Occasionally, you discover hidden treasures, even if they don’t catch your eye immediately. It’s quite common for individuals to discard unwanted items on the street for others to pick up. Frequently, these consist of books or outdated DVDs.
In the instance of a Reddit gamer, he might have encountered a little treasure trove. Historical-Big4593 came across two electronic devices left by the roadside: a PC and an AV receiver.
Historical-Big4593 is primarily interested in the PC and thus queries the subreddit r/pcmr: “Should I take it?”
The community responds quickly. The top-rated comment pertains to the receiver positioned atop the PC tower.
A commenter replies just below:
Right?! It’s likely worth more than the computer.
What type of receiver is that?
Let’s delve deeper. What sort of receiver is this? Our investigation has identified the dusty gadget on the computer as an Onkyo TX-SR502.
- The Onkyo TX-SR502 was a reliable home theater receiver in the mid-2000s.
- Its advantages include 6.1-channel connectivity, fine-tuning capabilities, and a superb remote control.
- Its drawbacks are that it is only appropriate for small spaces and lacks on-screen menus.
- CNET had a favorable impression of the device in a 2004 assessment.
Technical specifications
- Channels: 6.1-channel AV receiver
- Power: around 75 W per channel at 8 Ω (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
- Audio formats: Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, Dolby Pro Logic II/IIx, DTS, DTS-ES, DTS Neo:6, DTS 96/24
- DACs: 96 kHz / 24-bit across all channels
- Video: 2x component video inputs (HDTV-ready, 50 MHz), composite & S-video
- Audio inputs: 4 digital inputs (3x optical, 1x coaxial), several analog inputs including 5.1 analog input
- Subwoofer output: Yes, with an adjustable crossover frequency (60/80/100/120/150 Hz)
- Radio: AM/FM tuner featuring 30 presets
- Technologies: WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology), CinemaFILTER, Pure Audio Mode
- Dimensions: 435 x 150 x 376 mm
- Weight: approximately 10.2 kg
Why the receiver is truly valuable
The receiver is at least 20 years old. Is it worth bringing it home?
Definitely! Audio equipment is known for remaining relevant for years and even decades.
- Durable: Older hi-fi equipment typically features sturdy metal casings, large heat sinks, and robust transformers. This contributes to thermal stability and resistance to wear.
- Analog: Numerous amplifiers and receivers rely on analog circuits, which tend to be less affected by software issues, firmware glitches, or obsolescence.
- No obsolescence: Smartphones and TVs often receive updates to stay current. Without these updates, technology can become outdated over time, slowing down or becoming unusable.
- Consistent standards: Connections and interfaces for audio devices rarely become obsolete. Optical inputs and outputs are utilized today in the same manner as they were 20 years ago.
Nonetheless, the receiver does not have HDMI ports. Generally, this isn’t a significant drawback, as many speakers and TVs come with optical inputs.
What is the value of the Onkyo TX-SR502? We found a used listing on <a href="https://www.fein-hifi.de/Surround-Receiver/Onkyo