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getting a pair of second hand Bowers Wilkins 803 D3 Diamonds for a future cinema build ..full 800 series ..But i need a Receiver... A1H .. Cinema 30..RZ30..The 7000 is not an option in my contry ..What to choose ??
Hey Andrew - another great review. I was curious as to your thoughts. I think aside from aesthetics, the 7100 is almost identical to the RZ-30 less pre outs and bass management. Am I correct ?
Quick update: DIRAC Bass Control ($299) went LIVE in the past 24 hours for the Onkyo RZ50. If you have an RZ50, you can now add Bass Control to DIRAC Live, which was already included with your purchase.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Andrew is this a worthy add if it’s just a movie only theater setup? I have separate hifi for music. Doesn’t standard Dirac already handle my cross overs? For HT I’m not using full range floor standers. SVS Ultra Bookshelves and Elevations for all the surrounds/atmos channels
Appears we get Bass Management free of charge but not Full Bass Control. Getting Full Bass Control seems to require the $299. Love your channel by the way... thanks for all you do for us!
But the RZ50 unlike the RZ30 does not have independent sub outs… how important is this for DIRAC? Does it make a huge difference? There seems to be a school of thought that says independent sub outs are not really necessary, given how bass is created in a room, and that it’s a gadget that’s only been added to AVRs in the last few years to please the 2-channel audiophiles.
I used an AVR amp for 20 years because it was so practical, so flexible, and sounded so nice. Got a girlfriend, who became a wife, and a kid, and moved my equipment around the house, changed houses, and that amp just kept going.
Hi Kristy and Andrew, from this 72 year old I want to say how much I really love your description under the acronym as to what it means? Love your channel please keep up the great job.
My neighbor taught media production at local college from late 60s to 90s. I first heard McIntosh gear in his setup. He told me he switched to solid state ca. 1970 after tubes all through the 50s and 60s when he felt McIntosh got solid state ‘right’. In the 90s he built a dedicated home theater and has used good Marantz AVRs ever since. I often think his lack of ‘nostalgia’, looking to the future, and not romanticizing things have helped keep him ‘young at heart’ well into his 90s - enjoying the sights and sounds. The gear just gets better and better.
I used to be on the EXACT same page as you - was a diehard fan of this brand ever since a college friend turned me on to it decades ago. From the businesslike design of their products to the aggressive, almost supercharged sound profile the amps put out, I thought I had found my go-to brand pretty much for life...and I've had experience owning many different brands over the years from being an audio enthusiast and mobile DJ. At one point, I used to swear by Kenwood, and even used a "pro" version of one of their integrated amps when I was a DJ - this thing kicked ASS and sounded like a pro power amp (it was bought in a store in NYC that sold DJ equipment, and was a unique integrated amp in that it didn't come with a remote). But, yeah, once I was turned on to Onkyo in the early 2000s and purchased my first surround AVR, a TX-SR600, I was hooked. When my then-girlfriend-now-wife and I moved into our first apartment together, we purchased a TX-SR605 Onkyo for our 1080p setup at the time. That amp was AMAZING and didn't quit until just recently -- actually, it didn't even quit; it developed an HDMI out problem that I couldn't live with anymore. Otherwise, it was STILL going strong in the house we relocated to, over a decade later, powering a 5.1 channel system with incredible aggression (and that was at a rated 90 WPC). I put into service a TX-8555 stereo receiver for our upstairs loft two channel system, and that thing has been kicking ass ever since, sounding like a good integrated amp that just happens to have a tuner built in. I'll never part with it. That brings me to the dilemma of modern day Onkyo: since they had financial trouble and sold out to Premium Audio Group/Voxx/Sharp, their products have NOT been the same, and they dropped some really great features from their AV receivers, at least, that drew me away from the brand. One big one for me was how they changed the front panel displays on the receivers so you can no longer see both the sound mode in use and the input name at the same time. The only thing that shows constantly on the display is the input name and volume level. That's ridiculous. It was actually this omission that drove me to a Denon X2800 when I finally replaced the old Onkyo 605 - but I have to say....I REALLY miss the Onkyo house sound. I'd love to get an RZ30 or 50, as I am crazy about their looks, but I just can't see myself with another Onk until this display issue is fixed. They also dropped the incredibly helpful IntelliVolume feature from the AVRs, which allowed you to increase (or decrease) gain for each individual device connected to the amp, so it acted like a power amp's sensitivity control. This was SO helpful with making, say, the Blu-ray player input sound much louder at a lower master volume value.
My Yamaha Aventage A760 decided that it didn't want me to listen to anything in stereo, even after several factory resets, and I refuse to move to 7 Channel Stereo AND manually disconnect the Center channel speaker. This has put me in the market for a replacement and the Onkyo RZ30 should work for me. Thank you, Andrew for being a reliable reviewer, and I look forward to Kristi's addition with anticipation!
Good afternoon you two and congrats again on 380k subscribers. Onkyo dominating avrs price/value continues. I bought the 50 on your recommendation for my basement theater and have been more than happy. Btw the flashing of Marantz had me laughing out loud.
I was wondering how long it would take for folks to comment on the easter egg I put in there. Thanks for watching and I'm glad the RZ50 is working out for you!
Based on your review of the RZ50, I picked up a refurbished model on Amazon for under $950 (including tax), along with two pair of the Fluance XL8 bookshelf (on sale for ~150/pair) and matching center speakers you recommended for me, and an SVS SB1000 sub. I am having a blast watching movies and tv shows, and listening to music (in surround/Atmos as much as possible) and agree that a capable AVR can be more than enough. I feel my AVR can stay with me as I move from entry level to more advanced speakers, saving me money and hassle without sacrificing anything for my use case.
I have been an Onkyo receiver advocate since I first used one way back in 1991. It's great to see them add a new product that slots in-between their best models and comes in under $1200. I will recommend Marantz as well, but there's a reason Onkyo has been a leader for decades, despite the ownership changes and recent near-death experience.
Have always loved Onkyo, purchased the first AVR with ProLogic, then upgraded to the first with DTS decoding. Thanks again for keeping Onkyo relevant and in the discussion.
Earlier this year, I sold a single ended two amp for money to buy an entry level Yamaha receiver. Was previously using a sound bar for the TV. I ran everything through the Yamaha expecting to be disappointed by the music and happy with the convenience of eARC and CEC. Surprisingly I still really enjoyed music through it. So to me, a receiver like this is wishlist/end game. My wife doesn’t mind speakers throughout the room as long as she can just use one remote. It’s a win win.
Thanks so much for the great reviews, I really do appreciate them and I also really like the unplugged segments with all the extra info to help round out the decision making process. So I had written up explaining how I have a wilsenton tube R8 stereo tube amp that I love both sonically and visually, it’s the center piece below my TV I really wanted to try and integrate it into a surround setup using the preouts on a good AVR, driving my Klipsch RP-8 mark ll tower speakers supported by reference series surround speakers and center speaker. The plan is add 2 in wall back speakers and 2 in ceiling atmos speakers, 4 would be great but the Onkyo RZ-30 is limited to 2 I believe. This seemed like a great plan…. Until I saw ur review of the Sony Bravia quad setup, now I can’t help but wonder if that might not be a better option. The onkyo is a great receiver but let’s be honest, it’s not great to look at so it was gonna go into a cabinet to not be looked at again anyways, I don’t have a million different devices, it’s mainly the Apple 4K, and I love being able to control everything using the 1 remote, I already have an older Sony XBR series tv that if I needed to replace it would be replaced by another Sony most likely anyways. So now I’m a bit torn, is the quad truley THAT good? If it is then I lose nothing in functionality it seems like, I didn’t want to have 2 separate setups but the price seems right. What would u do? Your setup seems similar to mine and ur take away tends to agree with mine as well, I hate the idea of not using the tube amp all the time as I currently do, the glowing tubes seducing me like a moth to a flame, and I love the sound, but similar price all in, ease of use as well as a similar if not possibly better results, the logic is hard to argue, if it was ur money where do u go?
I have been completely sold on the value of AVRs ever since I got my very first one (Pioneer VSX-9900S) back in the early '90s when I was in the Air Force. I can't see myself ever not owning one. I've been considering pulling the trigger on an RZ50 for the longest time, but this RZ30 looks extremely compelling. You've sold it, my friend.
It's a bit of a mix between the RZ30 and RZ50. The RZ30 gives you 6x HDMI @ 40Gbps (8k/60p) vs 3x@40Gbps, 3x@24Gbps, 1x@9Gbps with the RZ50. The Bluetooth chipset was updated to support v5.1 (vs 4.2) and the chassis is 30mm shorter. The couple of enhancements have a tradeoff of 30w/channel less power, the loss of 7.1.4 potentials and the larger problem of market pricing. While list price on the RZ50 is significantly higher, market price is significantly lower than the RZ30.
After watching this, I think im convinced to give it a try. Im moving to a much smaller location, so I'm losing my listening room. I have been thinking about going this route, and I am pretty convinced. Thanks for the video.
I have always preferred receivers over integrated amps mainly because of home theater use. I have been ridiculed by by a couple Hi - Fi acquaintances over my use of receivers and not taking my system seriously. I have the Integra DRX-8.4 that pairs beautifully with my Quad Revela 2 and my Technics SLG700M2 CD player. I use Wireworld Eclipse cables. I now love my system and it took a long time to get to this point. The hell with everyone else. I am the only one who has to like my system.
