Showing posts with label home theater receivers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label home theater receivers. Show all posts

8/20/2012

Yamaha YMC-700BL NeoHD WiFi Media Controller/AV Receiver (Black) Review

Yamaha YMC-700BL NeoHD WiFi Media Controller/AV Receiver (Black)
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This unit was very easy to install although finding the IR receivers on the other components was challenging. I wish the remote had numbers on it. I understand making it simple but it makes for slow channel access. I found myself having to keep the digital cable box remote for speed and convenience. I love the internet radio access and the ipod dock is a definite add-on we were glad we purchased. The unit is small and well laid out. This is a good looking piece. Unfortunately we have the tv in a corner and the surround sound is okay but not great. I think if this was set out properly it would work quite well. I do recommend this to anyone looking for a universal remote and good quality amplifier.

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Yamaha YMC-700BL NeoHD Controller

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7/22/2012

Yamaha YMC-500SL NeoHD Media Controller/AV Receiver (Silver) Review

Yamaha YMC-500SL NeoHD Media Controller/AV Receiver (Silver)
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Great concept, poor design. Sound quality was surprisingly good because this receiver only weighs 10 lbs and feels cheap when you pick it up. Video passthrough worked well but the unit does not upconvert the video signal it only passes whatever the signal is being sent. In other words my Nintendo Wii only came through at 480i which was horrible. I ended up returning this item.

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Yamaha YMC-500SL NeoHD Controller

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7/12/2012

Yamaha RX-V465BL 525 Watt 5-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Yamaha RX-V465BL 525 Watt 5-Channel Home Theater Receiver
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I've had the RX-v465 for over a month now, so i've had plenty of time to get comfortable with the receiver. I purchased this b/c it seemed like the best value. My major goals were to find a receiver that had HDMI vid and audio pass-thru and had good quality cd music output - and the rx-v465 delivered!
PROS:
I used the mic to auto-calibrate the sound quality - very easy (do this before using it). CDs (analog) sound great and digital audio sounds even better. The sound settings are great: it has several sound enhancer settings for a full/modern sound and even a 'direct' mode where the receiver uses the minimum electronics to provide a pure (almost vinyl) sound. These settings are easy to access once you get comfortable with the remote.
It has plenty of inputs for all of your older (rca) and newer (HDMI) devices. For TV, I run my comcast dvr box via an hdmi cable to the receiver, then run an hdmi from the receiver to the tv. For dvd, i run hdmi to the receiver. Only one cable (an hdmi) is needed from the receiver to the TV (sony bravia 52v5100). Video quality and dolby digital audio quality is excellent. It even allows you to view TV without turning on the receiver (downside in this mode is you can't listen to the sound system). Also, my cable remote can control the receiver volume when watching tv when the pass-thru mode is set (control-on).
CONS:
1. There is an annoying time delay (up to 3 seconds) when switching from HD to non-HD channels and when pulling up the dvr menu/list and cable guide. The receiver is thinking /switching digital modes and makes clicking sounds as it switches resulting in sound but no vid. This issue took me some time to get used to and will be a deal-breaker for most people.
2. Longer delay / thinking when the receiver is turned on and the hdmi input is set. Same clicking and no vid as it finds the right mode for the data that is coming in.
3. Remote is annoying, not built well, but whatever, its not a deal breaker.
OVERALL, i'm happy with this receiver at the price i paid when compared to other available receivers with similar features/functions.


