Published On: January 6, 2026

Onkyo Just Turned 80 — And Dropped the Most Surprising Streamer-Amps at CES 2026

Published On: January 6, 2026
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Onkyo Just Turned 80 — And Dropped the Most Surprising Streamer-Amps at CES 2026

Onkyo just introduced a pair of modern two-channel amplifiers—the Muse Y-50 and Y-40—that pack serious power and streaming smarts into a compact box.

Onkyo Just Turned 80 — And Dropped the Most Surprising Streamer-Amps at CES 2026

  • Nemanja Grbic is a tech writer with over a decade of journalism experience, covering everything from AV gear and smart home tech to the latest gadgets and trends. Before jumping into the world of consumer electronics, Nema was an award-winning sports writer, and he still brings that same storytelling energy to every article. At HomeTheaterReview, he breaks down the latest gear and keeps readers up to speed on all things tech.

As part of its 80th anniversary celebration, Onkyo just pulled the curtain back on something pretty interesting at CES 2026: the Muse Series. It’s a pair of sleek, all-in-one network amplifiers designed to give music lovers a mix of old-school audio quality and modern-day streaming convenience, without needing a stack of gear or an engineering degree to figure it out.

If you’ve ever wanted great stereo sound but didn’t want to mess with multiple boxes, cables, and apps, this could be what you’ve been waiting for.

“The new Muse Series marks Onkyo’s bold rebirth, combining high-power performance with advanced streaming and an ultra-modern, compact design. Our engineers and designers truly nailed it,” says Paul Jacobs, President and CEO. 

Muse Y‑40 integrated amplifier with dual VU meters and front display panel on a wooden shelf
Muse Y‑40 integrated amplifier

The Muse lineup includes two models—the Y-50 and the more affordable Y-40. Both are compact two-channel integrated amplifiers, which basically means they combine your streamer, amplifier, and input hub into one device. All you need to do is plug in your favorite speakers and a source or two (if you even need one), and you’re good to go.

Onkyo kept the tech straightforward but powerful. Both models use a fully digital audio circuit and a Class D amplifier from Axign, along with high-current MOSFETs to help drive a wide range of speakers. In terms of raw numbers:

  • Muse Y-50: 250 watts per channel into 4 ohms
  • Muse Y-40: 150 watts per channel into 4 ohms

That’s more than enough power for most setups, whether you’re using bookshelf speakers in a home office or floorstanders in a living room.

Silver Onkyo Muse Y‑50 amplifier displaying Bluetooth input and volume level on its front LCD screen
Onkyo Muse Y‑50 amplifier

The Muse Series leans heavily into streaming. It supports all the major services you’d expect:

  • Spotify Connect
  • TIDAL Connect
  • Qobuz Connect
  • Chromecast
  • Apple AirPlay 2

That means you can fire up your favorite music app and stream directly to the amp—no dongles, no wires, no separate streamer required. You can also use the Onkyo Controller app to adjust settings, change sources, or browse music right from your phone.

Person adjusting the volume knob on a black Onkyo Muse Y‑40 amplifier placed on a wooden cabinet

Both models connect to your network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, and there’s also Bluetooth if you just want to play something quick from your phone.

One of the best features on both models is the 5.46-inch color LCD screen on the front. It shows song info, album art, and even a throwback-style analog VU meter. It’s not just eye candy—it’s actually helpful, especially if you’re not using the app.

There’s also a redesigned volume knob and a subtle vent design on top inspired by a traditional Japanese pattern (called “San Kuzushi”), which gives the units a bit of visual flair without going over the top.

Each unit is available in Black or Silver, and both are relatively compact, measuring 3.9 x 13.8 x 12.6 inches (H x W x D). Small enough to fit on a shelf, powerful enough to run your whole system.

Onkyo just introduced a pair of modern two-channel amplifiers—the Muse Y-50 and Y-40—that pack serious power and streaming smarts into a compact box. 9c6435b2 onkyo y50 black focus1 albumscreen

Even though these are clearly built for streaming, Onkyo didn’t forget about physical sources. You’ll find a generous mix of ports on the back:

  • 3 sets of analog RCA inputs
  • 1 coaxial digital input
  • 1 phono input (compatible with MM and MC cartridges)
  • 1 HDMI ARC input for connecting your TV
  • A subwoofer pre-out
  • And on the Y-50: a full HDMI output with passthrough for video or gaming audio

So if you want to plug in a turntable, CD player, or even a TV or game console, you’re covered. The Y-50 also comes with Onkyo Room EQ, which helps calibrate sound for your space—a feature that’s missing on the Y-40.

Silver Onkyo Muse Y‑50 amplifier on a shelf with books and decor, while a person reads nearby in a sunlit room.

With the Muse Series, Onkyo is clearly aiming to make hi-fi feel more approachable—especially for people who want quality sound but don’t want a rack full of separate components. By combining streaming, amplification, and traditional inputs into one compact unit, the Muse Y-50 and Y-40 offer a streamlined path into better two-channel audio.

Whether you’re upgrading an older setup, downsizing, or building something new from scratch, these look like solid options for anyone who wants the sound of a traditional stereo system with the ease of modern streaming built right in.

If this sounds like the kind of setup you’ve been looking for, you won’t have to wait too long. Both models are scheduled to launch in May 2026, and here’s how pricing shakes out:

  • Muse Y-50: $1,499
  • Muse Y-40: $999

They’ll be on display this week at CES 2026, at Onkyo’s booth in the Central Hall (Exhibit #17204).

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