Onkyo TX-RZ50 Review

Summary / TL;DR

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a feature-rich receiver that has garnered attention for its strong audio performance and wide range of connectivity options. It integrates well into digital ecosystems, supporting various smart devices and streaming services, though its smart home integration could be smoother. The setup might be complex for newcomers to high-end audio systems, but the sound quality is impressive once configured.

Design-wise, the receiver combines functionality with a sleek aesthetic, featuring a durable build and ample ventilation. Its audio capabilities are highlighted by THX Certification and support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, offering an immersive 3D sound experience. While it handles various audio formats well, slight distortion may occur at extreme volumes. The AccuEQ Advance room calibration feature helps tailor sound to specific room acoustics, although it may require multiple attempts for optimal results.

Connectivity is a strong suit, with numerous HDMI inputs and outputs, wireless options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and support for AirPlay 2 and Chromecast. The user interface is generally intuitive, aided by an on-screen setup wizard, though the remote control could be more user-friendly. Compared to competitors like Yamaha and Denon, the TX-RZ50 offers a balanced package of features and usability.

Overall, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a solid choice for those seeking excellent audio performance and extensive connectivity without overly complex operation, though it may not suit those prioritizing ease of setup or a more compact design.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Onkyo TXNR6100 or Sony STR-DH590.

Introduction

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a receiver that's been turning heads in the audio community, and for good reason. If you're on the hunt for a receiver that delivers a stellar combination of features, audio performance, and user-friendly tech, this might just be what you're looking for. Right off the bat, it's packed with the latest in audio technology, making it a strong contender for those serious about their home theater setups.

This receiver isn’t just about delivering great sound; it’s also about making sure it fits seamlessly into your digital ecosystem. It's equipped with a variety of connectivity options, meaning it can handle pretty much anything you throw at it, from streaming your favorite music to connecting with other smart devices. The integration with smart home systems might not be perfect, but it's definitely a step in the right direction.

While the TX-RZ50 comes with plenty of bells and whistles, it doesn’t quite escape the complexity trap that some advanced receivers fall into. Users new to high-end home audio systems might find the setup a bit daunting at first. But, once you get the hang of it, the sound quality is truly something to write home about.

Overall, this receiver aims to bridge the gap between high-tech features and ease of use, although not without some hiccups. So, if you’re ready to dive into a sea of sound, this might be the right piece of gear for your audio arsenal.

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Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of a receiver can often be a make-or-break factor when considering a purchase. The Onkyo TX-RZ50 strikes a solid balance between functionality and aesthetics. It boasts a sleek, modern design that doesn’t scream for attention but rather complements most home entertainment setups.

Visual Appeal and Build

At first glance, the receiver’s black matte finish gives it a sophisticated look, perfect for blending with other AV components. Its sturdy construction makes it feel quite durable, which is great news if you're planning on keeping it around for the long haul. However, its size might be a bit intimidating if you're tight on space. It's not the most compact unit out there, so make sure you have enough room in your media cabinet.

Front Panel Features

The front panel is well-organized with a clear, easy-to-read display and a minimalistic set of buttons. It's intuitive for those who prefer a hands-on approach. The knobs and buttons have a nice tactile feel, giving a sense of quality that sometimes lacks in other receivers. However, some might find the buttons a tad too subtle and not easily distinguishable if you're not directly in front of it.

Ventilation and Cooling

On the practical side, the TX-RZ50 includes ample ventilation to prevent overheating during those long movie marathons. It’s got a good amount of ventilation grilles on top, which is crucial for maintaining performance. Just be cautious about stacking other electronics directly on top of it as it needs some breathing space. In short, while not exactly groundbreaking in design, this receiver does an excellent job of combining style with substance, offering a reliable build that’s likely to stand the test of time. Whether you're a casual listener or an audiophile, its design will likely meet your expectations without any flashy distractions.

Audio Performance

Let's talk about what truly matters in a receiver: the audio performance. This is where the Onkyo TX-RZ50 really flexes its muscles. With a powerhouse of 9.2 channels, it's like having an entire orchestra in your living room. Imagine the sound of a pin dropping during a suspenseful movie scene or the thunderous roar of a drum solo – it captures every detail effortlessly.

The TX-RZ50 boasts THX Certification, which means it meets stringent standards for sound quality. It's like having a movie theater in your home, without the sticky floors. The Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support elevate your audio experience to a whole other level, creating a 3D sound field that envelops you. These technologies make it feel like the sound is coming from all around you, even from above – talk about being in the middle of the action!

One of the TX-RZ50's strong suits is its adeptness at handling various audio formats, ensuring no detail is left behind. However, if you're someone who loves cranking up the volume to max levels, you might notice a bit of distortion at extreme volumes. It's minor but worth mentioning for those who really like to push the envelope.

