Tag Archives: A/V RECEIVER

Denon AVR-S900W 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

FEATURES:
• 90W Per Channel at 8 Ohms
• 7.2-Channel Speaker Output
• 4K Pass-Through + Near-1080p Upscaling
• Built-In Bluetooth + Wi-Fi Connectivity
• Supports Internet Radio and AirPlay
• 8 x HDMI-In / 2 x HDMI-Out
• Audyssey Bronze Speaker Calibration
• Denon Remote App
• Dual Subwoofer Outputs
• Multi-Room Listening

REMOTE: RC-1192

RATING: 4 OUT OF 5 STARS

Welcome to a review of Denon’s AVR-S900W, a 7.2 Channel Network A/V Receiver with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Denon will expand your world of wireless connectivity with their AVR-S900W A/V receiver, packed with the latest wireless streaming connectivity functions, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, that together, enable wireless connection to a host of streaming services and functions via your home network and portable devices.

The AVR-S900W features the latest HDMI 2.0 specification that includes 4K Ultra HD 60 Hz frame rate pass-through for compatibility with next-generation 4K ultra high definition sources and displays, and is equipped to handle 4:4:4 Pure Color high resolution content. Plus, the AVR-S900W features 7 HDMI inputs on the rear panel, along with another HDMI input on the front panel that lets you conveniently connect devices like gaming consoles and camcorders.

With 185 watts per channel maximum power, the AVR-S900W features a high current, discrete power amplifier section that’s also compatible with low impedance 4 ohm speakers, and their new Eco mode lets you select a lower power mode for moderate to lower listening levels. The AVR-S900W also features the latest high resolution audio decoders, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. This A/V receiver also features Dolby Pro Logic IIz, which lets you add front height speakers for a dramatically expanded front soundstage.

The AVR-S900W features Denon’s stylish front panel design and with an easy set-up assistance process, you will be up and running right away. You will also utilize a fully functional remote control, Denon’s RC-1192, to help make the process run a lot smoother.

PROS:
• Sound quality
• 90w per channel at 8 Ohms
• 8 HDMI
• Dual subwoofer outputs

CONS:
• Needs a software function added to firm to clear the bluetooth paired memory without resetting the entire receiver
• Changing between 2 output devices is confusing

MODELS:
AVR-S900W – 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com

Denon AVR-500BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver With 4K Capability and Bluetooth

FEATURES:
• Built-in Bluetooth for wireless music streaming
• 5.2 channel; 140 watts per channel maximum power
• Ultra HD 4K 60 Hz video pass-through; 4:4:4 Pure Color pass-through
• 5 HDMI Inputs/1 Out
• New setup assistant with enhanced GUI
• Eco Mode for reduced power consumption

REMOTE: RC-1196

RATING: 4.5 OUT OF 5.0 STARS

Welcome to a review of Denon’s AVR-500BT 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver with 4K Capability and Bluetooth. The Denon 5.2 Channel Network AV Receiver offers strong multi-channel performance. This receiver houses a powerful 5-channel amplifier that can deliver 70W per channel at 8 ohms, and up to 140W per channel at 6 ohms. The built-in Bluetooth allows you to wirelessly stream audio from compatible devices. The receiver’s front USB port can be used to interface additional audio sources. This unit also decodes Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio for an awesome surround sound experience.

A few of the standout features on the Denon AVR-S500BT are that it supports 3D and 4K pass-through and has five HDMI inputs. There is also an HDMI output for outputting high-resolution video to an external display. This receiver also has two digital optical inputs and one digital coaxial input, which allows you to connect components like CD players and cable box audio. The front of the receiver also has four Quick Select buttons for easy access to audio sources, and can also be used to store system settings.

You can connect and configure your home theater system quickly and easily with Denon’s setup assistant. The setup assistant features clear on-screen graphics and text that optimizes critical system settings for your particular home theater setup. The functional remote control that helps you along with your set-up is Denon’s RC-1196.