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Yamaha RX-V465BL 525 Watt 5-Channel Home Theater Receiver

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7/07/2012

Yamaha HTR-6140BL 525 Watt 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Yamaha HTR-6140BL 525 Watt 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver
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Since the time of my review, there are only two reviews, a 5 star and a 2 star, the 2 star being based on a supposed bad remote and manual. I thought I had to set things straight. I've owned many other brand receivers and both Yamahas I've owned are great. The sound quality is excellent and the only problem I might see with someone not liking the manual is that Yamaha has so many features and options it might scare away the type of person that likes to use it out of the box without barely any set up. As for the remote I see no problem with it... it's attractive, functional, all features on it work so I don't understand what's not to like. Sound quality and construction of the unit are also superior. After having other receivers in the past that burnt due to overheating and had a dry, radio like sound, I think I'll stick with Yamaha from now on. Their "music enhancement" setting makes all sound including voice sound so incredibly warm and rich that I use this setting for everything and prefer it to any other setting. Yamaha receivers are also extremely low distortion. You will be very plesantly surprised with this receiver as long as you can follow instrucions and read a manual, even if you don't like doing this, the pay-off is worth the initial effort.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha HTR-6140BL 525 Watt 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver

The Yamaha HTR-6140BL 5.1-channel digital home theater receiver offers a wealth of entertainment features that will enrich your audio and video experience. This high-performance home theater receiver boasts 1080p-compatible HDMI, and it's ready for XM and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The Yamaha HTR-6140BL is also iPod and Bluetooth compatible. Other innovative features include CINEMA DSP for full surround sound, YPAO sound optimization and speaker setup, and 4 SCENE buttons for quick setup of audio sources.

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7/02/2012

Yamaha RX-V563BL 630 Watt 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Yamaha RX-V563BL 630 Watt 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver
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I spent the last 3 months trying to find the right av receiver for me. After much praise, i bought and returned the onkyo txsr605 (setup and video was great, sound was poor, including a buzz i've never had before) and the Harmon Kardon AVR 340 (sound was great, but vidoe quality in non-hd was aweful). I waited a few weeks for the new yamaha a/v receivers to come out in April. It was definifely worth the wait. GUI is not great, but the sound is amazing and no major complaints with the video. My only issues has to do with how quickly it can switch between HD and non-HD souces with my cable box (handshake), although i hear this is a common problem with certain cable boxes.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-V563BL 630 Watt 7.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver

The RX-V563BL 7.1-channel digital home theater receiver offers an impressive array of features and technologies to enhance the audio/video experience, including HDMI switching with 1080p video pass-through, iPod and Bluetooth audio compatibility, CINEMA DSP, compressed music enhancer for MP3 and WMA discs, and 4 SCENE buttons make operating the receiver easier than ever. 2 volume-setting functions are included on this receiver for additional convenience. Initial volume setting allows you to set the volume level that will be heard each time the power is turned on. Maximum volume setting prevents unexpected loud sounds. You have a choice of 8 unique CINEMA DSP surround programs to bring out the full audio potential of your entertainment sources. The RX-V563BL receiver is capable of delivering large amounts of reserve power for accurate reproduction of high-energy peaks that are especially prevalent in digital audio sources. Other features include Bluetooth A2DP compatibility with optional YBA-10 wireless audio receiver, on-screen display with iPod song title display, 7-channel 630W powerful surround sound (90W x 7), Burr-Brown 192kHz/24-bit DACs used in all channels for impressive sound reproduction, 1080p-compatible HDMI switching (2 inputs, 1 output), component video upconversion with TBC HDTV, compatible component video terminals (3 inputs, 1 output), and cinema DSPwith 8 DSP programs for full surround sound.

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6/27/2012

Yamaha RX-V365BL 500 Watt 5-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Yamaha RX-V365BL 500 Watt 5-Channel Home Theater Receiver
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I generally like Yamaha products but this receiver has one huge flaw. The HDMI outs do not support audio sound. I ran separate optical audio outputs from cable box and CD player. The one HDMI out on the reciever only worked with DVD not Cable box or DTV inputs. So don't plan on running a separate TV from the HDMI out on the reciever. The sound quality is good and the functions are easy to learn with the exception of the scene feature. Really not that well explained. I like the reciever and was able to work around the HDMI issue but think that this is a huge oversight on Yamaha's part. I hope this review is helpful.

