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Onkyo PA-MC5501 9-channel power amplifier

Item # 580PAM5501

First of all, you can put together a mind-blowing surround sound system with five speakers up front and four in the...

First of all, you can put together a mind-blowing surround sound system with five speakers up front and four in the...

5 questions - 8 answers

Item # 580PAM5501

Shop all Onkyo Power Amplifiers

About the Onkyo PA-MC5501

Dave Bar

What can you do with nine channels of high-current power?

First of all, you can put together a mind-blowing surround sound system with five speakers up front and four in the rear. Or maybe set up a Dolby Atmos® system with five regular home theater speakers plus four in-ceiling or Atmos enabled height speakers for a truly enveloping surround sound experience.

What can you do with nine channels of high-current power?

First of all, you can put together a mind-blowing surround sound system with five speakers up front and four in the rear. Or maybe set up a Dolby Atmos® system with five regular home theater speakers plus four in-ceiling or Atmos enabled height speakers for a truly enveloping surround sound experience.

If you only need five channels for surround sound, you can use two of the other four to bi-amp your front left and right speakers. If you have speakers with bi-amp inputs, and you haven't tried them yet, you might be amazed at how much more powerful and dynamic they'll sound.

Or, you could devote some of the channels to your multi-room audio system. In any case, you get the picture. Onkyo's versatile PA-MC5501 nine-channel amplifier gives you plenty of options.

THX® Ultra2 certification

THX Ultra2 certification is your guarantee that the PA-MC5501 will accurately present movie soundtracks the way they were mixed by the filmmaker. You can count on high-fidelity, high-impact performance for the latest multi-channel formats, even in very large rooms. Pair this amp with Onkyo's matching PR-SC5530 Dolby Atmos A/V preamp/processor and you graduate from home theater to genuine, no-adjective-needed Theater ... period.

The guts of the PA-MC5501 (which include custom-built capacitors, large transistors, gold-plated terminals, and a massive toroidal transformer) will impress even the most demanding audiophile. Onkyo's WRAT amplifier design ensures high instantaneous current capability, which is exactly what high-end speakers need to sound their best.

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Product highlights:

  • 9-channel THX® Ultra2 certified power amplifier
  • 150 watts per channel into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.05% THD, with 2 channels driven
  • 4-ohm capable for use with a wide range of speakers
  • frequency response: 5-100,000 Hz (+1 dB, -3 dB)
  • signal-to-noise ratio: 110 dB
  • one unbalanced RCA and one balanced XLR input for each channel
  • WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology) for low noise and high instantaneous current capability
  • massive toroidal power transformer
  • custom-designed large power transistors to drive high currents
  • 12-volt trigger input
  • defeatable auto power standby automatically shuts amp down after 3 hours of non-use
  • gold-plated binding post speaker terminals
  • detachable power cable
  • 17-1/8"W x 7-13/16"H x 17-9/16"D
  • weight: 48.9 lbs.
  • warranty: 2 years
  • MFR # PA-MC5501

What's in the box:

  • 9-Channel power amplifier
  • 68" AC power cord
  • 68" DC Trigger cable (mono 3.5mm minijack on both ends)
  • Instruction manual
  • Product Registration/Warranty Card
  • Sheet of adhesive labels
  • "Precautions" note
  • "Easy Access To Customer Care" card

Customer reviews for Onkyo PA-MC5501

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More details on the Onkyo PA-MC5501

Stacey B.

Features & specs

General
Number of Channels 9
Power Output per Channel (8 ohms) 150
Power Output per Channel (6 ohms) ---
Power Output per Channel (4 ohms) ---
Frequency Bandwidth 20-20k
THD 0.05%
Minimum Impedance 4
Bridged Power per Channel N/A
Speaker Outputs 9
THX Certification Ultra2
Width (inches) 17-1/8
Height (inches) 7-13/16
Depth (inches) 18-15/16
Weight 48.9 pounds
Parts Warranty 2 Years
Labor Warranty 2 Years
Inputs & Outputs
Number of Inputs 9
Input Type RCA, XLR
Removable Power Cord IEC 2-prong
Level Controls No
Speaker Connectors Binding posts

Product Research

Features

Power Amplifier: A standard integrated A/V receiver has the dual task of both processing and amplifying audio signals, and is therefore susceptible to noise interference from digital circuitry. As a dedicated power amp with all-analog circuitry, the Onkyo PA-MC5501 suffers no such interference. When partnered with a high-quality preamplifier, such as Onkyo's PR-SC5530 (580PRS5530; sold separately), the PA-MC5501 offers all the benefits of pure analog amplification - a warm, musical, and full-bodied sound.

