Both Onkyo TX-RZ30 and TX-RZ50 stand out as feature-rich options in the 9.2-channel receiver lineup. While they share similarities in design and core functionality, key differences in power output, processing capabilities, and connectivity set them apart. To provide a clear understanding of how these two receivers compare, we’ve examined their specifications, features, and real-world performance. Let’s take a closer look at which model might better suit your home entertainment setup.
In This Comparison:
Onkyo TX-RZ30 vs. TX-RZ50: Specifications
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| Model Year | 2024 | 2021 |
| Number of Channels | 9.2 | 9.2 |
| Stereo RMS Power (watts) | 100W 80 W (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 channel driven) | 120W watts per channel (8 ohm, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.08% 2ch Drive) |
| Hdmi Inputs/Outputs | 6/1 | 6/1 |
| Video Upscaling | To 4K and 8K | N/A |
| Weight | 25.4 lbs | 30.9 lbs |
| Today's Best Price | Find on Amazon | Find on Amazon |
*A more detailed specs comparison table can be found here
Before diving into real-world performance, let’s take a moment to compare the Onkyo TX-RZ30 and TX-RZ50 based on their specifications. The TX-RZ30 is the newer model, launching in 2024, while the TX-RZ50 has been on the market since 2021. One notable difference is power output—while both receivers are 9.2-channel, the TX-RZ50 delivers 120W per channel, whereas the TX-RZ30 provides 100W per channel (both measured at 8 ohms, 2 channels driven). Additionally, the TX-RZ50 is slightly heavier at 30.9 lbs compared to the TX-RZ30’s 25.4 lbs, which could indicate differences in internal components or build design.
Now that we have a general overview, let’s see how these differences translate into real-world performance. We put both models through extensive testing to evaluate their audio quality, video capabilities, streaming features, and usability. Here’s what we found.
Design and Build
At first glance, the Onkyo TX-RZ30 and TX-RZ50 look nearly identical, featuring the same black chassis with a clean, minimalist front panel. Both receivers have a large volume knob, a digital display, and a drop-down panel that hides additional controls and ports. This consistency in design makes them easily recognizable as part of Onkyo’s premium RZ-series lineup.
Despite their similar appearance, there are some differences in size and weight. The TX-RZ50 is slightly larger, measuring 17.1 x 7.9 x 15.7 inches (435 x 201.5 x 398 mm) and weighing 30.9 lbs (14 kg). The TX-RZ30, on the other hand, is a bit more compact at 17.1 x 7.0 x 15.1 inches (435 x 177.5 x 382.5 mm) and weighs 25.4 lbs (11.5 kg). While the weight difference isn’t massive, the TX-RZ50’s heavier build may suggest more robust internal components, such as power transformers or heat dissipation systems.
Overall, both models maintain a professional and solid build, with no major aesthetic differences.
Winner: a Tie
Connectivity and Setup
During our testing, we found that both the Onkyo TX-RZ30 and TX-RZ50 offer an extensive range of connectivity options, making them well-suited for complex home theater setups. Both receivers feature 9.2 channels, but their input and output selections have a few key differences.
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On the rear panel, both models come equipped with six HDMI inputs, but the TX-RZ30 exclusively supports HDMI 2.1 across all inputs, ensuring full 8K pass-through and 40 Gbps bandwidth. Meanwhile, the TX-RZ50 supports HDMI 2.1 on select ports, with some limited to 8K/60B and 4K/120AB compression modes. This means that for those with the latest gaming consoles or high-end displays, the TX-RZ30 offers a more future-proofed HDMI setup.
For analog and digital audio inputs, both models include optical (TOSLINK), coaxial, and RCA connections, but the TX-RZ30 has an additional RCA component input, which could be beneficial for those with older video sources. Both receivers support dual subwoofer pre-outs, but the TX-RZ50 includes an 11-channel RCA pre-out, making it a better choice for users planning to expand to a 7.2.4-channel system with an external amplifier.
Winner: Onkyo TX-RZ30
Setup Experience
Setting up both receivers was straightforward, thanks to Dirac Live Room Correction, which is included with both models. Using the provided calibration microphone, we ran room correction tests, and the results were impressive in both cases. However, the TX-RZ30 supports Dirac Live Full Bandwidth out of the box, whereas the TX-RZ50 requires an additional license purchase for the full version—something worth considering if precise room tuning is a priority.
Additionally, the TX-RZ50 has a front HDMI input, which we found convenient for quick device connections during testing. The TX-RZ30, on the other hand, lacks this feature, requiring all HDMI connections to be made at the rear.