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Yamaha RX-V365BL 500 Watt 5-Channel Home Theater Receiver

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6/21/2012

Yamaha HTR-3063BL 5.1 Channel 500 Watt AV Receiver (Each, Black) Review

Yamaha HTR-3063BL 5.1 Channel 500 Watt AV Receiver (Each, Black)
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This receiver sounds good, is very reasonably priced, but it's not quite what I was expecting.
Reading the description of this unit, and looking at its back panel pictures, left me with the impression it probably can output video to an HDMI TV, regardless of the input source selected ("upsampling"). It cannot. It does not upsample, and cannot send, say, your component video input source to your HDMI TV. Yamaha support (who got back to me quickly, I must admit), says "it does not do any up converting of video sources, you would have to run the component video out to [a component input] TV as well."
I also found the setup less than intuitive; others have commented on the lack of a printed manual, and I must agree that I found myself missing it as I tried to determine how best to configure my speakers and resolve my upsampling question.
So, bottom line, be aware of its limitations, but if you're fine with what it does and doesn't do, it seems to be a nice value.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha HTR-3063BL 5.1 Channel 500 Watt AV Receiver (Each, Black)

Yamaha HTR-3063BL5.1 Channel 500 Watt AV Receiver is a great value-priced receiver to help take your home theater experience further. It features the latest HDMI specifications (4 inputs/1 output) with 3D-readiness (with firmware upgrade), 1080p HDMI repeating, and renowned Yamaha technologies like SCENE and CINEMA DSP. Expand your options even further with optional docks (sold separately) to add your iPod, iPhone, or Bluetooth sources.

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6/18/2012

Yamaha RX-V367BL 5.1 Channel 500 Watt AV Receiver (Each, Black) Review

Yamaha RX-V367BL 5.1 Channel 500 Watt AV Receiver (Each, Black)
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We had a very old audio only receiver and were looking to replace it (almost 10 year old technics). We picked up the Yamaha RX-V367, even though there were no reviews, since the receiver was just released, and it was in our price range (200 to 300). So far we are happy with the new receiver; it is connected to the satellite box, xbox, and blu ray.
Speaker set up: Set of Polk Rti8 (left right and center), and klipsch Klipsch Synergy Series SS.5 rear surround (left and right). The sound coming from the speakers was MUCH better than from our ancient receiver.
Not a fan of the Sound Field Programs, seems too much like a gimmick, and only adds an echo depending on what setting (one setting might effect the vocals more, or another setting might effect the music), but I imagine some people would enjoy that. Has many audio processing options, works great with Netflix streaming, set it to 5ch stereo and it will work great; can clearly listen to what's playing (netflix only streams in 2ch stereo). Mainly use the "Straight" audio processing setting (for xbox and blu ray), I assume the receiver doesn't add any extra "audio goo", and plays direct from the source.
Good video quality, no noticeable video deterioration. Yamaha says it's compatible with HDMI 1.4 and will support 3D (with a firmware upgrade). Not that interested in 3d TVs anyways.
Clear and easy to use menu system (compared to my old technics receiver), competent directions, fairly user friendly.
Has 4 HDMI inputs which was much better than many of the competitors in the same price range. We didn't test the FM/AM tuner, and only connected HDMI and RCA from computer. We were also swayed by the extra bluetooth adapter so we can listen to music (and hopefully stream Hulu audio) wirelessly from the computer (and get rid of the airport express). Will update review after getting bluetooth.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-V367BL 5.1 Channel 500 Watt AV Receiver (Each, Black)

The Yamaha RX-V367BL 5.1-Channel AV Receiver is a great value-priced receiver to help take your home theater experience further. It features the latest HDMI specifications (4 inputs/1 output) with 3D-readiness (with firmware upgrade), 1080p HDMI repeating, and renowned Yamaha technologies like SCENE and CINEMA DSP. Expand your options even further with optional docks (sold separately) to add your iPod, iPhone, or Bluetooth sources.