Ti seguo dall’Italia e sono impressionato dalla tua onestá intellettuale…complimenti davvero….scusa se nn mi esprimo in inglese tuttavia seguire il tuo canale (Con i sottotitoli) per me é un puro piacere….sei un punto di riferimento grazie a nome di tanti
Good morning A&K. Looks like Onkyo has delivered another tremendous bang for the buck product as the brand is well known for. Near McIntosh level 2.1 performance is high praise indeed. Enjoy the rest of your Sunday guys.
The “full Karl” 😂 . We all have one of those on our cohort; mine is named Cal. The mobile party speakers he brought to a geek fest a decade or so ago were bi-amped A7s - I just can’t remember for sure if the amps were big HK Citations or Crowns.!
This isn't the same Onkyo since Premium Audio Group/Voxx/Sharp acquired them. I was a diehard fan of this brand, believe me, and ended up going with a Denon to replace my old TX-SR605 because of vital features they dropped from these new units.
I found your review very interesting as I've just purchased a RZ-50, so I feel like I've definitely made an excellent choice. I use my system for every day TV. I've also still got all my early 90's stereo gear ( in a different room) & use that if I just want my music. Ty from down under in New Zealand.
Andrew. Have an RZ50 setup as a 7.1 system through an Emotiva XPA. Could not be happier. Maybe they will update the bass management for Dirac, I hope. Tied into Khorns going from home theater to two channel just rocks. Anyway, I’m 72, and love your down to earth style. Thank you.
The main reason I would choose this over the RZ50 is cause it is smaller and fits perfectly in my furniture. The RZ50 would only have 0.4" space above, that is not enough for cooling. Thank you for the review, Andrew.
Great review Andrew! I doubt Denon & Marantz (aka Masimo) are listening, but I am glad you keep foot stomping the point about the added cost of Dirac even on receivers costing $6500! On another note, I'm really looking forward to hearing your thoughts on that SVS SB17 and have my fingers crossed that we will see a KEF Q Concerto Meta review in the near future. Keep up the great work!
Onkyo is a seriously underrated company and even moreso here in Asia, where their Japanese-only division has put out some seriously upmarket stuff. It's a little weird that in the west they're thought of in the same breath as Yamaha and Denon, but their Asia badge is a lot more Emotiva and Rotel. I've got a pair of Onkyo D-202AX Limited speakers from the late 90s, and they stand shoulder to shoulder with my brand new Fyne Audio F301i and PSB Alpha T20's.
I think it's got a sweet spot in the market. Loads of normal home theater users are only 9 channel for dual use rooms. The added benefit of full pre-outs gives it a boost over brands at price point
The RZ30 is still $2000 in Canada while $1000 in the US. The hifi review community need to investigate why audio prices here are twice as high as in the US. With the exchange rate, the RZ30 would only be $1390. These awful price differences have removed all desire to purchase any new hifi gear.
Ive really only gotten into dedicated stereo in the last 5 years. Most of my prior audio listening for music and films was spent in the home theater. Ive Always been amazed how good SOME music can sound in surround.
I'm genuinely surprised that if you were pleased with music in a home theater environment that you went to or tried a dedicated stereo setup. That's interesting. What made you take the leap?
Thanks for the great review! I think I found my AVR to buy when I decide to ditch my Sonos setup, especially with the latest Sonos app screw up. Glad to hear it could handle your SVS titans. Sound like 95% of people won't need more of a receiver than the RZ30.
No. No “buts” what so ever. I watch 99% of your videos and this is the first review that actually makes me want to replace my Pioneer Elite. 😳🤔 I’m actually excited about it. 🤣 Thanks!
Im thinking of bying this or the pioneer elite xl305. The pioneer seems to have really great sound but this one is a bit newer and has pre-outs. No sure if i will ever use those though. I want to use it for gaming, movies/series as 3.1(maybe 5.1 later) and 2.1 stereo for music. I really appreciate good quality sound/music. What do you think?
I've just swapped the RZ-30 from my Elite SC72. Dirac is a noticeable step up from the Elite calibration system. Audio wise both sound great. Atmos is the major difference as the Elite was 5.1 only. The Advanced Bass Control does make a difference with the subwoofer. In short, a worthy upgrade.
@@harrisfogel6992 currently on the market for denon x4800h. Onkyo rz30 is not yet available much in Europe and it will be same price as x4800h so i think the denon will be a better deal for me. Im thinking of using its audessey and maybe later upgrading to dirac. How do you rate audessey?
@@lennartl6662 I haven't worked with Audessey in a while, but when it comes to room correction, every day brings improvements, so I think that staying current is a good idea. I'm finding Dirac somewhat confusing to use. Yes, you can save data to slots, but it's tricky. And after calibrating and using the advanced bass control, and Dirac saying through the app that it's active, when searching the Dirac menu on the RZ30, it says it's not active. Dirac has no phone support, so I filed a support ticket just to understand it better. But whenever you have a phone app (two actually, Controller and Dirac) in order to get the feature to work on your unit, it's gonna be kludgy. Personally, it's kinda frustrating. But, Dirac is very accurate, and interesting in how it works. For example, it doesn't ask speaker size, or distance, all things you normally enter. At least the Dirac Live in the unit doesn't even allow you to enter those values, they are grayed out. I'm also interested in their choice to use Class A/B for the amplifier, when my old Pioneer Elite SXC-72 had a very clean and musical Class D topology.
Dang, Andrew peaking 100db in room!! Welcome to the world of where real audio exists!😜 Once you go clear clean loud you’ll never settle for less! Getting hit in the chest with a 100db drum punch is a thing of beauty. If the RZ50 is starting to feel a little outdated I wonder where that leaves my Pioneer SX-1050? 😂 Nah, not gunna go AVR when the pioneer punches the chest like no AVR can today, todays watts and yesterdays watts are not comparable, imho! (Yes I’ve owned high dollar high power Marantz AVR’s so I can speak from experience. 😜)
Great review as always! I’m considering the RZ30 or RZ50 for a 5.2.4 setup. Leaning RZ30 for dual sub bass management. What plays a greater role in an AVRs sound signature (exciting, warm, neutral), the electronics/processing, amplification, or both? If I add external amplification for LCR, should I expect a difference in sound signature (exciting, warm, neutral)? I have the ELAC Uni-Fi 2.0s for LCR in an 11x14 dedicated room. The bookshelf and center are 85 dB & 6 ohms. Maybe external amplification may not be needed with either of the RZs? Would sound signatures of the AVRs be negated or changed if using external amplification? Thanks!
I would like to know the answer to this question too. I have a choice between the RZ30 and the RZ50. The RZ30 is about $50 more which is nothing in the grand scheme of things. I'm leaning towards the RZ 30 just because it's newer and the components are probably newer as well but I don't know this for a fact.
Sound signatures can change somewhat from AVR to AVR or amplifier to amplifier, but in today's day and age, I think some of the differences where one amp or AVR is outright "warm" and another is "cool" is overblown. Your choice of speaker will likely give you a greater sensation of tonal change than the amp or AVR itself. Not to say that there isn't one, but going from a well-built AVR like an RZ30 versus an equally good Yamaha likely isn't going to result in you feeling that one has a sound more so than the other. ELAC Uni-Fi speakers should pair well with either RZ AVR and I would encourage you to try just the AVR with DIRAC first before spending more on additional amplification. A separate amp will more than likely firm up low mid-bass and could (emphasis on could) refine the treble but, again, these are likely to be marginal improvements. Audible? Sure, but I'm trying to set your expectations appropriately. As for which AVR to get, I would go with the RZ30 at this point. Having now had a more fleshed out DIRAC Bass Control experience, getting to better integrate up to two subwoofers opposed to one with the RZ50, I think, is worth it.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews The Dirac web site: Your Onkyo TX-RZ50 comes with Dirac Live Room Correction Full Bandwidth installed. To truly enjoy the full quality of your new receiver, we strongly recommend improving your subwoofers with Dirac Live Bass Control. ------------ Would that make the TX-RZ50 the better deal if priced the same as the TX-RZ30? Does the bass management now work the same on both receivers? A side note: It appears that Dirac is offering 20% off the bass management option as a Black Friday sale until December 2, 2024.
I used to be really active on AVSForum and such, but have fallen out of being "constantly informed". I'm having a really hard time understanding how this RZ30 can power those Titans, but then you say the Onkyo 8470, a dedicated 2 channel amp rated for higher output, can't? How is a normal person ever supposed to figure this out? It makes little to no sense.
#&A1( And Another One) ! Totally agree. Even with a dedicated mancave for 2 channel listening I still prefer an AVR of high quality over an integrated stereo amp for music and movies. IMO, a pretty good AVR used in pre-amp mode with a really good multi-channel power amp just makes more sense. Plus, I'm a believer that nothing makes a bigger impact on sound more than speakers vs components. Albeit all of them starting off on the mid-fi level and above. Enjoyed today's show ✊🏼
My first receiver was a Sony with 7.1 surround 25 years ago. I also bought pairs of sony towers to complete the surround. Had some 15" subs driven by a 2000 watt RMS amp. Nothing was expensive... But when Lord of the Rings and the Matrix came out it was a blast! Now that I crested 40 I'm looking for a higher quality system. Left that old system with my dad.
