Setting up a slick home audio experience doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The trick is finding an AVR that offers the key features you want without it costing as much as a used car. You want easy to use controls, the ability to play your favorite movies and music, and an easy way to connect your gaming system to enjoy the most immersive experience of your life. (>>> Check on Amazon)
This Yamaha RX-V4A review will show you that this receiver has the features you need at a reasonable price.
Yamaha RX-V4A Review of Specifications:
| Yamaha RX-V4A | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Video | 4K/120Hz, 4K/60Hz |
| Amplifier | 5.2 Channel (80W per channel) |
| Sound | 5.1 Dolby Atmos |
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| Price | Find on Amazon |
Audio Experience and Capabilities
The most important thing about any AVR is the ability to play music. This receiver offers you 5.1 channels of power for creating a custom surround sound environment. Yamaha added numerous technologies to this receiver so that you’ll get the most out of your experience. The receiver provides 80 watts of power to each channel. This is an adequate amount of power for most home entertainment rooms. Larger spaces may want to invest in a more powerful receiver.
One of the most valuable features this receiver offers is the ability to use wireless speakers through MusicCast. You can use two MusicCast 20 speakers, a single MusicCast 40 speaker, or a MusicCast wireless subwoofer to configure your entertainment options without cables strewn all over your home.
Many receivers in this price range offer few if any options for connecting to your favorite assistant programs. Yamaha provides built-in connectivity with all the most popular AI systems, making it a snap to use voice controls for selecting tracks, changing stations, or switching inputs.
Full support for HDR audio means you’ll get an immersive listening experience with a high level of dynamic range. Dolby and DTS options ensure you’ll always hear every note. Yamaha YPAO configuration tools are built-in to enable you to custom-tailor your speakers to provide the perfect balance and fade for a lifelike listening experience.
Pros
- Excellent audio performance from a compact and affordable AVR
- Wired and wireless connections provide lots of opportunity for custom installations
- Future-ready features mean you won’t be looking to buy another AVR in a few years to keep up with technology
Cons
- Many users had issues with YPAO configuration tools
- Bluetooth connectivity is often spotty
- As complicated to configure as more advanced products
Video Capabilities
The Yamaha RX-V4A features four HDMI inputs, each capable of 4k pass through at 60 Hz. A future firmware update will enhance this receiver to provide 8k pass through at 60 Hz and 4k at 120 Hz for a stutter-free experience. This update will be particularly relevant for gamers who use an xBox Series-X console and want to take advantage of the highest possible resolution.
The RX-V4A has all of the video quality capabilities of much higher priced units. It includes 4:4:4 color management, wide color gamut, and supports HDCP 2.2 protocol for hassle-free playback of protected content. High Dynamic Range video ensures you get the most accurate, saturated colors and deep shadows for a realistic and lifelike experience.
This receiver even includes 3D-ready technology so you can get the most from select Blu-Ray DVDs, video games, and other entertainment options. This is technology that even more expensive receivers don’t often offer.
User Experiences
It’s common for manufacturers to advertise products in a way that will lead you to believe they have the best stuff. It makes sense -who is going to buy a product that is marketed as “just okay.” In order to determine if the manufacturer’s claims are backed up by real-world experiences, we talked to owners about the RX-V4A to find out if they are satisfied with their purchase.
What we discovered is that if you are looking for an AVR with outstanding sound quality, this is a great choice. Users commented about the incredibly dynamic sound stage, even when using sub-par speakers. There were no complaints about volume, power, or any other issues relating to the sound quality.
The features that users struggled with include Bluetooth and YPAO. Several buyers reported that they had daily issues with Bluetooth needing to be reset in order for remote controls to function, while several buyers also added that it was difficult to get just one remote to control the AVR, TV, and DVD player simultaneously.
Conclusion
The Yamaha RX-V4A is a perfect receiver for the mid-price marketplace. It’s among our top picks in the under $500 category. It offers excellent features that are uncommon in the range and produces tremendously clear and detailed audio. The promised future firmware upgrade will enhance the playback capabilities of this receiver and put it in competition with more expensive models from Denon and Marantz.
We think this is a great option for buyers upgrading from a soundbar or an older, outdated AVR. It offers tons of features to make your listening experience easier while ensuring that you can watch the latest movies in theater-quality. Once the receiver is properly configured, you’ll have a high-end sound and video experience and no one will know that you got such a great deal. (>>> Find the current price on Bhphotovideo)