onkyo tx nr686 manual

Onkyo TX-NR686 Manual: A Comprehensive Guide

This guide maximizes your Onkyo TX-NR686’s potential, offering an overview of features, setup, network connectivity, and troubleshooting assistance for optimal performance.

Welcome to the world of immersive home entertainment with the Onkyo TX-NR686! This 7.2-channel network AV receiver is engineered to deliver a powerful and captivating audio-visual experience. Priced around $650, the TX-NR686 boasts 165 watts per channel, offering ample power for even larger rooms. It’s designed to seamlessly integrate into modern home theaters, supporting 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X for stunning picture and sound quality.

This manual serves as your comprehensive guide to unlocking the full potential of your Onkyo receiver. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or new to home theater, we’ll walk you through every step – from initial setup and speaker configuration to network connectivity and advanced features. Prepare to elevate your entertainment with the Onkyo TX-NR686!

Key Features and Specifications

The Onkyo TX-NR686 is packed with features designed for audiophiles and cinephiles alike. Key highlights include support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based surround sound, creating a truly immersive 3D audio experience. It delivers 165W per channel, ensuring powerful and dynamic sound reproduction. Network capabilities are extensive, with both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity enabling access to a world of streaming services and high-resolution audio.

Furthermore, the TX-NR686 offers Sonos integration, allowing seamless inclusion into existing Sonos systems. Bluetooth connectivity provides convenient wireless streaming, while the Advanced Music Optimizer enhances compressed audio files. 4K/60Hz and HDR pass-through guarantee stunning visual fidelity. This receiver truly blends power, connectivity, and advanced audio technologies.

Setting Up Your Onkyo TX-NR686

Proper setup unlocks the TX-NR686’s full potential. This section guides you through unboxing, connections, speaker configuration, calibration, and device integration.

Unboxing and Initial Connections

Carefully unpack your Onkyo TX-NR686, ensuring all components are present: the receiver itself, power cord, speaker wires (if included), a remote control, batteries, and documentation. Inspect for any visible damage during shipping. Begin by placing the receiver in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources.

Connect the power cord to the receiver and a grounded outlet. Next, connect your display device – typically a TV – using an HDMI cable. For initial setup, use the HDMI port labeled “ARC” (Audio Return Channel) on both the receiver and TV. This simplifies audio transmission. Connect your source devices (Blu-ray player, game console, etc.) to the remaining HDMI inputs. Ensure all cables are securely fastened. Finally, connect the antenna or cable TV feed to the appropriate input on the rear panel. Do not power on the receiver until all connections are verified.

Speaker Configuration and Calibration

Proper speaker setup is crucial for optimal audio performance. Begin by connecting your speakers to the corresponding terminals on the rear of the TX-NR686, ensuring correct polarity (+ to +, — to -). The receiver supports various configurations, including 5.1, 7.1, and Dolby Atmos; Refer to the manual for specific wiring diagrams based on your setup.

Once connected, utilize the Onkyo AccuEQ room acoustic calibration system. This automated process analyzes your room’s acoustics and adjusts speaker levels, distances, and equalization for a balanced soundstage. Place the included microphone at your primary listening position and follow the on-screen prompts. AccuEQ optimizes the audio experience for your specific room environment, delivering immersive and accurate sound reproduction. Re-run calibration if speaker positions are altered.

Connecting to Your TV and Other Devices

The Onkyo TX-NR686 offers versatile connectivity options. Connect your TV using the HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) port for simplified audio transmission. This allows audio from your TV apps to be sent to the receiver. For optimal 4K/HDR support, utilize the HDMI 2.0a inputs. Connect Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices to these inputs as well.

Additional devices, like CD players or legacy components, can connect via the optical or coaxial digital audio inputs, or the analog RCA inputs. Ensure proper input selection on the receiver to match the connected device. The receiver also features phono inputs for turntables. Remember to consult the manual for specific connection guidance and troubleshooting tips for each device type.

Network and Wireless Connectivity

Seamlessly integrate your TX-NR686 into your home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet, unlocking streaming services and control through the Onkyo Controller app.

