Examining the world of the best Onkyo AV receivers in 2024 reveals a fusion of cutting-edge technology and superb audio performance. As a hands-on enthusiast, I’ve thoroughly researched the best Onkyo receivers to assist you in selecting the best models for your home audio system. Join me in this journey of revealing the greatest Onkyo home theater receivers that can suit your specific needs.
What is the Best Onkyo Receiver?
When it comes to AV receivers, Onkyo is always worth mentioning. Here are the best Onkyo AV receivers that we will cover in this article:
- Onkyo TX-NR6100 – Best Overall Onkyo Home Theater Receiver
- Onkyo TX-RZ50 – Best Onkyo Receiver for Audiophiles
- Onkyo TX-SR393 – Best Budget Onkyo Home Theater Receiver
- Onkyo TX-NR797 – Best Onkyo AV Receiver for Connectivity
- Onkyo TX-NR5100
In the table below, you can compare these models at a glance:
| Aspect | TX-NR6100 | TX-RZ50 | TX-SR393 | TX-NR797 | TX-NR5100 | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channels | 7.2 | 9.2 | 5.2 | 9.2 | 7.2 | RZ50 & NR797 |
| Video Pass-Through | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz | 4K/60Hz | 4K/60Hz | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz | NR6100 & RZ50 & NR5100 |
| HDR Support | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision | HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision | HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision | HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision | NR6100 & RZ50 |
| Power Output (W) | 100 per channel | 120 per channel | 80 per channel | 100 per channel | 80 per channel | RZ50 |
| HDMI Inputs | 6 | 7 | 4 | 7 | 6 | RZ50 & NR797 |
| Audio Formats Supported | Dolby Atmos, DTS, THX Certified Select | Dolby Atmos, DTS, Auro-3D, IMAX Enhanced, THX Certified | Dolby Atmos, DTS | Dolby Atmos, DTS, THX Certified | Dolby Atmos, DTS | RZ50 |
| Streaming Services | Spotify, Amazon Music HD, TIDAL, Deezer, TuneIn, Pandora, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, DTS Play-Fi, Sonos | Spotify, Amazon Music HD, TIDAL, Deezer, TuneIn, Pandora, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, DTS Play-Fi, Sonos | Bluetooth | Spotify, Amazon Music HD, TIDAL, Deezer, TuneIn, Pandora, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, DTS Play-Fi, Sonos | Spotify, Amazon Music HD, TIDAL, Deezer, TuneIn, Pandora, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, DTS Play-Fi, Sonos | Tie (except SR393) |
| Voice Control Support | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa | None | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa | Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa | Tie (except SR393) |
| Apple AirPlay 2 Support | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Tie (except SR393) |
| Room Calibration | AccuEQ with AccuReflex | Dirac Live, AccuReflex | AccuEQ | AccuEQ with AccuReflex | AccuEQ with AccuReflex | RZ50 |
| Price (July 2024) | $799.99 | $1599.99 | $399.99 | $999.99 | $469.00 | SR393 (Budget) & NR6100 (Value-for-Money) |
Moving forward, we’ll get into the details of each model. But for now, let’s get familiar with Onkyo.
The Legacy of Innovation: Tracing the Evolution of Onkyo AV Receivers
Onkyo was founded in Osaka, Japan, in 1946. Since then, the company has always been a leading and pioneering brand in producing audio devices. From their amplifiers in the 1970s to the innovation of high-quality cassette decks, M-series amplifiers, and classic turntables in the 1980s, Onkyo has made significant strides. They entered the home theater market in the 1990s and have been an innovative brand in this market since day one.
To showcase their power in delivering modern, high-power video processing capabilities, Onkyo introduced Wide Range Amplifier Technology (WRAT) along with 4K scalers in 2012. By checking out the way Onkyo systematically numbers its models (from 300 to 3000), you can see that there’s a model for every person with any budget and expectations.
Onkyo’s efforts continue as they equip their AV receivers with modern features such as AccuEQ Advance and AccuReflex for calibration and dynamic range management, keeping their audiophile and home theater lover customers satisfied.
What Happened to Onkyo in 2022?
Unfortunately, after facing several financial challenges, this popular brand filed for bankruptcy in May 2022. However, despite the setbacks, Onkyo continues its legacy under the joint venture of VOXX International and Sharp Corporation. Sharp manages manufacturing while VOXX handles distribution, marketing, sales, and development.
Thanks to the cooperation between Sharp and VOXX, we can feel Onkyo’s presence in the market with new products. For instance, the Onkyo TX-8470 is a brand-new 2-channel receiver that was introduced in May 2024. Onkyo still provides customer service for its products and aims to maintain its well-known position in the home theater market.
