Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)***Update added on 03MAR2011***
First, let me say that I am by no means an expert "audiophile", but I did a lot of research before deciding on the Onkyo HT-S3300. I purchased it through Tiger Direct as Amazon would have it, then not have it and state "This item has not yet been released". Anyway, the first thing I noticed is the box is labled HT-S3300(B) and does state for Blu-ray. Not sure if any other 3300 models exist but this is the one I received. Now, for the review:
The receiver is a REPEATER...not pass through. I also called Onkyo tech support prior to delivery and a courteous and professional lady stated all 2010 models are now REPEATERS. So, for some prior models (3200, 5200) you don't need a seperate audio cable (this of course is a personal preference, if you choose, for the 2010 models, or based upon the types of cables you presently have). Audio and video is done via HDMI. It is also HDMI 1.4a(supporting 3D video and Audio Return Channel) (per Onkyo description). As this could create confusion for some (it did for me) I needed to verify the receiver is a repeater. The wording on many electronics' product descriptions (Sony is guilty, too) is unclear. Make sure you do your research since you plan on spending your money and know and learn a little about what you are purchasing.
Set up was about 30-45 min (reading and learning manual). Each of the speaker wires provided are color coded for easy hook up. Now, in the process of research I learned about gauge size. The ones provided do appear very thin, but I did a quick hook-up and will replace the the wires with a 14 or 16 guage.
Every piece of equipment provided is black and nicely put together. For some, aesthetics are very important...for others, sound and functionality. I tend to lean towards the latter.
I learned in my searching process a bit more about Dolby 5.1 and 7.1 channels. Size and space play an important role in the proper utilization of either. This is subjective but I believe there is some merit to it. I live in a basement apartment which is the full length of the house, front to back. No walls and of a long rectangular shape. 7.1 would not, I believe, have been much of a benefit so I opted for 5.1. NO REGRETS.
The subwoofer is HUGE. Even Sarah Palin could see this when she looks out her window (sorry Russia). It packs a punch. One thing I must add is the wires for the surround speakers are long, but won't not work for my setup (carpet is pretty much attached to the floor and cannot be altered). I will make the surround wireless (purchased Rocketfish Wireless HD Audio Starter Kit: model RK-RBKIT) and waiting on delivery. More on that later.
There are 3 HDMI in jacks and 1 HDMI out. There are also Digital IN Coaxial and Optical jacks...Component and Composite jacks, etc. The Ipod dock (UP-A1) is optional. Be sure to review the photo of the back of the receiver in the product description above.
My components: LG 47" HDTV, PS3, Roku and Apple TV.
This newer model does offer on screen setup(through your TV), but it will only work when hooked up via HDMI.
I have the volume set below 20 and it was plenty loud. Remember, my description of my apartment and setup will be different from others so, for my present situation, it works wonderfully. I haven't tried the a Blu-ray movie yet so I will update on that when I do.
There are many presets so you will have to play around for what works for you and your setup. I will refrain from listing Pro's and Con's as that too, is subjective for some and sometimes results from after purchase, not before. Suffice to say I am very happy with my HT-S3300.
Please feel free to ask questions and I will do my best to answer or provide alternate suggestions or websites if I don't know or am not sure.
Enjoy! M
Update: Remember, on the PS3 if you are using a digital optical cable, the setting should be Bitstream. If you are using HDMI, set it to LPCM. Since I am using HDMI the setting is LPCM. Played about 10 minutes of Speed Racer on Blu-ray...SWEEEEEEET!!! Sound is flawless.
Update 04/14/2010...Purchased 16 gauge wire and swiped connections on front and center speakers and subwoofer. Still waiting on Rocketfish for wireless HD. I believe I can notice a difference from the Onkyo supplied wires. I also feel a bit more comfortable since the 16 gauge is thicker.
VERY IMPORTANT: Make sure when you change your hookups you must remember to go into the menu and make the changes as well.
Note: Some have inquired about the subwoofer which is passive (not self powered) and also about active subwoofers. The passive subwoofer supplied with the 3300 is, in my opinion, plenty strong. I did a bit more research into this and there appears to be a 50/50 split. I reviewed opinions etc., and weeding out the comments that try to be expert but only provide one line responses it appears that there are pluses and minuses for each. Again, it is subjective and boils down to your personal preference. I also called Onkyo tech support to inquire about future upgrades for the 3300 and the pleasant gentleman responded that if I wanted to upgrade the subwoofer I would probably need to purchase a new system. I am ok with that because he also reminded me this an entry level system. Entry level or not, the 3300 is plenty powerful for my needs but please share your comments to help others decide on possibly the 3300, 5300 or other type system. Try not to get too caught up in the ongoing, neverending debate. Go with what you like...not matter what your ears will love you for it.
