Yamaha corporation was founded in 1887 in Hamamatsu, Japan, and has since evolved to become the world’s most important music and sound company. Guitars, modeling amplifiers, drums, and every instrument in the orchestra are at the forefront. According to their concert pianos, some have reached the pinnacle of professional achievement. They also make a variety of high-quality consumer items, including some of the world’s best AV receivers.
Table of Contents
YAMAHA RX-V6A 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
- HDMI with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (7 in / 1 out)
- 4K60, 4K120AB and 8K60B HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (Three 8k + 4 (7) in/1 out)
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Voice Control and MusicCast multi-room
The Yamaha RX-V6A has a lot of features and sounds great for the price tag. It has seven speaker channels with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, as well as the option to put up two overhead audio channels for even more immersive sound. There are seven HDMI inputs, three of which are HDMI 2.1 compliant.
Yamaha’s MusicCast multiroom wireless streaming platform, as well as Bluetooth and AirPlay 2, can be used to play music wirelessly. To reduce cable clutter, MusicCast also lets you connect wireless surround-sound speakers and a wireless sub, albeit this eliminates one of the RX-most V6A’s appealing features. This best av receiver offers remarkably outstanding room correction for a home theater receivers in this price bracket, giving it a significant sonic edge over similarly priced competitors in our tests. The RX-V6A also has a stylish design and build quality that you’ll love the entertainment system if you’re going to put your AV receiver in an open-air cabinet or somewhere else where it’ll be seen. This is the Best Yamaha Receiver in 2023.
Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
- Unrivaled experiences; Boldly explores entertainment possibilities for an advanced home theater with the latest in video and Audio, including Dolby...
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplay 2, Spotify connect and music cast multi-room
- Spotify, Apple Music via airplay 2, Pandora, Sirius internet radio, Tidal, Deezer, Napster, Qobuz and more
The stereo receiver most significant feature is its patented MusicCast technology, which ensures excellent sound quality during both music streaming services and video playback. When the major focus is evenly distributed surround sound, the receiver is ideal for a 7-channel home theater system. That’s exactly how I felt in my studio while watching the movie and listening to music. The declared power output per 8Ohm channel is 90 watts, which is sufficient for medium-sized rooms.
The Yamaha RX-V685 surround sound system supports the latest HDMI standards, so it’s a fantastic option to consider if you want to watch 4K material in good quality. Although the Yamaha CX-A5200 has the same characteristics as the Yamaha CX-A5200, the price difference may be a deciding factor for certain consumers. HDR, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log-Gamma are some of the other important technologies and audio formats added into the model to delight users. They improve contrast, smooth out tones, and expand the color palette. In fact, you always receive true-to-life pictures thanks to a wider color gamut support in this price tag.
You can use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, and Spotify Connect in addition to wired connections, making audio streaming from mobile devices a breeze. RX-V685 is one of the best Yamaha receiver because of its low price and wide range of on-board functions. The integrated MusicCast technology boosts output audio quality dramatically of this surround sound systems, allowing you to build a cutting-edge home theater system without breaking the bank. This is one of the Best Yamaha Receivers in 2023.
YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver with Bluetooth
- 5.1 channel powerful surround sound.Audio Delay : Yes (0-500 ms). Extensive Connection - HDMI CEC : Yes.
- Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Rated Output Power (1kHz, 1ch driven) 100W (8 ohms, 0.9% THD); Rated Output Power (20Hz 20kHz, 2ch driven) 70W (8...
- HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.2 (4 in/1 out)
With Yamaha home theater configuration, there are two things you can always count on. The first is that the structure will be sturdy and useful for your home cinema. The second point is that the controls will be highly visible and simple to operate. Given how much is packed into this receiver, it has a rather small footprint. It’s black and simple, with dimensions of 12.4 by 17.13 by 6.34 inches. It is one of the lightest AV receivers on the market, weighing only 16 pounds.
The home entertainment controls are on the front, and the majority of the connections are on the back. A USB port, an aux 3.5mm port, and the headphone jack are the only exceptions. They will be utilized frequently, they are placed on the front panel. It will save you from stumbling around in the back.
There’s a big screen with a lot of information and a lot of volume control for auto low latency mode. The other controls consist of a set of buttons, each of which is clearly labeled with its function. It has an ECO mode and an automated power standby to help it be more environmentally friendly. It comes with a large remote control with all of the functionality. It can record video in 4K Ultra High Definition. HDMI 2.1 with 2.2 HDCP and High Dynamic Range is also available. Dolby Vision is also included. It will allow you to send 4K videos over the internet. This is done at a 60 frames per second pass-through rate. This is the Best Yamaha Receiver under $500 .
Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A1080 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver
- 7.2-ch Dolby Atmos, DTS: X (5.2.2-ch) with Zone 2, Cinema DSP HD3, YPAO Sound Optimization (RSC/Multipoint/Precision EQ) and an ESS Sabre DAC
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Spotify Connect and MusicCast multi-room. Works with Amazon Alexa
- Pandora, Spotify, SiriusXM Internet Radio, TIDAL, Deezer, Napster and more. Standby Power Consumption (IR only):≤ 0.1W
It is well-built, as is all Yamaha equipment of this type. Even though it is primarily made of plastic, it has a substantial feel to it. Its dimensions are 17.28 by 17.13 by 7.17 inches, and it weighs 32 pounds. Four circular feet, one on each corner, give stability while also reducing vibrations. On all Yamaha AV Receivers, this is a standard feature.
There’s a lot to be thrilled about at this pricing point. This 7.2 channel receiver features Dolby Atmos and Yamaha’s HD3 DSP, which improves sound field. Adapting it to the room’s form and overall size. This works with the YPAO system that is already installed. The latter optimizes the sound from the speakers by calibrating it automatically. It also comes with an infrared remote control with all of the necessary adjustments, sound, and vision options.
It has Bluetooth 4.2 and WiFi, as well as Google Assistant and Alexa integration. There are numerous music connection methods available. Spotify and Apple Music, as well as Sirius XM and a number of other internet providers, are all available. On the back of the receiver, there are various connections. With HDCP and eARC, there are seven in and three out HDMI connectors and hdmi output. You can transfer the audio to any other room you choose with MusicCast.
A very good receiver at a reasonable price. It comes with a lot of positive features. Easily one of the best inexpensive Yamaha receivers on the market.
Yamaha RX-V377 5.1-Channel A/V Home Theater Receiver
- 100 W x 5-channel output for powerful surround sound
- Discrete amp configuration, HDMI with 4K Ultra HD pass-through for super high resolution images
- Front panel USB digital connection for iPod and iPhone, YPAO sound optimization for automatic speaker set up
This receiver is designed for home theater fans and includes a number of useful functions. The quality and sound options are what give this device a leg up above the competition. It’s a five-channel surround sound system with a lot of punch. It will feature a power output of 100 watts per channel, with the option of adding more bass. This increased bass can be achieved without the need of large speakers or specialised woofers. It will adequately project lower frequencies through smaller speakers.
The integration of the Virtual Cinema Front system adds a lot to the sound quality. This means you can put up to five speakers in front of you and still enjoy surround sound. This easily makes it one of the best surround sound AV receivers on the market. The Yamaha YPAO sound optimization system is included inside the receiver. This balances the sound while taking into account the size and form of the room to provide the finest possible reproduction. The EQ is adjusted in accordance with the volume levels. The more EQ is applied, the lower the volume. It’s analogous to a HiFi system’s ‘Loudness’ control.
The YPAO differs slightly from the Adaptive DRC, which is another inclusion. It will change the sound’s dynamic range. This, too, is dependent on the volume level. Two DRC features are available on the Yamaha RX-V377.
The construction is unremarkable. Yamaha’s usual high quality, constructed of durable plastic like most consumer goods. It weighs sixteen pounds and has dimensions of 17.1 x 12.4 x 6 inches, which are very common. The majority of the controls are on the front, with connectors on the back. A 3.5mm audio input and a USB connection for a phone or other device are the only exceptions. These can be found in the front. This is, in our opinion, a fantastic idea, and we’re curious as to why more manufacturers don’t follow suit. Why store them at the back, where they are inconvenient to use, when they are frequently used?
It is equipped with an ECO mode that uses around 20% less power. It also includes a color OSD for better visibility. HDMI 2.0 boasts a 4K super HD resolution for excellent visual quality. Please keep in mind that this receiver does not have Bluetooth built-in. That could explain why the 3.5mm input is on the front. Despite the lack of Bluetooth, this is still a great receiver with a great price.
Yamaha RX-V485BL 5.1 Channel AV Network Receiver with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Progressively tech; Delivers exceptional sound and comes packed with advanced wireless technologies like Wi-Fi, airplay 2, Spotify connect, Bluetooth...
- Spotify, Apple Music via airplay 2, Pandora, Sirius internet radio, Tidal, Deezer, Napster, Qobuz and more
- 4K Ultra HD with HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log-gamma and BT.2020
The V485 is an enhanced version of the V385 model. It shares many of the same characteristics as the original and is similar in many respects. It does, however, come with some pleasant features. Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, and Airplay connectivity options are all built into this 5.1 channel system. There are also a few additional options, such as Sirius Internet radio. It’s compatible with Amazon Alexa and features WiFi. The YPAO automatic sound parameter adjustments mechanism is used by this receiver and speaker systems.