The Best Onkyo AV Receivers for 2024
Onkyo TX-NR6100 – Best Overall Onkyo Receiver
Offering the ideal balance of power and elegance, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 is a marvel in the world of AV receivers. Its streamlined, contemporary design is intended to provide an unmatched audio-visual experience, not merely for aesthetics. This model stands out as the top choice for all home theaters, particularly for individuals seeking a receiver that performs exceptionally well in both music and movie playback.
The TX-NR6100 is a technologically advanced device that supports the most recent audio and video formats. It is future-proof due to its support for both 4K/120p and 8K/60p video pass-through, guaranteeing that your home theater system will be at the forefront for many years to come.
This device supports HDR10+, a technology that optimizes brightness, contrast, and color levels scene-by-scene. It is much more effective than HDR10, which is particularly evident when you’re watching visually appealing movies like Avatar by James Cameron. The inclusion of this technology makes this device the best Onkyo receiver, striking a balance between price and performance.
Technical Specs
- 7.2 channels
- 8K/60p and 4K/120p video pass-through
- THX Certified Select
- Six HDMI inputs, two outputs
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Advanced video support
- User-friendly interface
- Supports HDR10+
Cons
- Potentially overwhelming for smaller setups
- Higher price point
Onkyo TX-RZ50 – Best Onkyo Receiver for Audiophiles
The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is designed for the ultimate audio enthusiast who expects nothing less than the finest. It’s an audio masterpiece, not just an AV receiver. The TX-RZ50 is ideal for those who value quality above all else. It stands out for its power production and great attention to detail. With capabilities like Auro-3D and IMAX Enhanced, the TX-RZ50 delivers the movie theater experience into your home. With its compatibility with 8K video, you can be confident that the visuals will be just as amazing as the sounds.
Onkyo’s solution for home theater fans and audiophiles looking for superior performance is the TX-RZ50. Even the most demanding setups may benefit from the strong and immersive audio experience that this 9.2-channel receiver offers. It is an exceptional alternative because of its sophisticated room calibration and abundance of connectivity possibilities.
In addition to its high power output, advanced audio support, and HDR support, another thing that sets this device apart from the other models introduced in this article, is the Dirac Live calibration technology integrated in RZ50. Dirac Live is one of the most advanced technologies I’ve seen on an AV receiver, it lets you control everything, you can literally address every acoustic issue and go beyond basic equalization.
Technical Specs
- 9.2 channels
- Power Output: 120 Watts per channel
- 8K video support
- IMAX Enhanced, Auro-3D
- HDMI Inputs: 7
- 4K/8K HDR Pass-through
- THX Certified
- Supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D
- Streaming Services: Chromecast built-in, DTS Play-Fi, and more
Pros
- Superior sound quality
- High power output suitable for larger rooms
- Advanced room calibration for optimal audio quality (Dirac Live)
- Extensive feature set
- Extensive connectivity options
- Durable build quality
- THX Certification ensures cinema-quality sound
Cons
- Higher price range
- May be too advanced for casual users
Onkyo TX-SR393 – Best Budget Onkyo Home Theater Receiver
The Onkyo TX-SR393 is proof that premium sound doesn’t necessarily have to cost a lot of money. The TX-SR393 is a wise choice for people who want to buy a budget-friendly receiver that provides excellent functionality. It works especially well in smaller spaces or for individuals who are just beginning to install home entertainment systems. The TX-SR393 is reasonably priced without sacrificing functionality. Dolby Atmos and 4K HDR pass-through are two amazing features that this model brings to the table to prove that it’s equipped with premium audio.
Technical Specs
- 5.2 channels
- 4K HDR pass-through
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Good quality audio for its class
- Compact and user-friendly
Cons
- Limited connectivity options
- Less suitable for larger, more complex setups
Onkyo TX-NR797 – Best Onkyo AV Receiver for Connectivity
The Onkyo TX-NR797 stands out as the best choice for anyone needing a receiver that can handle various devices in a world where connectivity is essential. This model is ideal for electronic aficionados who own many devices with HDMI ports, such as gaming consoles and streaming devices, since it is equipped with many HDMI ports.
The TX-NR797 offers outstanding audio performance in addition to connectivity. It ensures your connected devices sound as amazing as they appear with compatibility for several high-definition audio formats and THX Certified Select sound.
Technical Specs
- 9.2 channels
- THX Certified Select
- Multiple HDMI inputs with 4K/60p support
Pros
- Excellent connectivity options
- High-quality audio output
- Versatile and future-proof
Cons
- Slightly higher price due to advanced features
- May require more setup time due to numerous inputs
Onkyo TX-NR5100
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 is proof of the company’s dedication to fusing cutting-edge technology with premium audio. Those looking for a receiver that strikes a balance between affordability and performance will love this 7.2 channel model. It’s a great choice for a home entertainment setup as it has the capability to support the latest audio and video formats.
