Late last year, the editorial team at eCoustics (including yours truly) published our Editor's Choice picks for best A/V receivers of 2025. And in the "Under $1,000" category, we recommended the Onkyo TX-RZ30 9.2-channel AVR. The RZ30 stood out for its flexibility, sound quality, generous multi-channel power output, and the fact that it has DIRAC Live room correction built-in at no additional cost.
At its list price of $1,299, it was a solid buy. At the lowered price of $999, it was a bargain, and now, for a limited time, you can get one on Amazon for $799.99 with free shipping, making it an absolutely steal. Here's a link:
> Onkyo TX-RZ30 A/V Receiver for $799.99 with free shipping (limited time deal).
The sale price is being offered on Amazon by authorized Onkyo dealer, Electronics Expo. We're not sure when the sale will end, but at this price, I'd say don't hesitate as it may not last long.
UPDATE (2/1/26): The RZ30 is also being offered as a bundle with a Klipsch 5.1.4-channel speaker system for $1199.99. Check it out here:
> Onkyo TX-RZ30 A/V Receiver with Klipsch Cinema Reference 5.1.4 Speaker System - Currently $1199.99
We reviewed this speaker system and found it offered excellent value for a Dolby Atmos-enabled 5.1.4-channel speaker system. We have since paired it with the Onkyo RZ30 in our labs and found this combination to be exceptionally well matched. Working together, the Klipsch/Onkyo system offers nice punchy immersive sound from both music and movies.
The TX-RZ30 specifically impressed me with its dynamics and precise image placement in multi-channel mode, particularly after I went though the room correction and calibration procedure using DIRAC Live. With its nine built-in amplifiers rated at 100 Watts/Channel (2 channels driven), the receiver can power a 5.2.4 or 7.2.2 channel immersive surround sound system, with decoding for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. The RZ30 is both IMAX Enhanced and THX Select certified, meaning it meets the demanding A/V standards of both organizations.
The RZ30 is also unique at its current price point in that it includes two independently adjustable subwoofer outputs. On most AVRs under $1,000, even if they offer a second subwoofer outout, it's not independently adjustable and just includes the same signal as the main subwoofer output jack. By offering direct independent adjustment of two subwoofers, the RZ30 can produce more full and even bass response across multiple listening positions. This is particularly true if you install the optional DIRAC Bass Control software (currently a $299 add-on).
The RZ30 includes six HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs, all HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3 on-board for universal device and display support up to 4K/120 Hz or 8K/60 Hz. For third party compatibility, the receiver supports Apple AirPlay 2, Google Cast (formerly Chromecast Built-in), and Bluetooth 5.1 for wireless music listening. It's even "Works with Sonos" certified which means it can act as a fully independent Sonos room/zone (with the addition of a Sonos port). The RZ30 also offers a full complement of pre-amp outputs so you can beef up the power output of the main speakers with external amps or power a second or third zone for multi-room music.
We tested the TX-RZ30 with two-channel (stereo) speaker systems and it put in a solid performance, however it really shines in a 5.2.4 (or 5.1.4) multi-channel immersive surround sound system with excellent control and finesse with immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X movie and TV soundtracks. It is particularly capable with IMAX Enhanced content in DTS:X surround on UHD Blu-ray Disc and on Disney+ (available on select TVs). Its HDMI/eARC connection worked flawlessly during our review on a couple of different displays, including TVs and projectors. Its remote isn't fancy (and lacks backlighting) but it gets the job done.
Overall, the Onkyo TX-RZ30 at its sale price under $800 presents an excellent opportunity to upgrade an aging A/V receiver or soundbar and bring your home theater sound into the 21st Century. Paired with the Klipsch Cinema Reference 5.1.4-channel speaker system and you've got a component based home theater system that annihilates the performance of virtually any soundbar-based system on the market, even those selling for twice the price or more.
eCoustics Editor's Choice 2025: The Best A/V Receivers of the Year
Klipsch Cinema Reference 5.1.4-channel Home Theater Speaker System Review
