Imagine the lights dimming and a heartbeat echoing through the air. A cinematic world unfolds before your eyes. Home theater enthusiasts dream of this experience. A quality AV receiver is key to it.
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is a reliable 7.2-channel receiver. It’s affordable and offers great sound quality. It’s perfect for those starting their home theater journey.
This receiver supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. It’s designed to enhance your audio experience. For more options, check out affordable 7.2-channel receivers online.
Key Takeaways
- The Onkyo TX-SR494 is budget-friendly and ideal for new home theater setups.
- It features a robust 7.2-channel configuration for dynamic sound performance.
- Offers Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for an engaging audio experience.
- Equipped with multiple HDMI ports and 4K support for modern video compatibility.
- Room calibration tools help optimize performance in various environments.
Introduction to Onkyo TX-SR494
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is a top pick for those on a budget who want a great home theater. It has a strong 7-channel setup with 80 watts per channel. This means you get powerful sound for movies and music.
This receiver supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, making your movies feel more real. It works with many speaker types, including height speakers. This makes your soundstage better.
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is easy to set up and works well with other systems. It has a simple interface and lots of connection options. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to improve their home entertainment without spending too much.
Key Features of the Onkyo TX-SR494
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is made to boost your home theater sound. It has great specs and new features. It’s perfect for both music lovers and movie fans.
7.2-Channel Configuration
The Onkyo TX-SR494 has a 7.2-Channel setup. This lets you create a deep and detailed sound space. It works with many speaker setups, making your audio experience better.
Power Specifications
The Onkyo TX-SR494 has strong power. It can output 80 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 160 watts at 6 ohms. This is great for medium-sized rooms and offers clear sound for movies and music.
Surround Sound Compatibility
The TX-SR494 supports many surround sound formats. It works with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. This means you can have amazing sound for movies and games, making your experience better.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Channels | 7.2-channel configuration |
| Power Output | 80W per channel at 8 Ohms, 160W at 6 Ohms |
| Frequency Range | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Surround Sound Support | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X |
| HDMI Inputs | 4 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI monitor output |
| Bluetooth Streaming | Yes, for wireless audio streaming |
Audio Quality Evaluation
The Onkyo TX-SR494 offers great audio quality, standing out in a crowded market. It has a 7.2 channel setup with dual subwoofers, making sound fuller. It also shines in Dolby Atmos, creating a three-dimensional sound experience.
Performance in Dolby Atmos
Dolby Atmos performance is top-notch with the TX-SR494. It creates soundscapes that surround you. This makes movies and music feel more real.
Sound Clarity and Detail
Reviewers love the TX-SR494 for its clear and detailed sound. It’s loud enough for rooms up to 300 square feet. The sound quality is consistent across different types of media, making it great for any home theater.
HDMI Connectivity
The Onkyo TX-SR494 offers top-notch HDMI connectivity. It’s perfect for setting up your home theater. With many HDMI ports and support for advanced video, it boosts your viewing experience.
Number of HDMI Ports
This receiver has six HDMI ports. It’s great for linking up gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. It also has an ARC-ready MAIN OUT and SUB OUT for easy video and audio transfer.
All HDMI terminals are HDCP 2.2 compliant. This means they work well with the latest content protection standards.
4K and HDR Support
The Onkyo TX-SR494 supports 4K at 60Hz pass-through and upscaling. This lets you enjoy high-quality video from compatible devices. It also supports HDR capabilities like HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision®, and BT.2020.
These features improve the dynamic range and color, making your viewing experience amazing.
Dolby Atmos Capabilities
The Onkyo TX-SR494 brings cinematic sound to your living room. It supports Dolby Atmos® and DTS:X® formats. This lets sound engineers create a 3D audio environment.
With this technology, you hear sound from all directions. It makes your home theater experience richer.
Virtualization Features
The TX-SR494 shines with its Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer. It creates a virtual surround and height effect. This means you don’t need extra height speakers.
While it improves ambient sound, adding real height speakers boosts the effect. It creates true immersive audio.
Compatibility with Height Speakers
If you want to upgrade, the Onkyo TX-SR494 works with height speakers. This lets you set up a 5.1.2 channel system. It greatly improves spatial audio.
This setup creates a richer sound environment. It’s perfect for home theater fans.
Comparative Analysis with Other Models
When looking at different AV receivers, the Onkyo TX-SR494 stands out. It’s worth comparing it to the Onkyo TX-NR696 and Denon models. This comparison shows how they differ in power and connectivity.
Onkyo TX-NR696 Overview
The Onkyo TX-NR696 has impressive specs. It offers 100W power and more HDMI ports than the TX-SR494. It has 4 HDMI inputs, while the TX-NR696 has 6, perfect for more devices.
This model’s higher price reflects its advanced features. It’s ideal for those who want the best in home theater.
Denon AVR Alternatives
Denon’s AVR-S670H is a great alternative. It has 75W power and 6 HDMI inputs, including eARC. It also has Audyssey MultEQ XT for better sound tuning.