Technical Specs
- Channels: 7.2
- Power Output: 80 Watts per channel
- HDMI Inputs: 6
- 4K/8K HDR Pass-through
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- Streaming Services: Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify, Amazon Music, and more
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Supports the latest audio and video formats
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
- Robust streaming capabilities
Cons
- Limited Zone 2 capabilities
- Some users may find the power output insufficient for larger rooms
Comparing Onkyo Receivers with Other Leading Brands
About AV receivers, Onkyo is a titan in the industry. How do their performance levels stack up against leading manufacturers such as Sony, Yamaha, and Denon? Now let’s examine them side by side.
Onkyo vs Denon
- Sound Quality: Onkyo focuses on a dynamic and powerful sound profile, excellent for gaming and movies. Denon is favored by audiophiles for a more natural, balanced sound in music.
- Features: Denon receivers, though slightly more expensive, include extra features like HEOS multi-room audio technology.
- User Experience: Onkyo is a superior option for those valuing simplicity, known for a straightforward user interface.
Onkyo vs. Yamaha
- Reliability: Onkyo rivals Yamaha with strong build quality and first-rate customer service.
- Sound Customization: Yamaha offers a wide range of sound customization choices, while Onkyo often provides a more “ready-to-go” sound experience.
- Price: Onkyo typically offers more affordable prices.
Onkyo vs. Sony
- Technology Integration: Sony’s AV receivers seamlessly integrate with Bravia TVs and PlayStation consoles. Onkyo is more widely compatible with various ecosystems.
- Audio Formats: Both brands support the latest audio formats, with Onkyo often adopting new technology faster.
- Design: Onkyo has a more traditional, solid aesthetic, while Sony receivers often have a more minimalistic appearance.
Why Choose Onkyo?
In the realm of music equipment, Onkyo has always been associated with excellence, and its AV receivers are no different. Here are some strong arguments for why selecting an Onkyo receiver is a smart move:
- Unmatched Audio Quality: Onkyo’s dedication ensures clear, immersive, and sharp audio for gaming, movies, or music.
- Advanced Features and Technologies: Onkyo is a leader when it comes to the adoption of modern technology. The best Onkyo AV receivers offer features such as 4K and 8K pass-through and Dolby Atmos, these two features are good enough to make us sure that Onkyo home theater receivers can create an immersive sound experience for us.
- Versatility and Flexibility: With options for any room size, speaker configuration, and budget, Onkyo has a receiver to suit your demands.
- Reliability and Durability: Onkyo receivers have a solid reputation for long-lasting performance and sturdy build.
- Excellent Community and Customer Support: Onkyo has a solid reputation for community and customer support.
Why Not Choose Onkyo?
While Onkyo receivers are well-liked, they do have certain shortcomings, just like any other device. Here are some reasons you might think twice before selecting Onkyo receivers:
- HDMI Board Issues: Common issues with signal degradation and failure in older devices may require replacements or repairs.
- Firmware Updates and Software Glitches: Updates may occasionally bring in new glitches or defects.
- Heat Management: Onkyo receivers may produce a lot of heat, especially high-power versions.
- Complexity for Beginners: Novices may find the sheer volume of functions and options daunting.
- Size and Weight: Onkyo receivers can be large and hefty, making installation and integration challenging.
- Variability in Customer Service: The level of assistance from Onkyo’s customer service may vary.
Honorable Mentions
Onkyo TX-NR6050
Deserving of praise for combining cutting-edge technology with affordability. With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatibility, 4K/8K HDR pass-through, and a user-friendly interface, this 7.2-channel receiver is a great option for movie buffs and audiophiles alike.
Also Read:
Denon AVR S760H vs Onkyo TX NR6050
Conclusion
The best Onkyo AV receivers are distinguished in the ever-evolving home audio industry by their remarkable blend of innovation and quality. Whether you’re an audiophile, a movie enthusiast, or just getting started with home theater, Onkyo has a model to suit your demands. As someone who has tested many models in this market, I admit that Onkyo home theater receivers are able to provide users with mesmerizing sound.
FAQs
What distinguishes Onkyo radios from other brands?
Onkyo receivers are well known for their strong construction, excellent sound quality, audio technology, versatile connectivity options, and budget-friendly prices, making them a preferred choice for a wide range of consumers, including music aficionados and audiophiles.
Can I watch movies and listen to music on an Onkyo receiver?
Indeed. Onkyo receivers are perfect for both music and movies, providing a rich and detailed sound experience that elevates any kind of entertainment, thanks to their compatibility with several audio formats and technologies like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
