Onkyo TX-SR494 Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This guide covers the Onkyo TX-SR494, offering detailed setup, connectivity options, and troubleshooting tips. It includes AccuEQ calibration, HDMI, and Bluetooth features, ensuring optimal home theater performance and maintenance.
Product Overview
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is a 7.2-channel AV receiver with 160W per channel, supporting Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and 4K/HDR video. It features AccuEQ calibration, HDMI 4K/60p, and Bluetooth for seamless connectivity and immersive audio experiences.
1.1 Key Features of the Onkyo TX-SR494
The Onkyo TX-SR494 boasts 7.2 channels with 160W per channel output, delivering immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound. It supports 4K/60p video with HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision for vibrant visuals. The AccuEQ Room Acoustic Calibration ensures tailored audio to your space, while Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enable wireless streaming. With four HDMI inputs and one output featuring ARC, it seamlessly integrates with modern devices. Additionally, it supports multi-zone audio, smart integration, and features a robust build for reliable performance, making it a versatile choice for home theater enthusiasts seeking high-quality sound and advanced connectivity options.
1.2 Technical Specifications
The Onkyo TX-SR494 features 7.2 channels with a power output of 160W per channel at 6 ohms. It supports 4K/60p video with HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision, as well as HDCP 2.2. The receiver measures 435mm x 160mm x 328mm and weighs 8.2kg. Power consumption is 480W, dropping to 0.2W in standby mode. It includes four HDMI inputs and one ARC-enabled output, along with optical and coaxial digital inputs. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity are supported for wireless streaming. The unit also features a built-in FM/AM tuner and AccuEQ calibration for precise audio customization.
Unboxing and Accessories
The Onkyo TX-SR494 comes with a room calibration microphone, FM and AM antennas, and a quick start guide. Additional accessories include HDMI cables and a remote control;
2.1 What’s in the Box?
Inside the box, you’ll find the Onkyo TX-SR494 receiver, a remote control, an AM loop antenna, an FM wire antenna, an AccuEQ calibration microphone, and a quick start guide. Also included are RCA cables for analog connections and a power cord. Additionally, HDMI cables and batteries for the remote may be provided, depending on the region. These accessories ensure a smooth setup process for your home theater system.
The package is thoughtfully designed to include everything needed for initial installation and operation.
2.2 Accessories Included
The Onkyo TX-SR494 comes with a remote control, AM loop antenna, FM wire antenna, and an AccuEQ calibration microphone for precise room acoustic adjustments. It also includes RCA cables for analog connections and a power cord. Additional accessories like HDMI cables and batteries for the remote may be provided. Optional accessories, such as speaker wires and mounting brackets, are available separately. These components ensure a seamless setup and enhance your home theater experience. The included items are designed to provide everything needed for initial installation and optimal performance.
These accessories are thoughtfully bundled to simplify the setup process.
Installation and Setup
Install the Onkyo TX-SR494 by connecting components to labeled ports and configuring HDMI settings. Follow initial setup steps for calibration and optimal performance. Ensure proper placement and connections.
3.1 Connecting Speakers
Connect speakers to the Onkyo TX-SR494 by matching terminals to speaker channels. Use color-coded terminals for front, center, surround, and subwoofer connections. Ensure proper polarity (positive to positive, negative to negative) for clear sound. For 7.2-channel setups, connect two subwoofers for enhanced bass. AccuEQ calibration simplifies speaker setup and balances sound. Carefully tighten terminals to avoid loose connections. Refer to the manual for specific wiring diagrams and configurations. Proper speaker placement and leveling ensure optimal audio performance. Double-check connections before powering on the receiver to avoid damage or distorted sound.
3.2 HDMI Setup and Configuration
Connect HDMI devices to the Onkyo TX-SR494 using the labeled HDMI inputs. Ensure the TV is connected to the HDMI OUT terminal. Enable HDMI-CEC to control multiple devices with one remote. ARC (Audio Return Channel) allows audio to be sent from the TV to the receiver without additional cables. Select the correct HDMI input on the TV to display connected devices. Use the receiver’s menu to configure HDMI settings, such as resolution and HDR support. The TX-SR494 supports 4K/60p, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HDCP 2.2 for enhanced video quality. Proper HDMI setup ensures seamless audio and video synchronization.
3.3 Initial Configuration Steps
After connecting all devices, turn on the receiver and TV. Insert batteries into the remote control. Use the remote to navigate the menu and select the HDMI input corresponding to your connected device. Configure basic settings like speaker setup and surround sound mode. Run AccuEQ calibration for optimal room acoustic adjustments. Ensure HDMI-CEC is enabled for seamless control of connected devices. Set the correct input mode for each connected component. Save your settings to complete the initial configuration. This process ensures your home theater system is ready for an enhanced audio and video experience.