Denon receivers are known for their quality and reliability. They often use better components. This makes Denon a top choice in the AV market.
| Model | Channels | Power Output (W) | HDMI Inputs | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onkyo TX-SR494 | 7.2 | 80W/8 Ohm | 4 | Bluetooth |
| Onkyo TX-NR696 | 7.2 | 100W/8 Ohm | 6 | Enhanced Connectivity |
| Denon AVR-S670H | 5.2 | 75W/8 Ohm | 6 | eARC Support, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Yamaha RX-V4A | 5.2 | 80W/6 Ohm | 4 | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Sony STR-DH790 | 7.2 | 90W/6 Ohm | 6 | Bluetooth |
User Interface Impressions
The Onkyo TX-SR494’s user interface is both intuitive and easy to use. It’s designed so that anyone can navigate its settings without trouble. This makes it perfect for both beginners and seasoned users.
Its display shows options clearly, making it simple to adjust audio settings or change channels. The menus are well-organized, which means you won’t get lost. This focus on ease of use shows Onkyo’s dedication to a smooth experience for everyone.
The remote control is just as straightforward, with a layout that matches the receiver’s interface. It has physical buttons for the most important functions. This makes adjusting settings quick and easy. For anyone looking for a reliable home audio system, the Onkyo TX-SR494 is a great pick.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| User Interface | Intuitive and easy to navigate |
| Menu Layout | Organized presentation of options for quick access |
| Remote Control | Simple layout with direct access to essential functions |
| Overall Usability | Designed for users of all experience levels |
Installation and Setup Process
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is made for home theater fans. It’s easy to set up, so you can start enjoying your music and movies fast. It’s designed to be simple and quick.
Wiring and Configuration
The TX-SR494 needs common audio-visual cables. It supports up to 7.2 channels, making it great for your speakers. The user manual guides you through connecting speakers and switching sources.
It’s all about making wiring simple. This way, you can get the best sound without hassle.
Remote Control and User Manual
The remote control for the TX-SR494 is very useful. It lets you access all settings easily. The user manual is detailed and helps a lot.
It covers the first setup and how to make adjustments later. With these, you can tweak your sound to perfection.
Value for Money Assessment
Looking at the Onkyo TX-SR494, its value is key for those interested. It offers great features at a good price, making it a top pick for those on a budget.
Pricing Overview
The Onkyo TX-SR494 costs about $249.00, down from $449.00. This is a 45% discount. It’s affordable and has 4 HDMI inputs and 1 output, meeting many needs.
Cost-Effective Performance
This model packs 80W of power at 6 Ohm, giving great performance for its price. People love its sound quality and how it works with different audio sources. It’s a great choice for those starting out in home theater, balancing quality and cost.
| Receiver Model | Pricing | Power Output | HDMI Inputs | HDMI Outputs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onkyo TX-SR494 | $249.00 | 80W at 6 Ohm | 4 | 1 |
| Onkyo TX-RZ50 | $999.00 | 120W at 8 Ohm | 7 | 2 |
| Onkyo TX-NR6100 | $599.00 | 100W at 6 Ohm | 6 | 1 |
User Reviews and Feedback
User reviews on the Onkyo TX-SR494 offer insights into its good and bad points. It shines in sound quality and performance. Yet, there are areas for improvement.
Common Praise
Many praise the Onkyo TX-SR494’s sound quality, even in Dolby Atmos. Its price is affordable without sacrificing performance. It’s great for powering different speaker setups, making it a hit with home theater fans.
- Exceptional sound quality, specially in Dolby Atmos settings.
- Budget-friendly pricing relative to performance.
- Versatile amplifier configuration options.
- Effective digital audio format support.
Areas for Improvement
Some feedback points out its limitations. It lacks eARC support and has fewer HDMI ports than others. Also, it only offers Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, which might not satisfy all users.
- Missing eARC support for advanced audio formats.
- Fewer HDMI ports than some competitors.
- Bluetooth is the only wireless connectivity option available.
How to Optimize Your Surround Sound Setup
To get the best surround sound, focus on speaker placement and receiver calibration. These steps will boost your audio quality and make listening more immersive.
Speaker Placement Tips
Getting your speakers in the right spot is key for great surround sound. Place them at ear level for the best sound experience. Try to form a triangle with the speakers and your listening spot. This setup helps sound reach you better and adds to the audio experience.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Put your front speakers a bit to the side of the TV.
- The center channel should be right above or below the screen.
- Surround speakers should be at 90 to 110 degrees from where you sit.
- Subwoofers work best near a wall to boost bass.
Calibrating the Receiver
Calibrating your receiver is important to match the sound with your room’s acoustics. Many receivers, like the Onkyo TX-SR494, have features like AccuEQ for this. Start by setting the subwoofer gain to 11 or 12 o’clock for the best bass.
