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Home » Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV Receiver Review: THX Certified Excellence for Home Theaters

Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV Receiver Review: THX Certified Excellence for Home Theaters

Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV Receiver Review

As you enter your home theater, excitement grows. The lights dim, and the movie starts. But first, you need the right sound to make it real. The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV Receiver is here to take your home entertainment to new heights.

Picture your favorite movies and music coming alive with clear sound and surround. The Onkyo TX-RZ50 makes this dream real. It’s a 9.2-channel THX-certified receiver that turns your living room into a movie theater.

In This Article

Key Takeaways

  • The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a feature-rich 9.2-channel AV receiver with THX certification for exceptional sound quality.
  • It offers HDMI 2.1 connectivity with support for 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video, ensuring future-proof performance.
  • The receiver boasts Dirac Live room calibration, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced support for immersive surround sound experiences.
  • With a power output of 120 watts per channel, the TX-RZ50 delivers ample power to drive a premium home theater setup.
  • Comprehensive connectivity options, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, allow seamless integration with various audio sources and smart home ecosystems.

Onkyo’s Legacy and Brand Evolution

Onkyo, a Japanese electronics company, has been around for over 70 years. It started in 1946 in Osaka. Onkyo has always been at the forefront of audio technology, making home entertainment better.

From 1940s to Modern Innovation

Onkyo started in the 1940s, making top-notch amplifiers and receivers. Over the years, it has kept up with new audio tech. It has added the latest features to its products.

The Rise of THX Certification

Onkyo’s big win was getting THX certification in 1993. THX is known for its high audio quality. This made Onkyo a leader in home theater electronics.

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 shows Onkyo’s commitment to great sound. It has THX modes for cinema, gaming, music, and surround EX. This makes the sound feel like it’s from the studio.

“Onkyo’s pursuit of high-quality audio products has been a hallmark of the brand.”

Key Features and Technical Specifications

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver is packed with features and specs, making it a top pick for home theater fans. It’s THX Certified Select, promising great sound and value.

At its core, the TX-RZ50 has a strong 9-channel amplifier. It pumps out 120 watts per channel into 8-ohm speakers. This power fills big spaces with clear, dynamic sound. It also supports up to 11.2-channel processing for deep surround sound.

Specification Value
Amplifier Channels 9
Power Output (8 ohms, 2 channels) 120W
HDMI Inputs/Outputs 7/2
HDMI 2.1 Inputs 3
Supported Video Formats 4K 120Hz, 8K 60Hz, Dolby Vision, HDR10+
Surround Sound Formats Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced
Streaming Capabilities Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi, Spotify Connect
Room Calibration Dirac Live
Dimensions (W x H x D) 17 1/8″ x 7 15/16″ x 15 11/16″
Weight 30.9 lbs

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 has lots of ways to connect, with 7 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs. Three inputs are HDMI 2.1, perfect for 4K and 8K video and HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+.

The TX-RZ50 supports the latest in audio formats. It handles Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced for an immersive sound experience at home.

Onkyo TX-RZ50 specifications

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 also has great streaming features. It includes Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi, and Spotify Connect for easy music streaming.

With its advanced specs, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a leading AV receiver for home theaters. It offers top-notch performance and value.

Design and Build Quality

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 has a sleek, modern look. It’s 17 inches wide, 7.5 inches high, and 15.5 inches deep. It weighs 30.9 lbs, making it sturdy.

The front panel is simple yet elegant. It has a clean layout and a clear display. A flip-down door hides extra buttons and ports, like a headphone jack and HDMI input.

Front Panel Layout

The Onkyo TX-RZ50’s front panel is easy to use. You’ll find volume, input, and power controls right in front of you. The display is big and clear, making it easy to see what’s happening.

Rear Connectivity Options

The back of the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is packed with options. It has 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, supporting 4K 120Hz and 8K. This means you can connect many devices without losing image quality.

Connectivity Ports Quantity
HDMI Inputs 6
HDMI Outputs 2
Analog Audio Inputs 4
Digital Audio Inputs 3
Subwoofer Pre-outs 2
Ethernet Port 1
USB Port 1

The Onkyo TX-RZ50’s design and connectivity make it a top pick for home theater fans. It’s a high-quality receiver that fits well in any entertainment setup.

HDMI 2.1 Implementation and Gaming Support

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver is a top pick for gamers and home theater fans. It supports 4K video at 120Hz and 8K video for clear visuals. This makes it perfect for an amazing viewing experience.

The receiver also has eARC support. This lets it work well with new 4K and 8K displays. It sends high-quality audio like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X from your TV to the receiver for better sound.

Gamers will love the Onkyo TX-RZ50. It has HDMI 2.1 features like VRR, ALLM, and QFT. These ensure fast, smooth gameplay for a more immersive experience.