I'm ok with an AVR when i visit my friend's place but for my dedicated HT it's a pre pro with monoblock amps for each speaker. To me it's the difference between acceptable sound and really good. Instead of hearing a rain storm you're in it and getting wet.☺
I have two onkyo receivers that I am still using. One, I had to do a repair on that seems to have held up, and the other has just been outstanding with no problems whatsoever.
I have an older TOTL Onkyo receiver and it is legitimately excellent. It is exceptionally neutral and offers a good amount of control to the user. If you can afford it, absolutely consider getting an Onkyo receiver.
Thanks for the video, I'm going back and forth for my next purchase. Right now I have 2 different systems , one AVR 4 k and another for 2 channel listening. My AVR doesn't have pre outs and at the time I bought it I didn't think I would want anything more than what it offered. I'm getting tired of taking up space for 2 separate systems. But in my opinion most people will be happy with a good AVR. I think if I bought an AVR with pre outs I wouldn't be having this dilemma. First world problems 😅
Denon 3800H is around the same price after Dirac is added. Only Aus$100 difference at current pricing. The Dirac bass management extra is the same for both AVRS of course. It's tough choice to choose between this and the Denon. I do like the Denon having a low listening level mode that helps it pop when you can't have the volume up. Shame the Onkyo doesn't have an equivalent.
If you haven’t made a video like it already, I’d love one where you walk through your process of adjusting DIRAC results for the different listening cases you discussed. I’m using one set for everything since it sounds good but I’d tinker more if I knew what I was doing. Thanks!
I have a Sony str-an100 with a pair of KEF R-300's and a klipsch reference sub for my 2.1 along with a klipsch center and some old polk bookshelves for the rears. I barely listen to the 5.1 set up. but music through the 2.1 set up is simply the best I have ever personally had and I love it! I agree that today's decent AVR's are wonderful for most peoples hi-fi needs
Thanks for the great review and I think I’m ready to switch to an avr. What will I be losing capability or sound wise?: Pair of Concept 50’s w/SVS 3000 micro, NAD C372 Integrated (2x170wStero/IHF power 8ohms-2x220w 4 ohms 2x340w), MiniDSP SHD preamp and Samsung q990d. Thank you,
Well, you'll essentially be combining the experience of the Q990D and your hifi rig together. Now, you didn't specify if you plan on adding a center and surround speakers, if you don't do that, you likely won't have the same level of surround sound immersion that you have with the Q990D by simply switching to an AVR. If you add the matching Q Acoustics rears, you will. The 50s are really good imaging speakers, so maybe you can get away without a center speaker, but to give yourself the same surround sound feeling as your soundbar, you'll need rears when switching to an AVR. As for your NAD/miniDSP gear, switching to an AVR may sound different at first but after about a day or two I doubt you'll notice, especially if you go with an AVR like the Onkyo with DIRAC. I think you'll find running DIRAC to be comparable to miniDSP (only easier) with results that when using a sub can rival or surpass what you currently have. But it will be different for a second. You will adjust and likely never look back, especially when you realize you have one setup for everything you want to watch and listen to.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thanks for your thorough and thoughtful reply! I greatly appreciate the work you and Kristi do day in and day out. I’d buy the Onkyo to replace the MiniDSP and NAD for my hi-fi setup (Concept 50’s + Sub). I’d retain the Q990d for everything else. Is there a way with the Onkyo to run the Concept 50’s + Sub separately from the Q990d soundbar? I’m used to having an integrated for stereo and an avr for tv. Thanks! Will leave a separate Superchat in the comments. Mark
Good review. Made me reconsider the ‘weakest link’ idea that every component in a system needs to be quality matched or else you’re wasting your money on the higher end pieces. A great system can still be had with great speakers and competent components. but not vice-versa. (My aventage pre/dac/streamer looks and feels out of place matched with the mc312 & dynaudios but sounds damn good).
Always liked Onkyo products, always like AVRs too. They just keep getting better and better. Not everyone has 10s of 1000's of $$$$. Bang for the buck IS a thing...
Ill say this much about onkyo, those are some TUFF recievers. My kid knock the sony off the table in less that a year and DEAD. the denon ? 6 montha of abuse before it crapped out. Ive had my ONKYO FOR 20 YEARS ITS A BEAST SOUNDS GREAT AND BUILT TO LAST BABY!
I had to replace my Outlaw Model 976. I have a Marantz Cinema 50 and I’m growing to really love it because ARC actually works with the Marantz. The Cinema 50 is also future proof with 8k capabilities. The 976, while a very good product, started making popping sounds in my speakers at random. I tried different cables and amps and I got the same results. They put no vent holes in the top of the 976, only on the sides and that thing ran hot. I guess something got cooked in the chassis and I just couldn’t stomach sending it to Outlaw and them charging me labor and parts fees, not to mention shipping to fix the piece.
@@SeanPowell-p4v my 975 still works great but I needed a new 2 channel amp so I figured I would just upgrade with a receiver to power the main channels and upgrade to something new with 4K for when I finally upgrade my 60” plasma that won’t seem to die or look like crap.
Good morning Andrew and Kristi. I bought the RZ50 after your strong recommendations (although Audio Science Review really didn't like it). I REALLY enjoy it. Clean power, millions of features, great performance all around. It's incredible for every type of content. Even the phono preamp is more than serviceable. I am currently searching for proper integrated or 2 component stereo system for my bigger living room and the RZ performance makes me scratch my head as of: "What else do I really need?" I am even contemplating passing some audio cables in my walls to connect on the ZONE 2 of the RZ50 and just have a one box solution for the whole house. Obviously Audiophile will look at this receiver as a cheap and toy like option but from where I am sitting, surrounded with Aperions Speakers and an SVS SUB.. I'm not convinced they really know what the RZ line is capable of. Oh and, dirac.
Nice product! It's a pity these avr's never come equipped with balanced XLR pre outs, and adding a sub is such a fuzz in a stereo set up. I'll keep searching. Thanks for the review! Happy sunday.
I used to be a Rotel Integrated amp follower and loved those amps. But when I got the home theatre bug and switched to AVR s, well, 2 channel listening didn't suffer as much as I thought it would. And my now 9 yr old Onkyo TX-NR545, well, it ain't perfect but suits my family's modest needs well and still sounds good with my 10+ year old 5.1 Axiom speakers. It still works great but when it needs to be replaced, damn, this RZ-30 will be on my top 3 short list! I mean come on! Sounds like this puppy kicks butt and powers your SVS Titans with no issues? D A M N. Me be sold! Thanks! Look forward to the first lady of hi-fi thoughts on it... hahaha. Cheers!
Sitting outside by the pool while we answer questions is a great start to a Sunday morning. Longhorns...with the ugly win. I'll take it but they need to start playing a lot better and quick! Hope your weekend has been a good one!
Is Dirac live bass management really worth the $299? RZ50 here and I have a RSLSpeaker 10S with Focal Chora 826-D + 806 in the back (bought both after seeing your videos). Recently got a UMIK-1 and oh boy Dirac Live sure makes a difference. I really don't understand what would the bass management add to the mix. In fact, I'd love to see you do a Dirac Live calibration explaining your thought process on making the level adjustments after it.
It does make a difference, even with a single subwoofer. But, it's 1/4 the cost of the entire AVR. Far too expensive in my opinion. For $50-100 bucks USD, I think it's reasonable, but for $300 (and that's recently been discounted) and a single subwoofer, not sure. It does things that the built-in Dirac Live doesn't. Bass was tighter, less noticeable as a sub, more smoothly integrated as an overall sonic signature. But you could also do a bit of that by fiddling with the sub controls. It's cool, but $300 bucks, seriously?
After reviewing the Onkyo TX-RZ30, do you think it would be worth spending a lot more money for the TX-RZ70 when comparing sound quality and capabilities?
One thing that troubles me is that even though the 30 is only carrying two less channels of amplification, albeit with significantly less output than the RZ70 under the hood the two could not be more different. The inside of the 70 wouldn't look out of place in the engine bay of a supercar whereas the 30 looks like the inside of an odd job mans tool box. Such a massive disparity in workmanship, it makes the 70 seem like a bargain.
Of the many things I don't understand in life, I can't figure out why the TX 8470 was so mediocre when you reviewed it. How hard would it have been to slim down the RZ30 into the 8470 and rule that market segment? I agree with Andrew, even if you don't need/want an HT receiver, including Dirac is a game changer.
I want the Sony ES but I am wondering when the new Sony ES will come out. I’d love a 2nd generation version with separate Bass outputs! Great video on the 30!👍🏻👍🏻
It's time for me to upgrade my old Onkyo and this will be my pick. Thanks for the review. I do use pre-outs to feed a Monolith 7x200W external amp though and do plan to do that with this one.
Andrew, on your next unplugged could your explain what you tweaked through Dirac to improve dialog clarity and tighter bass (Kristi mode)? I'm asking for a friend! I've tried the VOCAL button on my TX-RZ50's remote but this doesn't seem to be enough for everyone in the room.
I've owned the older HK AVR25 as my start. Since then I've owned many different brands and have settled on Onkyo for last several receivers. My only complaint that has since been fixed is crappy China made boards that ruined their name. Well they are comming roaring back. Nice review. Running 11.2 on my older TXNR 1030 with a seperate older HK Signature 2.1 and old reliable Velodyne FSR15. Its comming on time to update again. But will wait till I get an issue with this beast.