Some reviews are stating that the AVR-500BT receiver is a great buy for the price, simple to operate, and works well in most settings but it has been noted that if you have a larger area that you would like to turn up the volume, that this might not be the model you are seeking. It has also been noted as a drawback that you cannot connect through the USB to play an iPod.

PROS:
• Bluetooth
• 3d & 4k Passthrough
• Price
• 5 HDMI

CONS:
• Needs more power
• IPOD Connection through USB

MODEL:
AVR-500BT – 5.2 Channel AV Receiver With 4K Capability and Bluetooth

For more reviews like this, please visit www.remotecontrols.com

Onkyo TX-NR1010 7.2-Ch THX Certified Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 9in/2out HDMI ports
• THX Ultra2 Plus Certified
• Network capability
• Zone 2 HDMI output
• Onkyo remote app for iPod/iPhone
• 140 watts per channel
• Dual USB ports
• Music optimizer
• FM/AM tuner with 40 preset memory

REMOTE: RC-840M

RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR1010 7.2-Ch THX Certified Network A/V Receiver. If you’re looking to enhance your home theater system to full capacity, look no further than Onkyo’s TX-NR1010 A/V receiver. It is a powerhouse unit, built to last a long time and deliver nothing but the best in sound and picture quality. The receiver has the buttons hidden behind a flip down panel, giving it a cleaner, more streamlined, industrial look. ISF certified calibration control allows you to calibrate your TV to optimize the picture quality. The TX-NR1010 can upscale analog signals to 1080p and increase 1080p video to 4K resolution once you have a 4K capable TV. It is also equipped with instaprevue which, as you are watching any HDMI source, will provide thumbnails of your other HDMI sources and will allow you to switch to them easily.

The part number for the remote control that comes with this unit is RC-840M.

Once your speakers and devices are connected, you will be amazed at the powerful sound that this receiver can produce, with crisp clarity and deep, rich bass. It is equipped with an HDMI Zone 2 port so that you can experience the same great sound and video in another room. With the proper adapters, it is WiFi and bluetooth capable and can stream your music and videos effortlessly. Users have commented that the screen menu lacks of good design. Others are disappointed that there are no analog or digital outputs. Despite these few drawbacks however, and being that this receiver is THX Ultra2 Plus certified to ensure it delivers the finest sound quality and a stellar cinematic experience, it is certainly one of the finest in home theater systems on the market.

PROS:
• Excellent sound and picture quality
• WiFi and bluetooth capable
• Upscale 1080p to 4K video
• 9 in/2 out HDMI ports

CONS:
• No analog and digital outputs
• The screen menu could use better design

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com

DENON AVR-4520CI 9.2 CHANNEL HOME THEATER RECEIVER WITH APPLE AIRPLAY

FEATURES:
• Audyssey Platinum
• Superior Surround Sound and 3D Pass-Through Technology
• 4K Upscaling for Pristine Picture Quality
• Advanced Functions to Play Streaming Media
• Optimum Sound with Audyssey MultEQ XT32
• Denon Link HD Jitter-Free Audio Transmission Technology
• Built-In IP Control Allows for Custom Integration

REMOTE CONTROL: RC-1165

RATING: 3.7/5.0

Welcome to a review of Denon’s AVR-4520CI, 9.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver. The nine-channel AVR-4520CI helps to make the sonic portion of home theater as realistic as possible, allowing you to add height or width speakers for even greater presence. It is said that surround sound isn’t just something you hear, but something you feel; from those rumbling effects that seem to emerge from deep beneath your room, to the subtle sonic details that re-create each movie’s unique atmosphere. A surround sound receiver needs a bedrock of good, clean power to really move you. Denon’s AVR-4520CI boasts enough amplification to fill even a large room with precise-yet-punchy sound, and dual subwoofer outputs let you add a second sub for bass that’s well-balanced throughout your room.

You will receive a fully functional remote control, part number RC-1165. This remote will help you through the setup process and all the menu options and features, so that you can adjust your AVR-4520CI to the exact specifications that make it your sound.