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5/12/2012

Pyle P1002AI 1000 Watts Hybrid Receiver and Pre-Amplifier with AM-FM Tuner/iPod Docking Station Review

Pyle P1002AI 1000 Watts Hybrid Receiver and Pre-Amplifier with AM-FM Tuner/iPod Docking Station
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Just received this on Friday and hooked it up to our new Bose environmental outdoor speakers 251 putting out 200 watts per channel. Hooked up Itouch ipod to it, was working great at first, but then unit started going haywire until it ultimately FROZE and none of the operations worked properly. Called their support office today and was informed that this unit is NOT compatible with Itouch ipod models and it will short out the unit if you try to dock it in the included dock on the top. The dock on the top is made for older generation ipod models. However, you can purchase a universal ipod doc that hooks up to the back of the unit via RCA outputs if you want to use this unit with Itouch ipod. Doing this will charge the Itouch, but then in order to hear your songs you may also have to hook up the Itouch via the Ipod/Mp3 jack on the front of the unit. Once this is hooked up properly, the sounds is AMAZING for the Bose speakers that we have! It's reallly incredible and sounds like an outdoor concert. I only gave it three stars because the manual has no directions in it and no way of knowing that if you try to connect Itouch into the ipod dock that it will short out the unit. Had we known that from the beginning in the item description or the manual it would have saved us a lot of headaches trying to figure out what the problem was! Also, another FYI, the technical support agent suggested purchasing their lower end model P1001AT that DOES NOT have the ipod dock at the top if you are going to strictly use an ITOUCH ipod with it. Again, you would just have to purchase a separate universal ipod doc.

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5/04/2012

Yamaha RX-V467BL 5.1 Channel 525 Watt AV Receiver (Each, Black) Review

Yamaha RX-V467BL 5.1 Channel 525 Watt AV Receiver (Each, Black)
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I bought this receiver based on other reviews of Yamaha receivers. I chose this over Samsung's current 5.1 and 7.1 receiver, because the Samsung units had lackluster reviews. I was curious about the Samsung receiver line because our television is a Samsung LED.
I'm thrilled with the RX-V467. First, the quality is topnotch, which is something you can always expect from Yamaha gear. It's solidly built and feels that way. There's a huge heatsink inside, visible through the top vent. Second, it's feature-rich and surprisingly easy to operate given all the options at hand.
I bought Polk Audio's SurroundBar and Polk Audio's PSW10 Subwoofer for this unit: What fantastic sound when you merge these items! For Blu-ray--also based on user ratings--I purchased the Sony BDP-360, and it works great with the Yamaha RX-V467 via HDMI-CEC.
My Samsung UN55C6500 LED LCD television works great with this receiver. I'm even able to get some HDMI-CEC functionality between the receiver, TV, and Sony Blu-ray.
The remote control looks scary at first, but once I stared into it for a few seconds, I realized the forethought that went into it. I was able to set most functions in the receiver without cracking the manual. If you've used a receiver before, you'll likely find this unit and remote easy to operate. The remote can be programmed to operate other components in your HES.
The auto calibration microphone starts the process when you plug it in. A few remote clicks and you're done. Had to set the speaker size back to Large for the SurroundBar, however, as this is what Polk Audio recommends.
I love that you can name the inputs of the unit based on what you plug in; this makes it easy to see what AV input you've selected.
I've only scratched the surface. This unit has plenty of features to keep you busy if you like that kind of stuff.
This receiver is $329 on Amazon and other places; great deal!!!!
Downsides:
My Pace HD cable box (Time Warner) did not work well via HDMI cable, but I'm not sure if this was the fault of the Pace, the receiver, or the television (or some combination). Sound and picture would blink or stutter on-and-off for about 30 seconds with each channel change (changed via the cable box). That was just unacceptable, so I went to Component and TOSLINK cables for the Pace without issue. HD cable sounds and looks great now, without "blinking," using these cable selections connected to the receiver. This unfortunately means I have both Component and HDMI cables connected to the TV.
Does not include an iPhone or iPod dock like the Samsung. The new iPhone/iPod dock should be available within the next month or so, but you'll have to buy that as an option. Starting retail price to be $99. The receiver does have a mini-plug on the front to connect your mp3 device right away, however. There is currently an iPod-only dock available for the unit ($40-$70 online); I understand it has some iPhone compatibility, but I'm waiting for the new dock.
This unit offers ZERO conversion options. In other words, it will not up-convert or down-convert one format to another (e.g., Composite to Component, Component to HDMI, etc.). Most of the reviews I've read on units from other manufacturers that do offer conversion options have been poor, which leads me to believe that it's the conversion process itself that sucks--not the receivers. No idea if the unit will do the conversion for the iPhone dock...hope it does.
Conclusion:
I recommend this receiver. As with all things, better units are available for MORE money; this unit delivers for the amount paid. If you're like me (moderate audio junkie) and need a unit for a medium-sized room (5.1 surround), I think you'll like this receiver. If you fancy yourself an audiophile and like to buy expensive audio and video cables because you think it helps, buy something more expensive.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-V467BL 5.1 Channel 525 Watt AV Receiver (Each, Black)