The HDMI inputs and outputs on the TX-RZ50 are set up for the best performance. Inputs 1-3 handle 40 gigabytes per second, and inputs 4-6 handle 24 gigabytes per second. This means you get the most out of your HDMI 2.1 features, 4K 120Hz gaming, and 8K video support.

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a game-changer for home theater and gaming. It offers top-notch performance for movies, sports, and games. This receiver takes your entertainment to new levels with its stunning visuals and sound.

Audio Format Compatibility and Processing

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver is a powerhouse of audio processing. It seamlessly integrates the latest immersive audio technologies for a cinematic experience at home. This THX Certified receiver supports advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Integration

Enjoy immersive, three-dimensional soundscapes with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X on the TX-RZ50. The Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer creates virtual surround and height effects. This makes your audio experience captivating, even with traditional speaker layouts.

The DTS:X processing expands the sound field. It precisely places audio objects around you for a lifelike, immersive performance.

IMAX Enhanced Capabilities

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 enhances home entertainment with its IMAX Enhanced certification. This feature optimizes audio and video for an IMAX-like presentation. It brings the grandeur of the big screen to your living room.

The IMAX Mode on the TX-RZ50 is digitally re-mastered. It provides an awe-inspiring, theater-quality soundscape. This will transport you to the heart of the action.

With the Onkyo TX-RZ50, enjoy the most advanced audio formats. Your home theater setup will deliver an immersive and captivating experience. Whether watching the latest blockbuster or exploring music, this receiver’s audio processing will elevate your senses. It brings the magic of the cinema right to your doorstep.

Channel Configuration and Power Output

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver is a powerhouse. It offers a robust 9.2-channel setup. This can be expanded to a 7.2.4 Dolby Atmos speaker configuration. With 120 watts of power per channel at 8 ohms, it delivers an immersive audio experience.

The flexible speaker configuration of the TX-RZ50 lets you tailor your sound system. Whether for a large home cinema or a compact stereo setup, it’s perfect. The powerful amplifier section ensures your speakers are driven with authority. This provides the clarity and dynamics needed for both movie soundtracks and music playback.

Specification Value
Channels 9.2
Power Output 120W/8 Ohm, 250W/6 Ohm
Dolby Atmos Speaker Configuration 7.2.4

Whether you’re setting up an immersive surround sound or a powerful stereo system, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a great choice. Its impressive channel count and ample power output make it perfect for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.

9.2-channel setup

Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV Receiver Review: Performance Analysis

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver offers top-notch audio performance and sound quality. It scores well in receiver testing, showing a SINAD rating just above average. This means it has excellent noise and distortion levels.

It can output up to 3.5 volts, making it perfect for driving even low-gain amplifiers. This ensures clear and powerful sound.

Dynamic range and multitone tests show some minor jitter. But these are low enough not to affect the sound much. The receiver also has THX certification, which means it reproduces sound faithfully.

There are four THX listening modes for different types of content. This makes the TX-RZ50 great for any kind of audio.

Performance Metric Result
SINAD Rating Slightly above average for class
Maximum Output Voltage Up to 3.5 volts
Dynamic Range Excellent, with minimal jitter components
THX Certification Ensures faithful sound reproduction

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 also comes with Dirac Live room correction technology. This technology improves the sound across all frequencies for a better listening experience. With its advanced features and sound quality, the TX-RZ50 stands out in the high-end AV receiver market.

Room Calibration with Dirac Live

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver has advanced room calibration. It uses the Dirac Live room acoustics optimization system. This tool helps fix your home theater’s sound issues, giving you a better audio experience.

Setup Process and Configuration

Setting up Dirac Live is easy. You can use a wired microphone or a smartphone with the Dirac Live app. Or, you can use the Dirac Live PC or MacOS app with a USB microphone for better accuracy.

The calibration process is step-by-step. It lets you adjust speaker settings and fine-tune the sound to your liking. This way, your home theater sounds just right for you.

AccuEQ System Alternative

If you prefer something simpler, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 has the AccuEQ system. AccuEQ makes audio setup quick and easy. It’s perfect for those who want great sound without hassle.

“Over the last 5 years, reports of Onkyo AV receivers going into ‘protection mode’ due to continuous load at 4 ohms have been minimal, with only 1 user reporting the issue out of thousands of user postings.”

Dirac Live calibration

With Dirac Live or AccuEQ, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 makes your home theater sound amazing. It adjusts to your room’s unique sound, giving you an immersive experience.

Streaming and Connectivity Features

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver has many wireless streaming and network connectivity options. It supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi, and Spotify Connect. This makes it easy to connect with your smart devices and music services.

