About the Onkyo TX-NR636
The future is now…and very affordable
The future is now…and very affordable
Game-changing surround sound technology doesn't come around often – and rarely at such an affordable price. The Onkyo TX-NR636 can make sound rain down with Dolby Atmos® technology (available with a firmware update) and a set of in-ceiling speakers or Atmos enabled up-firing speakers. We shouldn't be surprised – Onkyo's been delivering a lot of home theater bang for our customers' bucks for many years. Beyond Dolby Atmos, this receiver offers other forward-looking features like HDMI 2.0 connectivity and Marvell Qdeo™ 4K video processing, for Ultra HD video quality. Plus, it's compatible with the latest HDCP 2.2 copy protection, so you'll be ready to watch 4K broadcasts when they're available.
Dolby Atmos adds a new dimension to sound
Dolby's latest surround sound technology was designed to bring a new level of immersion to your home theater. By employing in-ceiling speakers or special Dolby-enabled upward-firing speakers that reflect sound off your ceiling, Dolby Atmos offers a greater sense of space for sound that's more three-dimensional. Already at work in film production studios and many movie theaters, Dolby Atmos represents a huge step in putting more "theater" into your home theater.
The TX-NR636 lets you add two overhead or up-firing speakers (sometimes called "height" or "top" speakers) to a conventional five-channel system — this is referred to as a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos setup. You can use either one or two subwoofers with this setup.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth offer lots of music choices
Music is increasingly delivered from sources other than shiny discs. Smartphones, tablets, computers, Internet radio, and subscription services offer a wealth of listening options. You can take advantage of all of them with the TX-NR636. Stream music from smartphones and tablets over Bluetooth, to play audio from any app through your home theater speakers. If you have a digital music library stored on a networked PC or storage drive, Wi-Fi lets you play those tunes over your home network. There's also built-in support for Spotify®, Pandora® Internet radio, SiriusXM, and free Internet radio streams via TuneIn radio. With so many choices, you'll never have trouble finding something to listen to. Plus, Onkyo's Music Optimizer helps restore musical enjoyment to compressed files and Bluetooth streams.
Listen to music from smartphones and networked computers using Onkyo's free remote app for Apple and Android.
Emphasis on sound
The 'NR636 is about more than just convenience and versatility. Onkyo has always put a premium on sound quality. This receiver features their Wide Range Amplifier Technology, which provides plenty of current to ensure smooth sound even during large swings in dynamics. This reduces distortion while ensuring music and movie soundtracks have plenty of punch. Phase-Matching Bass Enhancement keeps low-frequency tones from muddying the midrange, so you get plenty of deep bass while vocals and dialogue remain clear and detailed. And if you've downloaded high-resolution music from sites like HDtracks, you'll appreciate this receiver's ability to decode high-res files like FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless, and even DSD.
Add music to a second room
If you'd like to add speakers to an adjoining bedroom, kitchen, or porch, you can plan ahead with the 'NR636. There are powered Zone 2 outputs, so you can connect an additional set of speakers for use in another room. While the rest of the family enjoys a movie in 5.2-channel surround sound in the home theater, you can chill out on the porch and listen to music from Spotify® or your networked computer. There's also a second HDMI output, just in case you'd like listen to music in the main room and send the kids to another room to watch their movie.
Simple setup and control
The tiny microphone that's included with the TX-NR636 is your key to properly calibrated home theater sound. Plug it into the front of the receiver, and let Onkyo's AccuEQ optimize your system for your room and speaker setup. This ensures you'll get the best possible sound in your room, even if its odd layout forces you to place speakers in less than ideal locations. Before you start exploring this receiver's features, be sure to download the Onkyo remote app to your Apple® or Android™ smartphone. It offers easy control of the receiver's most important functions, as well as giving you instant access to Internet radio and other online music choices.
