In a bold move to reclaim its position as a leader in the audio equipment landscape, Onkyo® has unveiled an ambitious vision for its future, rooted in its rich heritage of premium sound engineering since its inception in 1946. As the brand embarks on this transformative chapter, Onkyo remains committed to innovation, aiming to deliver exceptional audio solutions that resonate emotionally with music lovers, movie enthusiasts, and gamers worldwide.
What started in a bicycle shop
Onkyo’s history traces back to the early 1940s with founder Takeshi Godai, whose early experiences in his family’s bicycle shop in Osaka necessitated a passion for mechanics and engineering. This foundation proved pivotal when Godai partnered with a young apprentice, Konosuke Matsushita, who ultimately founded the renowned Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., now known as Panasonic. This collaboration ignited Godai’s enthusiasm for audio technology, leading him to establish Onkyo in 1946 amidst Japan’s post-war recovery.
Sound harmony
The name “Onkyo,” meaning “sound harmony” in Japanese, symbolizes the brand’s mission to produce high-quality audio products. As Onkyo’s offerings gained acclaim throughout the 1970s for their seamless blend of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology, the brand solidified its reputation in homes worldwide, particularly through groundbreaking audio/video receivers and immersive sound technologies.
Premium Audio Company
Now under the stewardship of Premium Audio Company and Voxx International Corporation, who acquired Onkyo Home Entertainment Company in 2021, Onkyo is poised for a new era of growth and innovation. The establishment of the Premium Audio Company Technology Center (PACTC) at its Osaka headquarters signifies a commitment to redefining global sound standards. With a resilient team of 59 engineers, technicians, and marketers dedicated to merging Onkyo’s heritage with modern technological advancements, the brand is set to push the boundaries of audio excellence.
In a strategic collaboration with Klipsch, Onkyo has introduced the “Powered by Onkyo®” initiative, launching co-branded audio solutions like the Klipsch Flexus soundbars. This partnership allows both brands to leverage their strengths, resulting in superior audio experiences that cater to diverse consumer needs.
Meanwhile, Onkyo’s new product lines are set to incorporate state-of-the-art technologies, featuring compatibility with Dolby®, DTS®, THX®, HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay®, Google Cast, and popular music streaming services such as Spotify, TIDAL, and Deezer. This robust integration ensures that Onkyo products maintain their legendary sound quality while embracing the future of audio technology.
Refreshed visual identity
A key highlight of Onkyo’s rebranding is its refreshed visual identity, which marks the start of this exciting new chapter while honoring its 75-year legacy. The new logo, with increased spacing between letters, signifies a fresh outlook and renewed opportunities, embodying trust, innovation, and elegance. Accompanied by a sophisticated color palette that represents strength, dynamism, and precision, this redesign speaks volumes about Onkyo’s dedication to elegant, premium audio solutions.
Showcase at CES 2025
Looking to the future, Onkyo plans to broaden its product range in 2025, with the introduction of active speakers and new amplifiers designed for audiophiles and everyday users alike. Anticipation surrounds the unveiling of these innovative products at the upcoming CES 2025 in Las Vegas, where Onkyo aims to showcase its commitment to high-performance audio experiences.
As Onkyo embarks on this new journey, the brand remains steadfast in its mission to deliver innovative, elegant, and high-quality audio solutions for a new generation of sound enthusiasts. With a legacy built on passion, technology, and a commitment to excellence, Onkyo is ready to redefine what audio means for its global audience once again.