It also supports multi-room audio with the Sonos ecosystem. This lets you expand your home entertainment across different zones. The receiver’s Dirac Live room calibration technology improves sound quality, giving you a better listening experience.

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 also supports high-resolution audio. This means you can enjoy your music collection in the best quality. It works with popular streaming platforms, making it a complete entertainment solution for your home.

“The TX-RZ50 offers a wealth of streaming and connectivity features, making it a versatile choice for modern home entertainment setups.”

Whether you’re streaming your favorite music, discovering new tunes, or improving your home theater, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 has you covered. It offers advanced wireless streaming, multi-room audio, and network connectivity features for all your audio needs.

Multi-zone Capabilities

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver is packed with cool multi-zone features. It lets you enjoy different entertainment in various home areas at once. The Zone 2 HDMI implementation is a highlight, allowing Ultra High-Definition content viewing in a secondary room while the main theater is active.

The TX-RZ50 also offers flexible audio distribution options for a full multi-room audio setup. It’s perfect for streaming music across your home or having unique audio sources in each zone. This receiver meets your needs with its versatility.

Zone 2 HDMI Implementation

The Zone 2 HDMI feature on the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a big deal for multi-room fun. It lets you watch different 4K and 8K videos in two rooms at once. You won’t lose quality or enjoyment in either room.

Audio Distribution Options

The TX-RZ50 also has a variety of audio distribution options for a flexible multi-room audio setup. You can stream your favorite music or have unique audio in each zone. This receiver makes setting up a whole-home audio experience easy and enjoyable.

multi-room audio

“The multi-zone capabilities of the Onkyo TX-RZ50 make it an ideal choice for homeowners who want to enjoy a tailored entertainment experience in different rooms of their house.”

Feature Benefit
Zone 2 HDMI Watch different 4K and 8K video sources simultaneously in two separate rooms
Audio Distribution Options Stream music or have independent audio sources in different zones for a customized whole-home audio experience

User Interface and Control Options

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver has many ways to control it. You can use the included remote control for basic functions. But, it doesn’t have a backlit design.

The Onkyo Controller App is available for Android and iOS. It has a user-friendly interface. You can manage settings, adjust volume, and switch inputs easily.

The TX-RZ50 has a high-resolution display for on-screen navigation. It’s both informative and visually appealing. You can access many settings and options, from audio to streaming services.

Feature Description
Remote Control The included remote control provides basic functionality, allowing you to adjust volume, switch inputs, and access common features. It lacks a backlit design, which may be less convenient in dimly lit environments.
Onkyo Controller App The Onkyo Controller App, available for both Android and iOS, offers a wide range of controls. You can select sources, adjust volume, and access advanced settings. Its user-friendly interface and customizable layouts make it a valuable tool.
On-Screen Display The TX-RZ50’s on-screen display is high-resolution and visually appealing. It provides easy navigation through menus and settings. The layout is well-organized, making it simple to adjust audio, access streaming services, and fine-tune performance.

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver offers versatile control options. It caters to a wide range of user preferences. This ensures a seamless and customizable experience for your home entertainment setup.

Gaming Performance and Video Processing

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver offers a top-notch gaming experience. It supports 4K 120Hz gaming, making visuals smooth on compatible displays and consoles like the PlayStation 5.

This receiver upscales video with great precision. It makes even lower-resolution content look its best. The TX-RZ50’s powerful video processing engine keeps image quality high, without frame drops or blackouts.

Whether you’re playing “God of War Ragnarok” or “Gran Turismo 7,” the Onkyo TX-RZ50 provides an amazing gaming experience. Its HDMI 2.1 features, like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), enhance performance for better gameplay.

4K 120Hz gaming

The TX-RZ50 is not just for gaming. It also supports 8K video processing, keeping your entertainment future-proof. With its advanced video upscaling and HDMI 2.1 capabilities, this Onkyo receiver is perfect for any home theater setup.

Audio Performance in Movie Playback

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 shines in movie audio. It’s THX-certified and offers a top-notch surround sound experience. It also keeps dialogue clear.

This receiver handles tough audio scenes well. It brings powerful bass to action scenes, making them feel real. The soundstage is detailed, pulling you into the movie.

It also makes dialogue clear. Whether it’s a drama or an action movie, you can hear every word. This makes following the story easy.

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 also has a clear high-frequency response. This makes soundtracks and sound effects come alive. It adds to the movie’s realism.

In short, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is great for movie sound. It offers a deep, cinematic experience. It’s perfect for those who want the best in home theater.

Value Proposition and Price Analysis

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver costs $1,599. It’s in the mid-range market. This THX-certified receiver has a great feature set for home theater fans.

It stands out with its THX certification for top-notch audio quality. The Dirac Live room calibration improves sound for your space. It also has HDMI 2.1 with 8K support for modern setups.