Highlights:
Power and Processing:
- 7-channel amplifier
- 95 watts per channel into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at .08% THD, with 2 channels driven
- Dolby Atmos processing for use with in-ceiling or "height" speakers for more enveloping surround sound (firmware update required)
- Dolby® and DTS® surround sound decoding, including Dolby Pro Logic® IIz
- analog-to-HDMI video upconversion (up to 1080p and 4K) with Marvell Qdeo video processing
- AccuEQ automatic speaker calibration optimizes your system's sound for your room (microphone included)
Digital and Streaming Music Options:
- built-in Wi-Fi for listening to music from a networked PC, free Internet radio, and music services
- includes support for Pandora, Spotify, SiriusXM, Slacker®, TuneIn, and Aupeo! (subscription required for some services)
- built-in Bluetooth for wireless music streaming from a compatible smartphone, tablet, or computer
- front-panel MHL-ready HDMI input for playing audio and HD video from select Android smartphones and tablets
- DLNA-certified for streaming music with compatible devices and computers
- plays high-resolution digital music files via USB storage device or a networked computer (up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution)
- plays DSD files (up to 2.8 MHz .dsf files) from network and USB storage devices
Multi-room Audio:
- dual-room/dual-source output
- powered and line-level stereo audio output for 2nd room
- using powered 2nd-room output allows 5.1 home theater in main room
- line-level 2nd-room output for use with a separate amplifier or powered speakers
- only analog, network, Bluetooth, or USB audio sources can be output to Zone 2
Audio Performance Features:
- high-current amplifier design with large power transformer
- 24-bit/192kHz Burr-Brown digital-to-analog converters
- Music Optimizer function enhances the sound quality of compressed music files
- bi-amp capability with compatible front speakers by reassigning "surround back" channels
Connections:
- HDMI 2.0 audio/video switching: 7 in, 2 out (includes front-panel MHL-compatible input)
- component video switching: 1 in, 1 out
- composite video switching: 3 in, 1 out
- digital audio inputs: 1 optical and 2 coaxial
- 6 analog stereo audio inputs
- phono input for direct connection of a turntable
- preamp outputs for 2 powered subwoofers
- front-panel USB port for audio playback from USB storage devices
- Ethernet port for network connection
- outputs for 9 speakers (Front L/R, Center, Surround L/R, Surround Back L/R, Zone 2 L/R)
- receiver can power a maximum of seven channels at once
General Features:
- free Onkyo remote app lets you use your Apple or Android device as a Wi-Fi remote
- InstaPrevue offers live picture-in-picture preview of connected HDMI sources
- 4K/60p and 3D video pass-through
- HDCP 2.2 copy-protection compatibility for future 4K broadcast and streaming content (HDMI 3 input and main output only)
- HDMI standby pass-through allows access to all HDMI connected devices without having to power on the receiver
- Audio Return Channel function receives digital audio signals from a compatible TV's tuner via HDMI
- Phase-Matching Bass optimizes low frequencies to preserve clarity with vocals and movie dialogue
- 40 AM/FM presets
- remote control
- 17-1/8"W x 6-13/16"H x 13-5/8"D
- weight: 22 lbs.
- warranty: 2 years
- MFR # TX-NR636
What's in the box:
- 7.2ch AV receiver
- Wireless remote control (RC-880M)
- 2 "AA" batteries
- Setup microphone
- AM loop antenna
- FM wire antenna (with push-on "F" connector)
- Basic Manual
- Quick Start Guide (En/Fr/Sp)
- Product registration card/Warranty information
- RIHD-compatibility note
- Important Safety Instructions
- Disclaimer note
- Important Notice Regarding Software
- Sheet of adhesive labels
- Onkyo headphones brochure
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More details on the Onkyo TX-NR636
Features & specs
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Audio Features
Video Features
Network/USB/Tuner Functions
Convenience Features
Bluetooth + Remote Control
Audio Features
7 Channel Amplifier: The Onkyo TX-NR636 AV receiver features a 7-channel amplifier rated at 95 watts (into 8-ohms, at 20Hz-20kHz, with 0.08%, driving 2 channels). The AV receiver's amplifier employs WRAT, 3-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry, H.C.P.S, and Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry for dynamic, detailed, clear sound.
- WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology): WRAT is based around a low negative-feedback circuit topology that works to reduce signal noise and distortion across the frequency range. A "closed ground-loop circuit" design is employed, in which each circuit has a separate link to the power supply. This helps to cancel individual circuit noise and keep the ground potential free of distortion. High Instantaneous Current Capability (HICC) enables WRAT amplifiers to immediately cancel the speakers' reflex energy and instantaneously send out the next signal. The same high current better manages speaker impedance fluctuations, which can negatively affect performance.
- 3-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry: The AV receiver incorporates 3-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry into the front & center channels. This core Onkyo technology employs a low-NFB (negative feedback) design that makes the sound more natural.
- H.C.P.S. (High Current Power Supply): Under the anti-resonant cover of any Onkyo receiver, you'll instantly notice the High Current Power Supply (H.C.P.S.) transformer. With its huge, isolated power supply design and high-capacity filter capacitors, it delivers the large amounts of power necessary for reproducing the wide dynamics of movie soundtracks and the detail and clarity of your music.
- Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry: Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry adjusts the gain so that less than half the amount of attenuation is needed, ensuring the signal never comes close to the noise floor. This protects the signal against noise, resulting in a dramatically clearer sound.
Amplifier Assignment: The 7-channel amplifier can be configured in a variety of ways to match your type of speaker setup.
- Normal (7.2ch): The Onkyo TX-NR636 provides 7.2ch surround in your main listening area. You can choose either Surround Back or Front Height speakers (but not both).
- Front Bi-Amp (5.2ch): The Surround-Back/Front-High speaker terminals can be reassigned and used along with the Front terminals to bi-amp the front speakers, providing improved bass & treble performance. When bi-amping the front speakers the receiver is limited to a 5.2ch speaker system in the main room (no Surround Back or Front Height speakers)
- Powered Zone 2 (7.2ch + Zone 2): In this configuration, you can connect Front, Center, Surround, Surround Back (or Front Height), and Zone 2 speakers to the AV receiver. When Zone 2 is off, all seven channels will be used in the Main Zone. However, when Zone 2 is on, power to the two surround back (or front height) channels will be directed to the two speakers in Zone 2 and the Main Zone will receive only five channels of power.
- Dolby Atmos (w/ Firmware Update): The Surround-Back/Front-High speaker terminals are assigned to power a pair of overhead ceiling speakers or a pair of Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers to create 5.2.2ch Dolby Atmos surround sound. Zone 2 speaker can still be powered by the receiver in the configuration. When Zone 2 is off, all seven channels will be used in the Main Zone for Dolby Atmos. However, when Zone 2 is on, power to the Dolby Atmos channels will be directed to the two speakers in Zone 2 and the Main Zone will receive only five channels of power without Dolby Atmos.
192kHz/24-bit DACs + 32-Bit DSP Processing: This Onkyo TX-NR636 is equipped with 192kHz/24-bit Burr-Brown DACs to decode and playback high-resolution recordings with less jitter and clearer sound. The receiver also employs a powerful and highly accurate 32-bit processing DSP (Digital Signal Processor) for better surround sound reproduction.
AccuEQ Room Calibration: Calibrating the sound to suit your room's acoustics is simple with Onkyo's AccuEQ auto-room calibration. Once you've connected your speakers, plug-in the included mic and wait a few moments as the TX-NR636 measures things such as speaker distance, type, crossover, and output, taking into account any reflections from your walls and floor. The system is designed specifically to by-pass your front left and right speakers. The system then optimizes the frequency response of the remaining speakers so you can enjoy balanced surround sound regardless of room shape or furnishing while retaining the characteristics of your front left and right speakers for optimum enjoyment
Multi-Channel Decoding Formats: The Onkyo TX-NR636 AV receiver supports the following multi-channel (Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Pro Logic) decoding formats.
- Dolby Digital: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD
- DTS: DTS, DTS-ES, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS-HD High Resolution, DTS Express, DTS 96/24, DTS Neo: 6
- Dolby Pro Logic: Dolby Pro Logic II, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, Dolby Pro Logic IIz
Dolby Atmos: The TX-NR636 receiver is Dolby Atmos (5.2.2ch) compatible through a firmware update from Onkyo's website. Dolby Atmos combines traditional home theater speaker layouts with either ceiling-mounted speakers or new Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers to create a plane of sound above the listener. The impact of either in-ceiling or Dolby Atmos-enabled speakers is breathtaking. Your room fills with realistic, multidimensional sound that places you directly in the center of the entertainment experience.
- Ceiling Mounted Speakers: Ceiling speakers are used for maximizing effects in Dolby Atmos listening mode. Install these speakers midway between the position just above the listening position and the position just above the front speakers, or simply install them just above the listening position.
- Dolby Enabled Speakers: There are two types of Dolby Enabled
Speakers; one is to be placed on the top board of other
speakers such as front speakers and surround speakers; the other is integrated within the front or surround speakers. Dolby Enabled Speakers are designed with their output facing toward the ceiling to create an elevated audio effect in the Dolby Atmos mode by providing sounds echoing off the ceiling.
Dolby Surround: Dolby Surround offers an enhanced cinema experience to your Dolby Digital (Plus/TrueHD) and DTS (ES/HD) movie soundtracks using your existing 7.1ch or Dolby Atmos speaker setup. Dolby Surround enhances audio definition by improving the spatial dimension and overall audio definition of movie soundtracks. It does this by using four distinct surround zones that provide greater control over the exact placement of each detail in a movie sound track, so audio can be matched more accurately to the video on screen; this means more depth and greater realism for your movies. As a result, individual sounds are clearer and more distinct. It also improves the surround sound experience across the entire theater by widening the listening "sweet spot".