For the most accurate home theater sound possible in any room, you get Audyssey MultEQ® XT32, which is a sophisticated automatic speaker calibration system. The AVR-4520CI uses an included microphone to analyze sound, then automatically adjusts individual level, equalization, and delay settings for each of your speakers. Audyssey MultEQ® XT32 is equipped with high-resolution equalization filters that allow it to optimize speaker settings even in large or odd-shaped rooms.

Many have said that the AVR-4520CI is a keeper. It sounds great, has almost all the features most are seeking. However, there have been some consumer issues with the AVR-4520CI having a “zone 4” pass through and not having a Zone 2 HDMI independent signal.

PROS:
• Audyssey XT32
• Outstanding sound quality
• Dual subwoofers

CON:
• No Zone 2 HDMI independent signal

MODEL:
• AVR-4520CI – 9.2 Channel HT Receiver w/Apple AirPlay

For more reviews like this, please visit www.remotecontrols.com

Onkyo TX-NR414 5.1-Channel 3-D Ready Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 5 channel amplifier
• 80 watts per channel
• Front panel USB input
• Multi-room audio
• 6 in/ 1 out HDMI ports
• InstaPrevue technology
• Wifi and Bluetooth ready (requires purchase of adapter)
• Music optimizer

REMOTE: RC-834M

RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo TX-NR414 5.1-Channel 3-D Ready Network A/V Receiver. The TX-NR414 is an entry level receiver and does not have all the bells and whistles of higher end receivers but it does have much to offer with the many features it does have. The set-up is easy and straightforward. With the many HDMI ports available, you can connect your blu-ray player, PC, gaming console, and cable/satellite box with ease. The front panel USB input can be used to connect an iPod/iPhone or a flash drive with multiple music file formats to listen to your favorite tunes with the receivers’ power, clarity, and little to no distortion. With the purchase of an adapter, WiFi and Bluetooth are available, enabling you to easily stream music from your favorite online music services including Pandora, Spotify, Rhapsody, internet radio and more.

The part number for the remote control is RC-834M. The remote has a vast number of buttons, many of them very small and hard to push, as noted by many users.

A very nice feature is the Onkyo smart phone app. Once downloaded to your phone, you can control the receiver with your phone instead of the remote control. One large drawback of this receiver is that it does not come equipped with automatic speaker calibration therefore leaving the task of calibrating the speakers to the user. For the novice, this may be a very difficult task.

Many users have noted the poor quality interface on the receiver, very simple with a black background and white lettering. A nicer, more graphic interface is preferred. When it comes to sound quality however, this receiver delivers sharp, clear sound with the power expected from a 5 channel amplifier.

PROS:
• Inexpensive
• Clean, clear sound quality
• Onkyo smart phone app
• Several HDMI inputs

CONS:
• Interface could be better
• Firmware quality issues
• Sometimes emits burning plastic smell
• No automatic calibration for the speakers

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com

Onkyo HT-RC460 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 7 channel amplifier
• 80 watts per channel
• 8 in/2 out HDMI ports
• 4K upscaling
• Front panel USB input
• Music optimizer
• Wifi ready
• FM/AM 40 station presets

REMOTE: RC-834M

RATING: 4 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Onkyo HT-RC460 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver. Onkyo’s HT-RC460 packs a powerful punch and comes with a very low sticker price. Although it takes some time to set up your new home theater system, the receiver comes with color coded labels to assist you with connecting your speakers and some of the HDMI inputs are pre-labeled, for example, cable/satellite, Game, DVD, and computer, making the assembly of your new system much easier. A microphone is included that will automatically calibrate the speakers for optimal sound. Wireless network is available with the purchase of an adapter, which will allow you to access several online music services including Pandora, Spotify, Rhapsody and Internet radio, to name just a few. An Onkyo remote app will enable you to control your receiver using your smart phone, a much sought after feature.

The part number for the remote control is RC-834M. On-screen menus on the receiver allow you to integrate the receiver into a universal remote control if you do not want to use the one provided.