Room Calibration

The AccuEQ Advance room calibration feature is like having a personal audio technician on standby. It tailors the sound to match your room's acoustics, so if you've got an awkwardly shaped living room, this feature's got your back. However, some users have mentioned that it can be a tad finicky, requiring a couple of runs to get it just right. But once dialed in, it’s smooth sailing.

For those audiophiles who love to tinker, the TX-RZ50 offers a plethora of options to customize your audio settings. Whether you're into treble tweaks or bass boosting, you have the freedom to fine-tune to your heart's content. Just be prepared to spend a little time experimenting to find your sweet spot.

In a nutshell, the audio performance of this receiver is mostly stellar. With a few minor hiccups at high volumes and a learning curve for room calibration, it's still a solid choice for anyone looking to elevate their home audio game.

Connectivity Options

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 offers a treasure trove of connectivity options, making it a versatile hub for all your audio and video needs. Let's dive into what makes it stand out in this area.

Inputs and Outputs

This receiver is equipped with a whopping 7 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs. This means you can hook up everything from your gaming console and Blu-ray player to your streaming devices without breaking a sweat. Plus, with support for HDMI 2.1, you're future-proofed for the latest tech trends.

Wireless Connectivity

For those who despise tangled wires, you’ll appreciate the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options. Whether you're streaming music from your favorite app or playing tunes directly from your phone, the Onkyo makes it a breeze. And if you’ve got a smart home setup, the AirPlay 2 and Chromecast integrations will make you smile.

Audio Connections

Audiophiles will be pleased with the inclusion of phono input for turntables, along with traditional analog and digital audio inputs. There’s also a set of preamp outputs in case you want to connect to external amplifiers or other advanced equipment.

Advanced Options

The TX-RZ50 doesn't skimp on advanced connectivity features either. It comes with eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), which provides high-quality audio transmission from your TV to the receiver. Additionally, Zone 2 and Zone 3 outputs allow you to send audio to different rooms, perfect for those who want to enjoy music throughout their home.

Room for Improvement

While the connectivity options are abundant, it would have been nice to see a few more USB ports for convenient device charging or media playback. Also, while Wi-Fi setup is generally smooth, some users might find the initial configuration a bit finicky, especially if their home network is complex. In summary, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 packs a powerful punch in the connectivity department, ensuring you’re well-equipped for a seamless audio-visual experience. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a casual user, this receiver covers the bases with ease.

User Interface and Usability

The user interface of the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is as friendly as a warm cup of coffee on a chilly morning. The layout is straightforward, making it easy even for tech novices to get the hang of it. You'll find the front panel pretty uncluttered, with just enough buttons and a clear display to manage your basic needs without feeling overwhelmed.

The receiver boasts an intuitive on-screen menu. The setup wizard is like having a helpful friend guide you through the initial settings. It's clear and walks you through each step so you won't feel lost. There’s also an app for controlling the receiver, which is handy when you're lounging on the couch and don't want to get up.

However, the remote control is a bit of a mixed bag. It’s fully functional, but the button layout could use a revamp. The buttons are small and packed closely together, so it might take a little practice to hit the right one without peeking. Some might find it slightly old-fashioned, but it gets the job done.

Performance and Speed

When it comes to response time, this receiver doesn’t dawdle. Switching between inputs is pretty snappy. Those who enjoy tweaking settings will appreciate the depth of customization available without feeling like they are swimming in a sea of options.

The receiver also supports voice control through popular assistants, so you can manage basic functions with simple commands. This is perfect for anyone who prefers talking to their gadgets over button pressing.

Overall, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 offers a balanced blend of modern convenience and reliable performance. While the remote could use a bit of modern flair, the interface itself remains solid and approachable.

What's in the Box

Alright, so you’ve decided to get your hands on the Onkyo TX-RZ50. What exactly comes in the package? Let's take a look at what you'll find when you crack open that box.

• The Receiver: Obviously, the star of the show. It's securely packed to make sure it arrives without a scratch.
• Remote Control: A well-designed remote that allows you to easily control your receiver from the comfort of your couch. It’s pretty intuitive, but it could feel slightly bulky to those with smaller hands.
• AAA Batteries: No need to rummage through drawers; two AAA batteries are included to power up the remote right away.
• AM/FM Antennas: These are pretty straightforward to connect, but don't expect stellar reception if you're in a tricky area.
• Setup Microphone: This mic helps with the auto-calibration of your speaker system. It's quite handy, making sure you get the best sound possible for your space.
• User Manual: A detailed guide to get you started. It's not the most exciting read, but it’s essential for setup and troubleshooting.
• Power Cord: Essential for the obvious reason—powering up the receiver. It’s of decent length but might be a bit short if your outlet is far away.