The Yamaha RX-V467BL 5.1-Channel AV Receiver is a versatile and capable receiver to help take your home theater experience further. It features the latest HDMI specifications (4 inputs/1 output) with Audio Return Channel and 3D-readiness (with firmware upgrade). 1080p HDMI compatibility, and renowned Yamaha technologies like SCENE and CINEMA DSP. Expand your options even further with optional docks (sold separately) to add your iPod, iPhone, or Bluetooth sources.

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5/01/2012

Pioneer VSX-820-K 5.1 Home Theater Receiver Review

Pioneer VSX-820-K 5.1 Home Theater Receiver
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After trying a Denon, and two Yamaha's, I finally hit gold with the Pioneer VSX-820.
This is a superb receiver in all regards. It produces clear crisp sound in all modes.
There are no lip synch issues at all when linked to my HDTV. I had terrible lip synch problems with the Denon. It has all the features I need and more and has an excellent remote that is both intuitive and comprehensive. I use my receiver for CD's, FM radio and my Samsung HDTV. I use DishNetwork for my TV programming.
The VSX series is Pioneer's newest and includes several models all the way up to the 1120.
However, when you read the specs, all these receivers have the same tuner and power plant. The higher the model number, the more numerous the features. But no increase in output.
That makes for an easier buying decision. You don't compromise power for features if you chose a mid range model like the 820 or 920. I noticed that the Denon and Yamaha receivers I tried were made in China. The Pioneers are made in Japan. I'll go with Japan for high quality electronics every time. Pioneer has hit a homerun with this new series of receivers.Update January 20,2011
My accolades now need to be tempered back. As with all 'features', they are only good
as long as they last. The IPOD interface on my VSX 820 died today in mid-song. I reviewed the manual and took the steps recommended, including resetting my IPOD with
no results. The IPOD works just fine. So I will no longer be able to hear my songs
thru my system but will instead have to be satisfied with just using the headphones.
Very disappointed with the lack of durability of this Pioneer receiver.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Pioneer VSX-820-K 5.1 Home Theater Receiver

Key Features are 110 watts X 5, Dolby True-HD / DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Pro-Logic IIz Height Channel Decoder, Auto MCACC with room EQ, Phase ControlAuto Level Control – 2 Channel, Advanced Sound Retriever – 2 channel, iPod Digital USB / USB Memory Audio / OSD, Front A/V Inputs, Sirius Satellite Radio w/OSD, Bluetooth Ready w/ optional AS-BT100, HDMI Repeater (4 In / 1 out), Deep Color, x.v. color, Component Video Inputs (2 in / 1 out),Audio Inputs (6 in / 1out - includes Tuner),Audio/Video Inputs (4in / 1 out), Digital Inputs (3 - 1 coax / 2opt), Dolby PLIIz Pre-Out, Glossy Black Cosmetic, Preset Remote Control.