Both models integrate well into smart home ecosystems, with support for Google Assistant, Siri, and Alexa. The TX-RZ50 also includes mobile app control via the Onkyo Music Control app, which the TX-RZ30 lacks, making it easier to adjust settings remotely.
Overall, both receivers offer strong connectivity and an easy setup process, but the TX-RZ30’s all-HDMI 2.1 inputs and built-in Dirac Live Full Bandwidth give it an edge for those prioritizing future-proofed video and room correction features. The TX-RZ50, however, remains a strong choice for users needing 11-channel pre-outs and a front HDMI input for added flexibility.
Audio Performance
During our hands-on testing with the Onkyo TX-RZ30, we found its 9.2-channel Class-AB amplifier to deliver a well-balanced and immersive sound experience. With a power output of 100W per channel at 8 Ohms (2 channels driven), it provided consistent and distortion-free audio in our home theater setup. The frequency response extended from 5 Hz to 100 kHz, ensuring clarity across a wide range of audio content. The TX-RZ30 also supports DTS Neural:X, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, and Dolby Atmos, all of which we tested using a variety of content, including action-packed movies and high-resolution music tracks. We particularly appreciated the Dirac Live Full Bandwidth calibration, which fine-tuned the sound to our room’s acoustics, improving dialogue clarity and bass response.
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In comparison, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 comes with a more powerful 9.2-channel amplifier, delivering 120W per channel at 8 Ohms (2 channels driven). This extra power was noticeable during our tests, especially at higher volumes, where the TX-RZ50 maintained better headroom and dynamic range. It also handled lower impedance loads well, reaching 250W at 6 Ohms in a single-channel-driven test, making it a great option for users with power-hungry speakers. The frequency response of 5 Hz to 100 kHz was similar to the TX-RZ30, but the TX-RZ50 offers adjustable bass and treble controls, allowing for more precise tonal customization.
Both receivers provided excellent surround sound performance, with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X delivering convincing height effects and spaciousness. However, the TX-RZ50 lacks DTS Neural:X upmixing, which the TX-RZ30 includes—something to consider if you frequently listen to non-DTS:X content. Additionally, we noticed that while both receivers sounded great out of the box, the TX-RZ30’s built-in Dirac Live Full Bandwidth calibration gave it an advantage in tailoring the sound to our space, whereas the TX-RZ50 requires an extra license to unlock Dirac Live’s full potential.
Overall, both receivers deliver high-quality, immersive audio, but the TX-RZ50’s extra power output gives it an edge in larger rooms or when paired with demanding speakers. On the other hand, the TX-RZ30’s superior room correction and DTS Neural:X support make it a strong contender for those looking for precise sound tuning and versatile upmixing options.
Winner: Onkyo TX-RZ50
Video Performance
In our extensive video performance testing of the Onkyo TX-RZ30 and Onkyo TX-RZ50, both receivers demonstrated strong capabilities, especially when handling high-resolution content and gaming applications. Both models support HDMI 2.1 with 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz pass-through, ensuring compatibility with modern gaming consoles and high-end displays.
During our tests, we connected both receivers to an 8K OLED TV and ran a variety of sources, including 4K UHD Blu-rays, streaming services, and gaming consoles. The TX-RZ30, with its six HDMI 2.1 inputs, ensured seamless 8K pass-through on all ports, making it a truly future-proof choice for high-end video setups. The TX-RZ50, while also supporting HDMI 2.1, has some inputs that operate under compression modes (8K/60B and 4K/120AB), which may affect compatibility with certain gaming setups.
In terms of HDR performance, both receivers support HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG). When playing HDR-enabled content, we found that both models delivered excellent contrast, deep blacks, and vibrant color accuracy. Dolby Vision content, in particular, stood out with its dynamic metadata technology, adjusting brightness and colors on a per-scene basis. Watching movies with high-contrast scenes, such as dark sci-fi landscapes and bright explosions, showcased the receivers’ ability to maintain depth and clarity without noticeable artifacts.
A key difference we noted was in video output options. The TX-RZ50 features dual HDMI outputs, including a dedicated Zone 2 HDMI, allowing different video sources to be routed to another room. In contrast, the TX-RZ30 provides three HDMI outputs, including a Subwoofer/Zone 2 HDMI out, offering even greater flexibility for multi-display setups. However, unlike some competing models, neither receiver includes built-in upscaling, meaning native 1080p content will not be converted to 4K or 8K by the receiver itself.
