Finding the ideal home theater audio video receiver for a mid-range setup is a challenge because of the number of products that have similar features and functions. Sorting through all the noise is hard, and many people get discouraged quickly when they start to look for the features and functions that matter in an AVR they can afford. This Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A review will explore the ways this receiver can be the start of a great system or the perfect stand-alone solution for a complex home theater. (>>> Find on Amazon)
Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A Review of Specifications:
| Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Video | 4K/60Hz |
| Amplifier | 7.2 Channel (100W per channel) |
| Sound | 5.1 Dolby Atmos |
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| Price | Find on Amazon |
This is a high-quality 7.2-channel AVR from Yamaha. The brand has been one of the most prolific producers of high-quality home audio equipment for decades. The Aventage RX-A2A follows in the tradition of audio excellence with numerous features that make it a perfect choice for your audio needs now while giving you the ability to expand in the future as your demands grow and change.
Audio Processing
The receiver is Dolby Atmos-ready, so it works great with a 5.1.2 setup with elevated speakers. If you don’t have ceiling-mounted speakers, this receiver can also process in Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization to create a realistic 3-dimensional sound experience from floor speakers or bookshelf speakers.
Cinema DSP 3D allows the receiver to provide depth and warmth to create the most authentic surround sound environment. Connect your television to the receiver’s eARC port to get the uncompressed audio for enhanced realism.
Per-Channel Wattage
The per-channel wattage of a receiver gives you an idea of how powerful your speakers need to be to match up with the power output of the receiver. A built-in amplifier in this receiver puts out up to 100 watts per channel.
Pros
- Excellent range of features and functions in an easy to set up package
- Attention to detail shows with anti-resonance chassis
Cons
- Setup can be tricky for people who aren’t familiar with home audio equipment
- Remote control is excessively complex
Video Processing
All eight HDMI ports support 4k pass-through. The receiver has seven rear and one front HDMI and uses the latest HDCP 2.3 protocol. Currently, the processor will handle 4k UHD video resolution at a frame rate of 60Hz. Future firmware updates will allow for resolutions of 4k/120Hz and 8k/60Hz to take advantage of the latest high-definition movies and video game consoles.
The receiver currently offers HDR10 with HDR10+ coming in a future firmware update. When the update eventually happens, all HDMI ports will upgrade to 8k/60Hz pass-through, giving you the best options for today and the future.
Streaming Audio Options
Today, everyone is streaming movies and music from stand-alone devices to their television or receiver wirelessly. The Aventage allows streaming through Bluetooth, WiFi, and Apple AirPlay2 to provide the most user-friendly options for streaming. AirPlay 2 provides access to Siri to provide voice control of your audio system.
MusicCast streaming technology also allows the receiver to wirelessly connect with other Yamaha home audio and theater products for a seamless entertainment system.
Multi-Zone Specifications
The Yamaha Aventage uses MusicCast technology to provide multi-room audio solutions. This receiver provides a dual-zone environment using two of the main channels. This allows for a 5.1 setup in the main room and satellite speakers in a separate room. MusicCast allows you to play different music in each zone or the same music across both zones.
Gaming-Optimized Processing
The Yamaha Aventage uses advanced technology to enhance the experience for gamers. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode(ALLM), Quick Media Switching (QMS), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) provide a superior gaming environment to take advantage of the latest in graphics and game play. These technologies are particularly fantastic when gaming with VR systems.
Tuning and Setup
Using proprietary Yamaha algorithms, the YPOA tuning system helps you create the correct time spacing to allow your speakers to give you the optimal surround sound effect regardless of where your speakers are located.
The particular YPAO system included with this receiver is the base tuning option and does lack some of the features of higher-end Yamaha receivers that makes them stand out from the crowd. This tuning system is appropriate for most casual listeners and home theater fans, but may not have the functionality that a true audiophile seeks.
Conclusion
The Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A is an excellent option for buyers who want a high-quality product that is well-built and has numerous useful features without spending a ton of money. It offers great expandability for growing your theater system, while making it easy to get great sound from less than ideal rooms (>>> Check on Bhphotovideo).