That's pretty much it inside the box. Everything you need to get started is included, so you won’t have to make a run to the store for any extras. Just plug in, and you're ready to experience some awesome sound. Still, a few more accessories, like HDMI cables, could have been a sweet bonus, but hey, they keep it to the basics.

Competitor Comparison

In the crowded audio-visual market, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 faces stiff competition from several other big-name brands. Let's take a closer look at how it stacks up against a couple of its main rivals.

Yamaha RX-A6A

The Yamaha RX-A6A is a strong contender with its sleek design and high-quality audio performance. Both receivers boast similar power output, but the Yamaha edges out slightly with its advanced AI technology for sound optimization. However, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 holds its own with its intuitive setup and Auto EQ calibration, which simplifies achieving that perfect sound for non-techies.

Denon AVR-X4700H

Another popular choice, the Denon AVR-X4700H, offers a robust set of features, including exceptional Imax Enhanced capabilities. It shares the Meridian Audio Technologies with the Onkyo TX-RZ50, giving both receivers a premium sound experience. While Denon's model might have a slight upper hand in sound clarity, Onkyo balances this with a user-friendly interface that's less complex to navigate.

Marantz SR7015

The Marantz SR7015 is praised for its musicality and immersive audio experience, often preferred by audiophiles. Onkyo's unit is more versatile, though, with its wide range of connectivity options, including multiple HDMI inputs, supporting modern gaming consoles and streaming devices. If you're a gamer or a movie buff, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 could be the better choice.

Final Thoughts

While each competitor has its own strengths, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 offers a well-rounded package with easy usability and comprehensive connectivity. It might not outshine in every single department, but it combines numerous features that will please most users. Consider your specific needs—whether it's pure sound quality, ease of use, or connectivity—when making your decision.

Conclusion

Wrapping everything up, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a solid choice for anyone in the market for a receiver that balances performance with versatility. Its standout feature is definitely the audio performance, which will delight audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Whether you're listening to music or watching your favorite movie, it delivers a rich and immersive sound experience that's hard to beat. Connectivity options are also impressive, with a range of inputs and outputs to accommodate various devices. It's like having a Swiss Army knife for your audio-visual needs. However, if you're not the most tech-savvy person, the sheer number of options might feel a bit overwhelming at first. The user interface is generally user-friendly, though it could benefit from a bit more intuitive navigation for beginners. Setting up can be a breeze once you get the hang of it, but the initial process might require a bit of a learning curve.

In terms of design, it's not going to win any beauty pageants, but it gets the job done with a sturdy and reliable build. It's more about function than form, which is perfectly fine if that's what you're after. Comparing it to competitors, it holds its ground well, especially considering its price range. It may not have all the bells and whistles of some high-end models, but it more than makes up for it in reliable performance and solid sound quality.

Overall, if you're looking for a receiver that offers excellent audio performance without needing a rocket science degree to operate, this is definitely a contender to consider. But if you want something with a more straightforward setup or a sleeker design, you might want to keep shopping around.

Video by: Andrew Robinson

FAQ

• Q: Does the Onkyo TX-RZ50 support Dolby Atmos?

  A: Yes, it does. You'll be able to enjoy that immersive, 3D sound experience with Dolby Atmos, making your movies feel like you're right in the middle of the action.

• Q: Is there any built-in support for voice assistants?

  A: Absolutely! It works well with both Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, so you can control it using voice commands. It’s like having your own personal assistant for your home theater.

• Q: What about wireless streaming options?

  A: The receiver supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and even AirPlay, making it super easy to stream your favorite playlists from various devices without a tangle of wires.

• Q: How complex is the setup process?

  A: While it offers a lot of features, setting it up isn’t rocket science. It comes with an on-screen setup guide that helps you get everything connected without too much hassle. Patience is key, though, especially if you’re new to AV equipment.

• Q: Are there enough HDMI ports for all my devices?

  A: Most users will find the HDMI inputs sufficient to connect multiple gadgets like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. However, if you’re someone with a lot of tech toys, you might need to be strategic about your connections.

• Q: Can I use it with a turntable?

  A: Yes, it includes a phono input, so vinyl enthusiasts can easily connect their turntables and enjoy that classic analog sound.

• Q: What if I encounter any issues? Is customer support helpful?

  A: Onkyo's customer support is usually quite responsive. They provide decent assistance through their website and phone support. However, depending on your issue, some users have mentioned that the resolution might take a bit of time.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications