Onkyo is known and loved for their quality entry-and-mid-level receivers. In fact, Onkyo was first to market with receivers capable of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio in the TX-NR905 and TX-SR875. While the THX-certified Onkyo TX-SR575 ($399) isn't unbelevably feature-rich--and we wouldn't expect it to be at this price--for a bargain receiver, it performs like an absolute champ. The receiver produces 7 channels of audio at a rated 75 Watts per channel, and while this won't be enough for large speakers that require more power punch, small to medium speakers will have plenty of oomph, which is probably what will be connected to a receiver like this anyway. (Audiophiles with big, expensive and power-hungry speakers are going to opt for a higher-end receiver or a separate amp and pre/pro.) The receiver includes a more bare-bones version of Audyssey MultEQ, Audyssey 2EQ, which optimizes receiver function for better sound. While Audyssey MultEQ measures sound from six different sitting positions in the room, Audyssey 2EQ only measures from two positions in the room (the more advanced MultEQ XT takes up to eight measurements). The feature still enhances sound dramatically from the listening positions, and is perfect for a receiver of this price point.

Audio performance is really quite good. While you won't get that rich, warm sound that makes you tingle all over that you do with a more expensive models, you will get decent bass reproduction, a spacious soundfield, and a straightforward sound that is never fatiguing, even at higher volumes. You may have to adjust the volume controls slightly for quieter, less explosive soundtracks, but that's a minor quip. The TX-SR575 is Onkyo's first to be both Sirius and XM-ready, providing you instant access to oodles of great music, providing you add the appropriate satellite radio antenna.

For video, you get HDMI 1080p passthrough video switching and three component video inputs, among other non-HD inputs. There isn't a heck of a lot of video processing going on at this level, but you do get component video upconversion. High-def material consistently dazzled and the receiver has no significant problems handling challenging source material.

High Points
• This receiver has very good audio performance for the money, with deep bass and a pleasant sound that is better than comparably priced receivers.
• Video images are clear and bright through the TX-SR575, especially HD sources.
• While the unit is not feature-rich, it does have some nice enhancements, such as Audyssey 2EQ and both Sirius and XM capability.

Low Points
• Power is only 75 Watts per channel, which is about average for the price, but means that larger floorstanding speakers won't have enough power to operate to their full potential. We recommend using this receiver with a small to medium sized speakers.
• The receiver has no onscreen menus, meaning you will have to use the front panel or remote to input commands, which can be tedious.

Conclusion
Users looking for a super-flexible receiver that will drive large, high-end speakers should look elsewhere, this is not the receiver for you. If you are looking for a budget or entry-level receiver to run small to medium sized speakers, the Onkyo TX-SR575 is a wonderful option. It offers a decent amount of connectivity and a few nice features, but the audio performance is where it really shines.