Connecting to Your Home Network (Wi-Fi & Ethernet)

Establishing a network connection unlocks the full potential of your Onkyo TX-NR686, enabling access to streaming services, internet radio, and firmware updates. For Wi-Fi setup, navigate to the network settings in the receiver’s menu and select your wireless network from the available list. Enter your network password when prompted. Alternatively, a wired Ethernet connection provides a more stable and reliable link.

Simply connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the LAN port on the rear panel of the TX-NR686. The receiver will automatically obtain an IP address. Once connected, verify the connection status within the receiver’s settings menu. Successful connection allows integration with the Onkyo Controller app, facilitating convenient control and multi-room audio capabilities, alongside Sonos integration for expanded audio ecosystems.

Using the Onkyo Controller App

The Onkyo Controller app, available for iOS and Android, transforms your smartphone into a powerful remote control for the TX-NR686. Download and install the app from your respective app store, then follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your receiver. The app mirrors the receiver’s on-screen menu, allowing you to adjust settings, select inputs, and control playback with ease.

Beyond basic control, the app enables advanced features like zone control, speaker configuration, and music streaming from networked devices. You can also group speakers for multi-room audio playback. Seamlessly integrate with Sonos Connect, expanding your home audio system; The app simplifies setup and provides a user-friendly interface for managing your Onkyo entertainment experience.

Sonos Integration with TX-NR686

Integrating your Onkyo TX-NR686 with a Sonos system unlocks a world of expanded audio possibilities. Utilizing the Sonos Connect feature, your beautifully constructed Onkyo-based home theater can seamlessly become part of an existing Sonos sound system. This allows you to stream music to any Sonos speaker throughout your home, controlled via the Sonos app.

The integration provides synchronized playback, enabling you to enjoy music in multiple rooms simultaneously or independently. You can also utilize Sonos’s voice control capabilities with your Onkyo receiver. This combination delivers a powerful and flexible audio solution, blending the high-performance of Onkyo with the convenience and scalability of Sonos. Enjoy a truly connected audio experience.

Audio and Video Settings

Customize your listening experience with detailed audio mode selections like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, alongside precise adjustments for EQ, bass, and 4K HDR settings.

Understanding Audio Modes (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X)

The Onkyo TX-NR686 excels in immersive audio, supporting both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X technologies. Dolby Atmos expands on traditional surround sound by adding height channels, creating a truly three-dimensional soundscape. This allows sounds to be precisely placed overhead, enhancing realism and impact, particularly in movie scenes with rain, helicopters, or ambient effects.

DTS:X similarly delivers an immersive experience, but utilizes object-based audio. Instead of being tied to specific channels, sounds are treated as individual objects that the receiver dynamically places in the listening space. This provides greater flexibility and a more natural sound field, adapting to your specific speaker configuration.

The TX-NR686 allows you to select the appropriate audio mode based on the source material. Ensure your speakers are correctly configured for optimal Atmos or DTS:X playback. Experiment with different settings to find what best suits your preferences and room acoustics for a captivating home theater experience.

Adjusting Sound Settings (EQ, Bass, Treble)

Fine-tune your audio experience with the Onkyo TX-NR686’s comprehensive sound settings. The built-in equalizer (EQ) allows precise control over specific frequency ranges, enabling you to tailor the sound to your room’s acoustics and personal preferences. Boost or cut frequencies to enhance clarity, reduce muddiness, or emphasize certain instruments.

Bass and treble controls provide broader adjustments to the low and high frequencies. Increasing bass adds depth and impact to action movies and music, while adjusting treble enhances vocal clarity and instrument detail. The Advanced Music Optimizer can enrich compressed audio files, restoring lost details and improving overall sound quality.

Experiment with these settings incrementally to achieve the desired sound signature. Remember that subtle adjustments can make a significant difference. Utilize test tones and familiar music tracks to evaluate the impact of each change.

4K and HDR Settings Configuration

Unlock stunning visual fidelity with the Onkyo TX-NR686’s 4K and High Dynamic Range (HDR) capabilities. Ensure your TV supports HDCP 2.2 for seamless 4K content playback. Access the video settings menu to enable 4K upscaling, which enhances lower-resolution content to near-4K quality.

