputs: There are 7 pair of line inputs on both receivers for connecting sources with analog outputs.
      • Digital Inputs: 2 optical inputs and 1 coaxial input are available on Onkyo TX-NR686 and 3 optical inputs and 3 coaxial inputs are available on Onkyo TX-NR818 for digital audio connections.
      • Headphone Output: There is a 6.3 mm (1/4") headphone output jack on the front panel of each receiver.

      Video

      • HDMI:
      • Onkyo TX-NR686
        Inputs:         7 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (simultaneous)
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Onkyo TX-NR818
        Inputs:         8 (1 front)   Outputs: 2 (simultaneous)
        8K Inputs: 0.
      • Composite Video: Connect you VCR, Laserdisc player and other old video equipment with composite video cables.
      • Onkyo TX-NR686
        Inputs:         2   Outputs: 0.
      • Onkyo TX-NR818
        Inputs:         5   Outputs: 1.
      • Component Video: Component video connection gives you the higher quality video compared to the composite video connection. So in case your old DVD player and other equipment do not have an HDMI output but have Component video output use this connection over the composite one.
      • Onkyo TX-NR686 supports up to 480i/576i resolution on Component video connectors.
      • Onkyo TX-NR818 supports up to 1080p resolution on Component video connectors.
      • Onkyo TX-NR686
        Inputs:         2   Outputs: 0.
      • Onkyo TX-NR818
        Inputs:         2   Outputs: 1.

      Front A/V Inputs

      • Onkyo TX-NR686: HDMI, Mini-Jack
      • Onkyo TX-NR818: HDMI/MHL, USB, Composite Video, RCA Audio, Optical

      Onkyo TX-NR686

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      Onkyo TX-NR818

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      TERMINALS Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)8 (1 front)
      HDMI Outputs2 (simultaneous)2 (simultaneous)
      8K Inputs
      USB Input1 (Rear)1 Front (for iPod/iPhone) and 1 Rear
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs23 (1 front)
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs13
      RCA Line Inputs7 (1 Front)7 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input
      RCA Pre-Outs0.29.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs25 (1 front)
      Composite Video Outputs1
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs22
      Component Video Outputs1

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      Onkyo TX-NR818
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      11. Evaluations

      We evaluated Onkyo TX-NR686 and Onkyo TX-NR818 and gave them scores of 88 and 80 out of 100 recpectively. We also gave separate scores for 7 different categories according to the available features and specifications some of which are listed below. These evaluations are relative and may change each time a new receiver is added to the database.


      Onkyo TX-NR686

      Onkyo TX-NR818

      OVERALL
      88
      OVERALL
      80

      Amplifier

      EXCELLENT
      89
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Power Output - 100 W
      •   THX™ Certification
      EXCELLENT
      92
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   High Power Output - 135 W
      •   THX™ Certification

      Audio Features

      EXCELLENT
      86
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   No Front Wide Channel Support
      •   7.1 Channel Processing
      •   Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI
      GOOD
      79
      •   7.2 Channels
      •   Front Wide Channel Support
      •   9.1 Channel Processing
      •   No Dolby Atmos
      •   No Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      •   No DTS:X
      •   No IMAX Enhanced
      •   No Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      •   DSD via HDMI

      Video Features

      EXCELLENT
      94
      •   HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   Dolby Vision
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion
      AVERAGE
      58
      •   No HDR10
      •   No HDR10+
      •   No Dolby Vision
      •   No 8K Passthrough
      •   Analog To HDMI Upconversion

      Connectivity

      EXCELLENT
      85
      •   No eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   Chromecast Built-In
      •   7 HDMI Inputs
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   No RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet
      •   Bluetooth 4․1 + LE
      GOOD
      84
      •   No eARC
      •   New HDCP Version
      •   Wi-Fi
      •   No Bluetooth
      •   Does not Work with Amazon Alexa
      •   8 HDMI Inputs
      •   2 HDMI Outputs
      •   0 8K Input
      •   USB Input
      •   Many RCA Line Inputs
      •   Phono Input
      •   RCA Pre-Outs
      •   Composite Video Inputs
      •   Component Video Inputs
      •   Ethernet

      Zones

      GOOD
      77
      •   2 Zones
      EXCELLENT
      89
      •   3 Zones

      Radio

      EXCELLENT
      92
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   Tidal
      EXCELLENT
      90
      •   Analog Tuner
      •   Pandora
      •   Spotify
      •   No Tidal