As usual, there’s a lot to choose from. HDMI outputs with HDCP and Dolby Vision, as well as 4K Ultra HD, are all supported. All of the connection points are located on the back of the device. There are only the most basic controls for functioning on the front panel, including a centrally located screen. There’s also a volume control and an off/on switch. The front of the book has several useful additions. There’s a headphone jack, as well as a USB port and a 3.55mm jack. It’s convenient to have them here so they can be used quickly.
The MusicCast feature is one of the most notable features to this receiver. Music Cast is a wireless surround sound system that may be used in many rooms or throughout your home. It connects all of your devices in one place. It’s designed to work with MusicCast speakers. An amazing system with plenty to offer at a reasonable price point, especially if you’re seeking for the finest AV receiver with Alexa.
YAMAHA RX-A4A AVENTAGE 7.1-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
- HDMI with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (7 in or 3 out)
- 4K60, 4K120AB (40gbps), 8K60AB (40gbps), HDR10plus and HDMI 2.1
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect
The YAMAHA RX-A4A receiver claims to give you the sensation that your walls are dissolving. Does it meet their expectations, though? Let’s look into it more. There are a few noteworthy features of this receiver that merit addressing. Let’s start with artificial intelligence technology, which is one of my favorites. It is incredible how it examines the scene of the contents and adjusts the surround effect to match the background music, dialog, and sound effects. I really enjoy how it decides how to best distribute voice and instrumentation among the speakers. I’m less enthused about how it functions with older audio content, though. The voice is pushed too far into the center speaker, which makes listening to songs from the 1960s and 1970s a little strange.
The newest HDMI technology is supported by multiple HDMI inputs and outputs (7 in / 3 out), allowing you to watch movie theater experience, home audio and play video games in better definition for a more lifelike viewing experience. When the number of HDMI outputs is crucial for your applications, Yamaha RX-A4A may be a more tempting option than Yamaha RX-V6A, which has virtually the same capabilities but fewer HDMI outs.
Yamaha CX-A5200 AVENTAGE 11.2-Ch AV Preamplifier
- 11.2-ch processing with Dual ESS SABRE PRO ES9026PRO Ultra DACs, balanced XLR outputs, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X (7.2.4-ch) with Zone B, Cinema DSP 3D, and...
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplay, Spotify connect and MusicCast multi-room. Works with Amazon Alexa
- HDMI with HDCP 2.2 (7-in/3-out): 4K Ultra HD, HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log-gamma and BT.2020
The Yamaha line of receivers for home entertainment systems has been upgraded. The newest iteration offers the standard quality for decoding and playing multichannel soundtracks and has been given the “5200” rating.
The receiver is equipped with a unique element that, in order to improve sound output, analyzes the audio signal characteristics in real-time and modifies them in accordance with the surrounding environment. Dynamic range, conversation, sound effects, background music, and channel balancing are all handled automatically by the device. Because of this, according to the manufacturer, this model greatly enhances movie speech and produces a full-fledged sound even in situations with a heavy musical load. This is accurate because there was no muffled sound when I watched the movie and I clearly heard the dialogue.
Similar to the Yamaha RX-V685, this 11-channel receiver supports Amazon Alexa, but because the CX-A5200 is an AVENTAGE AVR, the “conversation” is carried out more effectively. To test how well the receiver handles both fast- and slow-paced audio, I utilized Amazon Alexa’s functions to switch between audio tracks. I’m ecstatic about what I heard. There was a clear balance between low and high frequencies, and the bass was robust.
Yamaha receivers buying guide
The idea of the finest Yamaha AV receiver is rather speculative because what works fantastically for one person may be completely unsatisfactory for another. Because of this, my initial goal was to establish fundamental standards for all receivers and to evaluate them in light of this list.
Watts per Channel
When I refer to this characteristic, I really mean a receiver’s power. What does “enough power” actually mean? This is a common query from newcomers. Of course, some receivers outperform their competitors in this area, but greater power inevitably comes at a larger cost. Determining your personal lowest tolerable power level is therefore crucial.
Given that the majority of manufacturers only list the power output for two active channels, the decision might be rather difficult. Although it seems strange, it has become a common habit, therefore we must accept things as they are.