If you’re looking to spend $1,500 to $2,000, the TX-RZ50 is a good choice. It offers a lot for its price. But, think about what you need and compare it to others before buying.

Feature Onkyo TX-RZ50 Denon AVR-X3700H Sony STR-DN1080
Price $1,599 $1,499 $598
THX Certification Yes No No
Room Calibration Dirac Live Audyssey MultEQ XT32 DCAC-EX
HDMI 2.1 Ports 6 7 6
8K Support Yes No No
Dolby Atmos Yes Yes Yes

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 offers great value for its price. It has impressive features for a good budget. But, make sure it fits your home theater needs by comparing it with other models.

Conclusion

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver is a top pick for home theater fans. It has THX certification, Dirac Live room calibration, and lots of connectivity options. This makes it great for both stereo and home theater setups.

It scores high in design, features, value, and performance. The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is perfect for those who love great sound. Its 120-watts-per-channel amplifier and Dynamic Audio Amplification technology offer clear and immersive audio.

Even with a few minor downsides, like the remote control design, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 shines. It’s a solid choice in the mid-range AV receiver market. Its mix of features, performance, and value makes it a top pick for a home theater.

FAQ

What are the key features of the Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver?

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a top-notch AV receiver. It has 9.2 channels and supports 8K. It also has Dirac Live room calibration and supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

It has HDMI 2.1 for 8K support and lots of streaming options.

What is the power output of the Onkyo TX-RZ50?

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 can power up to 120 watts at 8 ohms. This is for two channels at once.

What are the Onkyo TX-RZ50’s streaming and connectivity features?

The TX-RZ50 has many streaming and connectivity options. It supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Airplay 2. It also works with Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi, and Sonos.

It supports high-resolution audio and has lots of online features for a great audio experience.

How does the Onkyo TX-RZ50 perform in gaming and video processing?

The TX-RZ50 is great for gaming. It offers smooth 120 Hz gameplay with compatible displays and consoles. It handles 4K 120Hz and 8K video well.

It doesn’t drop frames or blackout when switching between 60 Hz and 120 Hz in games.

How does the Onkyo TX-RZ50 perform in movie playback?

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 has powerful bass and a clear soundstage. It handles tough audio scenes well. It makes dialogue clear and high frequencies detailed, creating an immersive experience.

What are the room calibration options for the Onkyo TX-RZ50?

The TX-RZ50 has Dirac Live room calibration. You can set it up with a wired mic or a smartphone app. Or, use the Dirac Live PC or MacOS app with a USB mic.

It also has Onkyo’s AccuEQ system as an alternative to Dirac Live.

What is the value proposition of the Onkyo TX-RZ50?

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 costs

FAQ

What are the key features of the Onkyo TX-RZ50 AV receiver?

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a top-notch AV receiver. It has 9.2 channels and supports 8K. It also has Dirac Live room calibration and supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

It has HDMI 2.1 for 8K support and lots of streaming options.

What is the power output of the Onkyo TX-RZ50?

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 can power up to 120 watts at 8 ohms. This is for two channels at once.

What are the Onkyo TX-RZ50’s streaming and connectivity features?

The TX-RZ50 has many streaming and connectivity options. It supports Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Airplay 2. It also works with Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi, and Sonos.

It supports high-resolution audio and has lots of online features for a great audio experience.

How does the Onkyo TX-RZ50 perform in gaming and video processing?

The TX-RZ50 is great for gaming. It offers smooth 120 Hz gameplay with compatible displays and consoles. It handles 4K 120Hz and 8K video well.

It doesn’t drop frames or blackout when switching between 60 Hz and 120 Hz in games.

How does the Onkyo TX-RZ50 perform in movie playback?

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 has powerful bass and a clear soundstage. It handles tough audio scenes well. It makes dialogue clear and high frequencies detailed, creating an immersive experience.

What are the room calibration options for the Onkyo TX-RZ50?

The TX-RZ50 has Dirac Live room calibration. You can set it up with a wired mic or a smartphone app. Or, use the Dirac Live PC or MacOS app with a USB mic.

It also has Onkyo’s AccuEQ system as an alternative to Dirac Live.

What is the value proposition of the Onkyo TX-RZ50?

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 costs $1,599. It’s in the mid-range AV receiver market. It has THX certification, Dirac Live calibration, and lots of connectivity options.

It offers great sound quality and advanced features. But, buyers should think about its value against other receivers in its price range and their needs for a home theater setup.

,599. It’s in the mid-range AV receiver market. It has THX certification, Dirac Live calibration, and lots of connectivity options.

It offers great sound quality and advanced features. But, buyers should think about its value against other receivers in its price range and their needs for a home theater setup.