Remote Control
The remote control simplifies operation, offering intuitive buttons for power, volume, and source selection. Its ergonomic design ensures easy navigation through menus and settings.
4.1 Remote Control Layout
The remote control for the Onkyo TX-SR494 features a logical layout, with buttons for power, volume, and source selection conveniently located. Navigation buttons and numeric keys simplify channel tuning, while function buttons provide quick access to settings like HDMI input selection and audio modes. The remote’s ergonomic design ensures comfortable use, with clearly labeled buttons for intuitive operation. Dedicated buttons for features like Bluetooth and AccuEQ calibration enhance user convenience. The remote also supports CEC mode for seamless control of connected HDMI devices, making it a versatile tool for managing your home theater system efficiently.
4.2 Using the Remote for Basic Operations
The Onkyo TX-SR494 remote allows for straightforward control of basic functions. Press the power button to turn the receiver on/off. Use the volume buttons to adjust levels, and the input/source buttons to switch between connected devices. The cursor buttons navigate menus, while the numbered buttons provide quick access to radio presets. The mode button toggles between CEC and normal modes. For radio tuning, press and hold the cursor buttons to scan stations. The remote also supports CEC mode for controlling HDMI devices and includes a sleep timer function. These features ensure easy operation of the receiver and connected components.
Audio Features
The Onkyo TX-SR494 supports immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, delivering rich, 3D soundscapes. It features AccuEQ calibration for optimal room acoustics and Bluetooth connectivity for wireless music streaming.
5.1 Sound Enhancement Technologies
The Onkyo TX-SR494 incorporates advanced sound enhancement technologies like AccuEQ and AccuReflex. AccuEQ automatically calibrates the speaker system to your room’s acoustics, ensuring balanced sound. AccuReflex optimizes object-based audio for clarity. These technologies enhance dialogue, bass response, and surround immersion, providing a cinematic experience. Additionally, the receiver supports 4K HDR and Dolby Vision pass-through, eliminating video degradation. Bluetooth connectivity allows wireless streaming from mobile devices, while analog inputs accommodate legacy audio sources. The TX-SR494 also features a robust power amplifier, delivering clear and powerful sound across all channels. Its comprehensive suite of audio enhancements ensures unparalleled home theater performance.
5.2 Surround Sound Formats
The Onkyo TX-SR494 supports immersive surround sound formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. These technologies create a three-dimensional audio experience with sound objects moving freely around and above you. The receiver also supports legacy formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of content. With its 7.2-channel configuration, the TX-SR494 delivers precise sound placement and depth, enhancing movies, games, and music. Its advanced decoding capabilities ensure a captivating auditory experience, making it ideal for modern home theaters.
Video Features
The Onkyo TX-SR494 supports 4K/60p video with HDR (Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG, BT.2020) and 4:4:4 color coding. It features HDMI 2.1 with ARC for enhanced video and audio transmission.
6.1 4K and HDR Support
The Onkyo TX-SR494 excels in 4K/60p video playback, supporting HDR formats like Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG, and BT.2020. With 4:4:4 color coding, it ensures vibrant and detailed visuals. The receiver is HDCP 2.2 compliant, safeguarding 4K content. Its HDMI ports handle dynamic metadata for HDR, optimizing brightness and color accuracy. This feature-rich support makes it ideal for modern 4K displays, delivering immersive cinematic experiences. Users can enjoy seamless video performance with minimal compression and latency, perfect for movies and gaming;
6.2 HDMI Version and ARC Functionality
The Onkyo TX-SR494 features HDMI 2.0 with HDCP 2.2, ensuring compatibility with 4K/60p and HDR content. It includes four HDMI inputs and one ARC-enabled output, simplifying connections to modern TVs and devices. ARC (Audio Return Channel) allows audio from the TV to be played through the receiver without additional cables. The HDMI CEC function enables seamless control of connected devices via a single remote. This enhances convenience and reduces cable clutter, providing a streamlined and efficient home theater experience with support for the latest HDMI standards and features.
Customization Options
The Onkyo TX-SR494 offers extensive customization options, including a built-in equalizer for precise tone control and adjustable crossover settings to optimize subwoofer integration. Users can tailor audio settings to their preference, enhancing overall sound quality and system performance.
7.1 Equalizer Settings
The Onkyo TX-SR494 features a comprehensive equalizer with multiple frequency bands, allowing users to adjust bass, midrange, and treble levels for personalized sound. This ensures a balanced audio experience across different genres of music and movies. The equalizer is accessible via the receiver’s menu system, making it easy to fine-tune settings to match individual preferences or specific speaker setups. Additionally, the AccuEQ calibration system optimizes the EQ based on room acoustics, providing a tailored listening experience without the need for manual adjustments.
