Onkyo TX-SR494 AV Receiver Review
If you’re in the market for an AV receiver and don’t want to get tangled in techy talk, the Onkyo TX-SR494’s got you covered. It’s a solid pick for smaller spaces—think apartments or comfortable living rooms. It is ideal for movie buffs and gamers who want to experience their content with clear, detailed, and balanced sound output. Let's find out more.
Our Verdict
The Onkyo TX-SR494 cannot deliver quality sound without the fuss, perfect for the everyday listener. But if you’re an audiophile or have a big space, it might leave you wanting more. It’s affordable, easy to use, and does the job well—just don’t expect it to move mountains. It’s the reliable workhorse of sound systems, offering a no-nonsense approach to home audio.
PROS
- Comprehensive connectivity options
- Immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- High-resolution audio playback
- Easy setup process
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Intuitive user interface
- Supports multi-room audio
- Responsive remote control
CONS
- Limited power output
- Basic on-screen display
- Some users report reliability issues
GENERAL
| Receiver Type | |
|---|---|
| Number Of Channel | Channel |
| Number Channel Processing | |
| Audio Feature | |
| Video Feature | |
| Watts Per Channel | |
| Zones | |
| Radio | |
| Amplifier |
CONNECTIVITY
| Ethernet | |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | |
| Bluetooth | |
| USB | |
| RCA LIne Input: | |
| RCA LIne Output: | |
| RCA Pre-Outs: | |
| XLR Line Inputs: | |
| XLR Pre-Outs: | |
| Phono Input: | |
| Optical Inputs: | |
| Optical Output: | |
| Coaxial Inputs: | |
| Multi-Channel Input: | |
| Headphone Out: | |
| HDMI Inputs: | |
| HDMI Outputs: | |
| 8K Inputs: | |
| Composite Video Input | |
| Composite Video Output: | |
| Component Video Input: | |
| Component Video Output: | |
| Front A/V Inputs: | |
| Speaker A/B: |
AUDIO FEATURES:
| Maximum Channel Processing | |
|---|---|
| Dolby Atmos | |
| Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization | |
| Dolby Atmos Music | |
| Dolby TrueHD | |
| Dolby Digital Plus | |
| Dolby Surround Upmixer | |
| Dolby Pro Logic | |
| Dolby Digital EX | |
| Surround EX | |
| DTS:X | |
| DTS Neural:X | |
| DTS Virtual:X | |
| DTS Neo | |
| DTS-HD Master Audio | |
| DTS-HD High Resolution Audio | |
| DTS 96/24 | |
| DTS Express | |
| DTS-ES | |
| IMAX Enhanced | |
| PCM | |
| Music Playback via USB | |
| High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network | |
| High Resolution Audio Formats via USB | |
| Gapless Playback | |
| DSD via HDMI | |
| DSD via USB | |
| DSD to PCM Converter | |
| USB DAC | |
| Jitter Reduction | |
| DTS Dialog Control | |
| Dialog Enhancement | |
| Dialog Level Adjustment | |
| Dialog Normalization | |
| Dialogue Lift | |
| Compressed Music Enhancer | |
| High-resolution Music Enhancer | |
| Audyssey Dynamic EQ | |
| Audyssey Dynamic Volume | |
| Audyssey LFC | |
| Audyssey Sub EQ HT | |
| Audyssey DSX | |
| Direct Mode | |
| Pure Direct Mode | |
| Independent Subwoofer Outputs | |
| Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. | |
| Audyssey App Support | |
| Bass Sync | |
| Optimized Bass Redirection |
VIDEO FEATURES:
| HDMI Version | |
|---|---|
| Enhanced ARC | |
| HDCP Version | |
| HDR10+ | |
| Dynamic HDR | |
| Dolby Vision | |
| HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) | |
| QMS (Quick Media Switching) | |
| 3-D Ready | |
| Video Signal Passthrough | |
| Video Signal Upscaling | |
| Analog To HDMI Upconversion | |
| Component Video Upscaling | |
| isf Certified Calibration Control |
AMPLIFIERS
| Channels | |
|---|---|
| Front Wide Channel Support | |
| Current Feedback Topology | |
| Discrete Amplification | |
| HDAM | |
| THX™ Certification | |
| Continuous 6 Ω Rated | |
| Certified 4 Ω Performance | |
| Bi-amp Capability |
GAMING FEATURES
| Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) | |
|---|---|
| Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) | |
| Quick Frame Transport (QFT) |
ZONES
| Zones | |
|---|---|
| Powered Zones | |
| Zone 2 Outs | |
| Zone 3 Outs | |
| RS-232C Interface | |
| +12V Trigger Output |
RADIO
| Analog Tuner | |
|---|---|
| Digital Radio | |
| Internet Radio | |
| Pandora | |
| Spotify | |
| Tidal | |
| Deezer | |
| SiriusXM Internet Radio | |
| Napster |
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
| On-Screen Display | |
|---|---|
| GUI Languages | |
| Web Browser Control | |
| IP Control for CI | |
| Control4 SDDP | |
| PreAmp Mode | |
| Display | |
| Remote Controller | |
| Remote Control In/Out | |
| LCD Display | |
| Detachable Power Cord | |
| Setup Assistant |
POWER
| Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 | |
|---|---|
| Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) | |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front) | |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front) | |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front) | |
| Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 | |
| Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) | |
| Power Supply | |
| Toroidal Transformer | |
| Power Consumption | |
| No Sound Power | |
| Standby Power |
BUILD
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | |
|---|---|
| Weight | |
| Chassis | |
| Front Panel | |
| Speaker Terminals | |
| Large Speaker Terminals | |
| Color-Coded Speaker Terminals | |
| Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals | |
| High Grade Audio Components | |
| ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function | |
| Auto Power off | |
| Warranty |
SPECIFICATIONS
| THD digital | |
|---|---|
| Analog Distortion | |
| Phono Distortion | |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line) | |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM) | |
| Rated Lineout Level and Impedance | |
| Rated Output digital | |
| S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) | |
| S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) | |
| S/N Ratio (digital) | |
| Phono RIAA Deviation | |
| Frequency Response (Analog In) | |
| DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI | |
| DSD Sampling Rates via USB | |
| Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance | |
| Video Frequency Response | |
| Ethernet Standard | |
| Wi-Fi Standard | |
| Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency | |
| Bluetooth Version | |
| Bluetooth Frequency | |
| USB Terminal | |
| FM Frequency | |
| FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.) | |
| FM S/N Ratio | |
| FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz) | |
| AM Effective Sensitivity | |
| AM Frequency |
The Onkyo TX-SR494 has a straightforward, no-frills design that’s pretty much what you’d expect from a modern AV receiver. It’s got a clean face with a simple display that won’t have you squinting from your couch. The simple display ensures you’re not fumbling through settings, making it approachable for all users. The downside? It’s a bit light, which might make you wonder about its build quality.
This receiver is like the life of the party when it comes to connecting all your gear. The HDMI support is robust, offering multiple inputs that support 4K and HDR, making it a future-proof choice for those with the latest displays and sources. This means you can enjoy your favorite shows and games in stunning clarity and detail.
Bluetooth connectivity is a convenient feature for streaming audio from mobile devices. It’s a breeze to pair your smartphone or tablet, and you’re ready to play your music library or streaming services through your home speakers. However, the lack of Wi-Fi connectivity does mean you miss out on some of the streaming capabilities that other receivers offer, like native support for Spotify or Tidal. The TX-SR494 also includes traditional connections like optical and coaxial digital audio inputs, as well as analog RCA inputs. This is great for those with a mix of old and new equipment, allowing you to connect legacy devices alongside modern digital sources.
While the receiver covers most bases, the absence of advanced features like Wi-Fi or AirPlay might be felt by users who are looking for a more interconnected, smart home experience
Diving into the performance of the Onkyo TX-SR494, let’s talk about how it handles the full spectrum of sound. Starting with the lows, the bass is robust, providing a solid foundation without overwhelming the rest of the audio. In action scenes or bass-heavy tracks, it offers that satisfying rumble, though at very high volumes, it can get a bit boisterous, losing some of its tightness.
Moving on to the mids, this is where the TX-SR494 really shows its mettle. The midrange is the heart of the sound, carrying the bulk of vocals and instruments. The receiver handles this with finesse, ensuring dialogue in movies is clear and forward, and the vocals in music are rich and full-bodied.
As for the highs, the treble is crisp and detailed. The TX-SR494 doesn’t shy away from the high notes, delivering them with clarity and sparkle. Whether it’s the clash of cymbals or the chime of a triangle, the receiver captures these nuances without introducing harshness or sibilance.
In terms of soundstage and imaging, the TX-SR494 creates a convincing and immersive audio environment. It places sounds accurately in the space, giving a sense of dimension and depth to your listening experience. While it may not satisfy the most discerning audiophiles seeking absolute perfection, it provides a sound quality that will delight most in real-life situations, from movie watching to music enjoyment. Just keep in mind its limitations at extreme volumes, and you’ll have a receiver that serves up a feast for the ears.
This receiver is a match for those intimate spaces where sound quality matters, but the volume doesn’t need to shake the foundations. It’s not the go-to for outdoor gatherings or echoing halls, but for the living room or bedroom, it’s like a cozy fireplace of sound—warm and inviting.
The TX-SR494 is a team player, connecting with both the old and the new. It’s a bridge between your cherished vinyl collection and the pulse of streaming 4K content. However, as technology races forward, this receiver might not keep pace with the very latest standards, potentially making it a nostalgic piece sooner than you’d like.
Onkyo knows that nobody likes a complicated setup, and the TX-SR494 reflects that. It’s plug-and-play with a remote that doesn’t require a manual the size of a novel. Yet, in an era where smartphones rule, the lack of an app interface is a noticeable absence, hinting at a gap between it and the fully integrated smart home ecosystem.
The TX-SR494 sits in that sweet spot of affordability and quality. It’s the kind of purchase that feels like a wise investment rather than a splurge. You’re getting a solid, reliable piece of audio equipment that won’t demand a premium for features you might never use.
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