To mark its 80th anniversary, Onkyo is inaugurating the Muse series with this integrated amplifier that combines multiple functions: amplification, network streaming, phono preamp, and HDMI video management. The Y-50 sits at the top of this new range, above the less powerful Y-40. In a compact format less than 10 cm high, it brings together Dutch Axign amplification technology and today’s audio streaming services.
The amplification section is based on Axign modules, a Dutch specialist in Class D controllers with post‑filter feedback. This technology stands apart from more widespread solutions such as NCore, Purifi, or IcePower thanks to its correction loop that operates directly at the speaker terminals, after the output filter. The result: reduced artefacts generated by the modulator and the power stage, whereas conventional Class D amplifiers are limited to correction further upstream.
High‑current MOSFET transistors deliver 125 W per channel into 8 ohms (FTC standard, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD) and 250 W into 4 ohms. This power reserve allows it to drive low‑sensitivity floorstanding speakers just as easily as more easily driven compact models. Supported impedance ranges from 4 to 16 ohms. The high efficiency of Class D limits heat build‑up and allows for a chassis without an active fan, with thermal dissipation via the top grille.
The 5.46‑inch LCD display occupies a large part of the front panel. It can switch between several modes: playback metadata (title, artist, cover art), virtual needle‑style VU meters, or navigation menus for streaming services. You can browse directly on the device without a smartphone, which is still very convenient when you want to explore your Qobuz or Tidal library without pulling out an app.
Control is also available via Onkyo Controller, the brand’s mobile app, which provides access to all the settings and allows you to adjust tone controls (bass at 100 Hz and treble at 10 kHz, each adjustable by ±10 dB).
On the analogue side, three stereo RCA inputs accommodate a CD player, tuner, or any other device. The phono input supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) cartridges, an advantage over the Y-40, which is limited to MM. Vinyl enthusiasts get a dedicated stage without needing to add an external preamp.
Video and digital signals are handled via the HDMI ports. One input and one output support 4K at 120 frames per second, 8K at 60 frames per second, with support for HDCP 2.3, VRR, ALLM, QFT, QMS, SBTM, DSC, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. This setup lets you connect a game console or Blu‑ray player directly while benefiting from the amplifier’s audio section. A coaxial S/PDIF input rounds things out for traditional digital sources.
A pre‑out RCA output and a dedicated subwoofer output (2.1‑channel preamp) allow expansion to a system with a subwoofer, while the 6.35 mm headphone jack ensures late‑night listening.
The Y-50 supports Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2, and Google Cast. Connection is via either the 10/100 Base‑T Ethernet port or Wi‑Fi. Bluetooth (SBC and AAC) is also available for quick playback from a smartphone, although quality lags behind a wired network connection.
This broad compatibility makes it easy to integrate the device into an existing multi‑room system, whether based on the Apple or Google ecosystem, or the native apps of streaming services.
The Y-50 includes the Onkyo Room EQ automatic correction system, which is absent on the Y-40. A measurement microphone captures the room’s acoustic characteristics: reflections, resonances, and frequency imbalances. The amp then applies suitable equalisation.
This calibration remains simpler than the Dirac systems featured on the brand’s home‑cinema models. No computer is needed: everything is controlled from the mobile app. The results are less refined than a manual correction by an acoustician, but the improvement in minimally treated rooms can be significant.
The aluminium front panel contributes to chassis rigidity and limits the transmission of vibrations. The speaker terminals, “audio‑grade” according to Onkyo, accept banana plugs and spades. The top panel features ventilation grilles in a San Kuzushi pattern, a traditional Japanese geometric layout found in Japanese architecture and textiles.
Measuring 350 × 99 × 337 mm and weighing 4.9 kg, the Y-50 fits easily onto a standard shelf. Power consumption is 120 W in operation, drops to 1.8 W at idle, and falls below 0.4 W in standby. Two finishes are available: black or silver.
The 'secret' of the Y-50 is the amplifier, which performs better than you would expect at this price point. [...] This device also stands out with a number of almost-unseen features at this price point, such as the provision of an MM/MC phono input, an extra HDMI input, and room calibration that optimizes playback in a solid way for the space. There is very little criticism to be made of this device; at most, you could say that the design will not appeal to everyone.
The Y-50 offers higher power (250 W versus 150 W into 4 ohms), a phono preamp compatible with both MM and MC (versus MM only), an HDMI output in addition to the input, and the Room EQ calibration system. The Y-40 retains the screen, streaming, and basic connectivity, but without these additions.
Yes, thanks to the RCA pre‑out. This setup lets you use the Y-50’s source section and DAC while handing amplification over to a dedicated device.
The Y-50 has one HDMI input and one HDMI output with ARC. It can receive sound from a TV via ARC or act as a hub between a video source and a display. The spec sheet lists standard ARC, not eARC.
Flavio
It’s exactly what I expected, excellent-quality equipment that meets my needs.
Comment from September 25, 2026 — Experience from September 14, 2026
Adam
Very modern compact great looking all in one design at very reasonable money, great graphics on the screen,enough power to drive most of the speakers,used as 2+1 setup with dedicated subwoofer out and extra HDMI connection for my dedicated uhd Blu-ray player fantastic pairing for watching concerts and movies,used in direct mode with Monitor Audio Platinum great combo.
No internet radio might be important for some butt not used anyway by myself,Tidal connect does the job for streaming.
For the money hard to beat for what it is.
Comment from June 27, 2026 — Experience from May 28, 2026
Neven
PROS:
- good looking medium size internet receiver
- nice big LCD display with all informations, album art, etc.
- nice wide dynamic sounding as you expect from Onkyo
- very good phono preamp
- lots of inputs
CONS:
- watch out: this internet receiver DOESN'T support internet radio. If you want to listen internet radio, have to stream it from other devices (smartphone, tablet or external device). Personaly, I think this is very stupid move from Onkyo on device of that price range
- doesn't have native support Deezer (same as Onkyo's Icon series) and any other streaming services except Spotify connect and Tidal connect
- doesn't support FM/DAB
Comment from June 08, 2026 — Experience from May 28, 2026