WAKE UP Marantz & Denon…..People don’t like Difficulty and Over Priced. Onkyo may have a Cheap shell and Remote but it actually works. Sound is pretty good too. I purchased a 7.1 Onkyo AVR from Costco NR-TX-6050 and when I opened the box I was disappointed. It felt so Cheap. So after hooking it up and applying firmware updates it works okay. I Still miss the Natual sound from my Yamaha HTR but this Onkyo works pretty good in 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos. Most movies only support this configuration anyways so it good enough for me. I have had this setup using bookshelf speakers for about 2 years now and it still works. Works great with AppleTV and Roku too. I use a Sony 4k Bluray player and it works great. NOT bad for an inexpensive AVR.
Looks like a rebadged Integra DRX 3.4 with fewer 12v trigger outputs, no 12v trigger inputs, no 5v USB power port, an added THX badge/license fee, and the ability to pay another $300 for Dirac Bass Control. This would be great if it offered some savings, but street price of the DRX 3.4 is around $699-799 depending on the day. Comparing it to the RZ50 and NR7100 but not the nearly identical DRX 3.4 (which has been reviewed by the channel) seems like a notable omission.
You may be right on some level; however, according to my search, the 3.4 is no longer a current or sold product. I'm not saying you can't get one, especially on clearance, but it's not a current product.
I had an RZ-50 for a little while, the input switching was slow with an audible click. The screen resolution on the front of the AVR looks like it came straight out of 1994. I'll admit im a Denon/Marantz fanboy, so the RZ-50 was returned, and I've been happy since with the x3800h.
I have no issues with the front of the receiver and its dot matrix-esque readout - you know what I DO have an issue with? The way they refuse to bring back the inclusion of showing the sound mode in use and the input name at the same time. It's absolutely ridiculous that you have to press the info button on the remote in order to scroll to a screen that shows the codec being processed. Interesting that you returned the Onk for the Denon; I got a 2800 to replace my old Onkyo 605, and wish I could return it for a new Onk (if they didn't have the shortcomings I mentioned).
Guys I have the RZ 50 and it was running for the first year great. Then wanted to watch a movie one night no sound. Seems like Onkyo. Is still having problems with there DSP chip. After doing some research. Come to find out this has been a problem in the passed with Onkyo AVRs. I left the unit on for 5 hrs and managed to get the sound back on the CD. Before you recommend Any Onkyo AVR equipment let it come with a Warning. Still love the channel. STEW 😊
These Budget Onkyo receivers are Pretty good. They do have a Cheap Quality Shell and Remote but the components and features are pretty good. Can’t beat it for the Price. Budget AVR King.
I have the modest but functional Onkyo tx-sr3100 5.2 receiver connected with a Fluance Reference series surround speakers and 2 DB10 subwoofers. Thought this is considered a mid level AVR and peripherals, once equalized, it performs above its price point. It's enjoyable wether your watching movies or playing music. The Onkyo c-7030 single disk player is premium at a reasonable price. It's hard to argue with happy at a modest price.
Andrew, Hopefully you can check out my reply to your reply in the thread below and provide some insight on my last question. This is Superchat is to pay you for your time answering my question. Thanks, Mark
Onkyo... I own your RZ50. Release a proper successor to it, and get the RZ90 out there. 4 subs, and 13 channels of processing please. internal amps can be 11, doesn't matter. or 1 up me, and go 15 channels of processing. Release it please 🙏
The analog inputs are welcome (drag out that old PS1 or PS2), but someone needs to make a tiny, cheap Dolby AC-3 RF demodulator module to truly resurrect the LD format! I have an old copy of True Lies I wouldn't mind hearing. Though I have no idea if my old Pioneer LD player even works anymore. It did 15 years ago.
I'm in the process of building a 2.1 setup for vinyl/streaming and looking at the Marantz M1 with my Kef Q Concerto Meta's. I am in the camp that AVR's are the better option for most of us, but I've yet to hear a bad word uttered about the M1. My setup will include a TV, although the intent is primarily to watch music videos on Tidal and the now playing data screen when streaming music. Does the RZ30 make sense for my situation? I run the RZ50 in HT setup and think its incredible, and I'm certain the RZ30 will be just as incredible. The quality of what's available to us at "reasonable" prices doesn't make it easy does it? Thanks for all the work you and Kristi do in putting these reviews together.
Newbie here and you two have been such a help. Building our first system that will be movie, shows, gaming, sports sound for 77” LG C4 as well as for Hi fi audio listening to my first nice turn table. Coming from an all in one record player and a 54” Vizio soundbar sub and rears combo so I have a long way to climb ha. I went with (2) Klipsch 8000f ii based on your great review on them, a 504c ii center channel (still hope that was the right call), and will eventually pick a sub (open to recommendations on it too but wasn’t sure I’d need one yet!) essentially I think that would be a 3.1 system, 3.0 for now until I make that decision. After all your videos and recon I’m very stuck on rz30 vs rz50 vs marantz cinema 50 or one of their older SR line. I’ve even looked at the rz75 and Marantz 40 but it felt that may be way overkill if that’s a thing. Yamaha is off the list as I want easy 😂 Sony or denon I haven’t done much recon on. Was trying to keep it simple but we know how that goes in this hobby. I would love your receiver opinions for my setup! Most info starts as two channel wattage and is usually reviews head right into info with 5.x , 7.x, 11.x. I don’t quite know how much wattage loss there is when you only do a 3.0 or 3.1 and how that math works so right amount of power is a question. Also open to thoughts on sub too! Thank you for all you too do!
I think the way we consume media now makes integrated amps quite a difficult sale at times. I’d still rather have one to sit and listen to but the convenience of HDMI switching, Airplay, subwoofer outs and other features is just too much to pass up. I know, it’s not the audiophile way. It’s just hard to pay money for something that I can’t plug my HDMI devices into. Using a 7100 here and once Dirac had been dialled in, sounds great.
I chose an AVR more than 10 years ago and gradually upgraded, always buying used, ending up with a yamaha Aventage receiver and a Marantz HT power stage, mainly to handle the two Magnepans, that give me a realistic cinema experience. I'm sure an Onkyo would be just as good in place of a Yamaha, but my multi room setup is all based on their powerful MusicCast technology, and I actually like experimenting with manual tweaks in their room correction. Still, being able to author Dirac on a PC sounds exciting.
Hi, frist I would like to thak you for all the job you have done on all the videos you produced. I love watching your videos. There are very understandable even for a french guy ! I have just a question for you regarding this AVR that I think i will buy in a near futur. Do you think it will fit well with Focal Theva 3 and other Focal speakers for a 5.1.2 installation? Or you have a better idea for the speaker who sound like the Focal's. Best Regards and thanks again !
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close to mcintosh becouse same chip inside 7.11min - MHT300 cirrus logic chip
getting a pair of second hand Bowers Wilkins 803 D3 Diamonds for a future cinema build ..full 800 series ..But i need a Receiver... A1H .. Cinema 30..RZ30..The 7000 is not an option in my contry ..What to choose ??
Hey Andrew - another great review. I was curious as to your thoughts. I think aside from aesthetics, the 7100 is almost identical to the RZ-30 less pre outs and bass management. Am I correct ?
How come when I click your Amazon link it’s in Spanish?
@chukfunk That's gotta be on your end. I'm not seeing that here amzn.to/4hfaOWN.
Quick update: DIRAC Bass Control ($299) went LIVE in the past 24 hours for the Onkyo RZ50. If you have an RZ50, you can now add Bass Control to DIRAC Live, which was already included with your purchase.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Andrew is this a worthy add if it’s just a movie only theater setup? I have separate hifi for music. Doesn’t standard Dirac already handle my cross overs? For HT I’m not using full range floor standers. SVS Ultra Bookshelves and Elevations for all the surrounds/atmos channels
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I’ll have to see a review on this. Knowing that the subs aren’t independent how would this even work?
Appears we get Bass Management free of charge but not Full Bass Control. Getting Full Bass Control seems to require the $299. Love your channel by the way... thanks for all you do for us!
SO HAPPY I FOUND THIS COMMENT!!! I was hoping the RZ-50 would get an update!
But the RZ50 unlike the RZ30 does not have independent sub outs… how important is this for DIRAC? Does it make a huge difference?
There seems to be a school of thought that says independent sub outs are not really necessary, given how bass is created in a room, and that it’s a gadget that’s only been added to AVRs in the last few years to please the 2-channel audiophiles.
I used an AVR amp for 20 years because it was so practical, so flexible, and sounded so nice. Got a girlfriend, who became a wife, and a kid, and moved my equipment around the house, changed houses, and that amp just kept going.
Andrew: Do you know if the RZ30 is going to replace the NR7100?
I do not know that, no.
Hi Kristy and Andrew, from this 72 year old I want to say how much I really love your description under the acronym as to what it means? Love your channel please keep up the great job.
I am still using the RZ50 since its release thanks to the praise for it on this channel. So happy with it! 🕺
I think you'll be in good shape for a while with the RZ50.
Great to see Onkyo bouncing back, always bang for your buck .. Out of all manufacturers I think Onkyo has graced my rack the most .
My neighbor taught media production at local college from late 60s to 90s. I first heard McIntosh gear in his setup. He told me he switched to solid state ca. 1970 after tubes all through the 50s and 60s when he felt McIntosh got solid state ‘right’. In the 90s he built a dedicated home theater and has used good Marantz AVRs ever since. I often think his lack of ‘nostalgia’, looking to the future, and not romanticizing things have helped keep him ‘young at heart’ well into his 90s - enjoying the sights and sounds. The gear just gets better and better.