Therefore, don’t let power ratings irritate you. In fact, a theater system may be simply driven by any contemporary surround sound receiver, filling the space with rich audio. To be on the safe side, pick a 75W receiver for a room of average size. If you need to cover a greater area, increase this figure. If you’re after larger power outputs, you can spend a ridiculous amount of money on a receiver that won’t offer the watts it claims to. What good is it to spend money on elusive watts?
Channels
To better comprehend this parameter, I suggest understanding channels as powered speakers, where one channel corresponds to one speaker. So, 5-channel home theater receivers, for example, can power 5 speakers, and so on. Normally, there are 2 numbers in the specs section that are separated by a dot. How many subwoofers you can utilize in the setup is indicated by the second number. Hence, there are generally two options: one for a single woofer and another for two subwoofers.
The two most common choices are 5.1 and 7.1 receivers. They can easily meet the needs of the majority of customers, and the second assembly is preferred for producing true Dolby Atmos sound. The measuring technique should be used, though, if you’re unsure of how many speakers your space needs. Here, I merely specify the size of your room and the maximum number of speakers you may fit there without packing the area.
A 7.1-channel setup is overkill for a small or medium room because it is better suited for larger spaces. In this situation, you should pick a 5.1-channel model that will meet your media consumption needs without interfering with other activities.
Which types of inputs and outputs are required?
Every receiver must have a certain set of inputs and outputs. Check first to see if the model has HDMI ports (on the front and rear panels). These are required in order to connect a receiver to a television, Blu-ray player, etc. Although if purchasing a unit with excessive amounts of HDMI inputs and outputs will cost you more money, those costs will soon be fully justified when you need to connect newly released devices. Your receiver must be HDMI 2.0 or HDCP 2.2-certified if you intend to watch 4K content.
You must use audio inputs to connect audio streaming devices (such as DVD and CD players, MP3 sources, etc.). They come in digital and analog varieties. The former can broadcast digital surround-sound formats and perfectly handle electrical interferences. If a receiver doesn’t have digital inputs, you must make the most of analog substitutes. Although some users contend that these inputs aren’t as effective as digital ones, the sound quality isn’t that different. Older CD players, analog VCRs, cassette recorders, and external radio tuners must be connected via an analog connection.
Thankfully, Yamaha receivers have clearly labeled inputs and outputs, so setting them up for use won’t take long. Also, every label matches the remote’s buttons exactly.
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and streaming services
Purchasing a receiver without wireless support is a waste of money given how quickly wireless technologies are evolving today. It’s tough to overstate how convenient Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and streaming services have made our homes, therefore I strongly advise getting a Yamaha AVR with at least one wireless option.
You may stream your preferred audio and video content across many internet platforms in this way without having to deal with numerous cords, which saves time and allows you to tidy your area. Also, many receivers come with pre-installed apps that make setting up a wireless connection as easy as ABC. I also value the capability of powering numerous speaker systems. If you have a big family and enjoy watching/listening to diverse things, that is incredibly nice. In this way, you may browse Spotify and listen to your amazing jazz compositions while your children are watching their favorite cartoons on the second floor.
By creating a unique wireless technology that is integrated into many of its products, the Yamaha brand has excelled many of its rivals. It’s called MusicCast, and it allows you to control the entire system from a single, practical application while dispersing the music stream across the house.
files in 4K and HDR
If you’ve read at least a few reviews on Yamaha receivers, you’ve definitely observed that consumers these days are more aware of the variety of benefits a receiver may provide. The likelihood of seeing 4K and HDR content is a major source of concern for many customers. In fact, the most devoted moviegoers already watch 8K films in their cozy homes, though not all models can yet.
While you browse several Yamaha receivers, I advise you to carefully review the list of supported formats. Avoid buying any devices that aren’t 4K capable if you want to watch lots of action-packed material. The same is true of HDR formats, which stand for High Dynamic Range and let you view photographs with strong contrast and vibrant colors.
DTS:X and Dolby Atmos compatibility
Recent advancements in surround technology, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, have made movies and television shows even more immersive.
The aim of both technologies is to more accurately disperse the sound throughout a space to match the activity on the screen. The cinematic impact consequently becomes more immersive. The primary distinction between DTS: X and Dolby Atmos is that the latter may be used with conventional surround sound systems without the need for ceiling speakers.
Despite the fact that Dolby Atmos and DTS: X use quite distinct technologies, they are remarkably similar. First off, DTS: X debuted in home theaters first, whereas Atmos debuted in theaters before being incorporated into speakers, soundbars, and home theaters. Atmos emphasizes height greater. The business advises placing ceiling speakers as a result for the best sound quality.
You get to choose which technology best suits you, and both follow the rules of object-oriented surround sound.