7.2 Crossover Adjustment
The Onkyo TX-SR494 allows precise crossover adjustment, enabling users to set the frequency at which sound is directed to the subwoofer and main speakers. This ensures optimal performance from both components, delivering clear bass and detailed mid-high frequencies. The crossover can be manually adjusted to suit speaker capabilities and room acoustics, enhancing overall sound quality.
Typical crossover settings range between 80Hz to 120Hz, but the TX-SR494 lets you fine-tune this to your preference. Proper adjustment prevents overlap and ensures seamless integration between speakers and subwoofer, providing a balanced and immersive audio experience for movies and music.
Connectivity Options
The Onkyo TX-SR494 offers versatile connectivity, including multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, Bluetooth for wireless device pairing, and Wi-Fi for network integration. Additional ports cater to analog and digital inputs, ensuring seamless compatibility with various audiovisual components.
8.1 HDMI Inputs and Outputs
The Onkyo TX-SR494 features four HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, supporting 4K/60p, HDR (Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG), and HDCP 2.2. ARC functionality allows seamless audio return from a connected TV, enhancing your home theater experience. HDMI inputs are labeled for easy setup, ensuring compatibility with 4K devices, Blu-ray players, and gaming consoles. The HDMI output also supports 4:4:4 color coding and 3D video, ensuring high-quality visuals and immersive cinematic experiences. Proper connection setup is crucial for optimal performance and to avoid potential connectivity issues.
8.2 Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Connectivity
The Onkyo TX-SR494 supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling seamless wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, and networked devices. Bluetooth allows easy pairing with mobile devices, while Wi-Fi connectivity supports integration with smart home systems and network audio streaming. The receiver remembers multiple Bluetooth devices for quick reconnection. Wi-Fi ensures stable high-quality audio transmission and access to online services. These features enhance flexibility and convenience, allowing users to enjoy music and content from various sources wirelessly, without compromising sound quality or performance.
8.3 Other Ports and Inputs
Beyond HDMI, the Onkyo TX-SR494 includes optical and coaxial digital inputs for connecting devices like CD players or game consoles. It also features analog AV inputs for legacy equipment and a phono input for turntables. A subwoofer pre-out ensures enhanced bass customization, while an Ethernet port provides stable network connectivity. Additionally, a USB input supports playback from flash drives, offering versatility for digital audio files. These ports and inputs cater to diverse entertainment needs, ensuring compatibility with both modern and traditional audio sources for a seamless home theater experience.
Calibration
Calibration fine-tunes your system for optimal sound. Use AccuEQ for automatic room acoustic adjustments or manual settings to tailor bass, treble, and speaker levels to your preference.
9.1 AccuEQ Room Calibration
The Onkyo TX-SR494 features AccuEQ Room Calibration, a built-in technology designed to optimize your audio system for your specific room acoustics. Using the included measurement microphone, AccuEQ automatically adjusts speaker levels, distance, and frequency response to ensure a balanced and immersive soundstage. This process eliminates the guesswork of manual calibration, providing a tailored listening experience. The system also supports AccuReflex, which enhances the clarity of object-based audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. For the best results, place the microphone at ear level in your primary listening position and follow the on-screen instructions.
9.2 Manual Calibration Options
For advanced users, the Onkyo TX-SR494 offers manual calibration options to fine-tune your audio system. Adjust speaker levels, crossover frequencies, and distance settings to optimize performance. The equalizer allows customization of low and high frequencies, ensuring a tailored sound experience. Manual mode bypasses automatic settings, enabling precise control over audio parameters. Users can also disable AccuEQ and adjust settings for specific speaker configurations. Detailed instructions for manual calibration are provided in the user manual, guiding you through each step to achieve the best possible sound quality for your home theater setup.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Address common issues like no sound, distorted audio, or connectivity problems by checking connections, restarting the receiver, and consulting the manual for detailed solutions and diagnostics.
10.1 No Sound or Distorted Sound
If experiencing no sound or distorted audio, first check all connections to ensure they are secure and properly connected. Verify that the correct input is selected on both the receiver and the TV. Ensure speaker settings are configured correctly, and volume levels are adequate. If issues persist, reset the receiver by powering it off, unplugging it, and waiting 30 seconds before turning it back on. Additionally, check for firmware updates, as outdated software may cause audio problems. Consult the manual for detailed troubleshooting steps and diagnostics to resolve the issue effectively.
10.2 Connectivity Problems
For connectivity issues, ensure all HDMI cables are securely connected to the correct ports on both the receiver and devices. Restart the receiver and connected devices, as this often resolves temporary glitches. Check HDMI settings, ensuring ARC is enabled if needed. Verify that Bluetooth devices are paired correctly and within range. If Wi-Fi issues arise, reset your network connection or restart the router. Consult the manual for specific troubleshooting steps, such as resetting the receiver or updating firmware. Proper diagnostics can quickly restore connectivity and ensure seamless operation of your home theater system.