50 year Onkyo fan here. Will die with an Onkyo in my entertainment center
I used to be on the EXACT same page as you - was a diehard fan of this brand ever since a college friend turned me on to it decades ago. From the businesslike design of their products to the aggressive, almost supercharged sound profile the amps put out, I thought I had found my go-to brand pretty much for life...and I've had experience owning many different brands over the years from being an audio enthusiast and mobile DJ. At one point, I used to swear by Kenwood, and even used a "pro" version of one of their integrated amps when I was a DJ - this thing kicked ASS and sounded like a pro power amp (it was bought in a store in NYC that sold DJ equipment, and was a unique integrated amp in that it didn't come with a remote).
But, yeah, once I was turned on to Onkyo in the early 2000s and purchased my first surround AVR, a TX-SR600, I was hooked. When my then-girlfriend-now-wife and I moved into our first apartment together, we purchased a TX-SR605 Onkyo for our 1080p setup at the time. That amp was AMAZING and didn't quit until just recently -- actually, it didn't even quit; it developed an HDMI out problem that I couldn't live with anymore. Otherwise, it was STILL going strong in the house we relocated to, over a decade later, powering a 5.1 channel system with incredible aggression (and that was at a rated 90 WPC).
I put into service a TX-8555 stereo receiver for our upstairs loft two channel system, and that thing has been kicking ass ever since, sounding like a good integrated amp that just happens to have a tuner built in. I'll never part with it.
That brings me to the dilemma of modern day Onkyo: since they had financial trouble and sold out to Premium Audio Group/Voxx/Sharp, their products have NOT been the same, and they dropped some really great features from their AV receivers, at least, that drew me away from the brand.
One big one for me was how they changed the front panel displays on the receivers so you can no longer see both the sound mode in use and the input name at the same time. The only thing that shows constantly on the display is the input name and volume level. That's ridiculous.
It was actually this omission that drove me to a Denon X2800 when I finally replaced the old Onkyo 605 - but I have to say....I REALLY miss the Onkyo house sound. I'd love to get an RZ30 or 50, as I am crazy about their looks, but I just can't see myself with another Onk until this display issue is fixed.
They also dropped the incredibly helpful IntelliVolume feature from the AVRs, which allowed you to increase (or decrease) gain for each individual device connected to the amp, so it acted like a power amp's sensitivity control. This was SO helpful with making, say, the Blu-ray player input sound much louder at a lower master volume value.
Happy Sunday Andrew! Hope you have a nice, relaxing day.
Thanks, you too!
My Yamaha Aventage A760 decided that it didn't want me to listen to anything in stereo, even after several factory resets, and I refuse to move to 7 Channel Stereo AND manually disconnect the Center channel speaker. This has put me in the market for a replacement and the Onkyo RZ30 should work for me. Thank you, Andrew for being a reliable reviewer, and I look forward to Kristi's addition with anticipation!
Good afternoon you two and congrats again on 380k subscribers. Onkyo dominating avrs price/value continues. I bought the 50 on your recommendation for my basement theater and have been more than happy. Btw the flashing of Marantz had me laughing out loud.
I was wondering how long it would take for folks to comment on the easter egg I put in there. Thanks for watching and I'm glad the RZ50 is working out for you!
I really couldn't agree with you more Andrew. I am very happy to use an audio/video receiver that you recommended to listen to music in high fidelity.
Your review is just in time. I was hoping you would review the receiver and you did. I am looking forward to the next video. keep up the good work.
Thanks for watching!
Based on your review of the RZ50, I picked up a refurbished model on Amazon for under $950 (including tax), along with two pair of the Fluance XL8 bookshelf (on sale for ~150/pair) and matching center speakers you recommended for me, and an SVS SB1000 sub.
I am having a blast watching movies and tv shows, and listening to music (in surround/Atmos as much as possible) and agree that a capable AVR can be more than enough.
I feel my AVR can stay with me as I move from entry level to more advanced speakers, saving me money and hassle without sacrificing anything for my use case.
I have been an Onkyo receiver advocate since I first used one way back in 1991. It's great to see them add a new product that slots in-between their best models and comes in under $1200. I will recommend Marantz as well, but there's a reason Onkyo has been a leader for decades, despite the ownership changes and recent near-death experience.
Have always loved Onkyo, purchased the first AVR with ProLogic, then upgraded to the first with DTS decoding. Thanks again for keeping Onkyo relevant and in the discussion.
Earlier this year, I sold a single ended two amp for money to buy an entry level Yamaha receiver. Was previously using a sound bar for the TV. I ran everything through the Yamaha expecting to be disappointed by the music and happy with the convenience of eARC and CEC. Surprisingly I still really enjoyed music through it.
So to me, a receiver like this is wishlist/end game. My wife doesn’t mind speakers throughout the room as long as she can just use one remote. It’s a win win.
Thanks so much for the great reviews, I really do appreciate them and I also really like the unplugged segments with all the extra info to help round out the decision making process. So I had written up explaining how I have a wilsenton tube R8 stereo tube amp that I love both sonically and visually, it’s the center piece below my TV I really wanted to try and integrate it into a surround setup using the preouts on a good AVR, driving my Klipsch RP-8 mark ll tower speakers supported by reference series surround speakers and center speaker. The plan is add 2 in wall back speakers and 2 in ceiling atmos speakers, 4 would be great but the Onkyo RZ-30 is limited to 2 I believe. This seemed like a great plan…. Until I saw ur review of the Sony Bravia quad setup, now I can’t help but wonder if that might not be a better option. The onkyo is a great receiver but let’s be honest, it’s not great to look at so it was gonna go into a cabinet to not be looked at again anyways, I don’t have a million different devices, it’s mainly the Apple 4K, and I love being able to control everything using the 1 remote, I already have an older Sony XBR series tv that if I needed to replace it would be replaced by another Sony most likely anyways. So now I’m a bit torn, is the quad truley THAT good? If it is then I lose nothing in functionality it seems like, I didn’t want to have 2 separate setups but the price seems right. What would u do? Your setup seems similar to mine and ur take away tends to agree with mine as well, I hate the idea of not using the tube amp all the time as I currently do, the glowing tubes seducing me like a moth to a flame, and I love the sound, but similar price all in, ease of use as well as a similar if not possibly better results, the logic is hard to argue, if it was ur money where do u go?
I have been completely sold on the value of AVRs ever since I got my very first one (Pioneer VSX-9900S) back in the early '90s when I was in the Air Force. I can't see myself ever not owning one. I've been considering pulling the trigger on an RZ50 for the longest time, but this RZ30 looks extremely compelling. You've sold it, my friend.
You have to make a video tutorial on how you used dirac to make those sound profiles
It's a bit of a mix between the RZ30 and RZ50. The RZ30 gives you 6x HDMI @ 40Gbps (8k/60p) vs 3x@40Gbps, 3x@24Gbps, 1x@9Gbps with the RZ50. The Bluetooth chipset was updated to support v5.1 (vs 4.2) and the chassis is 30mm shorter. The couple of enhancements have a tradeoff of 30w/channel less power, the loss of 7.1.4 potentials and the larger problem of market pricing. While list price on the RZ50 is significantly higher, market price is significantly lower than the RZ30.
After watching this, I think im convinced to give it a try. Im moving to a much smaller location, so I'm losing my listening room. I have been thinking about going this route, and I am pretty convinced. Thanks for the video.
Sounds like you’re on the right track!
I have always preferred receivers over integrated amps mainly because of home theater use. I have been ridiculed by by a couple Hi - Fi acquaintances over my use of receivers and not taking my system seriously. I have the Integra DRX-8.4 that pairs beautifully with my Quad Revela 2 and my Technics SLG700M2 CD player. I use Wireworld Eclipse cables. I now love my system and it took a long time to get to this point. The hell with everyone else. I am the only one who has to like my system.
Ti seguo dall’Italia e sono impressionato dalla tua onestá intellettuale…complimenti davvero….scusa se nn mi esprimo in inglese tuttavia seguire il tuo canale (Con i sottotitoli) per me é un puro piacere….sei un punto di riferimento grazie a nome di tanti
Good morning A&K. Looks like Onkyo has delivered another tremendous bang for the buck product as the brand is well known for. Near McIntosh level 2.1 performance is high praise indeed. Enjoy the rest of your Sunday guys.
Thanks for watching!
The “full Karl” 😂 . We all have one of those on our cohort; mine is named Cal. The mobile party speakers he brought to a geek fest a decade or so ago were bi-amped A7s - I just can’t remember for sure if the amps were big HK Citations or Crowns.!
I’m so happy Onkyo keeps doing its thing. I’d love to see them release a RZ90. Just to see what they’re capable of!
This isn't the same Onkyo since Premium Audio Group/Voxx/Sharp acquired them. I was a diehard fan of this brand, believe me, and ended up going with a Denon to replace my old TX-SR605 because of vital features they dropped from these new units.
I found your review very interesting as I've just purchased a RZ-50, so I feel like I've definitely made an excellent choice. I use my system for every day TV. I've also still got all my early 90's stereo gear ( in a different room) & use that if I just want my music. Ty from down under in New Zealand.
Same my guy. I just got the RZ50 2 months ago and was worried when I saw the title of this video. lol
Andrew. Have an RZ50 setup as a 7.1 system through an Emotiva XPA. Could not be happier. Maybe they will update the bass management for Dirac, I hope. Tied into Khorns going from home theater to two channel just rocks. Anyway, I’m 72, and love your down to earth style. Thank you.
