Onkyo Icon M-80

Onkyo Icon M-80 – The power behind the music

Designed as the perfect partner for the Icon P-80 preamplifier, the Onkyo Icon M-80 forms the muscular backbone of Onkyo's new reference-oriented hi-fi series. Where the P-80 shapes and refines the signal, the M-80 is responsible for translating it into raw energy, dynamics and control – without losing finesse, resolution or musicality.

Engineered to drive even large and demanding speakers with convincing authority, the M-80 delivers a full, dynamic reproduction with great background calm and an impressive ability to preserve detail and timing, even when the music becomes complex and demanding.

Highlights

• Three-stage Inverted Darlington amplifier circuit with extremely low output impedance
• Parallel-connected output stage for high torque current and powerful dynamics
• Low negative feedback for cleaner signal and better speaker control
• DIDRC technology in the driver stage for reduced high-frequency noise
• Specially developed power supply with high current capacity
• Solid cabinet construction with vibration-damping aluminum and steel
• Hi-Fi-grade terminals, copper bus-bars and custom-made capacitors
• Designed to drive large and highly sensitive speakers with ease

Three-stage Inverted Darlington – control without compromise

At the heart of the Onkyo Icon M-80 is the advanced three-stage Inverted Darlington circuit, which is engineered to deliver very low output impedance and extremely high current delivery. This construction provides a direct and stable connection between amplifier and speaker, resulting in tight bass, fast transient response, and an impressive sense of physical presence in the music.

By keeping negative feedback at a low level, the M-80 prevents noise and unwanted influences from the speakers from being drawn back into the amplifier circuit. The result is a more open, natural and undistorted reproduction, where both microdynamics and macrodynamics are clear and distinct.

Noticeable power reserves

The M-80 is built to deliver power when the music demands it. The output transistors are parallel-connected to ensure instant power delivery, giving a distinct sense of surplus and authority. This means the amplifier maintains control, even at high sound pressure levels and in passages with large dynamic fluctuations.

The power supply is specially developed for this amplifier and is supported by large, custom-made capacitors designed exclusively for Onkyo, providing a stable foundation for a reproduction that is both powerful and nuanced.

DIDRC – purity also in the power stage

Onkyo has implemented DIDRC technology in the M-80's driver stage to reduce noise in the ultra-high frequency range. This technology works with a high slew rate design that effectively dampens distortion that can otherwise affect the clarity and airiness of the soundstage.

The result is a reproduction that feels more analog in character – smooth, coherent, and without the harshness that some power amps can introduce.

Mechanical stability as a sound advantage

The M-80's cabinet is constructed from two heavy-duty aluminum side panels combined with a solid steel top plate. This three-piece construction significantly increases both rigidity and vibration resistance, which is essential for keeping sensitive circuitry free from microvibrations.

The large extruded aluminum heat sink not only acts as an effective heat sink, but also helps to dampen resonances. Together with a strong, vibration-resistant front plate, it creates a mechanically quiet environment in which the electronics can operate optimally.

Built for systems with ambitions

With its significant output power and high current capacity, the M-80 is ideal for speakers that require both control and dynamic excess. Together with the Icon P-80 preamplifier, it forms a set capable of exploiting the full potential of the speakers and conveying the music with both authority and emotion.

Whether it's large floorstanding speakers or more compact but demanding designs, the M-80 delivers an audio experience that feels engaging, powerful and true to the artist's intention.

Part of Onkyo's new reference

The Icon series was conceived as a new era for Onkyo's hi-fi products - not just an update, but a collection of all the knowledge and experience the brand has built up over decades. The M-80 is a clear expression of this ambition: a power amplifier that combines classic engineering with modern circuit design and a look that signals serious hi-fi.

When music requires more than just watts

The Onkyo Icon M-80 is not just a power amplifier with a lot of power. It is designed to convey music with intensity, precision and emotional depth. It is the amplifier for the listener who wants a solid foundation under their system – a foundation that allows the preamplifier, sources and speakers to perform at their best.