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12/13/2011

Pioneer VSX23 Elite 7.1 Channels A/V THX Receiver Review

Pioneer VSX23 Elite 7.1 Channels A/V THX Receiver
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This receiver is wonderful. I compared this side by side with similar products from Denon, Marantz, Onkyo, and Yamaha. While all sounded quite good, the pioneer matched best with my NHT speakers. The signal is perfectand it generates plenty of power. It will get quite loud especially if you are using speakers with a 90+ efficiency. The digital signals all worked perfectly, no hassles, including the HD audio from my bluray player. The remote works good as well, although the menu set up isnt the greatest. I take audio quality over this though any day, and this Pioneer delivers exactly what I need. Highly recommended.

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12/11/2011

Yamaha HTR-6250BL 630 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Yamaha HTR-6250BL 630 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver
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There are two model numbers for this AV Receiver as disclosed on CNET. One model number is the RX-V565BL, the other is the HTR-6250BL, which I purchased. At various times, the prices of the two vary on Amazon, so I just went with the cheaper one. I coupled the receiver with the Energy Take Classic 5.1 and was able to get two satellites on Ebay to complete a 7.1 speaker system. To round out the system I have the Mitsubishi DLP 73". I also have the PS3, xbox360 and Wii hooked up.
Unlike another reviewer who had a problem with his Tivo Series 3 with RX-V565 version of the receiver, I had no problem at all. Iif you have a problem with the HDMI, just use the Tivo component out and digital optical out direct into the Yamaha. It works perfectly.
The biggest problem I had in hook up was my inability to connect the Wii directly through the Yamaha. I use the component video cable for the Wii. This Wii cable has two rca connectors for audio.
There are two composite inputs on the Yamaha. One has a coaxial audio and the other has digital optical audio. There is no connection for composite video plus two rca female audio inputs. I ended up connecting the Wii output video straight to the tv, without the benefit of the 1080p upscaling of the Yamaha, and the audio only to the receiver. Because of this I can only give the receiver 4 stars.
The sound from the system is very clear. I am still playing with all of its sound options and will update the review after I have more experience with the sound options.
UPDATE I found this inexpensive work around for the Wii audio hookup on Amazon: RCA DT2AD 2-Way Signal Converter DT2AD. It allows conversion of the analog audio to digital audio.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha HTR-6250BL 630 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver

Yamaha HTR-6250BL 630 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver

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11/29/2011

Yamaha RX-V565BL 630 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Yamaha RX-V565BL 630 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
There are two model numbers for this AV Receiver as disclosed on CNET. One model number is the RX-V565BL, the other is the HTR-6250BL, which I purchased. At various times, the prices of the two vary on Amazon, so I just went with the cheaper one. I coupled the receiver with the Energy Take Classic 5.1 and was able to get two satellites on Ebay to complete a 7.1 speaker system. To round out the system I have the Mitsubishi DLP 73". I also have the PS3, xbox360 and Wii hooked up.
Unlike another reviewer who had a problem with his Tivo Series 3 with RX-V565 version of the receiver, I had no problem at all. If you have a problem with the HDMI, just use the Tivo component out and digital optical out direct into the Yamaha. It works perfectly.
The biggest problem I had in hook up was my inability to connect the Wii directly through the Yamaha. I use the component video cable for the Wii. This Wii cable has two rca connectors for audio.
There are two composite inputs on the Yamaha. One has a coaxial audio and the other has digital optical audio. There is no connection for composite video plus two rca female audio inputs. I ended up connecting the Wii output video straight to the tv, without the benefit of the 1080p upscaling of the Yamaha, and the audio only to the receiver. Because of this I can only give the receiver 4 stars.
The sound from the system is very clear. I am still playing with all of its sound options and will update the review after I have more experience with the sound options.
UPDATE I found this inexpensive work around for the Wii audio hookup on Amazon: RCA DT2AD 2-Way Signal Converter DT2AD. It allows conversion of the analog audio to digital audio.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-V565BL 630 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver

Yamaha RX-V565BL 630 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver

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11/18/2011

Yamaha RX-V567BL 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Each, Black) Review

Yamaha RX-V567BL 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Each, Black)
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When my old TV died I replaced it with a new HD LCD. One of the things that bothered me was audio sync with the picture. I started checking into the problem and found that the sound being sent to my faithful old Technics receiver was being decoded faster than the video sent to the TV was. After some research and listening at local retailers I decided on the Yamaha RX-V567.
Here is why:
-HDMI 1.3 compatible. Syncs audio and video for high definition sources.
-Passive HDMI switching. Switches sources even when the receiver is off.
-Scene settings. Allows you to set an input, sound field program, initial volume level, etc for each of 4 scene buttons.
-YPAO. Makes setup of speaker levels a snap. Not so great for setting equalizer settings though - but that's just an opinion.
-Sound delay. Up to 320 ms sound delay that can be set manually.
-Direct Sound Processing Mode. Shuts off all unused portions of the receiver and processes surround stream using only the DAC and amplifier.
-Customizable Input labels. Set a custom label for any input.
-Tons of customizable options from setting speaker impedance, to allowing the use of multiple remotes, to an 8 band parametric equalizer that can be set differently for each input. As a matter of fact there are so many options that after a month of owning the receiver I don't think I have seen them all. Don't feel intimidated by this though, the receiver is configured so you won't need to mess with a whole lot of this stuff if you don't want to.
-Yamaha amplifiers. Awesome sound and plenty of volume.
-DAC processes a ton of digital standards up to and including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD and switches automatically or can be set for each source.
Things I didn't like:
-The only thing I didn't like was the fact the manual came on CD.
-The remote has lots of smallish buttons and no back light. A bit disappointing as it is expected to be used as a universal remote.
Also Available:
-Optional IPod dock and Bluetooth receiver. These are available but I myself don't own either. I have a Logitech Squeezebox for playing digital music as I don't care for compressed music sources.
-Sound Field processing. Again something I don't use but its there.
I am very pleased with the receiver so far. It has surpassed my expectations in many ways not the least of which is the ability to customize just about everything about every input on the thing. Sound quality is excellent and setup is quick and simple - it took longer to straiten out the YPAO cable than it did to set it up, and the sound field setup is excellent.
This is the first Yamaha electronics device I have ever owned and I am very impressed with it so far.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-V567BL 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver (Each, Black)

The Yamaha RX-V567BL 7.1 Channel AV Receiver is a powerful receiver to help take your home theater experience to the next level. It features the latest HDMI specifications (4 inputs/1 output) with Audio Return Channel and 3D-readiness (with firmware upgrade), 1080p HDMI compatibility, an onscreen display, and renowned Yamaha technologies like SCENE and CINEMA DSP. Expand your options even further with optional docks (sold separately) to add your iPod, iPhone, or Bluetooth sources.