Onkyo Original DSP Modes: Onkyo's Original DSP Modes, combined with Dolby Digital/DTS/Dolby Pro Logic processing, produce more realistic, powerful sound effects for your movie and music sound tracks based on the type of content and your home theater setup. You can choose from the following:
- Orchestra: For classical or operatic music.
- Unplugged: For acoustic instruments, vocals, and jazz.
- Studio-Mix: Suitable for rock or pop.
- TV Logic: Adds realistic acoustics to TV shows.
- Game: The receiver offers four different Gaming modes - RPG, Action, Rock, and Sports.
- All Ch Stereo: Stereo sound from all speakers. Ideal for background music.
- Full Mono: All speakers output the same sound in mono.
- Theater-Dimensional (T-D): Theater-Dimensional circuitry takes the complexity out of conventional surround-sound setups and lets you experience the excitement of surround sound from as few as two ordinary speakers. Theater-Dimensional's unique multi-speaker modes let you place up to five speakers conveniently by the TV, for the most realistic virtual-surround sound possible.
Direct Mode: In Direct mode, audio from the input source is output without surround-sound processing. This mode delivers pure sound with minimum sound quality adjustment and filtration.
Surround Parameters: The Onkyo TX-NR636 lets you tweak and fine tune specific surround sound modes to suit your preference.
- Dolby Pro Logic II Music Settings: While listening in the Dolby Pro Logic II Music format, there are three further enhancements you can adjust; Panorama: (broadens the front stereo image to the surround speakers to provide a wraparound effect), Dimension (allows you to move the sound field forward or backward), and Center Width (allows you to adjust the width of the center channel).
- Center Image: In the Neo:6 Music mode, the Center Image feature adjusts the output of the left and right channels relative to the center channel, allowing you to make the center channel more or less dominant as needed. This improves the image of the center channel, especially when the listener is off-center. Adjustment varies from 5 (nothing subtracted from the L/R channels) to 0 (L/R channel output is cut in half).
- Pro Logic IIz Height Gain: The Height Gain Control in Dolby Pro Logic IIz enables the listener to select how much gain is applied to the front high speakers. There are three settings, "Low", "Mid" and "High", and the front high speakers are accentuated in that order. While "Mid" is the default listening setting, the listener may adjust the Height Gain Control to their personal preference.
- Listening Angle: While listening in the Theater Dimensional mode you can adjust the listening angle to either Wide (if listening angle is 40°) or Narrow (if listening angle is 20°).
Audio Enhancements: The Onkyo TX-NR636 receiver provides various audio enhancements to deliver a high-quality listening experience every time.
- CinemaFilter: Using the CinemaFilter you soften overly bright movie soundtracks. Movie soundtracks are typically mixed for a large theater (relative to your home theater) with lots of soft seats and thick curtains on the walls. Home theater settings often lack these high frequency absorbing wall treatments, making the soundtrack sound too bright. CinemaFilter accounts for this and for many movies sounds more natural at home.
- Music Optimizer: The Music Optimizer function enhances the sound quality of compressed music files. The Music Optimizer function only works with PCM digital audio input signals with a sampling rate below 48kHz and analog input signals.
- Late Night Feature: The Late Night feature limits the dynamic range of Dolby Digital recordings. Limiting the dynamic range makes it easier to find a volume that ensures the quiet sounds are not too quiet and the loud sounds are not too loud for night time listening. This allows you to comfortably listen to without the need to constantly adjust the volume to keep from waking family/neighbors. The choices are: Off, Low, and High. This feature only works with Dolby Digital Encoded software and the depth of the feature will vary based on the individual software package.
Bass Management: The Onkyo AV receiver offers Tone Control and Phase Matching Bass technology to get the most bass impact out of your system.
- Tone Controls: You can independently adjust the Bass (50Hz) and Treble (20kHz) of the TX-NR636 from -10 to +10 dB.
- Phase Matching Bass: Onkyo's Phase-Matching Bass optimizes low frequencies while preserving mid-range clarity. This means that powerful bass plays back with clear vocals; it doesn't overpower them.
- Double Bass: You can also activate the Double Bass function in order to boost bass output even more by feeding bass sounds to the front left/right speakers, center-channel, and powered subwoofer.
Volume Setup: The Onkyo AV receiver provides the following volume settings.
- IntelliVolume: With IntelliVolume, you can set the input level for each input (+/-12dB) selector individually. This is useful if one of your source components is louder or quieter than the others. This function does not work in Zone 2.
