Onkyo TX-8470 Stereo Receiver Review Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Features Explained

Description

Sleek Design with a Purpose

The Onkyo TX-8470 2 Channel Stereo Receiver blends modern aesthetics with practical features, fitting seamlessly into any home entertainment setup. Its compact dimensions (21 x 16 x 9.5 inches) make it ideal for smaller spaces, while the sleek and understated exterior ensures it doesn’t clash with your décor. I was particularly impressed by the gold-plated terminals, which not only add a touch of elegance but also enhance the audio signal quality. The intuitive button layout on the front panel makes operation straightforward, even for someone who isn’t a tech wizard.

Exceptional Audio Performance

As someone who values crystal-clear sound, I found the high-resolution audio output of this receiver to be its standout feature. The dedicated two-channel stereo design prioritizes audio fidelity, delivering a clean and focused soundstage. Unlike bulkier AVRs, this stereo receiver is optimized for music enthusiasts, and its audio-grade capacitors ensure a rich, distortion-free listening experience. I tested it with various genres, from vinyl jazz records to streaming pop tracks, and the sound was consistently deep and immersive.

Designed for Vinyl Enthusiasts

If you’re a vinyl lover, like I am, the Onkyo TX-8470 is a dream come true. With its isolated MM/MC phono board and discrete op-amp circuitry, it’s tailored to the needs of record players. I dusted off an old Led Zeppelin vinyl, and the clarity blew me away. The receiver does an excellent job of preserving those delicate analog signals, ensuring no distortion creeps in. For anyone looking to dive into the vinyl resurgence, this stereo receiver offers a stellar starting point.

Smart Home Integration

Incorporating the Onkyo TX-8470 into my smart home setup was surprisingly seamless. It works with Apple and Google assistants, letting me control the music with simple voice commands. I found myself saying things like, “Turn up the volume,” or “Switch to Bluetooth,” and the receiver responded instantly. The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity add to its convenience, making it easy to stream music from platforms like Tidal or Deezer. This feature is perfect for those who juggle between streaming devices and physical media.

Audiophile Streaming Capabilities

Streaming music with this receiver feels effortless. The Roon-ready certification and compatibility with high-resolution platforms ensure that even the most demanding audiophiles will be satisfied. I was able to pull up my favorite playlists in seconds, and the audio quality felt almost indistinguishable from CDs. Whether you’re hosting a party or just relaxing with a glass of wine, this receiver delivers studio-quality sound with minimal fuss.

Key Benefits

• Optimized for high-resolution audio, ensuring rich and immersive sound.
• Dedicated phono inputs for flawless vinyl playback.
• Smart home compatibility with Apple and Google assistants.
• Compact design fits easily into smaller spaces.

Areas for Improvement

• No HDMI inputs, which could be a drawback for users looking to connect multiple video sources.
• Limited surround sound options, as it’s focused solely on stereo output.
• The user interface on the app could be more intuitive.

Market Rivals

Comparing this product to similar stereo receivers, it holds its ground in many areas. For example, models from Yamaha and Denon offer comparable audio quality but often lack the dedicated phono board that makes the Onkyo TX-8470 a standout for vinyl enthusiasts. However, Yamaha’s receivers tend to provide slightly more user-friendly apps, making them easier to operate for those less tech-savvy. On the other hand, Denon models often come at a higher price point, which makes the Onkyo receiver a more budget-friendly option for the features it offers. While it may not compete with some AVRs in terms of surround sound, it excels as a focused, high-fidelity stereo option.

Worth Every Penny

When considering the price-to-quality ratio, the Onkyo TX-8470 is an excellent investment for those who prioritize sound quality over additional channels or flashy features. It’s clear that the brand made deliberate choices to focus on audiophile-grade components rather than overwhelming users with extras they might not need. Whether you’re rediscovering your love for vinyl or building a smart home audio system, this receiver delivers exceptional value without breaking the bank.

Additional information