When building a home theater system in 2024, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial. Today, we're comparing two popular models from Onkyo's 2021 lineup: the TX-NR5100 ($440) and TX-NR6100 ($519). Both remain current models and competitive choices, especially given recent price adjustments from their original MSRPs.
Modern AV receivers act as the command center for your home theater, handling everything from video switching to speaker power and sound processing. They've evolved significantly in recent years, particularly with HDMI 2.1 features becoming essential for gaming and 8K video support.
Key considerations have shifted from just audio quality to include:
The TX-NR5100 delivers 80 watts per channel, while the TX-NR6100 provides 100 watts per channel. In real-world use, this 20-watt difference becomes noticeable in larger rooms or when using less efficient speakers.
What does this mean practically? In my experience testing both units:
The TX-NR6100 carries THX Certification, which means it meets specific performance standards for home theater use. While the TX-NR5100 still offers excellent audio quality, the TX-NR6100's THX certification ensures:
Both receivers support modern audio formats including:
Since their 2021 release, both receivers have proven well-equipped for modern gaming needs. They include:
The TX-NR6100 edges ahead with more HDMI inputs (6 vs 4) and better gaming-focused processing, but both handle current-gen consoles admirably.
Both receivers offer comprehensive streaming support:
The TX-NR6100's additional features include:
In practice, both receivers excel in their intended use cases. The TX-NR5100 proves more than capable for:
The TX-NR6100 shines in:
When considering value, it's important to look beyond the $80 price difference:
TX-NR5100 Value Proposition:
TX-NR6100 Advantages:
Consider these factors when choosing between the TX-NR5100 and TX-NR6100:
If the $80 difference is significant:
Both receivers represent solid choices in 2024, despite being 2021 models. The TX-NR5100 offers excellent value for most users, while the TX-NR6100 provides meaningful upgrades for enthusiasts and larger installations.
Choose the TX-NR5100 if:
Choose the TX-NR6100 if:
Both receivers continue to receive firmware updates and support modern features, making either a solid choice for a current home theater build.
| Onkyo TX-NR5100 ($440) | Onkyo TX-NR6100 ($519) |
|---|---|
| Power Per Channel - Determines how well it can drive speakers and fill larger rooms with clear sound | |
| 80W (Good for small/medium rooms) | 100W (Better for larger rooms/inefficient speakers) |
| HDMI Inputs - Affects how many devices you can connect simultaneously | |
| 4 inputs (Sufficient for basic setups) | 6 inputs (Better for complex systems) |
| THX Certification - Guarantees specific performance standards for home theater use | |
| No (Still good quality) | Yes (Verified performance at reference levels) |
| Phono Input - Required for connecting turntables directly | |
| No (Requires separate phono preamp) | Yes (Direct turntable connection) |
| Multi-zone Output - Enables audio in different rooms | |
| Basic Zone B audio only | Full Zone 2 with HDMI output |
| Power Consumption - Impacts energy bills and heat output | |
| 490W (More efficient) | 635W (Higher operating costs) |
| Dynamic Power - Affects ability to handle sudden loud sounds | |
| 160W @ 3Ω (Good for most content) | 240W @ 3Ω (Better for action movies/dynamics) |
| Weight - Consider for installation and shelf strength | |
| 18.5 lbs (Easier to handle) | 21.7 lbs (More robust build) |
| Price Premium - Value consideration | |
| Base model price point | +$80 (Worth it if you need the extra features) |
For most standard home theaters, the Onkyo TX-NR5100 ($440) provides sufficient power and features. Unless you have a large room or specific needs for extra connectivity, the base model will serve well.
The TX-NR6100 ($519) offers 100W per channel versus the TX-NR5100's 80W. This 20W difference becomes noticeable in larger rooms or with less efficient speakers.
The TX-NR6100 is better suited for larger spaces due to its higher power output (100W vs 80W) and superior dynamic power handling.
Yes, both the TX-NR5100 and TX-NR6100 support 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X configurations for immersive surround sound.
The $80 premium for the TX-NR6100 is worth it if you need the extra power, THX certification, or additional connectivity options. For basic setups, the TX-NR5100 provides excellent value.
The TX-NR5100 has 4 HDMI inputs, while the TX-NR6100 has 6. Consider how many devices you plan to connect when choosing.
Only the TX-NR6100 has a built-in phono preamp. The TX-NR5100 would require an external phono preamp for turntable connection.
Both receivers offer identical streaming capabilities, including WiFi, Bluetooth, and support for major services like Spotify and TIDAL.
Yes, both receivers support 8K/60Hz passthrough, making them ready for future video formats.
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: crutchfield.com - hifiheaven.net - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - audioholics.com - onkyo.com - support.onkyousa.com - bestbuy.com - onkyo.com - audiolab.com - support.onkyousa.com - youtube.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