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11/05/2011

Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver
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I had been looking at several of the Yamaha models through the spring of 2009, as well as its competitor's (Sony, Onkyo, Denon), for an upgrade of my ancient Sony receiver (one of the first Pro-logic receivers). I just installed a set of Definitive Technology Mythos speakers ordered through Amazon.com, including a power-hungry Mythos Three center channel. I wanted this receiver to be the core of my Home Theater as it's primarily use for improving my Sony Blu-ray and TiVo Series3 HD DVR experience.
Sports, such a baseball is vivid with the upscale feature from 1080i to 1080p (although it has not yet improved the performance of my Seattle Mariners). 1080i broadcast shows such as Chuck, both sound and look great.
The optional YDS-11SL iPod dock works well with both a 4th generation Nano and an 80G iPod Classic, including the videos.
What is worth the wait is the clean layout on the back, the heft of the discrete amp, and the Blu-ray friendly support with both the scene button and the Decoders for HD audio formats: Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Yes they do make a difference in your home theater experience.
The audio calibration microphone works as advertised. Silent Cinema (headphone mode) is also a nice feature.
What could be improved - You need to keep the manual next to you for the first week to figure out some of the controls such as accessing all of the iPod controls with the dock. I was also sorry to see HD Radio(tm) missing from this "top of the mid-range" Yamaha's. The older RX-V863 has it, but this one doesn't. Also the four scene buttons are not programmable. I wanted to program the TV scene button for my TiVo (HDMI #2), no luck.
In the end, if you are looking for a quality receiver that performs well on both movies and music, and can drive your amp hungry speakers to their potential, look no farther that this RX-V765. It really was worth the wait.

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Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 Watt 7-Channel Home Theater Receiver

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11/03/2011

Yamaha RX-V463BL 525 Watt 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver Review

Yamaha RX-V463BL 525 Watt 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver
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I purchased this reciever based on a review I read from audioholics and I figured why not just post it for everyone to read. I couldn't agree more with their review. It is a solid receiver for the $299 amazon price.
2008 has started off with some amazing prices and features being offered on budget A/V receivers. Just as the new high-end receivers gain new features and new technologies, so do the receivers on the low end of the price spectrum. This is the first time that basic HDMI functionality has been offered on receivers for under $350. This is a winning situation for everyone. Most would think that $350 would not get you anything of quality and in the past that would be correct; Not so anymore. The RX-V463 is a feature laden piece of gear that far from your budget receiver of the past.With impressive audio processing power the Yamaha RX-V463 dives into territory once occupied by receivers costing twice as much or more.Those features include things such as 192kHz/24-bit DACs for all channels, 6-channel external decoder input, iPod and Bluetooth compatibility (via optional Yamaha YDS-10 YBA-10 docking modules) and YPAO for automatically optimizing the sound in your room. And if thats not enough for you then how about 3 HDTV compatible component video inputs, 8 DSP programs, a compressed music (MP3) enhancer, and the ability to view iPod song titles displayed on the front panel and OSD, Dolby Digital and DTS processing, and XM- and XM HD-ready. That is one heck of a feature set for a sub-$350 receiver.
With a rated power of 100 watts x 5 the RX-V463 is no pansy when it comes to power either. Yamaha has offered more bang for your buck than most for a while now, and this budget receiver continues in this tradition. And with Yamaha's power ratings being very conservative, it is not unreasonable to think this little receiver will beat its rated specs. In short, there is more than enough power being offered here.
In addition to dual HDMI switching inputs, there are three component inputs, three S-video inputs, and three composite video inputs - each with one output as well. For audio, five analog stereo inputs, 6.1 analog inputs, two TOSlink inputs and one coaxial digital input round out the receiver. The RX-V463 also has real binding posts instead of those cheap spring clip terminals that so often plague other budget units.Like all of the newest Yamaha receivers, setup is could not be any easier with the addition of the on-screen Setup menu. This is a noteworthy feature in itself on a budget receiver. While it is not as advanced as the system found on more expensive Yamaha receivers, it is accurate and easy. Also offered is a new feature called SCENE buttons. SCENE buttons are like macros that are preprogrammed to launch a variety of commands. Build quality is very good and the unit weighs a solid 17.6 lbs. This is a great budget receiver.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-V463BL 525 Watt 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver

High-Performance Home Theater Receiver offering many advanced functions including 1080p-compatible HDMI, XM and SIRIUS Satellite Radio ready, iPod and Bluetooth compatibility, CINEMA DSP,YPAO sound optimization, and four SCENE buttons.

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