HDR settings, including HDR10 and Dolby Vision, dramatically improve contrast and color accuracy. Select the appropriate HDR format based on your TV’s compatibility. Verify that your source device (Blu-ray player, streaming device) is also configured to output HDR signals.

Proper configuration ensures vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and exceptional detail. Experiment with different HDR modes to find the optimal setting for your viewing environment. Refer to your TV’s manual for specific HDR recommendations.

Advanced Features

Explore enhanced audio experiences with Zone 2, Bluetooth streaming, and the Advanced Music Optimizer, enriching your listening with versatile connectivity options.

Zone 2 and Multi-Room Audio

The Onkyo TX-NR686 elevates your home audio experience with its robust Zone 2 capabilities, allowing independent audio playback in a second room. This feature extends your entertainment beyond the main listening area, perfect for parties or enjoying different content simultaneously. Furthermore, integration with Sonos Connect transforms your Onkyo receiver into a seamless component within an existing Sonos sound system, expanding your multi-room audio possibilities.

Utilize the Onkyo Controller app for iOS and Android to effortlessly manage and group speakers throughout your home. This intuitive app provides centralized control over music selection, volume adjustments, and playback synchronization across multiple zones. Enjoy a unified audio experience, streaming high-resolution network music to various rooms with ease. The TX-NR686 truly delivers a flexible and immersive multi-room audio solution.

Bluetooth Connectivity and Streaming

The Onkyo TX-NR686 offers convenient Bluetooth connectivity, enabling wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, and other compatible devices. Easily play your favorite music directly from your mobile library without the need for cables or a dedicated network connection. This feature provides a simple and versatile way to enjoy audio content in any room.

Beyond basic streaming, the receiver’s Bluetooth functionality is enhanced by the Advanced Music Optimizer. This technology analyzes and enriches compressed audio files, restoring lost details and improving overall sound quality. Experience a noticeable improvement in clarity and depth, even when streaming from sources like Spotify or Apple Music. The combination of Bluetooth and the Advanced Music Optimizer ensures a consistently enjoyable listening experience, maximizing the potential of your digital music collection.

Advanced Music Optimizer

The Onkyo TX-NR686 incorporates the Advanced Music Optimizer, a powerful technology designed to enhance the listening experience with digitally compressed audio files. This feature intelligently analyzes compressed music formats like MP3, AAC, and WMA, restoring lost harmonics and improving overall sound quality. It effectively rebuilds the audio signal, resulting in a richer, more detailed, and more immersive soundstage.

The Optimizer works by identifying and compensating for the data lost during compression. By restoring these missing frequencies, it breathes new life into your digital music library. Whether streaming via Bluetooth or playing files from a USB drive, the Advanced Music Optimizer ensures that every note is delivered with clarity and depth. It’s a valuable tool for anyone who wants to maximize the enjoyment of their compressed music collection, bringing it closer to the original recording’s quality.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Resolve typical problems like no sound, network connectivity, or remote control malfunctions with our dedicated troubleshooting guide for a seamless Onkyo experience.

No Sound Troubleshooting

If you encounter no sound, begin by verifying the volume level on both the Onkyo TX-NR686 receiver and your connected source device. Ensure the correct input source is selected on the receiver; accidentally choosing the wrong input is a common oversight.

Next, check all speaker connections – confirm they are securely fastened to both the receiver and the speakers themselves. A loose connection can easily interrupt the audio signal. Verify that your speakers are not muted, either physically on the speaker or within the receiver’s settings.

Explore the receiver’s audio settings. Confirm that the selected audio mode (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, etc.) is compatible with the source material. Try cycling through different audio modes to see if sound is restored. If using HDMI ARC, ensure it’s properly enabled in both the receiver and TV settings. Finally, a receiver reset to factory defaults can sometimes resolve obscure software glitches causing audio issues.

Network Connectivity Problems

Experiencing network issues with your Onkyo TX-NR686? First, confirm your home network is functioning correctly – test internet access on other devices. Verify the receiver is within range of your Wi-Fi router, or consider using a wired Ethernet connection for a more stable link.

