Onkyo Muse Y-50 silver

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.

A power section by Axign

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.

A colour display that does more than decorate

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).

Connectivity: from vinyl to game consoles

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.

Network streaming and wireless playback

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.

Room EQ acoustic calibration

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.

Japanese construction and aesthetics

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.

Technical specifications

Amplification and audio performance

• Amplification type: Class D with MOSFET output stage
• Output power:
  • 2 × 125 W into 8 Ω, 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 channels
  • 2 × 250 W into 4 Ω, 1 kHz, 0.7% THD
• Configuration: 2-channel amplifier with 2.1-channel preamplification
• Frequency response: 20 Hz–30 kHz (+1 / -3 dB)
• Tone controls:
  • Bass: ±10 dB at 100 Hz
  • Treble: ±10 dB at 10 kHz
• Compatible speaker impedance: 4 to 16 Ω
• This power reserve can drive both bookshelf speakers and demanding floorstanding speakers

Connectivity

• Analog inputs:
  • 3 × stereo RCA inputs
  • 1 × phono input compatible with MM / MC
• Digital inputs and outputs:
  • 1 × HDMI IN (HDCP 2.3) compatible with 4K / 120p, 8K / 60p, VRR, ALLM, QFT, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
  • 1 × HDMI OUT
  • HDMI integration allows you to connect a video source directly (console, player, etc.) in addition to pure hi-fi use
• Audio outputs:
  • 1 × RCA preamp output
  • 1 × subwoofer output
  • 1 × 6.35 mm jack headphone output

Network and streaming

• Network connection: Ethernet 10 / 100
• Bluetooth: SBC, AAC
• Supported platforms: Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2, Google Cast
• Direct network playback or streaming from a mobile device for easy integration into a modern multiroom ecosystem

Audio processing and user interface

• Proprietary Onkyo Room EQ acoustic calibration system analyzing the room and applying appropriate correction
• 5.46-inch color display showing playback information and analog VU meters
• Control via the Onkyo Controller app

Design and construction

• Aluminum front panel ensuring rigidity and reduction of vibrations
• High-end, audio-grade binding posts
• Compact chassis for easy integration into any space
• San Kuzushi ventilated top grille inspired by Japanese aesthetics

General characteristics

• Dimensions (W × H × D): 350 × 99 × 337 mm
• Weight: 4.9 kg
• Power consumption:
  • 120 W in operation
  • 1.8 W at idle
  • Less than 0.4 W in standby mode