Price Paid:  $750.00 from Private Sale (Demo)

Summary:
I was looking to upgrade my main HT/Music receiver after getting an HD TV for the bedroom. I'd previously been using an Onkyo 787. While I had problems with that receiver, they weren't enough to put me off the entire Onkyo Brand. I examined all the models and felt that the Onkyo SM900 was the way to go.

However I saw a used 898 Demo on Ebay for $750.00 and it was close enough for me to pick up. So I went that way instead. I don't need cable radio stations with I've HD cable that gives me 35 channels of commercial free music 24-7. Other than that feature... there's no difference between the 900 and 898.

After a month I've no complaints, noticed no problems. I'm using Ohm Walsh F's Ver.2's as my mains and they're hard to drive but the Onkyo seems up to it. I love component switchin etc. Remotes, light, easy to use etc... Dolby Prologic II is a distinct improvement when watching dated material.

Strengths:
Size, fit, finish, versatility, quality of components, remote and feature laden.

Weaknesses:
Heavy.

Similar Products Used:
Onkyo 787, Onkyo 474, Onkyo 494, JVC, Sony.

Price Paid:  $1000.00 from OneCall.com

Summary:
I like the Onkyo receivers. I was a Sony addict until two years ago when I bought the Onkyo TX-DS797. I became addicted and have now purchased the TX-DS898 for the 7.1 amp and the extra power. ( TX-DS&(& on Ebay, very reasonable ) The 898 has all of the advanced features that you could possible want. I am a Home Theater enthusiast and I love the composite to S-VHS conversion. I only wish it went to compnent like the 989 ver 2. As far as 2 channel music, I think that this receiver is one of the best that I have used. The sound is enveloping but not over done. I think that several of the reviewers here could of benefitted from the use of an EQ unit and the notorius cure that some people seem to prefer. I like my music to sound the way that is was intended. With the 898 I can hear the production differences between different producers. Very clean, very flat response. The remote is a pleasure. For the first time in years I am able to operate my entire system easily with one remote. My wife and 11 year old son can even use it. The power reserves are very impressive even with the Paradigm S 100's. They are truely "driven". I have used the Anthem MC2 amp and the Onkyo compares favorably. This amp is a great deal for the money. If you can afford it get the 989 V2 or the 5800 but if you are on a budget try the Onkyo 898. Most of you will not be dissapointed.

Strengths:
Excellent power, User friednly, Great remote.

Weaknesses:
It would be nice if all AV Receivers offered video conversion to a single component output.

Similar Products Used:
Denon 3802, Onkyo 797, Sony DA5

Price Paid:  $3600.00 from In Australia

Summary:
After many years of saving and intentionally waiting for the right time when home theatre is really in its mature stage (ie. high techs and reasonable price), I decided to invest in a HT system. Spending most of the time available on weekends listening to various brand (Amps), and impressed by them all, such as Denon, Yamaha and Sonny, I decided the Onkyo 898 would be the best investment for the next many years of late night movie entertainment.

The Onkyo 898 surpasses all other amps (in the price bracket)that I have listened to with its nice, elegant and clean front panel, 7.1 channels of equal clean power, THX certified, good selection of DSPs, Pure audio, excellent remote control and a large number of inputs. The sound is clean, full and powerful both for movie and music reproduction. My system comprised of: Pioneer 633 DVD player, Jamo Classic 10 front, Jamo D5CEN (thinking of upgrade to D8CEN)centre, Jamo D8SUR surround and Bozak souround back speakers.

I used to listen music through my H-K amps, Linn LP12 Ittok Accuphase and Dynaudio Profile 2. Now I mainly listen to DVD/CD through the Onkyo. May be I am converted??

Strengths:
Rich and clean sound quality with new high tech features for home theatre environment and music.

Excellent support/customer relation with Onkyo reps here in Brisbane

Weaknesses:
Base management. and an unknown problem with DSP chip (sound distorted on one of the DSP settings at high level)but not yet known. Onkyo happily replaced another one straight away. I am happy.