- Maximum Volume: Use this feature to set the receiver's maximum volume level. This feature is useful to avoid turning the volume too loud by mistake. You can set the Max Volume from 30-79 (max), or Off (disabled).
- Power On Volume: Use this feature to set the volume level when the power is turned on. You can choose between Last (same as the volume when the unit was turned off), Min (0), or 1-79.
- Headphone Level: With this setting, you can specify the headphone volume (+/-12dB) relative to the main volume. This is useful if there's a volume difference between your speakers and your headphones.
Audio Inputs/Outputs: The Onkyo AV receiver offers a variety of analog and digital audio inputs/outputs.
- Assignable Digital Inputs: The Onkyo receiver is equipped with one optical digital input and two coaxial digital inputs. All three digital inputs are assignable. You can choose auto decoding , PCM, or DTS for the digital audio inputs. Auto will decode the signal in its original form (Dolby Digital, DTS, PCM, etc), PCM decodes the signal to 2-channel, while DTS decodes only DTS formatted sources.
- Phono Input: The Onkyo AV receiver is fitted with a Phono input and ground terminal for connection of a turntable (MM).
- Binding-Post Speaker Terminals: There are color-coded binding-post terminals for all speaker connections - Front, Center, Surround, Surround Back/Front Height, and Zone 2. The binding post terminals will accept bare-wire, pin-connectors, and banana plugs (single/dual). Use 6- to 16-ohm speakers.
- Dual Subwoofer Outputs: The receiver is fitted with two subwoofer outputs to connect dual powered subs for extra bass. The dual outputs share the same input signal and are not discrete.
- Headphones: When headphones are plugged into the full-size 1/4" jack on the front panel, all the speakers are automatically muted.
Video Features
7 HDMI Inputs/2 HDMI Outputs: The TX-NR636 has seven assignable HDMI inputs (6 rear/1 front) and two HDMI outputs for connecting Blu-ray/DVD players, Satellite/Cable boxes, Game Consoles, and other video components to your TV. The dual HDMI outputs can simultaneously output the same audio/video signal to two TVs (video is output at the resolution supported by both TVs). The HDMI jacks can accept and switch 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, or 4K video signals to a HDTV (depending on input/output). All HDMI jacks will also support uncompressed standard or high definition digital video along with the following audio signals; 2-channel linear PCM, Multichannel linear PCM (up to 7.1ch), and Bitstream (Dolby Digital/DTS, etc.). Additional HDMI features include -
- 4K/60Hz + HDCP 2.2 (HDMI 2.0): The TX-NR636's HDMI 3 input and main HDMI output are version 2.0 compliant; supporting 4K/60Hz video signal, 21:9 display format, and HDCP 2.2 DRM copy protection compatibility. By implementing these new HDMI technologies, the TX-NR636 will be able to support future 4K streaming content from internet service providers (like Netflix) and UHD terrestrial/satellite broadcasts (not yet available). The AV receiver's HDMI 2-4 inputs are also version 2.0 and support 4K/60Hz video signal, but do not support HDCP 2.2 DRM copy protection. The receiver's HDMI 5-7 inputs and sub HDMI output are version 1.4 and support up to 1080p video.
- 3D-Ready: All HDMI jacks will accept 3D video from your 3D-ready Blu-ray player and output the video signal in 3D to your 3D-ready flat-panel television.
- ARC (Audio Return Channel): The receiver's main HDMI output features ARC (Audio Return Channel). This feature allows audio to be sent from your compatible HDTV to your receiver through the same HDMI cable already being used to send audio and video to your HDTV. This eliminates the need for extra cables connected to your television. The sub HDMI monitor output does not support this feature.
- Auto Lip-Sync: The Lip-Sync function can automatically synchronize HDMI audio and video (for any HDMI jack) that has gotten out of sync due to the complex digital video processing being performed by your HDMI-compatible TV. With HDMI Lip-Sync, the audio delay required to synchronize the audio and video is calculated and applied automatically by the AV receiver. You can also manually correct the audio delay from 0 (no delay) to 400 milliseconds; in 10 millisecond steps.
Marvel Qdeo Video Chip for 4K Upscaling: The Onkyo TX-NR636 utilizes a Marvel Qdeo Video Chip for 4K upscaling and video processing. The Marvel Qdeo Video Chip produces quiet and natural video, free from noise and artifacts. Analog component/composite video signals are converted to HDMI, so you only need one cable to connect the receiver to your TV. 480i video from the receiver's component/composite video inputs and any HDMI video signal can be scaled to a higher resolution set in the menu. You can set the AV receiver to upscale analog and HDMI video to 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p, 4K, Auto (automatically scaled to the highest resolution supported by the display), or Through (no scaling). Upconversion and upscaling is only supported by the main HDMI video output.
