Onkyo Muse Y-50 black

To mark its 80th anniversary, Onkyo is launching 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 form factor 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 out from more common solutions such as NCore, Purifi, or IcePower through its correction loop, which acts directly at the speaker terminals, after the output filter. The result: a reduction of artefacts generated by the modulator and power stage, whereas classic Class D amplifiers are limited to upstream correction.

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-efficiency floorstanding speakers as easily as more forgiving compact models. Supported impedance ranges from 4 to 16 ohms. The high efficiency of Class D limits heat build-up and allows for a fanless chassis, with thermal dissipation handled by the top grille.

A color display that does more than decorate

The 5.46-inch LCD display takes up a large part of the front panel. It can switch between several modes: playback metadata (title, artist, cover art), virtual needle VU meters, or navigation menus for streaming services. You can browse directly on the unit without a smartphone, which is convenient when you want to explore your Qobuz or Tidal library without pulling out an app.

Control is also possible via Onkyo Controller, the brand’s mobile app, which gives access to all settings and lets you adjust tone controls (bass at 100 Hz and treble at 10 kHz, each adjustable by ±10 dB).

Connectivity: from vinyl to game console

On the analog 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 benefit from a dedicated stage without having to add an external preamp.

The video and digital section runs through HDMI ports. One input and one output handle 4K signals at 120 frames per second, 8K at 60 frames, with support for HDCP 2.3, VRR, ALLM, QFT, QMS, SBTM, DSC, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. This setup allows you to connect a game console or Blu-ray player directly while taking advantage of the amp’s audio section. A coaxial S/PDIF input rounds things out for traditional digital sources.

One RCA pre-out and a dedicated subwoofer output (2.1-channel preamp) let you expand to a system with a subwoofer, while the 6.35 mm headphone jack takes care of late-night listening.

Network streaming and wireless playback

The Y-50 supports Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, AirPlay 2, and Google Cast. You can connect via the 10/100 Base-T Ethernet port or Wi‑Fi. Bluetooth (SBC and AAC) is also available for quick playback from a smartphone, even if quality falls short of wired network performance.

This wide compatibility makes it easy to integrate the unit into an existing multiroom system, whether it’s based on the Apple or Google ecosystem or on the native apps of streaming services.

Room EQ acoustic calibration

The Y-50 features Onkyo Room EQ automatic correction, 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 tailored equalization.

This calibration is simpler than the Dirac systems found on the brand’s home theater models. No computer is required: everything is controlled from the mobile app. The results are less refined than manual correction by an acoustician, but the improvement in minimally treated rooms can be significant.

Japanese build quality and aesthetics

The aluminum front panel adds rigidity to the chassis and helps limit vibration transmission. According to Onkyo, the speaker binding posts are of audio-grade quality and accept banana plugs and spades. The top panel features ventilation grilles in a San Kuzushi pattern, a traditional Japanese geometric design found in Japanese architecture and textiles.

Measuring 350 × 99 × 337 mm and weighing 4.9 kg, the Y-50 fits easily on a standard shelf. Power consumption is 120 W in use, 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, THD 0.08%, 2 channels
  • 2 × 250 W into 4 Ω, 1 kHz, THD 0.7%
• 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 allows driving 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 direct connection of a video source (console, player, etc.) in addition to pure hi-fi use
• Audio outputs:
  • 1 × preamplified RCA output
  • 1 × subwoofer output
  • 1 × 6.35 mm headphone jack output

Network and Streaming

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

Audio Processing and User Interface

• Onkyo proprietary Room EQ acoustic calibration system analyzing the room and applying adaptive 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 vibration reduction
• High-end audio-grade binding posts
• Compact chassis facilitating integration in all spaces
• San Kuzushi ventilated top grille inspired by Japanese aesthetics

General Specifications

• 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