Onkyo Celebrates 80 Years with New Muse Streaming amplifier Series at CES 2026
Onkyo is marking its 80th anniversary and a significant return too hi-fi with the unveiling of the Muse series of streaming amplifiers at CES 2026. The new line, consisting of the Y-50 and Y-40 models, aims to redefine the modern listening experience by seamlessly integrating amplification, network streaming, and digital-to-analog conversion into a single, compact unit.
A Legacy Reborn: Onkyo’s 80th Anniversary and the Muse Series
The Muse series represents Onkyo’s “rebirth” and commitment to delivering uncompromising hi-fi sound to a new generation of music enthusiasts.
Muse Series: Streamlined Audio for the Modern Listener
The Muse series is designed as a complete audio solution, requiring only the addition of speakers to create a high-performance system. Both the Y-50 and Y-40 models boast Class D amplification and fully digital circuits, engineered to deliver a fast, precise, and powerful sound with an immersive soundstage. Connectivity is a key feature, with support for Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, qobuz Connect, Chromecast, and AirPlay 2 ensuring compatibility with a wide range of streaming services.
Design and Features
Both amplifiers feature a striking design centered around a 5.46-inch colour LCD display screen integrated into the aluminium front panel. This screen allows users to easily browse connected streaming services,view track facts,and even display classic VU meters for a touch of retro aesthetic. The minimalist chassis is available in black or silver, and incorporates heat vents with a traditional Japanese “San Kuzushi” pattern. A newly designed volume control completes the elegant aesthetic.
Y-50: Power and Precision
The flagship Muse Y-50 delivers 250W per channel into 4 ohms, providing ample power for a variety of speaker configurations. It also includes Onkyo’s built-in Room EQ room calibration technology, which optimizes the amplifier’s sound to the unique acoustics of any listening space. One analyst noted that the inclusion of Room EQ is a significant step towards ensuring optimal performance in real-world environments. The Y-50 offers a complete suite of physical connections, including three pairs of RCA line-level inputs, a digital coaxial input, HDMI ARC input, and a subwoofer output. A built-in phono stage caters to vinyl enthusiasts, supporting both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, while a 6.3mm headphone jack provides a private listening option.
Y-40: A More Accessible Entry Point
The Muse Y-40 offers 150W per channel into 4 ohms and shares many of the features of its larger sibling, including the same streaming capabilities and a 6.3mm headphone jack. It also includes the same input options as the Y-50 – three RCA, coax, phono and HDMI ARC. Though, the Y-40 does not include the built-in Room EQ feature, making it a more streamlined and affordable option.
Limited Edition 80th Anniversary Model
To further commemorate its 80th anniversary, Onkyo will release a special limited edition Muse model. Inspired by the iconic Onkyo M-588 stereo power amplifier, this edition features a champagne-gold aluminium chassis with real-wood walnut veneer side panels. Positioned as a “flagship expression of onkyo’s past and future,” only 1000 units will be available worldwide, launching in summer 2026. Pricing for this exclusive model has not yet been announced.
Availability and Pricing
The Onkyo Muse series will be available starting in May 2026. The Y-50 will retail for $1499, while the Y-40 will be priced at $999. Pricing for the UK, Australia, and other regions is yet to be confirmed.