Here are some starting points for adjustments:
| Parameter | Starting Value |
|---|---|
| Treble | +10dB |
| Bass | +2dB |
| Level | +5dB |
| Level Calibration | +4dB |
Using a 5.1.2 speaker setup can improve your surround sound. Try different audio modes for different types of content. For example, use Theater-Dimensional for movies and Studio-Mix for music. Make sure to use HDMI cables with 18Gbps data transfer to avoid audio hum.
For more tips, check out receiver calibration techniques to fine-tune your setup.
Streaming Capabilities
The Onkyo TX-SR494 has great streaming features. It lets you listen to lots of audio content easily. It doesn’t have Wi-Fi, but it has strong Bluetooth. This lets you stream music wirelessly from phones and tablets.
Bluetooth Functionality
The TX-SR494’s Bluetooth makes streaming easy. It connects to many devices without cables. This is perfect for parties or just relaxing at home.
The sound quality is top-notch. You get to enjoy your music without any hassle.
Streaming Services Compatibility
The TX-SR494 works with many streaming services. It doesn’t have Wi-Fi, but Bluetooth makes up for it. You can stream from Spotify, Apple Music, and more.
Product Longevity and Firmware Updates
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is known for its strong build and advanced features. This makes it last longer. Regular maintenance is key to keep it working well. By doing checks and cleaning often, you can make your equipment last longer.
One issue is it doesn’t have a USB port for updates. This makes it hard for users to get the latest software. You might need to find other ways to update it, as USB isn’t an option. Updates are important for new features and better performance.
The receiver has a powerful output of 160 watts per channel. It supports 4K/60p and HDR. It also plays Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for great sound. Taking care of it and keeping it updated will help it last longer. This way, your TX-SR494 will stay a key part of your home theater.
Onkyo TX-SR494 Review: Final Thoughts
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is a great pick for those looking for an affordable home theater solution. It has 7.2 channels and delivers solid sound. Plus, it’s easy to use, making it perfect for media lovers.
It has a power output of 80W/6 Ohm. This means you get great sound without spending a lot.
The Onkyo TX-SR494 has a good set of features for small setups. It supports Dolby Atmos, which adds depth to your sound. It has four HDMI inputs and one output, which is enough for many users.
It also has Bluetooth for easy wireless streaming. While it lacks Wi-Fi, it’s great for those who want a simple, quality audio experience.
In short, the Onkyo TX-SR494 is a solid choice for home audio. It offers quality sound without being too complicated or expensive. It’s perfect for those on a budget who want to improve their entertainment setup.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0NGMiuNDGI
Conclusion
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is a great choice for those starting with home theater receivers. It has efficient power handling and advanced audio technologies. It also offers a variety of connectivity options, making it appealing to new users.
This receiver is known for delivering high-quality sound. It supports formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for an immersive experience.
While it’s not as highly rated as some models, like the Onkyo TX-NR676 and TX-NR696, it’s a reliable choice. It doesn’t cost too much. It’s perfect for those who want good value and functionality without the need for advanced features.
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is ideal for improving your home entertainment without spending a lot. It’s designed for both beginners and casual users. It ensures an engaging and immersive audiovisual experience.
FAQ
What is the Onkyo TX-SR494?
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is a budget-friendly 7.2-channel AV receiver. It’s perfect for homeowners who want a great home theater experience. It has modern audio capabilities.
Does the Onkyo TX-SR494 support Dolby Atmos?
Yes, it supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound formats. This means you get immersive audio through both traditional setups and virtual height speakers.
How many HDMI ports does the Onkyo TX-SR494 have?
It has four HDMI inputs and one output. This is enough for basic home theater setups.
What are the power specifications of the Onkyo TX-SR494?
The TX-SR494 can deliver 80W per channel at 8 ohms and 160W at 6 ohms. It’s great for medium-sized rooms.
How does the TX-SR494 handle 4K video?
It supports 4K/60Hz pass-through and upscaling. This means you can stream high-quality video from compatible devices.
Can I use height speakers with the Onkyo TX-SR494?
Yes, you can add actual height speakers. This will give you true Dolby Atmos immersion.
Is the user interface easy to navigate?
Yes, the user interface is intuitive and easy to use. This makes setup and operation straightforward for users.
What streaming capabilities does the Onkyo TX-SR494 have?
It has Bluetooth functionality for wireless audio streaming. You can stream from devices like smartphones and tablets. But, it doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi.
How important is calibration for the TX-SR494?
Calibration is important to optimize sound output. It’s based on room acoustics. This enhances the overall audio experience.
What is the pricing of the Onkyo TX-SR494?
The TX-SR494 is priced around 0. It offers great value compared to similar models in its class.
How does the TX-SR494 compare to higher-end models?
The TX-SR494 is budget-friendly but has fewer features than higher-end models. For example, the Onkyo TX-NR696 has more power and HDMI ports. It’s better for demanding users.
What are the areas for improvement with the Onkyo TX-SR494?
Users say it lacks eARC support and has fewer HDMI ports than competitors. It also has limited wireless connectivity options.