Keeping its customers in mind, Onkyo has equipped this receiver with 4K upscaling, the future of TV viewing. With a 4K enabled TV, all blu-rays and DVDs will automatically be upscaled to 4K resolution to give you the very finest in TV viewing, just like the movie theater. Even without a 4K TV, all blu-rays and DVDs will be upscaled to 1080p resolution providing you with crisp, clear picture quality every time. Dolby Pro Logic IIz adds new dimensions to surround sound that will make you run for cover during action or thriller movies. Overall you can’t go wrong with this receiver. For the price and all of the features it provides, you will have the home theater system of your dreams.

PROS:
• Inexpensive
• Excellent picture and sound quality
• Plenty of HDMI input/output support
• Automatic speaker calibration

CON:
• No printed manual
• Set-up takes some time

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com

Sony STR-DA1800ES 7.2 Channel A/V Receiver

FEATURES:

• 7.2-channel with 100 watts per channel
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
• 8 HD inputs; 6 HDMI and 2 component
• Internet streaming
• Compatible with Blu-ray 3D movies, video games and other 3D content
• Front-panel USB input connection of your iPod, portable music player or thumb drive
• 5 year limited warranty

REMOTE: RM-AAP080

RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Welcome to a review of the Sony STR-DA1800ES 7.2 Channel Wi-Fi Receiver. If you are looking for a mid-range priced receiver for your home theater that will deliver an incredible entertainment experience, this is it. Equipped with HD Digital Cinema Sound, with Front High Speakers, you will experience amazing sound quality that will blow you away and make you feel like you are there in the scene depicted on your screen. This system features 4K resolution pass-through, also referred to as ultra HD, which will optimize the images on your screen and give you a crystal clear picture in Ultra High Resolution. The receiver includes WiFi which opens the door for streaming movies, music, youtube videos, etc. It is also bluetooth enabled, giving you another way to listen to your music or watch your favorite movies or shows.

The remote control that comes with this home theater system is part# RM-AAP080.

With 6 HDMI and 2 component inputs at your fingertips, you can connect your blu-ray, gaming system, cable box and any other HDMI capable devices to fit your needs. There is a USB port on the front panel where you can connect an IPod, portable music player or thumb drive giving you yet another way to listen to your favorite music with a system designed to give you the best sound possible. An FM/AM tuner is also available. One feature that this system does not have is an equalizer that will allow you to adjust mid-range tone levels, you can only make adjustments to the treble and bass. Aside from this drawback however, the majority of consumers are very happy with this system where they can experience being at the movies in their own home.

PROS:
• 7.2-channel with 100 watts per channel
• Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
• 8 HD inputs
• Easy to set-up
• 5 year limited warranty

CON:
• An equilizer not equipped to adjust mid-range tone levels

For more reviews like this, visit www.remotecontrols.com

YAMAHA CX-A5000 11.2 CHANNEL A/V PRE AMPLIFIER

FEATURES:
• XLR balanced connection (11 channel PRE OUT and 2 channel input)
• ESS Technology ES9016 SABRE32 Ultra DACs for all channels including front and rear presence channels
• Cinema DSP HD3 with 33 DSP programs
• High density presence and richly detailed sound ensured by high sound quality parts and design
• Specially designed high rigidity chassis eliminates the effects of vibration for greater sound purity
• MHL supports full HD video and audio from mobile phones and portable devices
• Network functions such as AirPlay® and AV Controller App
• Access to Pandora®, Rhapsody® and SiriusXM music streaming service
• FLAC or WAV 192 kHz / 24-bit audio playback
• Ultra HD (4K) pass-through and up-scaling
• High-resolution Music Enhancer
• HDMI: 8 inputs (1 on front) / 2 outputs with 3D and Audio Return Channel
• Full LED backlight learning and preset remote unit
• Versatile zone control up to four zones including Party Mode

REMOTE: ZF729700

RATING: 5.0/5.0

Welcome to a review of Yamaha’s CX-A5000, 11.2 CH AV PRE AMPLIFIER. The 11.2 channel AV preamplifier is at the pinnacle of the AVENTAGE Series. Superb sound quality combined with fine craftsmanship ensures, per Yamaha, an unequalled listening experience. Latest technologies include high rigidity chassis, ESS Technology ES9016 SABRE32 Ultra DACs and reliable balanced connection.

