Onkyo TX-RZ50 Review

The TX-RZ50 belongs to Onkyo’s RZ series, known as one of the most serious competitors for Denon and Marantz. It seems to be another good device, but what makes it stand out among many competitors? I suggest you study my Onkyo TX-RZ50 review and decide whether you should buy this model or opt for more famous brands based on it.

Design

Differing from the design of its more budget-friendly counterpart, the TX-RZ50 front panel boasts an array of visible buttons, with certain controls, a microphone, a headphone jack, and an HDMI input. Its overall aesthetic gives a somewhat ‘boxy’ appearance. The remote accompanying the RZ50 has a lightweight design, and frankly, I would have liked it to be a bit heavier. To summarize, nothing is out of the ordinary, but the abundance of controls on the front panel is a plus.

Features and specs

The Onkyo AV receiver boasts 9 channels providing 120W (8 Ohms, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD). What sets this unit apart is its versatile configuration options and creating different configurations. There’s an 11-channel processing capability. Alternatively, built-in amplifiers facilitate configurations like 5.2.4 or 7.2.2 setups.

Equipped with 6 HDMI 2.1 ports, the receiver supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz capabilities. However, it’s important to note that a few HDMI inputs are limited to 24GB. The inclusion of eARC support enhances audio connectivity. Furthermore, the device supports HDR formats, including HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision, ensuring an immersive visual experience. Since many displays currently adhere to 4K resolution, this receiver ensures the support of higher resolutions in the future.

As for the surround sound segment opportunities, this receiver supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, expanding its horizons with IMAX Enhanced support. Notably, Onkyo stands out as the pioneer in earning THX certification, and TX-RZ50 proudly bears it.

The equipment seamlessly integrates with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 to ensure wireless connectivity. What sets this apart is the intriguing addition of AptX and AptX HD alongside the conventional SBC transmission.

Additional features you may look for are integration with Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi, and Airplay 2. However, a notable drawback is the absence of a built-in microphone for operational control. Expanding their audio system with the TX-RZ50 is an option for those who own Sonos equipment, but it’s essential to remember to acquire a Sonos port for optimal connectivity.

The TX-RZ50 specifications also include Klipsch Optimize mode and room correction can be done with Dirac Live and AccuEQ. The setup is correct and quite easy (for experienced audiophiles). However, novice users may have some problems.

I would like to say a few words about the device’s cooling. Everything works quietly, without extraneous hums and noises. The receiver itself is quite well-cooled. Cooling is often an issue for many analogs.

Listening experience

In general, the sound is solid. It’s not that warmly rounded, but there’s a well-defined voicing. Don’t expect this thing to be a power monster, and take your low-impedance speakers to high volumes. I think for that purpose, you’d just need external amplification. Enjoying music via the optical input proved to be a delightful experience. The rendition of details was impeccable, and when used with Dirac, it gave a distinctive studio-like ambiance. I’d like to point out that the Pure Audio mode faithfully reproduces music in its most natural form.