      12. Specifications

      GENERAL Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      BrandOnkyoOnkyo
      ModelTX-NR686TX-NR818
      TypeA/V ReceiverA/V Receiver
      CountryNorth AmericaUSA
      Release Year20182012
      PredecessorOnkyo TX-NR676 Onkyo TX-NR809
      SuccessorOnkyo TX-NR696 Onkyo TX-NR828
      AMPLIFIER Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Channels7.27.2
      Power Output100 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)135 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven)
      Front Wide Channel Support
      Amplifier DesignLinear Class A/B
      Dynamic Audio Amplification
      Non-Phase Shift Amplifier
      WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology)
      VLSC (Vector Linear Shaping Circuitry) Front L/R channels
      Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry Linear
      THX™ Certification Select™ (previously known as Select2) Select™2 Plus
      Continuous 6 Ω Rated
      Certified 4 Ω Performance
      Discrete Output Stage Circuitry
      3-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry
      PUSH-PULL Design
      Independent Block Construction (Amp/Preprocessor)
      Bi-amp Capability
      BTL (Bridged Transless or Bridging)
      AUDIO FEATURES Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Digital Processing Crossover Network
      Digital Signal Processing (DSP) Engine32-bit Digital Signal Processing EnginesAdvanced 32-Bit Processing DSP Chip
      DACAKM AK4458Burr-Brown
      DAC Specs384 kHz/32 Bit192 kHz/24 Bit
      Maximum Channel Processing7.19.1
      Air Studios Monitor Certification
      Dolby Atmos
      Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
      Dolby Atmos Music
      Dolby TrueHD
      Dolby Digital Plus
      Dolby Surround Upmixer
      Dolby Pro Logic PLIIz
      Dolby Digital EX
      THX Listening Modes
      Surround EX also known as Dolby Digital Surround EX
      DTS:X
      DTS Neural:X
      DTS Virtual:X
      DTS Neo Neo:X
      DTS-HD Master Audio
      DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
      DTS 96/24
      DTS Express
      DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, Matrix 6.1
      IMAX Enhanced
      Auro 3D with Auro-Matic Upmixer
      PCM 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      Network Audio FormatsFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, MP3, DSD, AIFF, MPEG-4 AAC, LPCM
      Music Playback via USBFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, MP3, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHDFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, WMA, WMA Lossless, Ogg, MP3, DSD, Dolby TruHD, LPCM, AAC
      High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network up to 192 kHz up to 192 kHz
      High Resolution Audio Formats via USBFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, DSD, AIFF, AAC, Dolby TrueHDFLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, DSD, WMA Lossless, LPCM, AAC, Dolby TrueHD
      Gapless Playback
      DSD via HDMI 2-ch/Multi-ch Input 2-ch/Multi-ch Input
      DSD via USB 2-ch Input 2-ch Input
      DSD to PCM Converter
      USB DAC
      Jitter Reduction PLL (Phase Locked Loop) Jitter-Cleaning Circuit Technology for S/PDIF Audio PLL (Phase Locked Loop) Jitter-Cleaning Circuit Technology
      DTS Dialogue Control
      Dialog Enhancement
      Dialog Level Adjustment
      Dialog normalization
      Dialogue Lift Screen Centered Dialog
      Tone Control Front L/R Channels Front L/R Channels
      Compressed Music Enhancer Advanced Music Optimizer (bluetooth included) Advanced Music Optimizer
      High-resolution Music Enhancer
      THX Processing Mode
      Audyssey Dynamic EQ
      Audyssey Dynamic Volume
      Audyssey LFC
      Audyssey Sub EQ HT
      Audyssey DSX
      Phase-Matching Bass Boost
      Direct Mode
      Pure Audio Mode
      Pure Direct Analog Path Mode
      Virtual Speakers T-D (Theater-Dimensional) T-D (Theater-Dimensional)
      Independent Subwoofer Outputs
      CALIBRATION Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. AccuEQ with AccuReflex™ Audyssey MultEQ XT32
      Audyssey App Support
      VIDEO FEATURES Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      HDR10
      HDR10+
      Dynamic HDR
      BT.2020 color space
      Dolby Vision
      HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)
      HDBaseT Compatible
      Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC)
      HDCP Version2.22.2
      QMS (Quick Media Switching)
      ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
      VRR (Variable Refresh Rate)
      QFT (Quick Frame transport)
      3-D Ready
      Video Signal Passthroughup to 4K/60p (RGB/YCbCr4:4:4)up to 1080p
      Video Signal Upscaling up to 4K/30p (Marvell Qdeo)
      Analog To HDMI Upconversion Component**, Composite Component, Composite, PC
      Component Video Upscaling
      Analog to Analog Video conversion
      Component Video Maximum Resolution480i/576i1080p
      isf Certified Calibration Control
      CONNECTIVITY Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Wi-Fi via Front USB (optional UWF-1 sold separately)
      Bluetooth SBC, AAC
      Works with Amazon Alexa
      Chromecast Built-In
      Works with SonoS requires firmware update & Sonos Connect
      DTS Play-Fi
      MHL Input Front HDMI
      DLNA 1.5
      AirPlay AirPlay 2 after firmware update
      Apple Product Connection iPod, iPhone and iPad iPod and iPhone via front USB
      Remote AppOnkyo Remote App for iPod touch/iPhone and Android-Powered Devices iPod touch/iPhone and Android-Powered Devices
      InstaPrevue Input Source Prevue
