When setting up a home theater system, the AV receiver acts as the command center - handling everything from switching video sources to powering your speakers. Today we're comparing two popular options: the new JBL MA710 ($679.95) and the established Onkyo TX-NR6100 ($519.00).
Modern AV receivers have evolved significantly over the past few years. They're no longer just amplifiers with video switching - they're sophisticated entertainment hubs that need to handle 4K gaming, streaming services, and immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos (which adds height channels to create a more three-dimensional sound experience).
The biggest recent changes have been around HDMI 2.1 support (needed for next-gen gaming features) and streaming integration. Both of our contenders handle these modern needs, but with different approaches and strengths.
Let's start with the basics - how well these receivers drive speakers. The JBL MA710 delivers 110 watts per channel into 8 ohms (the standard speaker impedance), while the Onkyo TX-NR6100 provides 100 watts per channel. In real-world use, this 10-watt difference is barely noticeable - both have plenty of power for most home theaters.
However, power ratings only tell part of the story. The Onkyo boasts THX certification, which means it's been tested to meet strict standards for audio quality and performance. The JBL compensates with newer Class D amplification, which runs cooler and more efficiently than traditional designs.
This is where we see some meaningful differences. The JBL MA710, being newer (released in 2024), fully embraces HDMI 2.1 with support for:
The Onkyo, released in 2022, supports some HDMI 2.1 features but not the full suite. For most users watching movies and standard gaming, this won't matter. But if you're serious about gaming on PS5 or Xbox Series X, the JBL's fuller HDMI 2.1 support gives it an edge.
Both receivers support modern audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, allowing for immersive 3D sound with height effects. However, they approach room calibration differently:
From my experience setting up home theaters, the Onkyo's more detailed calibration can make a real difference in challenging rooms. However, the JBL's simpler approach might be preferable for users who don't want to dive deep into audio settings.
Both receivers offer extensive streaming capabilities, but with different ecosystems:
JBL MA710:
Onkyo TX-NR6100:
The Onkyo's broader ecosystem support makes it more flexible for whole-home audio setups, especially if you're already invested in platforms like Sonos or use Chromecast.
In practical use, both receivers excel at their core functions. Movie soundtracks are dynamic and engaging, music sounds clean and detailed, and both handle complex speaker setups well. The main differences show up in specific use cases:
Gaming: The JBL MA710 has an advantage with better HDMI 2.1 support Multi-room audio: The Onkyo TX-NR6100 offers more ecosystem compatibility Room calibration: The Onkyo provides more detailed adjustments Heat management: The JBL runs cooler thanks to Class D amplification
With a $160 price difference, the value equation depends on your priorities:
The JBL at $679.95 offers:
The Onkyo at $519.00 provides:
Choose the JBL MA710 if:
Choose the Onkyo TX-NR6100 if:
Both receivers are excellent choices, but they target slightly different users. The JBL MA710 is the more future-proof option with better gaming support, while the Onkyo TX-NR6100 offers better value and more extensive ecosystem integration.
For a new home theater build in 2024, I'd lean toward the JBL unless budget is a major concern. The full HDMI 2.1 support and newer technology make it more future-proof, even if you don't need those features immediately. However, if you're upgrading an existing system and don't need the latest gaming features, the Onkyo's lower price and broader ecosystem support make it a compelling choice.
| JBL MA710 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver ($679.95) | Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified AV Receiver ($519.00) |
|---|---|
| Power Output - Determines how well it can drive your speakers | |
| 110W per channel (8Ω), Class D amplification runs cooler | 100W per channel (8Ω), Traditional amplification |
| HDMI 2.1 Support - Critical for next-gen gaming and future video formats | |
| Full support on 3 inputs, includes VRR/ALLM/4K 120Hz | Limited support, basic 8K/60Hz passthrough |
| Room Calibration - Affects how well speakers sound in your space | |
| Basic EZ Set EQ system, easier to use but less adjustable | Advanced AccuEQ with more detailed adjustments |
| Audio Format Support - Important for home theater performance | |
| Dolby Atmos & DTS:X, standard processing | Dolby Atmos & DTS:X plus THX Certification |
| Streaming Features - Determines connectivity options | |
| AirPlay 2, Bluetooth aptX HD | AirPlay 2, Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi, Sonos compatible |
| Zone Control - Matters if you want multi-room audio | |
| Basic Zone 2 with limited sources | Advanced Zone 2 with independent source selection |
| Build Quality - Affects longevity and reliability | |
| 13.8 lbs, modern design with efficient cooling | 21.7 lbs, traditional design with proven reliability |
| Value Features - Extra capabilities that may matter | |
| Better gaming support, newer technology | THX certification, broader ecosystem support, lower price |
For pure home theater use, the JBL MA710 ($679.95) has a slight edge with better HDMI 2.1 support and newer processing. However, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 ($519.00) offers THX certification and more detailed room calibration at a lower price.
The JBL MA710 is superior for gaming, with full HDMI 2.1 support including VRR, ALLM, and 4K/120Hz on multiple inputs. The Onkyo TX-NR6100 has more limited HDMI 2.1 features.
The Onkyo TX-NR6100 offers better value at $519.00 compared to the JBL MA710 at $679.95. The price difference of $160 is significant unless you need the JBL's advanced gaming features.
Yes, both receivers support 7.2 channels and Dolby Atmos configurations up to 5.2.2, making them suitable for immersive audio setups.
The Onkyo TX-NR6100 has more comprehensive streaming support with Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi, and Sonos compatibility. The JBL MA710 offers basic streaming with AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth.
Yes, both support 8K video passthrough, but the JBL MA710 has more comprehensive HDMI 2.1 features across multiple inputs.
The JBL MA710 runs cooler thanks to its Class D amplification, making it better for enclosed spaces or cabinet installation.
Both receivers offer similar power - the JBL MA710 provides 110W per channel while the Onkyo TX-NR6100 delivers 100W per channel (both into 8 ohms).
The Onkyo TX-NR6100 offers more advanced room calibration with AccuEQ, while the JBL MA710 features a simpler EZ Set EQ system.
Both support Zone 2 operation, but the Onkyo TX-NR6100 offers more flexible zone control with independent source selection.
The JBL MA710, released in 2024, is more future-proof with better HDMI 2.1 support and newer technology compared to the 2022 Onkyo TX-NR6100.
The JBL MA710 has a simpler setup process and more straightforward operation, making it better for beginners, though it costs more than the more feature-rich Onkyo TX-NR6100.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - musicdirect.com - safeandsoundhq.com - bestbuy.com - bestbuy.com - puretheatre.com - crutchfield.com - mm.jbl.com - av-connection.com - electronics.woot.com - worldwidestereo.com - th.jbl.com - skybygramophone.com - bestbuy.com - avsforum.com - crutchfield.com - homecinemachoice.com - camelcamelcamel.com - onkyo.com - audioadvice.com - assets.onkyo-av.com - intl.onkyo-av.com - audioadvice.com - audiosciencereview.com - onkyo.com