Push-Pull Design (with 3-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry): The Onkyo PA-MC5501 power amplifier employs an efficient push-pull amplification design. This push-pull amplification design uses different transistors on each channel to separately amplify the positive & negative halves of the waveform. Meanwhile, 3-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry helps reduce distortion at the output stage. Together with the  push-pull amplifier design, the 3-stage inverted Darlington Circuitry shapes a clean, consistent signal to send to the outputs for ultra-low distortion & greater sound quality.

WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology): WRAT is based around a low negative-feedback circuit topology that works to reduce signal noise and distortion across the frequency range. A "closed ground-loop circuit" design is employed, in which each circuit has a separate link to the power supply. This helps to cancel individual circuit noise and keep the ground potential free of distortion. High Instantaneous Current Capability (HICC) enables WRAT amplifiers to immediately cancel the speakers' reflex energy and instantaneously send out the next signal. The same high current better manages speaker impedance fluctuations, which can negatively affect performance.

Symmetrical Layout w/ Short Signal Paths: The PA-MC5501's amplifier design incorporates a symmetrical alignment of power devices for each channel. With channels built to be identical in terms of electrical, structural, heat-generating, weight, and electromagnetic characteristics, errors in stereophonic playback are minimized. The PA-MC5501 also features an improved board design with short signal pathways to reduce electromagnetic interference. The board is also designed to optimize power delivery to the speaker drivers.

Separate Transistors: The PAMC5501's circuit design keeps the transistors separate at the output stage, which means that audio signals are kept free of clipping. Also, with less heat generated, the longevity of the output stage circuitry is enhanced, ensuring that the component stands the test of time.

Massive Toroidal Transformer: A massive toroidal transformer; two 22,000 μF capacitors; large, custom-designed transistors; circuit boards with 70 μm thick copper foil; and low-impedance copper bus plates all work in concert to enhance the power and fidelity of your audio sources.

Anti-Resonant Chassis: The PA-MC5501 features a highly rigid, anti-resonant steel-plate chassis to deter any unwanted distortion caused by instability and vibration.

THX Ultra2 Plus Certified: THX certification guarantees the same high-volume sound you experience in a multiplex theater. The Onkyo PA-MC5501 has passed more than 2,000 laboratory tests to ensure every aspect of audio performance meets rigorous standards for theater-reference sound. THX Ultra2 Plus is recommended for screen-to-seat viewing distances greater than four meters and for room volumes 3,000 cubic feet or greater.

Note: Founded by George Lucas, THX develops stringent standards that ensure movies are reproduced in movie theaters and home theaters just as the director intended. From early design concepts to product rollout, THX works with its manufacturing partners at each step of product development. Every detail is meticulously mapped to the THX performance standards. And THX engineers spend countless hours testing and analyzing each product for sound quality, usability and interoperability.

Audiophile-Grade Connectors: The Onkyo PA-MC5501 power amp is fitted with audiophile-grade connections; including  gold-plated XLR inputs; machine-tooled solid brass RCA inputs; and gold-plated binding post speaker terminals. From input to output, signal purity is maintained at every stage.

  • Balanced & Unbalanced Inputs: Each of the power amplifier's nine channels has a single unbalanced RCA input and a single balanced XLR input; which is governed by that channel's input select switch.
  • Binding Post Terminals: The nine pair of speaker binding posts will accept single banana plugs, pin connectors, and bare wire. The amplifier supports speakers with impedances of 4Ω to 16Ω. There is an impedance switch on the rear-panel; choose 6Ω if all the connected speakers are 6Ω or greater; choose 4Ω if any connected speaker is less than 6Ω.