10;3 ARC (Audio Return Channel) Issues
If experiencing ARC issues, ensure the HDMI cable is connected to the ARC-enabled ports on both the TV and receiver. Enable ARC in the TV’s settings and the receiver’s HDMI menu. Verify that both devices support ARC and are using the correct HDMI version. If no sound is transmitted, restart both devices or perform a firmware update. Resetting the receiver to factory settings may resolve persistent issues, but be prepared to reconfigure all settings afterward. Proper ARC configuration ensures seamless audio transmission from the TV to the receiver, enhancing your home theater experience.
Maintenance and Care
Regularly clean the unit with a soft cloth to prevent dust buildup. Check for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance. Resetting the receiver can resolve software issues.
11.1 Cleaning the Unit
Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and longevity. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior and vents, avoiding liquid cleaners or harsh chemicals. For stubborn stains, dampen the cloth slightly but ensure no moisture enters the unit. Avoid touching electrical components. Clean the remote control with a soft cloth, paying attention to button surfaces. Never spray liquids directly on the unit or submerge it in water. Dust buildup can affect ventilation and performance, so clean the vents periodically to maintain airflow. Always unplug the receiver before cleaning to prevent electrical hazards. Regular maintenance ensures your Onkyo TX-SR494 operates at its best.
11.2 Firmware Updates
Keeping your Onkyo TX-SR494 up to date ensures optimal performance and new features. Firmware updates can be installed via the internet or USB; Connect the receiver to your network and navigate to the firmware update section in the menu. Select “Update” and follow on-screen instructions. For USB updates, download the latest firmware from Onkyo’s website, transfer it to a USB drive, and insert it into the receiver. The unit will automatically detect and install the update. Never turn off the power during an update, as this could cause permanent damage. Regularly check for updates to enjoy the latest enhancements and improvements.
11.4 Resetting the Receiver
Resetting the Onkyo TX-SR494 restores it to factory settings, resolving potential issues. To reset, navigate to the menu, select “Reset,” and press “OK” on the remote. Confirm by selecting “Yes.” The receiver will restart, reverting all settings to default. Note that custom configurations, including speaker settings and EQ adjustments, will be lost. Use this option cautiously and only when necessary. After resetting, recalibrate the system using AccuEQ for optimal performance. This process ensures a clean slate for reconfiguring your home theater setup from scratch.
Additional Features
The Onkyo TX-SR494 offers multi-zone support, enabling audio distribution across multiple rooms. It also features smart integration with compatible systems and voice control for enhanced convenience and customization.
12.1 Multi-Zone Support
The Onkyo TX-SR494 supports multi-zone audio distribution, allowing you to enjoy different audio content in multiple rooms. Zone B connectivity enables independent source selection, volume control, and playback options. This feature is ideal for whole-home audio systems, ensuring seamless entertainment across various spaces. With dedicated pre-outs and assignable amplifiers, you can customize your setup to suit different listening environments. Multi-zone support enhances flexibility, making it easier to manage audio in every corner of your home seamlessly.
12.2 Smart Integration
The Onkyo TX-SR494 offers seamless smart integration, enabling wireless connectivity and voice control through compatible platforms. With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi support, you can stream music directly from smartphones or tablets. The receiver is compatible with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing voice commands for playback and settings. Additionally, it integrates with Sonos systems, expanding multi-room audio capabilities. The Onkyo Controller app provides remote control via smartphones, simplifying adjustments to settings and content selection. These features enhance convenience and elevate the home entertainment experience with modern smart technology integration.
The Onkyo TX-SR494 offers high-quality sound and advanced features, making it a great option for home entertainment systems. Its user-friendly design ensures a seamless experience for all users.
13.1 Final Thoughts
The Onkyo TX-SR494 is an excellent choice for home entertainment, offering robust performance, versatile connectivity, and advanced features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Its AccuEQ calibration ensures optimal sound quality tailored to any room. With support for 4K HDR, HDMI ARC, and Bluetooth, it seamlessly integrates modern devices. The receiver’s user-friendly interface and comprehensive manual make it accessible to both beginners and audiophiles. Whether for movies, music, or gaming, the TX-SR494 delivers immersive sound and reliable operation, making it a standout option in its class.
13.2 Encouragement to Explore Features
Take the time to explore the Onkyo TX-SR494’s extensive features to unlock its full potential. Experiment with AccuEQ calibration for optimized sound, and leverage HDMI ARC for seamless connectivity. Discover the clarity of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and enjoy wireless freedom with Bluetooth. The receiver’s intuitive interface and detailed manual make it easy to navigate advanced settings. Whether you’re a novice or an audiophile, exploring these features will enhance your entertainment experience and ensure you get the most from your investment in this versatile AV receiver.