A powerful receiver at a decent price with impressive features from 4K HDR support to incredible audio quality what else does anyone need. And if you are searching for such a receiver then this Onkyo TX-SR494 is for you.
Its excellent features do not stop here you will get starting from Dolby Atmos to 7.2 channel set up everything you want. This box is everything for a breathtaking home theater setup.
Though there are a lot of high-end receivers but trust me you don’t need them when you have this. So, for getting the full immersive experience get ready to all about Onkyo TX-SR494. Thus, you can make an easy choice.
Onkyo TX-SR494 Review
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz–100 kHz /+ 1 dB, -3 dB
- Speaker Impedance: 4 ohms–16 ohms
- Amplifier: 7.2 Channel (160W per channel)
- Sound: 5.2.2-ch, DTS:X playback
- Supports: 4K/60p, HDR, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, AccuEQ Room Calibration
- Connection: Bluetooth, USB
- Total HDMI Input: 4
- Dimension: 17.13 x 15.94 x 6.3 inches
- Weight: 21.27 Pounds
Pros
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualize.
- Adjustable sound system with subwoofer EQ and AccuEQ.
- Easy Bluetooth streaming.
- 3D sound with Dolby Atmos and DTS X offer incredible sound.
Cons
- No Wi-Fi connections.
- Inputs are limited
What’s In The Box:
- Owner’s manual book.
- Setup guide and safety information.
- 7.2 channel Onkyo TX-SR494 receiver.
- 2 “AAA” batteries.
- Remote.
- FM wire and AM loop antenna.
Easy Installation And Setup
With many mind-blowing features, this Onkyo TX-SR494 offers ease of installation and setup. The system is so straightforward for you not to even look at the guidebook.
Like other receivers, it doesn’t contain many inputs. This is sometimes problematic but most of the time this is great as you don’t need to face any messy input system.
But this does not mean you will not be able to connect to today’s gaming system, or speakers even streaming devices. Because of the HDMI and USB, you can easily connect them. This receiver just plugs and enjoys the process.
Therefore, the efficient Bluetooth connection help to stream wireless for those who don’t like wired at all. The Bluetooth connection is powerful enough to connect several devices.
Besides these, the onboard EQ setup is there for the audio freaks. This is installed on the front side with other controls. From there you can set up the volume or other settings as you want.
Onkyo TX-SR494 Impressive Features
Super sound with DTS Virtual X
DTS Virtual X format especially helps with the 3D sound stage with any height or rear speakers. Like the setup 5.1, 7.1, or 3.1 whatever it is you can get the 3D sound around you filling your whole room.
Thus, the Onkyo TX-SR494 receiver supports this format you guess without even a height speaker you are ready to get the three-dimensional sound.
Dolby Atmos® and DTS: X®
The audiophile knows about Dolby Atmos and DTS: X deep as they are related to the audio. These audio formats are now widely used for giving an immense sound experience.
The realism, detailed, clear sound, and rich bass you can expect if your receiver is compatible with these. And the good news is that TX-SR494 absolutely supports all these.
Object-based audio creates a virtual effect of sound around you without any height speaker.
4K HDR content
Support of 4K content at 60 Hz definitely something appraisable. The HDR, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, and so on Onkyo support for giving us outstanding video quality on the screen.
The latest HD content, or movies, and latest video games you can enjoy smoothly.
Smooth Bluetooth Streaming
As the TX-SR494 allows Bluetooth streaming it is super easy to get connected to speakers or devices. Pair with your PC, tablet, phone and stream what you like to listen to.
After pairing automatically start functioning and at a distance get a signal too.
AccuEQ Room Acoustic Calibrations
AccuEQ room acoustic calibration work according to speaker size, distance from the receiver position, and the presence of the speaker. This feature actually detects these factors and then creates a virtual environment around the room.
Set the sound level, and subwoofer crossover then apply on the speaker according to the need. The result is the awesome sound environment to the whole room.
Connections
The connections are sufficient for pairing with several devices or speakers. For a receiver, it is not mandatory to have lots of connections when a few can cover the whole connection system.
There are 4 HDMI inputs and outputs with video to audio switching technique. Three analog stereo audio input and 1 optical and coaxial digital audio input.
As seven speakers can be set up with this receiver there are seven outputs for seven speakers. Also, in case you have powered subwoofers then there are pre-amplifier outputs for a maximum of two subwoofers.
Plugged in your streaming device or stick or any devices compatible with the USB port. You will find it on the rear panel power.
Lastly, the Zone B line out, powered Zone B, and HDCP 2.2 technology is everything you need to have an efficient connection system.
Breathtaking Audio Quality With Onkyo TX-SR494
- 32-bit/384kHz DAC
- Bi-amp capability
- Powerful amplifier
- Supports 5.2.2 3D speaker
Want to lose with your favorite music or want to have a life-like movie experience! This receiver just does the exact thing for you. Set up the home theater of 5.2 channel or 7.2 channel whatever you like with this receiver and see the real change in the performance.
The dialogue hears so detailed and crisp clear. Ever words you can hear specifically and defined what you never experienced. And the support of Dolby Atmos, Dolby Surround, and DTS X all three do the rest of the work for incredible sound.
The frequency range is decent and balanced with the high-power supply. 160 watt per channel kind of breathtaking thing.
Not only the best movie experience but also the gaming and music sound get the fuller life. You won’t be bored hearing music for hours as they become so melody, sweet or loud according to music type.
Additionally, it supports a 5.2.2 3D speaker also 32-bit/384kHz DAC enough for making the greatest sound quality.
Incredible Video Quality
Supports:
- 4K/60p and 3D video
- Dolby Vision, HLG, HDR10
- 4:4:4 color space
It is the craziest thing for most that their receiver offers both high-end audio and video quality. For drives, your crazy Onkyo TX-SR494 comes with all the latest video signal compatibility.
From Dolby Vision to HLG, HD10, or HDR every video format this receiver support.
Which make sure your video experience whether with TV or projector it becomes the finest one. Every scene would look so perfect and realistic. Moreover, the support of 4:4:4 color space makes it easier to work with a projector also.
Every HDMI input supports the same signal that your old receiver may not. So, there is no worry about which port you are plugging into.
Offering these high features this Onkyo TX-SR494 has also 4K at 60 Hz.
Onkyo TX-SR494 Unique Features
Besides the Onkyo TX-SR494 gives the fantastic sound quality there are also some extra benefits you can enjoy. Spend alone time with your favorite music or spread the loudest music into your whole house.
Spend some private time with your favorite music
The Zone B line out of Onkyo TX-SR494 I already discuss ensures a connection with the RCA line input, also there is HDMI input. With these connect your transmitter and enjoy your wireless headphone.
Especially when you don’t want to disturb others or want some alone time. The sound quality is already great so just connect your wireless headphone and feel peace of mind.
Clear dialogue with one touch on the button
Today a great problem for many is the TV show. There the dialogue sometimes hears messy means they don’t hear clearly. And the solution is with Onkyo TX-SR494 with the DSP-controlled Vocal enhancer feature.
With one press on your remote or from the front panel of the receiver, you can change vocal frequencies’ ups and downs. Do changes how you like and get a clear dialogue than before.
Use your TX-SR494 receiver within two rooms
Get a little confused? What does that mean the receiver can work within two-room? Yes, you hear right and you can easily connect your speakers and use them in two rooms.
Firstly, you know this TX-SR494 receiver can handle 7 speakers at a time. Considering the setup of the 5.1 system and the rest of the speaker input you can use it for two different speakers in another room.
It is easy as it is heard. Through Zone A and Zone B you can use both at a time.
Best for small rooms or large rooms?
This high-power Onkyo TX-SR494 receiver is perfect for large or medium size rooms. Because it gives a power supply of 160-watt per channel. Can you just imagine how powerful it is!
But the setup would work best in a medium-size room. But as audio taste differs from person to person. You make your home theater set up where you are most comfortable.
Great Alternative Receivers
Beside Onkyo there are many high-end manufacturers makes efficient receiver. If you are not getting into Onkyo then have a look at them like Yamaha, Klipsch, Sony, Denon, etc.
Yamaha VS Denon or Sony VS Klipsch even with Onkyo they give a tough competition to each other. None of them are less great so have a look at them so you can choose more wisely.
Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater AV Receiver: 4K HDR, Dolby Atmos & Bluetooth Black
This Sony receiver is one of the best-selling receivers of this time. Because its performance can blow away anyone’s mind. The incredible audio quality with Dolby Atmos, DTS X.
Along the stunning cinematic video quality and other interesting features are there. 4K quality format and sufficient connections for a 7.2ch surround sound home theater setup is everything that you need.
Denon AVR-S650H Audio Video Receiver, 5.2 Channel (150W X 5) 4K UHD Home Theater Surround Sound (2019)
Denon AVR-S650H receiver offers everything that is the prerequisite for any high-end home theater setup. The finest audio quality with amazing video quality you can get in your 5.2ch setup.
But besides these the most attractive features are the Wi-fi and Bluetooth Airplay2 and Alexa compatibility. Also, the Award-winning on-screen setup assistant is present for giving anyone a new receiver experience.
Klipsch Black Reference Theater Pack 5.1 Surround Sound System
If your budget is not that high but wants a great receiver then this Klipsch model is probably for you. For a 5.1 surround sound system this model absolutely perfect.
All the features and performance are dazzling on a decent budget.
- Sony STRDH590 5.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver: 4K HDR AV Receiver with Bluetooth, Black
- Denon AVR-X1600H 4K UHD AV Receiver | 2019 Model | 7.2 Channel, 80W Each | 3D Audio | New Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization | 6 HDMI Inputs and 1 Output with eARC Support | AirPlay 2, Alexa & HEOS
- Marantz NR1711 8K Slim 7.2 Channel Ultra HD AV Receiver (2020 Model) – Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS Built-in, Alexa & Smart Home Automation – 8K HDMI Videos & Multi-Room Streaming
- Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio Smart Audio and Video Receiver, Sonos Compatible and Dolby Atmos Enabled, 4K Ultra HD and AirPlay 2 (2019 Model), Black
Also, check out the Best vintage stereo receiver.
Final Verdict
Under a decent budget with lots of impressive features, Onkyo TX-SR494 is really an amazing receiver. The simplicity in the setup but high power of 160 watts per channel worth to be praised.
Though the connection is few whatever it contains is sufficient for anyone. Both for audio and movie holic this receiver is all in one.
So, set your mind if you are willing to go with it or not. But one thing for sure this receiver won’t make you disappoint you at all.
FAQ
You might have a question that is scratching you from the very beginning, well let’s find out the answer.
Why I need a receiver?
The receiver is a combination of the amp, pre-amp, input selection, tuner so many things. Perfect for home theater, music and others. Simply it decodes the input signal and makes the signal more powerful and great.
That’s why a receiver can turn your home theater into the best one. And today’s receivers offer so much more than only decoding signals.
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