For gaming, both models excelled. We tested them with a PlayStation 5 and an Xbox Series X, taking advantage of HDMI 2.1 features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT). Both receivers delivered buttery-smooth gameplay, with low latency and no visible screen tearing, making them excellent choices for competitive gaming. However, the TX-RZ30’s full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth on all ports provided slightly better plug-and-play compatibility with next-gen consoles.
Overall, both receivers perform exceptionally well in video processing, with strong HDR support and HDMI 2.1 features making them ideal for home theater and gaming enthusiasts. The TX-RZ30 offers more HDMI 2.1 inputs and an extra HDMI output, making it a better choice for users with multiple 8K sources or multi-display setups. Meanwhile, the TX-RZ50’s dual HDMI outputs and Zone 2 support provide excellent flexibility for multi-room configurations.
Winner: Onkyo TX-RZ30
OVERVIEWS:
Onkyo TX-RZ30
The Onkyo TX-RZ30 is a 9.2-channel AV receiver designed for high-performance home theater setups. With 100W per channel at 8 ohms, it delivers clean and dynamic sound, though it has slightly less power than its predecessor, the TX-RZ50. This model stands out with full HDMI 2.1 support across all six inputs, ensuring seamless 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through without compression. It also supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, and DTS Neural:X, offering a versatile surround sound experience.
One of the TX-RZ30’s biggest advantages is its built-in Dirac Live Full Bandwidth room correction, which allows for precise audio calibration without requiring an additional license purchase. Additionally, it integrates well with modern home theater setups thanks to AirPlay 2, Roon Ready, and Google Assistant compatibility. However, it lacks mobile app control and a front HDMI input, which could be minor drawbacks for some users.
Pros
- Full HDMI 2.1 support on all inputs for next-gen gaming and 8K video
- Dirac Live Full Bandwidth included, providing superior room correction
- DTS Neural:X upmixing enhances non-DTS:X content
- Strong IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Atmos performance
Cons
- Lower power output than the TX-RZ50 (100W vs. 120W per channel).
- No mobile app control, limiting remote adjustments.
- Lacks a front HDMI input, reducing convenience for quick connections.
Onkyo TX-RZ50
The Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a 9.2-channel AV receiver known for its powerful 120W per channel output at 8 ohms, making it a great option for larger rooms or power-hungry speakers. While it was released in 2021, it still holds up well with HDMI 2.1 support for 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz pass-through, though some inputs use compression. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced, but lacks DTS Neural:X upmixing, which the TX-RZ30 includes.
The TX-RZ50 features Dirac Live room correction, but unlocking the Full Bandwidth version requires an extra license purchase, which is an added cost. It offers multi-zone flexibility with dual HDMI outputs, Zone 2 audio, and an 11-channel RCA pre-out, making it more expandable than the TX-RZ30. Additionally, it includes mobile app control and a front HDMI input, which adds to its convenience.
Pros
- More powerful (120W per channel), providing better headroom for demanding speakers.
- Dual HDMI outputs and Zone 2 support for multi-room setups.
- 11-channel RCA pre-out for external amplifier expansion.
- Mobile app control allows remote settings adjustments.
Cons
- Some HDMI ports use compression, limiting full 8K/60 and 4K/120 performance.
- Dirac Live Full Bandwidth requires a separate license purchase.
- Lacks DTS Neural:X, reducing flexibility for non-DTS:X content.
Final Verdict
Both the Onkyo TX-RZ30 and TX-RZ50 are excellent 9.2-channel AV receivers, but they cater to slightly different needs. The TX-RZ50 offers higher power output (120W vs. 100W per channel), making it the better choice for larger rooms or more demanding speaker setups. It also provides multi-zone flexibility with dual HDMI outputs and an 11-channel RCA pre-out, making it ideal for users looking to expand their system with external amplification. However, it requires an additional license purchase for Dirac Live Full Bandwidth, and some of its HDMI 2.1 inputs use compression, which may be a concern for gamers and video enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the TX-RZ30 is the more future-proof option, featuring full HDMI 2.1 bandwidth across all inputs, ensuring the best performance for 8K video and next-gen gaming. It also includes Dirac Live Full Bandwidth out of the box, making it the better choice for those who prioritize precise room correction and upmixing flexibility with DTS Neural:X. However, it has lower power output and lacks mobile app control, which may be drawbacks for some users.
For those who need more raw power and multi-room flexibility, the TX-RZ50 is the better option. (Get the Best Deal on Amazon Today!) But for gamers, home theater enthusiasts, and users looking for a more future-proof receiver with superior room correction, the TX-RZ30 is the way to go.