Onkyo two-channel component line-up continues to grow with the introduction of the versatile TX-8050 network stereo receiver and C-7030 CD player. These precision-crafted components represent Onkyo’s contribution to a new generation of music enthusiasts seeking excellence in two-channel performance at an affordable price. Both products embrace the purity and simplicity of stereo sound, whether it is from a classic phonograph or CD, or the latest in new-technology and streaming network-sourced music.

The Onkyo TX-8050 Network Stereo Receiver will connect a wide range of modern and vintage music sources to one of the company’s classic, low-distortion power amplifier sections. A front-panel USB port allows direct digital connection for iPod/iPhone and other USB devices. An Ethernet jack provides streaming internet radio or audio from computer or network sources. Onkyo’s proprietary Universal Port provides for Onkyo-branded peripheral iPod/iPhone docks, HD radio tuner, and future wireless options. Finally, supports classic audio sources such as turntable, AM/FM, audio recorder, AV sources, and a CD player via analog or optical/coaxial digital connections. 

Like the best classic stereo receivers, the TX-8050 has a powerful discrete-component amplifier design that is FTC rated at 80 watts per channel with no more that 0.08% total harmonic distortion. It will easily drive typical 6-ohm speakers to 100 watts. A massive EI transformer and large 8,200 µF capacitors ensures a stable power supply with the ability to drive high-current loads with both channels, as reflected by it dynamic power rating of 160 watts into 4 ohms. This receiver features Onkyo’s proprietary WRAT amplifier technology, which incorporates a low negative-feedback design, closed ground-loop circuits, and a high instantaneous-current capability. Together, these work to reduce distortion and cancel circuit noise, ensuring cleaner and more accurate signal amplification.

The TX-8050’s network functionality enables owners to incorporate streaming PC audio and Internet radio into their main entertainment system. Audio played this way offers superior power and fidelity compared to typical PC audio. Supported file types include MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless, FLAC, WAV, Ogg Vorbis, AAC, and LPCM audio. Users can also take advantage of a variety of Internet streaming radio channels from Pandora, Rhapsody, Napster, SIRIUS XM Internet Radio, Slacker, Last.fm, Mediafly, and vTuner. The receiver is certified with Windows 7 and DLNA Version 1.5.

A further benefit of the TX-8050’s network function is the compatibility it provides with Onkyo’s Remote App for iPod/iPhone. This free, downloadable application enables owners to use an iPod touch or iPhone as a remote controller to control a range of functions on the receiver. As well as being able to select internet radio stations this way, users can select streaming audio input from a DLNA-compatible server.

The Onkyo TX-8050 also has a front-panel headphone jack, IR input/output, full-function remote control, A/B speaker outputs, and Zone 2 pre-outs that allow users to send audio to a second room equipped with an amplifier and a pair of speakers.

The Onkyo C-7030 CD player is a quality playback solution that incorporates a new high-precision clock to dramatically reduce timing errors, along with Onkyo’s original VLSC to reduce pulse noise. Driving the system is a massive, custom-built EI transformer that provides a clean and stable power supply. Build quality is exemplified by a 1.6 mm-thick flat chassis base that helps reduce unwanted vibrations. Like the TX-8050, the C-7030 sports a sleek aluminum front panel that makes a robust yet elegant design statement.

The Onkyo TX-8050 and C-7030 will be available in late April with suggested retail prices of $399 US and $249 US respectively.

For more info, please visit www.onkyo.ca.

About the Author: George de Sa

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