The CX-A5000 utilizes top of the line engineering and technology, as well as traditional craftsmanship, for pure sound reproduction. Making full use of CINEMA DSP HD3, the pinnacle of three-dimensional sound field reproduction, it realizes detailed, accurate sound imaging. Used with the MX-A5000 11.2 channel power amplifier, it achieves overwhelming silence and sound filled with dynamic feeling. It also offers advanced video processing technology, versatile network capability with a wide range of content access and app control, along with flexible system configuration that benefits from advanced HDMI® zone switching.

This AV receiver provides a variety of network functions that enable you to access more sources and also enhance operation. You can connect the receiver to a PC to enjoy Internet radio, Pandora®, Rhapsody® and SiriusXM Internet Radio and operate your system via the WebBrowser Control. The AV Controller App (from iTunes or Google Play) lets you control various functions from your iPod, iPhone, iPad or Android phones/tablets. Plus you will receive an easy to use remote control, part number ZF729700, to assist with the adjustments to get the quality sound you are seeking.

Consumers are saying that this unit is superb in both its craftsmanship and sound reproduction. Movie soundtracks are clear and immersive in sound. Hooking up the unit is very intuitive and its working functionality is easy to understand and use. People looking at this model know the price they are expecting to pay so that is not a surprise.

PROS:
• Easy to set up and use
• Low power consumption
• Quality construction

CON:
• None as of yet – still very new

MODEL:
CX-A5000 – 11.2 CHANNEL AV PRE AMPLIFIER

For more reviews like this, please visit www.remotecontrols.com

YAMAHA RX-A1030 7.2 CH HOME THEATER AVENTEAGE RECEIVER W/APPLE AIRPLAY

FEATURES:
• AVENTAGE AV receivers: Designed to deliver the highest levels of audio performance
• Aluminum front panel offers visual and aural benefits
• Anti-Resonance Technology (A.R.T. Wedge) helps to ensure that vibrations do not affect sound quality
• Symmetrical power amp layout and rigid chassis with additional bottom frames
• ESS Technology ES9006 SABRE™ Premier Audio DAC produces professional quality digital audio
• 7 channel powerful surround sound and full discrete amp configuration
• 120 W per channel (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.9% THD, 1 CH driven)
• 110 W per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.09% THD, 2 CH driven)
• Full HD video and audio from MHL supported mobile phones and portable devices
• Network functions such as AirPlay®, Pandora® and Rhapsody® music streaming service
• AV Controller App for operating various functions from a smartphone or tablet
• FLAC or WAV 192 kHz/24-bit audio playback
• HDMI zone switching allows different HD audio/video source playback in different rooms
• HDMI: 8 inputs (1 on front )/2 outputs with 3D and Audio Return Channel
• Ultra HD (4K) pass-through and up-scaling
• Advanced multi-language GUI on-screen display with album art
• ECO mode operation for about 20 percent less power consumption

REMOTE: ZF725100

RATING: 4.8/5.0

Welcome to a review of Yamaha’s RX-A1030, 7.2 CH Home Theater Receiver with Apple Airplay. The RX-A1030 receiver is part of Yamaha’s 2013 models. The AVENTAGE line of high-performance AV receivers is based on the audio design concept of providing a massive, full-bodied sound for movie sound effects and the accurate reproduction of music sources. By expertly harmonizing traditional and advanced technologies, every factor that affects sound quality, from materials and parts to construction, layout, vibration damping (unique foot) and “fine-tuning” the sound, is handled with no other thought than to achieve the best possible audio quality. As a result, every AVENTAGE model has the ability to reproduce the most subtle details of high-definition sound, so that listeners can enjoy a truly high-class sound studio experience at home. Also – get the adjustments just where you want them using the included remote control, part number ZF725100. This easy to use remote will also guide you through the setup process with ease.

