Onkyo Muse – Anniversary Series of Network Integrated Amplifiers with Room EQ

The Japanese company Onkyo was founded in 1946 and celebrates its 80th anniversary this year. To mark the occasion, the brand introduced the Muse series of compact integrated amplifiers with network streaming support, first unveiled at CES 2026 in Las Vegas. The Muse series is not a nostalgic look back at the past, but a forward-looking range of audio components aimed squarely at modern use cases and streaming-focused listening. The lineup includes two models: Onkyo Muse Y-50 and Onkyo Muse Y-40.

According to the manufacturer, the new streaming amplifiers are modern devices created with respect for the Japanese brand’s engineering heritage. Both the Onkyo Muse Y-40 and Muse Y-50 are all-in-one network amplifiers featuring fully digital signal paths and Axign Class D amplification. The Onkyo Muse Y-50 offers up to 125 watts per channel into 8 ohms (up to 250 watts per channel into 4 ohms), while the Onkyo Muse Y-40 offers  75 watts per channel into 8 ohms (and 150 watts into 4 ohms).

The amplifier cases are relatively compact, with a height of less than 10 cm. According to the designers, these amplifiers are intended to confidently drive full-size loudspeakers without the need to assemble a rack of separate components. Both models share identical dimensions despite differences in power output and functionality. A defining feature of the Onkyo Muse series is the 5.46-inch color display, which can show album artwork, track metadata, or analog VU meters. The display is designed to reduce reliance on a smartphone or tablet once playback has started. System control is handled via the Onkyo Controller app, with support for Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2. Network connectivity is available via both Ethernet and Wi-Fi.

The flagship Onkyo Y-50 is equipped with three analog RCA line inputs, a coaxial digital input, an HDMI ARC port for connecting televisions and gaming consoles, and a built-in MM/MC phono preamplifier. Ethernet and Wi-Fi are included as standard, along with support for all major streaming protocols. A subwoofer pre-out and upgraded screw-type speaker terminals complete the rear-panel connectivity.

In addition, Onkyo has equipped the Y-50 with Onkyo Room EQ, providing sound calibration tailored to the acoustic characteristics of the listening room. Features of this type are becoming increasingly common in this price segment and are intended to enhance the competitiveness of the Onkyo Y-50.

Like the Onkyo Y-50, the Onkyo Y-40 employs a fully digital architecture with Axign Class D amplification and features the same 5.46-inch color display showing metadata and VU meters. Streaming support is identical to the flagship model, offering Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2 via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, all controlled through the Onkyo Controller app.

The connectivity options include three analog RCA line inputs, a coaxial digital input, an HDMI ARC port, and a phono input for MM cartridges only (without MC support). Bluetooth is also included for quick wireless playback, along with the ability to connect a subwoofer, allowing users to build a compact yet flexible two-channel system.

The Onkyo Y-40 and Y-50 network integrated amplifiers will go on sale in May 2026. Recommended retail pricing is - Onkyo Y-40 – $999, Onkyo Y-50 – $1,499