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The Onkyo Icon Series M-80 and P-80 are a two-box stereo system: the P-80 handles sources, streaming, room correction and volume, while the M-80 supplies power to passive speakers. Its strongest case is the P-80’s unusually broad source and streaming support paired with a conventional Class AB power amp. The key qualifications are that the M-80’s wattage depends on market and test conditions, and the P-80’s included Dirac Live correction does not cover the full frequency range.
What are the P-80 and M-80, and how do they work together?
The P-80 is a network preamplifier, not a power amplifier. It selects and processes audio sources, controls volume, and sends a line-level signal to a power amplifier. The M-80 is that separate two-channel power amplifier: it drives passive speakers. The P-80 cannot drive passive speakers on its own.
Both units provide the connections needed to link them: the P-80 has balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA pre-outs, and the M-80 accepts either XLR or RCA input. The M-80 also has a 12 V trigger input for coordinated power control with compatible equipment. Onkyo describes the M-80 as a Class AB design with a three-stage Inverted Darlington circuit and DIDRC in its driver stage; these are design descriptions, not independent evidence of audible superiority.
How much power does the M-80 deliver?
Power ratings need their market and test conditions attached. They are not directly interchangeable when impedance, frequency, distortion threshold or channel-drive conditions differ.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Source and market | Published rating | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Onkyo US specification sheet, V05 | 130 W per channel into 8 ohms | FTC rating; 20 Hz–20 kHz, 0.08% THD, both channels driven |
| Onkyo US specification sheet, V05 | 200 W per channel into 4 ohms | 1 kHz, 0.7% THD, both channels driven |
| Onkyo international product page | 130 W per channel into 8 ohms | Page states 0.07% THD; conditions are not stated in the same detail as the US FTC sheet |
| Hi-Fi News, UK-market context | 150 W per channel into 8 ohms | UK rating; its test conditions are not stated here |
The US sheet specifies speaker impedance of 4–16 ohms. The different 8-ohm figures reflect market-specific specifications and/or different stated test conditions; do not treat them as one universal rating. The product’s ability to suit a particular speaker and room also depends on the speaker’s impedance behavior, sensitivity, listening distance and desired volume, not wattage alone.
Onkyo’s US sheet lists dimensions of 435 × 135 × 345 mm (17.1 × 5.3 × 13.6 in) and weight of 13.5 kg. Allow for ventilation and safe handling when planning a shelf or rack.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What does the P-80 add over a basic preamp?
Its central advantage is that it can serve as the control hub for a mixed system of digital, network and analog sources, rather than just switching a few line-level inputs.
Physical connections
- Three pairs of RCA analog inputs, plus an MM/MC phono input for a turntable.
- HDMI ARC, coaxial digital, optical digital and USB-A storage playback.
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA pre-outs to connect the M-80 or another power amplifier.
- Two RCA subwoofer outputs and a 6.3 mm headphone jack.
- Wi-Fi and wired LAN; Bluetooth SBC, aptX and aptX HD.
Onkyo’s official specification calls the P-80 a 2.2-channel preamplifier. Its listed frequency response is 5 Hz–100 kHz (+1/−3 dB). A wide published response range is a specification, not a guarantee that it will improve every system or be audible across all sources and speakers.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Streaming and control
Onkyo’s EMEA product page lists Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Amazon Music, Qplay, TuneIn, AirPlay 2, Chromecast and Roon Ready, along with compatibility with the Onkyo Controller app. Service availability can vary by region and change; check the current offering and firmware for the intended market before buying.
What are the P-80’s Dirac Live limits?
Onkyo lists Dirac Live Room Correction Suite Stereo as included, with correction from 20–500 Hz. Full-bandwidth correction requires a separately purchased license, and Dirac Live Bass Control is an optional upgrade. The included range can address bass and lower-frequency room behavior, but it is not full-range correction. Check the current license terms and prices for your region before treating optional features as part of the system’s value.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
How does the pair sound?
Published reviews offer favorable listening impressions, but they are not controlled measurements or proof that the combination will sound the same in every room and system. StereoNET’s David Price rated the pair 9/10 in a review published on 6 October 2026. HomeTheaterHifi also reported positive impressions, including its assessment of the bass presentation, DAC, MM/MC phono stage, soundstage and room-adjustment options. Those are reviewers’ judgments, not independently measured performance claims.
HomeTheaterHifi also wanted more phono gain and loading choices and more balanced connections. That is a useful practical caveat for buyers with a cartridge requiring specific loading, or systems built around multiple balanced sources: the P-80 offers MM/MC phono and XLR pre-outs, but that does not establish broad adjustment flexibility or a large number of balanced connections.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Onkyo attributes reduced distortion and vibration control to DIDRC circuitry, the DAC, chassis, heat sinks and other design choices. These manufacturer claims should be kept separate from reviewer listening reports; the available figures here do not establish an independent measured advantage over competing equipment.
What does the M-80/P-80 combination cost?
StereoNET’s 6 October 2026 review printed the following regional prices for the P-80 and M-80. These are dated publication listings, not a live retailer check or confirmation of current stock.
| Market | P-80 listed price | M-80 listed price |
|---|---|---|
| UK | £1,349 | £1,449 |
| United States | US$1,999 | US$1,999 |
| Euro pricing | €1,499 | €1,599 |
| Australia | A$4,299 | A$4,299 |
Onkyo’s launch announcement of 7 January 2025 gave a US suggested retail price of $1,999 for each component and expected availability in Q4 2025. That was launch-period guidance, not evidence of a current transaction price. Confirm current price, stock, warranty and regional availability with a retailer.
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Who should consider the Onkyo separates?
A good fit if
- You want a separate preamp and power amp, with the P-80 serving as a hub for TV audio, digital and analog sources, streaming and a turntable.
- You value its combination of XLR and RCA pre-outs, two subwoofer outputs, network features and room correction.
- Your speakers are rated within the M-80’s stated 4–16-ohm range, and you are evaluating power using ratings that match your market and conditions.
Look more closely if
- You need full-bandwidth Dirac Live or Bass Control: those involve optional purchases beyond the included 20–500 Hz correction.
- Your turntable setup depends on specific phono loading or gain adjustments; a reviewer specifically noted wanting more choices.
- You need several balanced inputs or are comparing amplifiers on output power: check the connection count and use comparable test conditions rather than headline wattage alone.
- You are buying based on a particular streaming service: confirm regional availability and current firmware support.
For a comparison with another system, align amplifier ratings for impedance, frequency range, THD and number of driven channels; then compare source connections, phono flexibility, room-correction coverage and license costs, system topology, and verified regional price and warranty. This gives a more useful comparison than treating a watt figure or feature count as a verdict by itself.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