Price Paid:  $1389.00 from Computer City

Summary:
I own this receiver for one month. I couldn't be happier.

This outstanding receiver plays lively music that is natural and warm sounding. It produces an impressive sound stage with a remakable separation of different sounds that sound realistic.

This receiver is easy to setup in its Basic Menu mode and has an Advanced Menu mode with features for those that like to fiddle. It has enough inputs and outputs for the future expandibility of a growing Home Theatre system.

For watching DVD movies, the excellent CINEMA sound modes for DD PL II 5.1, DTS 5.1/6.1 ES, and THX 7.1 all sound great. I have used all of them depending on the DVD source material. The sound separation of the special effects is very dynamic when sent in different directions to the front, surround, and surround back speakers. I have watched Jurassic Park and nearly jumped from my seat when the T-Rex snuck up growling out of nowhere in one scene. The sound effects were that believable.

For 2 channel source material I like to use the DD PL II sound. I like listening to the Barbara Streisand IMPRESSIONS CD. It sounds so warm and real like she is in the room with you singing, what a voice, simply marvelous, the music sound too is very warm, natural, and remarkably reproduced, simply marvelous.

The DSP sound modes are very interesting and sound good too, depending on the source material. You have to match them up with the source material to get the greatest benefit. I prefer to use the DD PLII music mode for everything musical. It makes it easier for me and sounds fantastic.

The remote is easy to use. I like the center button. It is similar to a computer mouse for selecting the on screen display menu items.

The front panel display is clear and precise showing the input component you have selected and the volume. It can be changed on-the-fly to display the sound mode that is currently selected.

This receiver remembers the sound mode that you have selected separately for each component making it easier for you when you switch between different components. The sound modes can also be pre-configured depending on your taste.

There are more great features about this receiver that I would need more room than is available here to describe. However, you can tell by my review that I am immensely satisfied with this receiver.

This Onkyo TX-DS898 receiver's build quality, its feat

Strengths:
Remarkable Sound Quality and Power in all the music and cinema sound modes in for DD PLII, DTS 5.1/6.1 ES, THX 7.1

Weaknesses:
Remote doesn't have memory setup for AM/FM presets (minor problem)

Similar Products Used:
HK AVR 520

Price Paid:  $999.00

Summary:
I believe this is one of the best receivers available for the price. I auditioned Denon and Harman Kardon before I decided to go along with this. Ofcourse the snob faced people at hi-end equipment stores refused to admit the existence of the Onkyo brand. But thats probably cuz they dont sell it. It has all the features that you would pay atleast 1000 more for in other brands. As for the price of 999, dont ask me how I got it. Lets just say that I am a good price negotiator :)
I do like the new Dolby PLII mode and it does breathe life into most TV programs and video tapes.
But as for Dolby Digital and DTS, it just blows your mind. I am able to hear the slightest details with no problems. I have watched Gladiator, Fast and Furious on this and I think the sound quality is exceptional and is atleast as good if not better than Denon.
I am using a pair of KEF Q90 speakers for the front Left and Right, Bose 301s for the rear, and a JBL center. (Yes, I need to get a matching center, but I cant find anyone who is selling a old center speaker that goes with this setup).
The stereo mode is also very good and I am very pleased with the performance, ofcourse this is partly due to my KEF speakers which I could never justify getting rid of even though they are 7 years old.
I would recommend this receiver to anyone without hesitation. And dont get fooled by salesmen from certain stores who say it is better to buy Denon. Atleast give this receiver a try and I am sure u will go for it.
Hopefully soon I will hook my receiver with a pair of Martin Logans for the front and move the KEFs to the back so I can enjoy the all channel stereo during parties.

Strengths:
Very good sound and great value for price

Weaknesses:
Heats up a bit

Similar Products Used:
Harman Kardon AVR 70 - I still like it but it isn't DTS compatible so use it in my bedroom and will never sell it. I dont think anything beats this old receiver in stereo mode.