Update 04/15/10...Just for kicks, I unhooked all HDMI's and used my HDMI switcher hooked into CBL/SAT. Every thing worked fine. Video and sound played without issue.
Rocketfish HD Wireless Kit arrived and is now hooked up with the surround speakers. Took a few minutes to hook wires and speakers up. Since it is a Kit it is preconfigured in the factory so you just hookup, plug in and go. Comes with a remote for volume control, on/off, bass, mute, input of A/B speakers. Watching Watchmen(Blu-ray) and sounding pretty nice. Have to remeasure since surround speakers are now behind me.
The Slim PS3's support HD decoding in both LPCM and BITSTREAM. The Fat PS3's(like mine) can only support HD decoding in LPCM, but not in BITSTREAM. My situation leans toward having the PS3 handle the decoding (set to PCM, via HDMI) instead of the receiver. Keeping in mind my receiver will show "MCH PCM 5.1." This in no way indicates there is a problem since it does not show "DOLBY D or DTS-HD MA." One thing I have noticed in this whole experience is many people think their receiver or PS3 is acting up (which is the case sometimes). Since the PS3 is doing the work, it takes the credit. If you choose to let the receiver do the decoding, it will show Dolby or DTS. Also, you MUST remember to go into the setup of your Bluray or DVD menu and verify audio format. Don't rely on the system to do that for you. This, too, may cause some distress if not checked.
It never occurred to me I may need a check list before watching a movie.
Update 05/27/2010...It's been about six weeks and I have nothing but continued praise for this system. The wireless speaker kit (Rocketfish) works very well with this system, so that also gets some well deserved kudos. No audio or picture issues to report. One minor quib is acutally pointed at the remote...universal remote. I have the Logitech Harmony 550 and transferring commands from the Onkyo remote will require patience and planning. What minor commands I do have set up work as expected. In all, not one regret with my Onkyo purchase.
Update 03/03/2011...Well, it has been almost a year and I am as content and satisfied with the HTS3300 today as I was then. I have since upgraded my PS3 (fat to slim, Nov. 2010) and did have two or three "where did the sound go" moments. I figured since I am using the Bitstream setting in the Slim, that may or may not be the cause. Sony, Sony, Sony... Further research (avsforums, audioholics, bluray.com) into this has been interesting. Some state it does not matter whether LPCM or Bitsream on the slim; that it is preference oriented. Others have stated the warning is for audio optical cable set up, not HDMI. Since the warning makes no reference to cable type I can't say if it is. The dropouts are extremely rare, however, and it has actually been "dropout" free since. Regardless, I believe the "But..." was somehow missed when Sony chose the "IT ONLY DOES EVERYTHING(tm)" slogan. All joking aside, Sony should be clearer on that option. Prior to that, I had not experienced any audio issues.
I continue to be regret free with my choice. Do I still recommend the HTS3300? Heck yeah! Is it an overall great intro HTIB system? Personally, yes and then some. Price, feature set, sound quality, hook ups, brand name...not one regret.
Cheers...M
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Onkyo HT-S3300 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver and Speaker Package (Black)If you're looking for a future-ready receiver-and-speaker package that won't break the bank, your search may be over. Meet Onkyo's 5.1-channel HT-S3300—a system packed with so much advanced technology that it redefines entry-level home theater. As with every A/V receiver in Onkyo's 2010 line-up, you get the latest iteration of HDMI—version 1.4. Three HDMI inputs let you hook up, say, your Blu-ray player, game console, and cable/satellite box—all of which can be output via a single cable to your connected high-res display. Not only is HDMI 1.4 compatible with next-generation 3D video, it also enables a convenient Audio Return Channel. On top of this, the HT-S3300 supports lossless HD audio formats from Dolby and DTS—previously the domain of mid-range to high-end receivers only. But that's not all. The HT-S3300 also provides an overlaid On-Screen Display function for easy adjustment of settings; a Universal Port for one-cable connection of peripherals; Audyssey equalization; four gaming audio modes; and a fully immersive, beautifully balanced 5.1-channel speaker set.
Click here for more information about Onkyo HT-S3300 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver and Speaker Package (Black)