12V Turn-On Trigger: When the 12V Trigger input jack (3.5mm) on the back of this unit is connected to the 12V Trigger output jack of a compatible preamplifier, this unit will automatically turn on and off along with the preamplifier.

Auto Power Down: When engaged, the Auto Power Down feature turns the amp off if it receives no input signal for approximately three hours. Once the amp automatically turns off, you must manually turn it back on; it won't automatically turn on when it receives a signal again.

Note: If the amp is turned on and off using the 12V turn-on trigger, the Auto Power Down function will not work.

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Customer Q&A

5 questions already asked

Q
Can I use this for my onkyo txrz1100? What cable should I use to connect it?
noel  Sep 09, 2017
1 answer
A
Hi Noel, yes that combo will work. You only have one option for that receiver. You will need to connect with RCA cables.
jason  Sep 09, 2017
Q
How much power does this amp put out per channel with all 9 channels driven not just 2 channels driven ?
dh  Apr 07, 2017
1 answer
A
I'm afraid that information is not provided as nearly all home audio manufacturer's today rate the power output with 2-channels driven. While there may be *some* power lost with all 9 channels driven at once, you can still expect roughly the same wattage (150 watts @ 8-ohm) in those cases. If you would like to discuss further, feel free to contact an Advisor directly by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat.
david  Apr 11, 2017 (Staff)
Q
Can this drive 8 ohm speakers?
edgar  Feb 28, 2017
3 answers
A
What, you got 16 ohm vintage speakers or sumpin? Will a Honda Civic run on regular gas? Will a bear s....? I don't know of an amplifier in existence that won't drive an 8 ohm standard load so you'll be absolutely fine.
don  Jun 26, 2018
A
Yes, without an issue.
michael  Feb 28, 2017
A
Yes Edgar the amp can drive 8 ohm speakers. The PA-MC5501 is designed to drive 4 -16 ohm speakers. The 5501 is currently driving my 7 Polk Lsi 4 ohm speakers with ease.
jason  Feb 28, 2017
Q
How many watts does this amp put out per channel? (9 channels)
fred  Mar 16, 2016
1 answer
A
150 Watts per channel, minimum RMS into 8 ohms, 2 channels driven, from 20 to 20,000 Hz with no more than 0.05 % total harmonic distortion.
adriaan  Mar 16, 2016
Q
i have a nr 3030 (3) klipsch g28's (2) g16's (2) g12's (2) pl200 subs , after programming im still missing the punch . would the mc 5501 be the answer ?
john  Nov 30, 2015
2 answers
A
Hey John, I goofed on the earlier email. The PAMC5501 is an amp and I mentioned it was a Preamplifier. Sorry. Wasn't paying attention to the model number. I bought the amp and Preamp, but like I said, you've got plenty of juice andlenty in your sub. The TXNR3030 DOES NOT send out any power to the sub. It is a low level Preamp output like sending a signal from a CD player to a receiver. Thanks, Scott
scott  Dec 02, 2015
A
Hi there, In the setup menu on the TXNR3030, I would change the speaker settings to Large Check subwoofer preouts to 1ch PRE OUT SW 1 and make sure that your sub is plugged into SUB PRE OUT SW1. You should hold have plenty of bass with that BIC sub considering its power. If you don't change any volume settings on the Onkyo, it should provide plenty of punch. Adjust subwoofer frequency on back of subwoofer anywhere from 60Hz to 100Hz depending on preference. Also volume on the back of sub should be roughly 1/3 to1/2 wy up depending on the amount of bass preferred. Make sure that you are plugged into SW1 for the pre out since there are a couple. Both s Jacks are purple colored I believe. Also, make sure that Pure audio is set to and DIRECT is set to OFF as well these two features shorten the wavelength and bypass all DSP circuitry to provide a cleaner signal and kills your bass. Your 3030 is a beast, so the PAMC5501 wont help you. Its pretty much the same thing except your 3030 has killer amps built into it. If you still have issues, please email me back. You may have to spell out your number or do it without dashes as these sites usually prohibit phone numbers. Or maybe include it in the model number of your Onkyo without dashes. I'll call ya ASAP Scott I'm happy to help out as I do this for a living.
scott  Dec 02, 2015
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