The main reason I would choose this over the RZ50 is cause it is smaller and fits perfectly in my furniture. The RZ50 would only have 0.4" space above, that is not enough for cooling. Thank you for the review, Andrew.
Thanks for watching, and good catch on the smaller size!
The RZ50 has bass control now!
Was bass control added in the latest auto update? He did mention it’s a paid option.
1st! Thank you Andrew and Kristi have a great day.
Thanks for joining us, we appreciate it.
You too!
Great review Andrew! I doubt Denon & Marantz (aka Masimo) are listening, but I am glad you keep foot stomping the point about the added cost of Dirac even on receivers costing $6500! On another note, I'm really looking forward to hearing your thoughts on that SVS SB17 and have my fingers crossed that we will see a KEF Q Concerto Meta review in the near future. Keep up the great work!
SVS sub review is coming soon. No plans to do the Concerto Meta at this time.
Onkyo is a seriously underrated company and even moreso here in Asia, where their Japanese-only division has put out some seriously upmarket stuff. It's a little weird that in the west they're thought of in the same breath as Yamaha and Denon, but their Asia badge is a lot more Emotiva and Rotel. I've got a pair of Onkyo D-202AX Limited speakers from the late 90s, and they stand shoulder to shoulder with my brand new Fyne Audio F301i and PSB Alpha T20's.
I think it's got a sweet spot in the market. Loads of normal home theater users are only 9 channel for dual use rooms. The added benefit of full pre-outs gives it a boost over brands at price point
The RZ30 is still $2000 in Canada while $1000 in the US. The hifi review community need to investigate why audio prices here are twice as high as in the US. With the exchange rate, the RZ30 would only be $1390. These awful price differences have removed all desire to purchase any new hifi gear.
Good morning Andrew and Kristi 😊
Morning, Daniel! Thanks for watching!
Hi!
Ive really only gotten into dedicated stereo in the last 5 years. Most of my prior audio listening for music and films was spent in the home theater. Ive Always been amazed how good SOME music can sound in surround.
I'm genuinely surprised that if you were pleased with music in a home theater environment that you went to or tried a dedicated stereo setup. That's interesting. What made you take the leap?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews i bought a vintage stereo receiver and set up a modest sysetm in my art studio. I liked it and wanted more
Thanks for the great review! I think I found my AVR to buy when I decide to ditch my Sonos setup, especially with the latest Sonos app screw up. Glad to hear it could handle your SVS titans. Sound like 95% of people won't need more of a receiver than the RZ30.
No. No “buts” what so ever. I watch 99% of your videos and this is the first review that actually makes me want to replace my Pioneer Elite. 😳🤔 I’m actually excited about it. 🤣 Thanks!
Im thinking of bying this or the pioneer elite xl305. The pioneer seems to have really great sound but this one is a bit newer and has pre-outs. No sure if i will ever use those though.
I want to use it for gaming, movies/series as 3.1(maybe 5.1 later) and 2.1 stereo for music. I really appreciate good quality sound/music. What do you think?
@ Go with the RZ-30. I would, if I didn’t have my Pioneer Elite.
I've just swapped the RZ-30 from my Elite SC72. Dirac is a noticeable step up from the Elite calibration system. Audio wise both sound great. Atmos is the major difference as the Elite was 5.1 only. The Advanced Bass Control does make a difference with the subwoofer. In short, a worthy upgrade.
@@harrisfogel6992 currently on the market for denon x4800h. Onkyo rz30 is not yet available much in Europe and it will be same price as x4800h so i think the denon will be a better deal for me.
Im thinking of using its audessey and maybe later upgrading to dirac. How do you rate audessey?
@@lennartl6662 I haven't worked with Audessey in a while, but when it comes to room correction, every day brings improvements, so I think that staying current is a good idea. I'm finding Dirac somewhat confusing to use. Yes, you can save data to slots, but it's tricky. And after calibrating and using the advanced bass control, and Dirac saying through the app that it's active, when searching the Dirac menu on the RZ30, it says it's not active. Dirac has no phone support, so I filed a support ticket just to understand it better. But whenever you have a phone app (two actually, Controller and Dirac) in order to get the feature to work on your unit, it's gonna be kludgy. Personally, it's kinda frustrating. But, Dirac is very accurate, and interesting in how it works. For example, it doesn't ask speaker size, or distance, all things you normally enter. At least the Dirac Live in the unit doesn't even allow you to enter those values, they are grayed out. I'm also interested in their choice to use Class A/B for the amplifier, when my old Pioneer Elite SXC-72 had a very clean and musical Class D topology.
Dang, Andrew peaking 100db in room!!
Welcome to the world of where real audio exists!😜
Once you go clear clean loud you’ll never settle for less!
Getting hit in the chest with a 100db drum punch is a thing of beauty.
If the RZ50 is starting to feel a little outdated I wonder where that leaves my Pioneer SX-1050? 😂
Nah, not gunna go AVR when the pioneer punches the chest like no AVR can today, todays watts and yesterdays watts are not comparable, imho!
(Yes I’ve owned high dollar high power Marantz AVR’s so I can speak from experience. 😜)
CARL!!! 😂
@@RicardoHarvin
Alive and well!😜
Just got through hittin triple digit SPL’s. Rockin like it was the 70’s!!
Great review as always!
I’m considering the RZ30 or RZ50 for a 5.2.4 setup. Leaning RZ30 for dual sub bass management.
What plays a greater role in an AVRs sound signature (exciting, warm, neutral), the electronics/processing, amplification, or both?
If I add external amplification for LCR, should I expect a difference in sound signature (exciting, warm, neutral)?
I have the ELAC Uni-Fi 2.0s for LCR in an 11x14 dedicated room. The bookshelf and center are 85 dB & 6 ohms. Maybe external amplification may not be needed with either of the RZs?
Would sound signatures of the AVRs be negated or changed if using external amplification?
Thanks!
I would like to know the answer to this question too. I have a choice between the RZ30 and the RZ50. The RZ30 is about $50 more which is nothing in the grand scheme of things.
I'm leaning towards the RZ 30 just because it's newer and the components are probably newer as well but I don't know this for a fact.
Sound signatures can change somewhat from AVR to AVR or amplifier to amplifier, but in today's day and age, I think some of the differences where one amp or AVR is outright "warm" and another is "cool" is overblown. Your choice of speaker will likely give you a greater sensation of tonal change than the amp or AVR itself. Not to say that there isn't one, but going from a well-built AVR like an RZ30 versus an equally good Yamaha likely isn't going to result in you feeling that one has a sound more so than the other.
ELAC Uni-Fi speakers should pair well with either RZ AVR and I would encourage you to try just the AVR with DIRAC first before spending more on additional amplification. A separate amp will more than likely firm up low mid-bass and could (emphasis on could) refine the treble but, again, these are likely to be marginal improvements. Audible? Sure, but I'm trying to set your expectations appropriately.
As for which AVR to get, I would go with the RZ30 at this point. Having now had a more fleshed out DIRAC Bass Control experience, getting to better integrate up to two subwoofers opposed to one with the RZ50, I think, is worth it.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews The Dirac web site:
Your Onkyo TX-RZ50 comes with Dirac Live Room Correction Full Bandwidth installed. To truly enjoy the full quality of your new receiver, we strongly recommend improving your subwoofers with Dirac Live Bass Control.
------------
Would that make the TX-RZ50 the better deal if priced the same as the TX-RZ30? Does the bass management now work the same on both receivers?
A side note: It appears that Dirac is offering 20% off the bass management option as a Black Friday sale until December 2, 2024.
I used to be really active on AVSForum and such, but have fallen out of being "constantly informed". I'm having a really hard time understanding how this RZ30 can power those Titans, but then you say the Onkyo 8470, a dedicated 2 channel amp rated for higher output, can't? How is a normal person ever supposed to figure this out? It makes little to no sense.
#&A1( And Another One) ! Totally agree. Even with a dedicated mancave for 2 channel listening I still prefer an AVR of high quality over an integrated stereo amp for music and movies. IMO, a pretty good AVR used in pre-amp mode with a really good multi-channel power amp just makes more sense. Plus, I'm a believer that nothing makes a bigger impact on sound more than speakers vs components. Albeit all of them starting off on the mid-fi level and above. Enjoyed today's show ✊🏼
My first receiver was a Sony with 7.1 surround 25 years ago.
I also bought pairs of sony towers to complete the surround. Had some 15" subs driven by a 2000 watt RMS amp.
Nothing was expensive...
But when Lord of the Rings and the Matrix came out it was a blast!
Now that I crested 40 I'm looking for a higher quality system. Left that old system with my dad.
Thanks for your review. Very good.
Thanks, Craig.
I'm ok with an AVR when i visit my friend's place but for my dedicated HT it's a pre pro with monoblock amps for each speaker. To me it's the difference between acceptable sound and really good. Instead of hearing a rain storm you're in it and getting wet.☺
Are you using 7-12 monoblocks for surround sound?
@@jC-kc4si Rockin' a 5.1 setup with 5 Moon 400Ms. Important to get the room dialed in acoustically before moving on to the electronics.👍
I have two onkyo receivers that I am still using. One, I had to do a repair on that seems to have held up, and the other has just been outstanding with no problems whatsoever.