The RX-A1030 features a sleek, clean design, with an elegant aluminum front panel and silky touch volume/selector knobs. The aluminum front panel is used to effectively shield sensitive circuitry from external noise and electronic radiation generated by dimmer switches, fluorescent lighting, video monitors and so on. This ensures optimum sonic performance in the widest range of installation environments.

This model features the Anti-Resonance Technology (A.R.T.) Wedge. This means it is a fifth foot in the center of the unit. It dampens vibrations from the power transformer, power transistors and heat sinks, as well as vibrations that might be caused by the sound from the speakers. Plus this AV receiver is compatible with many audio formats such as Dolby® True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio™. They are also compatible with FLAC/WAV 192 kHz playback. You will enjoy excellent sound quality from a Blu-ray Disc™ and other types of high resolution sources, making your home theater an enjoyable experience.

PROS:
• Seamless zone 2 audio feature
• Great sound
• Multiple inputs
• Apple Airplay

CONS:
• DAC not as sharp but plays well
• EQ is hard to set
MODEL:
RX-A1030 – 7.2 CH HOME THEATER REC W/APPLE AIRPLAY

For more reviews like this, please visit www.remotecontrols.com

YAMAHA RX-V575 7.2 CH NETWORK AV RECEIVER

FEATURES:
• 7-channel powerful surround sound
• 115 W per channel (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.9% THD, 1 ch driven)
• 80 W per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.09% THD, 2 ch driven)
• HD Audio format decoding: Dolby® TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™
• Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio™
• Full discrete amp configuration
• Burr-Brown 192 kHz / 24-bit DACs for all channels
• Direct Mode for high quality sound reproduction
• Low jitter PLL circuitry helps optimize sound imaging
• Assignable amplifiers for front speaker bi-amp, surround back or Zone B connection
• FLAC or WAV 192 kHz / 24-bit audio playback

REMOTE: ZF303500

RATING: 4.5/5.0

Welcome to a review of Yamaha’s RX-V575, 7.2 CH Network AV Receiver. Seven discrete amplifiers provide versatile speaker options. This includes 7.2 channel surround, bi-amp to double power to main speakers, or Zone B for extended audio coverage. The Yamaha AV Controller App works with Apple® and Android™ devices and provides simple yet powerful network control. Enjoy your new receiver with CINEMA DSP 3D, which offers an enveloping home theater experience. Expand connectivity with MHL® (Mobile High-Definition Link), AirPlay® and music streaming services, and versatile USB input for iPad® compatibility. With included futuristic technologies like Ultra HD (4K) pass-through and ECO mode, the RX-V575 puts the power in your hands.

This AV receiver provides advanced HDMI features including Ultra HD (4K) pass-through. Ultra HD (4K) refers to four times the resolution of a 1080p display. While not yet available, Ultra HD (4K) displays and sources are sure to become popular in the future. This receiver is capable of passing the Ultra HD (4K) data from the source to the display for image clarity far beyond present standards. You will also be able to adjust the settings with the easy to use remote control, part number ZF303500.

The RX-V575 lets you use the Yamaha AV Controller App that is downloadable from the iTunes App Store or Google Play to control power on/off and volume, select input and DSP modes and operate other functions from an iPhone® or Android device. You can also use in as many as 23* different languages and customize the interface by hiding unused icons and renaming functions. A tablet version is also available.

The simplified Zone A, Zone B speaker switching makes listening to either or both simpler than more sophisticated Zone 1, Zone 2 receivers. In addition, Zone A Zone B speaker switching allows for digital sources such a s CD player or Roku for the music which standard Zone 1 Zone 2 approaches do not. This is another great feature that has consumers happy with their choice.

PROS:
• Simple Zone A Zone B speaker switching DLNA networking capability
• Sound quality
• Easy setup

CON:
• NET music menus are too basic in their format

MODEL:
RX-V575 – 7.2 CH NETWORK AV RECEIVER

For more reviews like this, please visit www.remotecontrols.com