As the first installment of its 2009 product line-up, Onkyo has introduced three new home theater receivers, including the world’s first to offer Dolby’s new ProLogic  processing – which can produce sound effects above the listener’s head. These models, which range in price from $299 to $599, also include processing from Dolby, DTS, Audyssey and Faroudja. The TX-SR607 features six HDMI inputs, and is the first AV receiver we’ve seen with a front-panel HDMI input.

With the debut of the new TX-SR607 receiver, Onkyo says they have the distinction of becoming the world’s first manufacturer to launch a 7.2-channel home cinema receiver featuring the all-new Dolby Pro-Logic IIz mode.  DPL IIz introduces a vertical aspect to the sound field through the addition of left and right-channel front height speakers mounted above the main speakers. Based on the initial positive reactions to demonstrations of this technology to dealers, Onkyo anticipates good demand for expanded height channel capabilities in future models. These new models are well equipped for all types of HD audio and video source components, with HDMI repeaters plus Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio processing in the TX-SR607 and TX-SR507. The entry-level TX-SR307 has HDMI pass-through switching on three inputs, while all three models support 1080p, Deep Color, and x.v.Color.  The Onkyo TX-SR607 and TX-SR507 are the first to use the company’s new proprietary rear-panel universal port, which simplifies the connection for Onkyo’s forthcoming HD Radio Tuner and iPod Dock that will be available in late spring. The 5.1-channel TX-SR307 and TX-SR507 have 65- and 80-watts per channel amplifiers respectively, while the 7.2-channel TX-SR607 is rated at 90 watts per channel, has dual subwoofer line-outputs, upconverts all analog sources to HDMI via Faroujda DCDi technology, and is Sirius Satellite Radio ready.

The Onkyo TX-SR307 and TX-SR507 will be available in March, and the TX-SR607 in April with suggested retail prices of $299, $399, and $599 respectively.