I have good memories of Onkyo products.
More of my personal theaters have had an Onkyo or Integra at their heart over the years. Lots of great memories myself!
I have an older TOTL Onkyo receiver and it is legitimately excellent. It is exceptionally neutral and offers a good amount of control to the user. If you can afford it, absolutely consider getting an Onkyo receiver.
If you look you can find the RZ70 at a great discount
Thanks again for your good work. Really glad I went with an AVR.
Thanks for the video, I'm going back and forth for my next purchase. Right now I have 2 different systems , one AVR 4 k and another for 2 channel listening. My AVR doesn't have pre outs and at the time I bought it I didn't think I would want anything more than what it offered. I'm getting tired of taking up space for 2 separate systems. But in my opinion most people will be happy with a good AVR. I think if I bought an AVR with pre outs I wouldn't be having this dilemma. First world problems 😅
Denon 3800H is around the same price after Dirac is added. Only Aus$100 difference at current pricing. The Dirac bass management extra is the same for both AVRS of course. It's tough choice to choose between this and the Denon. I do like the Denon having a low listening level mode that helps it pop when you can't have the volume up. Shame the Onkyo doesn't have an equivalent.
Does the Marantz model M1 sounds somewhat better in stereo then the RZ30? Or how would you compare their stereo performance. Great review Andrew!
If you haven’t made a video like it already, I’d love one where you walk through your process of adjusting DIRAC results for the different listening cases you discussed. I’m using one set for everything since it sounds good but I’d tinker more if I knew what I was doing. Thanks!
I have a Sony str-an100 with a pair of KEF R-300's and a klipsch reference sub for my 2.1 along with a klipsch center and some old polk bookshelves for the rears. I barely listen to the 5.1 set up. but music through the 2.1 set up is simply the best I have ever personally had and I love it! I agree that today's decent AVR's are wonderful for most peoples hi-fi needs
Thanks for the great review and I think I’m ready to switch to an avr. What will I be losing capability or sound wise?: Pair of Concept 50’s w/SVS 3000 micro, NAD C372 Integrated (2x170wStero/IHF power 8ohms-2x220w 4 ohms 2x340w), MiniDSP SHD preamp and Samsung q990d. Thank you,
Well, you'll essentially be combining the experience of the Q990D and your hifi rig together.
Now, you didn't specify if you plan on adding a center and surround speakers, if you don't do that, you likely won't have the same level of surround sound immersion that you have with the Q990D by simply switching to an AVR. If you add the matching Q Acoustics rears, you will. The 50s are really good imaging speakers, so maybe you can get away without a center speaker, but to give yourself the same surround sound feeling as your soundbar, you'll need rears when switching to an AVR.
As for your NAD/miniDSP gear, switching to an AVR may sound different at first but after about a day or two I doubt you'll notice, especially if you go with an AVR like the Onkyo with DIRAC. I think you'll find running DIRAC to be comparable to miniDSP (only easier) with results that when using a sub can rival or surpass what you currently have. But it will be different for a second. You will adjust and likely never look back, especially when you realize you have one setup for everything you want to watch and listen to.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thanks for your thorough and thoughtful reply! I greatly appreciate the work you and Kristi do day in and day out. I’d buy the Onkyo to replace the MiniDSP and NAD for my hi-fi setup (Concept 50’s + Sub). I’d retain the Q990d for everything else. Is there a way with the Onkyo to run the Concept 50’s + Sub separately from the Q990d soundbar? I’m used to having an integrated for stereo and an avr for tv. Thanks! Will leave a separate Superchat in the comments. Mark
You cannot connect the Q990D to an AVR (and shouldn't). The two systems will remain independent of one another.
Just purchased one in Australia, hope it makes it here. Thanks Andrew, love your content.
Good review. Made me reconsider the ‘weakest link’ idea that every component in a system needs to be quality matched or else you’re wasting your money on the higher end pieces. A great system can still be had with great speakers and competent components. but not vice-versa. (My aventage pre/dac/streamer looks and feels out of place matched with the mc312 & dynaudios but sounds damn good).
Always liked Onkyo products, always like AVRs too. They just keep getting better and better. Not everyone has 10s of 1000's of $$$$. Bang for the buck IS a thing...
The RZ30 may be the best, bang for the buck AVR I've seen thus far!
Ill say this much about onkyo, those are some TUFF recievers. My kid knock the sony off the table in less that a year and DEAD. the denon ? 6 montha of abuse before it crapped out. Ive had my ONKYO FOR 20 YEARS ITS A BEAST SOUNDS GREAT AND BUILT TO LAST BABY!
Recently picked up an RZ50 open box for $750. Still had the plastic on the screens. So far so good. Replaced my outlaw 975 processor.
I had to replace my Outlaw Model 976. I have a Marantz Cinema 50 and I’m growing to really love it because ARC actually works with the Marantz. The Cinema 50 is also future proof with 8k capabilities. The 976, while a very good product, started making popping sounds in my speakers at random. I tried different cables and amps and I got the same results. They put no vent holes in the top of the 976, only on the sides and that thing ran hot. I guess something got cooked in the chassis and I just couldn’t stomach sending it to Outlaw and them charging me labor and parts fees, not to mention shipping to fix the piece.
@@PaulFauteux-i7t open box seems to be the best deals lately.
@@SeanPowell-p4v my 975 still works great but I needed a new 2 channel amp so I figured I would just upgrade with a receiver to power the main channels and upgrade to something new with 4K for when I finally upgrade my 60” plasma that won’t seem to die or look like crap.
@@11onejay I buy everything open box. If it’s not like new I return it.
Love a good receiver review! Happy sunday
I love receiver reviews! They're so much fun because there's a lot to discuss.
Hey max. I'm guessing Max isn't your real name?
@@KristiWright I will admit Power is not my real name lol. Kind of an old Simpsons joke. My middle name is Max however.
@@KristiWright no one needs to take the name Max Power too seriously lol. I used to go by Audiotron. Also not too serious. Just fun.
Good morning Andrew and Kristi. I bought the RZ50 after your strong recommendations (although Audio Science Review really didn't like it). I REALLY enjoy it. Clean power, millions of features, great performance all around. It's incredible for every type of content. Even the phono preamp is more than serviceable.
I am currently searching for proper integrated or 2 component stereo system for my bigger living room and the RZ performance makes me scratch my head as of: "What else do I really need?"
I am even contemplating passing some audio cables in my walls to connect on the ZONE 2 of the RZ50 and just have a one box solution for the whole house.
Obviously Audiophile will look at this receiver as a cheap and toy like option but from where I am sitting, surrounded with Aperions Speakers and an SVS SUB.. I'm not convinced they really know what the RZ line is capable of.
Oh and, dirac.
Nice product! It's a pity these avr's never come equipped with balanced XLR pre outs, and adding a sub is such a fuzz in a stereo set up. I'll keep searching.
Thanks for the review! Happy sunday.
Great Sunday Everyone!!!
Good morning!
I used to be a Rotel Integrated amp follower and loved those amps. But when I got the home theatre bug and switched to AVR s, well, 2 channel listening didn't suffer as much as I thought it would. And my now 9 yr old Onkyo TX-NR545, well, it ain't perfect but suits my family's modest needs well and still sounds good with my 10+ year old 5.1 Axiom speakers. It still works great but when it needs to be replaced, damn, this RZ-30 will be on my top 3 short list! I mean come on! Sounds like this puppy kicks butt and powers your SVS Titans with no issues? D A M N. Me be sold! Thanks! Look forward to the first lady of hi-fi thoughts on it... hahaha. Cheers!
A Longhorn win and a stellar review of an AVR - happy vibes at the Casa Andrew and Kristi?
Sitting outside by the pool while we answer questions is a great start to a Sunday morning. Longhorns...with the ugly win. I'll take it but they need to start playing a lot better and quick!
Hope your weekend has been a good one!
@@KristiWright thank you. Back atcha!
Dirac live Bass is available on the RZ50 for $299
you have to add the cost of a MiniDSP to that if you have more than one sub and want to individually dial in your subs
Is Dirac live bass management really worth the $299? RZ50 here and I have a RSLSpeaker 10S with Focal Chora 826-D + 806 in the back (bought both after seeing your videos). Recently got a UMIK-1 and oh boy Dirac Live sure makes a difference. I really don't understand what would the bass management add to the mix. In fact, I'd love to see you do a Dirac Live calibration explaining your thought process on making the level adjustments after it.
It does make a difference, even with a single subwoofer. But, it's 1/4 the cost of the entire AVR. Far too expensive in my opinion. For $50-100 bucks USD, I think it's reasonable, but for $300 (and that's recently been discounted) and a single subwoofer, not sure. It does things that the built-in Dirac Live doesn't. Bass was tighter, less noticeable as a sub, more smoothly integrated as an overall sonic signature. But you could also do a bit of that by fiddling with the sub controls. It's cool, but $300 bucks, seriously?
@@harrisfogel6992I think most RZ50 owners won’t pay $300 for bass control upgrade. I won’t but for $100 maybe.
After reviewing the Onkyo TX-RZ30, do you think it would be worth spending a lot more money for the TX-RZ70 when comparing sound quality and capabilities?
One thing that troubles me is that even though the 30 is only carrying two less channels of amplification, albeit with significantly less output than the RZ70 under the hood the two could not be more different. The inside of the 70 wouldn't look out of place in the engine bay of a supercar whereas the 30 looks like the inside of an odd job mans tool box. Such a massive disparity in workmanship, it makes the 70 seem like a bargain.
