WRAT, Either this is illegal or the patent ran out.

[Seth=L]

Apparently Onkyo and Integra aren't the only ones that put WRAT on their stuff now.

http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-Precision-Audio-Digital-5-1-Home-Theatre-Amplifier_W0QQitemZ150104322975QQcategoryZ3280QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

 

[j_garcia]

Could mean they licensed the technology from Onkyo or that Onkyo supplies their amps, or even that it is an el-cheapo brand by Onkyo in other parts of the world.

 

[MDS]

While I am a fan of Onkyo equipment, I don't put much stock in patented or trademarked terms these manufacturers use to describe their version of a similar feature in other equipment.

I am rather familiar with the patent process as I have more than a few patents in my name (mostly software related). If you can show even a slight twist that differs from other approaches 'known to those skilled in the state of the art' (that's one of 3 requirements for a patent) you can patent just about anything.

 

[Audioholics]

And, if I'm not mistaken, some patents are much easier to get than others - such as "design" patents.

 

[Seth=L]

From looking at the Ebay sale it looks very much like a complete scam. I wouldn't think Onkyo would be the cheapest company to purchase parts from either. There are plenty of Chinese outfits that would be cheaper.