MHL-Compatible HDMI Port: The front-panel HDMI input is MHL compatible. This MHL compatible HDMI port provides easy, direct connection of MHL compatible Android smartphones. Playback of up to 1080p video and multi-channel audio from the phone is supported. The receiver will also charge your connected phone. Play, Stop, and other basic operations can be controlled from the AV receiver's remote control. Check here for a list of compatible MHL-enabled Android phones.
Note: The front-panel HDMI input, along with the receiver's front-panel USB port can also be used to connect your Lightning or 30-pin connector Apple iOS device via Apple's Lightning Digital AV adapter or 30-pin digital AV adapter; you'll also need the USB cable that came with your Apple iOS device, and a HDMI cable (sold separately). This type of connection provides "screen mirroring", audio/video playback, and charging of your Apple iOS device through the Onkyo receiver and your HDMI-connected TV. All control of your Apple iOS device will be done through its own touchscreen (not the receiver). See AV adapter links for specific Apple iOS compatibility.
HDMI Through: When enabling the HDMI Through function, regardless of whether the AV receiver is "on" or in "standby" both audio and video streams from an HDMI input will be output to your television, via the receiver HDMI monitor output. You can select between 3 HDMI Through functions modes.
- Auto: Detects the signal and automatically selects the input sources.
- Source: Selects the input source (BD/DVD, VCR/DVR, CBL/SAT, Game, PC, Aux, TV/CD, Port) for which the HDMI Through function in enabled.
- Last: The HDMI Through function is activated on the input source selected at the time of setting the AV receiver to the "standby" mode.
InstaPrevue: InstaPrevue technology provides a live video thumbnail of the available content on your devices connected to the receiver via HDMI. As a result, you can preview audio/video streams coming from up to five HDMI inputs previously assigned to input selectors on your HDMI connected TV. Even with multiple components connected to receiver through HDMI, you can easily switch between inputs as their previews are displayed on a single screen on your television. You can even use the InstaPrevue feature for Picture-in-Picture. You can specify the number of preview thumbnails, as well as their positioning on-screen.
Note: If no video signal are present, the thumbnails will be filled in black. With 3D video signals, the image may not be properly rendered on the preview thumbnails of InstaPrevue.
Analog Video Inputs: The receiver features three composite video inputs and one composite video monitor output which support 480i video signals only. There is one component video input and one component video output which support up to 1080i video signal. You must connect the receiver to your TV via composite and/or component video to view incoming video from the receiver's composite/component inputs.
Picture Adjust: Using the Picture Adjust feature, you can adjust the picture quality and reduce any noise appearing on your TV screen.
- Wide Mode: Auto, Full, Zoom, Wide Zoom, or 4:3.
- Picture Mode: Custom (Brightness/Contrast/Hue/Saturation/Color Temp), Cinema (for movies), Game (for gaming), Through (changes resolution), Direct (no adjustment).
- Picture Settings: Film Mode (video or film), Edge Enhancement (sharpens image), Noise Reduction (reduce noise).
Network/USB/Tuner Functions
Wired or Wireless Network Connection: The Onkyo TX-NR636 AV receiver supports a wired or wireless network connection. Via the AV receiver's network connection, you can enjoy music files stored on your computer and listen to internet radio through a variety of online services.
- Ethernet (LAN) Jack: The Onkyo AV receiver is equipped with an Ethernet (RJ-45) jack for connecting the player to your home network and computer. Connecting the A/V receiver's Ethernet port to a 100Base-TX switched Ethernet network is recommended for best results. Use a shielded CAT-5 Ethernet cable to connect the receiver to your home network.
- Built-in Wireless LAN: The AV receiver also features built-in WiFi that allows you to wirelessly connect to your home network, so you can enjoy the benefits of a cable-free network environment. A wireless connection requires a home network with a WiFi-enabled access point (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n). Supports WPS, WEP, and WPA security.
Streaming Music Files: You can stream a variety music files from your Windows PC, DLNA-certified music server, or a USB mass storage class device. Compatible music file formats include MP3 (8-320kbps; 16-48kHz), WMA (47-320kbps), WMA Lossless (16/24-bit; 44.1-96kHz), WAV (8/16/24-bit; 8-192kHz), AAC (8-320kbps; 8-96kHz), FLAC (8/16/24-bit; 8-192kHz), Apple Lossless (16/24-bit; 8-96kHz), Ogg Vorbis (48-500kbps; 8-48kHz), DSD (2.8224MHz), and LPCM (16-bit; 44-48kHz). You can control basic playback functions of your music library from the included remote control and receiver's on-screen menu; such as Folder/File Select, Play/Pause, Stop, Fast Forward/Rewind, Previous/Next Track, and Repeat/Random.