Of the many things I don't understand in life, I can't figure out why the TX 8470 was so mediocre when you reviewed it. How hard would it have been to slim down the RZ30 into the 8470 and rule that market segment? I agree with Andrew, even if you don't need/want an HT receiver, including Dirac is a game changer.
I want the Sony ES but I am wondering when the new Sony ES will come out. I’d love a 2nd generation version with separate Bass outputs! Great video on the 30!👍🏻👍🏻
I don't think there will be a new ES line of AVRs for some time. The current line is only about 18 months old.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I just know the day I buy it. They will announce then. lol. Thx Andrew
It's time for me to upgrade my old Onkyo and this will be my pick. Thanks for the review. I do use pre-outs to feed a Monolith 7x200W external amp though and do plan to do that with this one.
Andrew, on your next unplugged could your explain what you tweaked through Dirac to improve dialog clarity and tighter bass (Kristi mode)? I'm asking for a friend! I've tried the VOCAL button on my TX-RZ50's remote but this doesn't seem to be enough for everyone in the room.
Noted.
I've owned the older HK AVR25 as my start. Since then I've owned many different brands and have settled on Onkyo for last several receivers. My only complaint that has since been fixed is crappy China made boards that ruined their name. Well they are comming roaring back. Nice review. Running 11.2 on my older TXNR 1030 with a seperate older HK Signature 2.1 and old reliable Velodyne FSR15. Its comming on time to update again. But will wait till I get an issue with this beast.
WAKE UP Marantz & Denon…..People don’t like Difficulty and Over Priced. Onkyo may have a Cheap shell and Remote but it actually works. Sound is pretty good too. I purchased a 7.1 Onkyo AVR from Costco NR-TX-6050 and when I opened the box I was disappointed. It felt so Cheap. So after hooking it up and applying firmware updates it works okay. I Still miss the Natual sound from my Yamaha HTR but this Onkyo works pretty good in 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos. Most movies only support this configuration anyways so it good enough for me. I have had this setup using bookshelf speakers for about 2 years now and it still works. Works great with AppleTV and Roku too. I use a Sony 4k Bluray player and it works great. NOT bad for an inexpensive AVR.
If the 30 had the slim form factor of the Cinema 70s or the new JBL MA AVRs it would've been perfect, in my opinion.
Are you going to review the 5000ES?
Looks like a rebadged Integra DRX 3.4 with fewer 12v trigger outputs, no 12v trigger inputs, no 5v USB power port, an added THX badge/license fee, and the ability to pay another $300 for Dirac Bass Control. This would be great if it offered some savings, but street price of the DRX 3.4 is around $699-799 depending on the day. Comparing it to the RZ50 and NR7100 but not the nearly identical DRX 3.4 (which has been reviewed by the channel) seems like a notable omission.
You may be right on some level; however, according to my search, the 3.4 is no longer a current or sold product. I'm not saying you can't get one, especially on clearance, but it's not a current product.
I had an RZ-50 for a little while, the input switching was slow with an audible click. The screen resolution on the front of the AVR looks like it came straight out of 1994. I'll admit im a Denon/Marantz fanboy, so the RZ-50 was returned, and I've been happy since with the x3800h.
I have no issues with the front of the receiver and its dot matrix-esque readout - you know what I DO have an issue with? The way they refuse to bring back the inclusion of showing the sound mode in use and the input name at the same time. It's absolutely ridiculous that you have to press the info button on the remote in order to scroll to a screen that shows the codec being processed.
Interesting that you returned the Onk for the Denon; I got a 2800 to replace my old Onkyo 605, and wish I could return it for a new Onk (if they didn't have the shortcomings I mentioned).
🤔 excited for this one
Hope you enjoy it.
Guys I have the RZ 50 and it was running for the first year great. Then wanted to watch a movie one night no sound. Seems like Onkyo. Is still having problems with there DSP chip. After doing some research. Come to find out this has been a problem in the passed with Onkyo AVRs. I left the unit on for 5 hrs and managed to get the sound back on the CD. Before you recommend Any Onkyo AVR equipment let it come with a Warning. Still love the channel. STEW 😊
These Budget Onkyo receivers are Pretty good. They do have a Cheap Quality Shell and Remote but the components and features are pretty good. Can’t beat it for the Price. Budget AVR King.
Another good one. Any Integra receiver reviews in your future? I think in a earlier text, you said they have not offered to send you one.
None at the moment. I did request one yesterday, though.
@andrewrobinsonreview Thanks, hopefully Onkyo's premium brand is keeping up. I've been enjoying their DRX-5.3 Receiver for a few years now.
I’ve got the Onkyo TX-NR797 running my media / theater room and I think it’s awesome.
I have the modest but functional Onkyo tx-sr3100 5.2 receiver connected with a Fluance Reference series surround speakers and 2 DB10 subwoofers.
Thought this is considered a mid level AVR and peripherals, once equalized, it performs above its price point. It's enjoyable wether your watching movies or playing music. The Onkyo c-7030 single disk player is premium at a reasonable price. It's hard to argue with happy at a modest price.
The 3100 is a great receiver!
have been using an avr as a preamp since 2011. I feel the combo with separate amps gives the best of both worlds with less expense vs. a pre-pro.
Thank you again for a wonderful review of the new RZ30. I am still leaning towards the RZ50 which is available for around $1,000. Thanks again.
The RZ50 is a great choice!
Andrew, Hopefully you can check out my reply to your reply in the thread below and provide some insight on my last question. This is Superchat is to pay you for your time answering my question. Thanks, Mark
Onkyo... I own your RZ50. Release a proper successor to it, and get the RZ90 out there. 4 subs, and 13 channels of processing please. internal amps can be 11, doesn't matter.
or 1 up me, and go 15 channels of processing. Release it please 🙏
The analog inputs are welcome (drag out that old PS1 or PS2), but someone needs to make a tiny, cheap Dolby AC-3 RF demodulator module to truly resurrect the LD format! I have an old copy of True Lies I wouldn't mind hearing. Though I have no idea if my old Pioneer LD player even works anymore. It did 15 years ago.
I'm in the process of building a 2.1 setup for vinyl/streaming and looking at the Marantz M1 with my Kef Q Concerto Meta's. I am in the camp that AVR's are the better option for most of us, but I've yet to hear a bad word uttered about the M1. My setup will include a TV, although the intent is primarily to watch music videos on Tidal and the now playing data screen when streaming music. Does the RZ30 make sense for my situation? I run the RZ50 in HT setup and think its incredible, and I'm certain the RZ30 will be just as incredible. The quality of what's available to us at "reasonable" prices doesn't make it easy does it? Thanks for all the work you and Kristi do in putting these reviews together.
Newbie here and you two have been such a help. Building our first system that will be movie, shows, gaming, sports sound for 77” LG C4 as well as for Hi fi audio listening to my first nice turn table. Coming from an all in one record player and a 54” Vizio soundbar sub and rears combo so I have a long way to climb ha.
I went with (2) Klipsch 8000f ii based on your great review on them, a 504c ii center channel (still hope that was the right call), and will eventually pick a sub (open to recommendations on it too but wasn’t sure I’d need one yet!) essentially I think that would be a 3.1 system, 3.0 for now until I make that decision.
After all your videos and recon I’m very stuck on rz30 vs rz50 vs marantz cinema 50 or one of their older SR line. I’ve even looked at the rz75 and Marantz 40 but it felt that may be way overkill if that’s a thing. Yamaha is off the list as I want easy 😂 Sony or denon I haven’t done much recon on. Was trying to keep it simple but we know how that goes in this hobby.
I would love your receiver opinions for my setup! Most info starts as two channel wattage and is usually reviews head right into info with 5.x , 7.x, 11.x. I don’t quite know how much wattage loss there is when you only do a 3.0 or 3.1 and how that math works so right amount of power is a question. Also open to thoughts on sub too!
Thank you for all you too do!
Amazing review as always! Please can you say just one word about the svs subwoofer?
Breathtaking.
The new svs sub vs the klipsch rp subwoofers?
Stay tuned...
I think the way we consume media now makes integrated amps quite a difficult sale at times. I’d still rather have one to sit and listen to but the convenience of HDMI switching, Airplay, subwoofer outs and other features is just too much to pass up.
I know, it’s not the audiophile way. It’s just hard to pay money for something that I can’t plug my HDMI devices into.
Using a 7100 here and once Dirac had been dialled in, sounds great.
I chose an AVR more than 10 years ago and gradually upgraded, always buying used, ending up with a yamaha Aventage receiver and a Marantz HT power stage, mainly to handle the two Magnepans, that give me a realistic cinema experience. I'm sure an
Onkyo would be just as good in place of a Yamaha, but my multi room setup is all based on their powerful MusicCast technology, and I actually like experimenting with manual tweaks in their room correction. Still, being able to author Dirac on a PC sounds exciting.
Hi, frist I would like to thak you for all the job you have done on all the videos you produced. I love watching your videos. There are very understandable even for a french guy !
I have just a question for you regarding this AVR that I think i will buy in a near futur. Do you think it will fit well with Focal Theva 3 and other Focal speakers for a 5.1.2 installation? Or you have a better idea for the speaker who sound like the Focal's.
Best Regards and thanks again !
Having pre-outs for external amplification and Dirac for that price make it a great entry level option