[size=100%][size=100%][size=93.5%]The Yamaha RX-V765
[size=100%]The only Yamaha AV receiver we reviewed from the 2008 model year was the RX-V663, and although we were fans of its sound quality, it was tough to recommend. It had only two HDMI inputs; its upconversion quality was subpar; and the rear panel layout made it difficult to hook up your gear. Yamaha has announced its new 2009 of RX-V65 receivers, and we're happy to see that most of the last year's missteps look to have been addressed. Let's take a quick look at the specs:
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[size=100%]Key features of the Yamaha RX-V365BL:
- 5.1 channels, 100 watts per channel
- Two HDMI inputs
- Three component video inputs
- Three digital audio inputs (two optical, one coaxial)
- Four composite AV inputs (with no S-Video)
- 5.1 analog multichannel input
- Ministereo front-panel jack for portable audio players
- Yamaha's SCENE feature
- Bluetooth and iPod connectivity, with purchase of accessories (the YBA-10 for Bluetooth and the YDS-11 for iPod)
- $250 list price
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[size=100%]Key step-up features of the Yamaha RX-V465BL:
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[size=100%]Key step-up features of the Yamaha RX-V565BL:
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[size=100%]Key step-up features of the Yamaha RX-V665BL:
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[size=100%]Key step-up features of the Yamaha RX-V765BL:
[size=100%]It's easy to get lost in all those specs, so here's a quick breakdown of the most important changes on Yamaha's 2009 receivers.
[size=100%]More HDMI connectivity
We knocked last year's RX-V663 pretty hard for only including two HDMI inputs, while the competition offered at least three or four. This year, all the receivers from the $380 RX-V465BL and up feature four HDMI inputs, which should be enough for almost every home theater.
[size=100%]Better rear-panel layout
Another major complaint we had with the RX-V663 concerned its confusing rear panel, where the video and audio inputs were completely separated. This made it hard to set up your home theater without a nest of wires. All the receives this year use a more conventional layout, which is a big improvement.
[size=100%]Yamaha is dropping S-Video
Last year, Sony and Pioneer dropped S-Video connections from their receivers and Yamaha is following suit in 2009. In our opinion, it's not a big loss, as almost all new gadgets come with HDMI, but if you're still using a legacy video component that relies on S-Video, you may want to look elsewhere.
[size=100%]Will lighter design mean lightweight sound?
We had our issues with the RX-V663, but we couldn't deny it was a great-sounding receiver. We won't know how Yamaha's 2009 receivers sound until we get them in for testing, but we have to admit we're a little worried based on the spec sheet. The RX-V663 weighed in at a beefy 26.2 pounds, while its replacement, the RX-V665 weighs only 18.7 pounds. Where did the extra weight go? Meanwhile, the more expensive RX-V765 is touting "discrete amp configuration" and weighs in at 24.3 pounds. Again, we won't know until we listen, but we'd bet the RX-V765 is more likely to feature that signature Yamaha sound that the company's fans have come to love.