Within the receiver’s settings, double-check the Wi-Fi password and network configuration. Ensure the receiver is obtaining an IP address; a static IP address might be necessary if DHCP isn’t working. Restarting both the receiver and your router can often resolve temporary connectivity glitches.

If using the Onkyo Controller app, ensure it’s the latest version and that your mobile device is on the same network as the receiver. Check firewall settings on your router, as they might be blocking the receiver’s access. Finally, a factory reset of the network settings on the receiver can sometimes restore connectivity.

Remote Control Issues

Is your Onkyo TX-NR686 remote control unresponsive? Begin with the simplest solutions: replace the batteries with fresh ones, ensuring correct polarity. Verify there’s a clear line of sight between the remote and the receiver’s IR sensor – obstructions can interfere with the signal.

Try resetting the remote by removing the batteries for several minutes, then reinserting them. If you’re using a universal remote, confirm it’s programmed correctly for Onkyo devices, referencing the universal remote’s manual for specific codes.

Within the receiver’s settings, check if the remote control function is enabled. A software glitch might require a receiver reset to factory defaults. If the issue persists, consider downloading the Onkyo Controller app as a temporary remote solution while investigating further.

Onkyo’s Legacy in Hi-Fi Equipment

Onkyo’s 70-year Hi-Fi expertise fuels innovation, exemplified by models like the A-9150 and archival speakers D-045 and D-175, delivering exceptional audio.

Onkyo’s History and Innovation

Onkyo’s journey began in 1946, pioneering audio technology and establishing itself as a leader in Hi-Fi equipment. From its early days crafting radio receivers, the company consistently pushed boundaries, embracing new technologies and refining audio reproduction. This dedication led to the development of innovative amplifiers, speakers, and eventually, advanced home theater receivers like the TX-NR686.

Throughout the decades, Onkyo focused on delivering immersive and high-fidelity sound experiences. They were early adopters of digital audio formats and continually invested in research and development. This commitment is evident in their use of advanced digital amplification and filtering technologies, as seen in models like the TX-RZ3100.

Onkyo’s legacy isn’t just about technology; it’s about a passion for music and a dedication to crafting products that enhance the listening experience. Their archival models, such as the D-045 and D-175 speakers, demonstrate a commitment to quality and enduring design principles that continue to influence their modern offerings.

Comparison with Other Onkyo Receivers (TX-RZ3100, TX-RZ740)

The TX-NR686 occupies a sweet spot within Onkyo’s receiver lineup, offering a balance of features and performance. Compared to the TX-RZ3100, the 686 delivers substantial value, though the RZ3100 boasts higher power output and more advanced digital amplification. The RZ3100, priced at $650, provides 165 watts per channel and extensive wireless capabilities.

Stepping up to the TX-RZ740 unlocks even greater sonic fidelity and immersive experiences. The RZ740 elevates both sound quality and user experience, featuring a more robust power supply and refined processing. While the 686 excels in delivering 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X support, the RZ740 pushes these capabilities further.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. The TX-NR686 provides an excellent foundation for a home theater, while the RZ3100 and RZ740 cater to enthusiasts seeking uncompromising performance.

Archival Models: D-045 and D-175 Speakers

Onkyo’s legacy in Hi-Fi extends beyond current receivers, encompassing a rich history of speaker design. The D-045, a traditional two-way bookshelf speaker with a port, represents Onkyo’s commitment to acoustic clarity and balanced sound reproduction. Similarly, the D-175, another two-way bookshelf design featuring a port, aimed to deliver detailed audio with enhanced bass response.

These archival models, while no longer in production, demonstrate Onkyo’s enduring principles of quality craftsmanship and sonic accuracy. They showcase the company’s dedication to creating speakers that complement their receivers, fostering a cohesive listening experience.

Though designed for different eras, both the D-045 and D-175 embody Onkyo’s core philosophy: delivering immersive and engaging audio to music enthusiasts. They stand as testaments to Onkyo’s 70-year history of innovation in Hi-Fi equipment.