- DLNA Certified: Because the TX-NR636 is DLNA certified, you can play back music files stored on your Windows PC (w/ Windows Media Player 11 or 12) or a DLNA (ver.1.5) compatible media server through the AV receiver. Playback control can be done from the receiver's remote control or your DLNA-certified computer/server.
- USB Mass Storage Class: This AV receiver is equipped with a front-panel USB (type-A) port that allows you to enjoy a variety of music files from a USB mass storage class memory device; such as your Android smartphone (Froyo/Gingerbread OS only), portable MP3 player, or USB thumbdrive (all formatted in FAT 16/32). USB portable audio players that can be charged via USB will be charged when plugged into the AV receiver's USB port (5V/1A); even in standby mode. USB hubs and USB devices with hub functions are not supported. MP3 players containing music files that are managed with special music software are not supported. Apple iPod, iPhone, and iPad devices are not supported via USB.
Internet Radio: The Onkyo TX-NR636 lets you access various Internet Radio providers through its wired or wireless network connection. The TX-NR636 will display station name and program-related information; such as artist name, song/album title, and elapsed playing time. You can preset up to 40 of your "favorite" Internet radio stations for easy recall.
Music Service | Description |
---|---|
TuneIn | With more than 70,000 radio stations and 2 million on-demand programs registered, TuneIn is a service where you can enjoy music, sports and news from all over the world. |
Pandora | Pandora is a free, personalized Internet radio service that plays the music you know and helps you discover music you'll love. You can select Internet radio stations by Artist, Song, or Genre. |
Spotify | Spotify is a digital music service that gives you on-demand access to one of the largest music libraries in the world (over 15 million tracks and counting). Spotify makes it easier than ever to discover, manage, and share music with your friends. You can browse music by artist, album, track, or most popular; and create your own music library with customized playlists. A Spotify Premium subscription is required. |
SiriusXM | SiriusXM Internet Radio lets you listen to over 120 channels of commercial-free music, talk radio, news, sports, and more. |
Slacker | Slacker is a free, personalized Internet radio service that lets you choose the music you want to listen to. You can choose Internet radio stations by genre, or create custom station by Artist name or Song title. |
AUPEO! | AUPEO! Personal Radio is a music streaming service based in Berlin that is available worldwide. With AUPEO! Personal Radio, you can listen to free music on the web. AUPEO! lets you play lots of music and choose the playlist based on your personal taste. The basic concept is based on personal music DNA, which allows you to 'love' or 'ban' songs. The highly advanced software then remembers this and adjusts as necessary. As a result, we offer over 100 compilation genre channels, as well as thousands of artist channels. Listen to music online based on your tastes and preferences or use our one-of-a-kind 'Mood Tuner' to fit how you're feeling. |
AM/FM Tuner: With the built-in tuner you can enjoy AM and FM radio stations. You can store your favorite stations as presets for quick selection. You can store a combination of up to 40 of your favorite FM/AM radio stations as presets. You can also tune directly to a specific station by using the numeric keypad on the included remote control.
Firmware Updates: Future firmware updates are available from the Onkyo website through the receiver's Network or USB connection. The tested TX-NR636 contained firmware version 1020-2110-0001-0200-0001 (as of 5/2/2014). Visit Onkyo's online Download Center for the latest firmware updates.
Convenience Features
On-Screen Menu w/ Setup Assistance: The Onkyo AV receiver offers an on-screen (GUI) menu system through its HDMI output. The simple on-screen display combines text and graphics that make setup and other operations extremely easy. The initial setup assistant takes you step-by-step through speaker configuration, source connection, remote programming, and network connection. If your TV is connected to the composite video or component video monitor output, you will need to use the AV receiver's front-panel display when changing settings.
Dual-Zone: In addition to the main listening room, you can also enjoy audio playback from a different source in another room of your home using the receiver's Dual-Zone function (Zone 2). The receiver features Zone 2 line-outputs, as well as Zone 2 speaker terminals. By using the line-level outputs on the TX-NR636 you can connect an external receiver or integrated amplifier in a second room, allowing you to listen to 7.1ch surround in the main room and play a different audio source in another room of your home. By using the speaker-level outputs on the TX-NR636, you can directly connect a secondary pair of speakers in another room of your home, allowing you to listen to 5.1ch surround sound in your main room and play a different audio source in the other room. The volume of Zone 2 is controlled from the receiver when using the speaker outputs and from your add-on integrated amp when using the line-level outputs.