      TERMINALS Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      HDMI Inputs7 (1 front)8 (1 front)
      HDMI Outputs2 (simultaneous)2 (simultaneous)
      8K Inputs
      USB Input1 (Rear)1 Front (for iPod/iPhone) and 1 Rear
      USB DC Out Port
      Optical Inputs23 (1 front)
      Optical Outputs
      Coaxial Inputs13
      RCA Line Inputs7 (1 Front)7 (1 front)
      RCA Line Outputs
      XLR Line Inputs
      Phono Input
      Multi-Channel Input
      RCA Pre-Outs0.29.2
      XLR Pre-outs
      Composite Video Inputs25 (1 front)
      Composite Video Outputs1
      S-Video Inputs
      S-Video Outputs
      Component Video Inputs22
      Component Video Outputs1
      Ethernet
      Ethernet Switch
      PC In
      Front A/V InputsHDMI, Mini-JackHDMI/MHL, USB, Composite Video, RCA Audio, Optical
      Speaker A/B
      Headphone Out6.3 mm (1/4")6.3 mm (1/4")
      Detachable Power Cord
      uport
      ZONES Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Number of Zones23
      Powered Zones 2 2 and 3
      Zone 2 OutsRCA Line OutRCA Line Out
      Zone 3 OutsRCA Line Out
      Whole House Mode
      RS-232C Interface
      +12V Trigger Output02 (Zone2, Zone 3)
      Remote (IR) Input/Output0 / 01 / 1
      MISCELLANEOUS Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      On-Screen Display Graphical Overlaid On-Screen Display (OSD) via HDMI with Quick Set-Up Advanced "Home" GUI
      GUI Languages7
      ONKYO-RI System Control
      RIHD (Remote Interactive Over HDMI)
      Pre-Pro/Learning Remote /
      On Screen Remote Programming
      Bi-directional Remote Setup via GUI
      Activity Based Remote
      Smart Grid-Ready
      RADIO Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Analog Tuner FM/AM FM/AM
      Presets4040
      Digital Radio
      Internet Radio TuneIn vTuner
      Pandora
      Spotify
      Tidal
      Deezer
      Napster
      SiriusXM
      CONSTRUCTION Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Solid Aluminum Front
      Speaker Terminals911
      Large Speaker Terminals911
      Color-Coded Speaker Terminals
      Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals
      Gold plated RCA terminals
      POWER Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Power SupplyAC 120 V, 60 HzAC 120 V, 60 Hz
      Independent Power Supply
      H.C.P.S. (High Current Power Supply) Customized Transformer Massive High Power Transformer
      Toroidal Transformer
      Power Consumption580 W8.1 A
      No Sound Power60 W95 W
      Standby Power0.15 W0.1 W
      ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function
      PHYSICAL Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Dimensions (W x H x D)435 mm x 173.5 mm x 379.5 mm
      17-1/8" x 6-13/16" x 14-15/16"      		435 mm x 198.5 mm x 435.5 mm
      17-1/8" x 7-13/16" x 18-1/8"
      Weight10.0 kg (22.0 lbs)18.3 kg (40.3 lbs)
      SPECIFICATIONS Onkyo TX-NR686 Onkyo TX-NR818
      Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)100 W (0.08% THD)135 W (0.08% THD)
      Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 channel driven, FTC)125 W (0.7% THD)
      Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA or IEC)210 W (10% THD)230 W
      Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC)180 W (1% THD)
      Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front)240 W300 W
      Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front)210 W250 W
      Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front)120 W150 W
      THD0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, Half power)0.08% (20 Hz - 20 kHz, Half power)
      Damping Factor60 (Front, 1 kHz, 8 Ω)
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line)200 mV/47 kΩ (1 kHz, 100 W/8 Ω)200 mV/47 kΩ (Line)
      Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM)3.5 mV/47 kΩ2.5 mV/47 kΩ
      Rated Preout Level and Impedance200 mV/470 Ω
      Maximum Preout Level and Impedance4.6 V/470 Ω
      Rated Headphone Power Output80 mW (32 Ω, 1 kHz, 10% THD)
      Phono Overload70 mV (MM, 1 kHz 0.5%)70 mV (MM 1 kHz 0.5%)
      S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A)106 dB110 dB
      S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A)80 dB80 dB
      Frequency Response (Analog In)10 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct)5 Hz - 100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct Mode)
      DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI2.8 MHz2.8 MHz
      DSD Sampling Rates via USB2.8 MHz, 5.6 MHz2.8 MHz
      Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance 1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
      0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
      1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)      		1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component Y)
      0.7 Vp-p/75 Ω (Component PB/CB, PR/CR)
      1 Vp-p/75 Ω (Composite)
      Video Frequency Response5 Hz - 100 MHz/+0 dB, -3 dB (Component)
      Ethernet Standard10BASE-T/100BASE-TX100BASE-TX
      Wi-Fi StandardIEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n
      Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency5 GHz, 2.4 GHz
      Bluetooth Version4․1 + LE
      Bluetooth Frequency2.4 GHz
      USB TerminalVer. 2.0, 5 V, 1 A
      FM Frequency87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz
      FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.)Mono: 1.56 µV (15.0 dBf)
      AM Frequency530 kHz - 1710 kHz522/530 kHz - 1611/1710 kHz
      Warranty2 Years2 Years

      * - 480i/576i and 480p/576p only
      ** - 480i/576i only
      *** - no 1080p/24 upconversion
      **** - 1080p signal is not converted

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