- Compatible Zone Sources: Only Tuner, analog, USB, Network, and Bluetooth audio sources can be sent to Zone 2.
- Incompatible Zone Sources: Optical/coaxial digital and HDMI audio sources are not output to Zone 2. You cannot output any video signal to Zone 2.
Name Edit: You can enter a custom name for each individual input selector and radio preset for easy identification. When entered, the custom name will appear on the display. This function cannot be used for the AM/FM, Network, USB, and Bluetooth input selectors.
Display Dimmer + Screen Saver: The display brightness has three settings; Dim, Dimmer, and Normal. If there is no video signal on the current input source and no operation for a specific time, a screen saver automatically comes on. You can set the time (3min/5min/10min/off) until the screen saver activates itself. Once active, the screen saver will go off and the screen will return to its previous state if the AV receiver is operated in any way.
Timers: The receiver features a programmable Sleep Timer and Auto Standby function.
- Auto Standby: The AV receiver will automatically go into Standby mode, if there is no operation for 20 minutes with no audio/video signal input.
- Sleep Timer: From the remote, you can set the unit to automatically turn off after as much as 90 minutes or as little as 10 minutes; choices are presented in 10 minute increments.
Bluetooth + Remote Control
Built-in Bluetooth: The Onkyo TX-NR636 features built-in Bluetooth (version 2.1+EDR) with support for profiles A2DP 1.2 and AVRCP 1.3. You'll be able to wirelessly stream music from your Bluetooth-enabled Apple device, Android smartphone/tablet, portable audio player, laptop, or PC to the Onkyo receiver. You will also be able to control basic playback functions (Play/Pause, FF/RW, Skip) using the receiver's remote control. Advanced music operation will still need to be handled from your Bluetooth-enable device. There is no song/artist information display on the receiver or connected TV. Continue to use your Bluetooth device's screen to view song/artist info.
Onkyo Remote App (for Apple iOS & Android): The Onkyo Remote App (from iTunes Apps & Google Play) allows you to operate the Onkyo AV receiver from your Apple iOS (4.3+) or Android (2.1+) device, using your home's wireless network. The Onkyo Remote App lets you you access Internet Radio stations, AM/FM stations, DLNA content, and Input sources right from your mobile device. Content information will be displayed on the device's touchscreen. You also get to adjust tone controls, listening modes, and speaker volume from your compatible Apple iOS or Android device. The Onkyo Remote App even allows you to wirelessly stream audio stored on your Apple iOS or Android device to the Onkyo AV receiver and lets you control audio output for up to 2 Zones. The Onkyo AV receiver and and your compatible Apple iOS or Android device must be connected to the same home network.
Multi-brand Remote: The receiver comes with an IR remote control for wireless operation of this receiver and other HDMI-connected sources (via HDMI CEC). In addition to the receiver, the remote can be programmed using the receiver's on-screen menu to control popular brands of TVs, Blu-ray players, DVD players/recorders, DVRs, VCRs, etc.
HDMI Control: This function allows HDMI-CEC compatible components or RIHD-compatible components connected via HDMI to be controlled with the TX-NR636 . The AV receiver offers the following HDMI-CEC controls.
- The AV receiver will enter Standby mode when the power of the TV is turned to Standby.
- You can set on the menu screen of the TV to either output the audio from the speakers connected to the AV receiver, or from the speakers of the TV.
- It is possible to output the audio/video from the antenna or from the input jack of the TV from the speakers connected to the AV receiver.
- Input to the AV receiver can be selected with the remote controller of the TV.
- Operations such as volume adjustment or similar for the AV receiver can be performed from the remote controller of the TV.
RI Remote Control Jack: The 1/8" RI remote control jack allows you to connect this receiver to other compatible Onkyo components.
The Onkyo TX-NR636 replaces these items
Onkyo TX-NR626
- 7-channel amplifier; 95 watts per channel with 2 channels driven
- built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for streaming music from networked PCs, Internet radio, music services, and smartphones
- powered Zone 2 with extra HDMI output for adding speakers and an HDTV to a second room
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Customer Q&A
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I have always had good luck with the Onkyo Products. I have 7 speakers and 2 subs hooked to this unit and it's an awesome sound system. Not hard to hook up, and then follow the screen prompt to get the sound set where you like it..
OnKyo 636 from TN