Last year, Yamaha introduced its fourth line of A/V receivers, which it dubbed Aventage (pronounced Ah-Vehn-Taj). According to Yamaha, the line distinguishes itself from the RX-V and HTR series by placing an emphasis on premium audio and video reproduction through upgraded parts and better build quality. Think of it as similar to Sony’s ES or Pioneer’s Elite lines.
We recently learned that Yamaha plans to debut five refreshed Aventage models at the 2011 CEDIA Expo in Indianopolis next week, and we’ll be there to put our hands and ears on them. For now, we offer a quick glance at the new models and what’s been changed for year two of the Aventage line.
The most notable difference, other than new model numbers and slightly jacked up prices, is that the two top receivers in the line now
offer 9.2 surround sound support. The top-of-the-line RX-A3010 ($2000 SRP) boasts 150 watts x 9 channels, eight HDMI inputs, two HDMI outputs (both with ARC), HQV Vida video processing, up to four zones of distributed audio, Windows 7 compatibility and improved YPAO room correction processing. Of course, the receiver also offers plenty of content access including USB support, HD radio, Internet radio, satellite radio, Pandora and more.
The RX-A2010 ($1600 SRP) offers all of the above features but with 140 watts x 9 and three zones of distributed audio. The RX-A1010 ($1100), RX-A810 ($850) and RX-710 ($650) round out the line. As you move down, you get a little less power and only slight differences in features. The lower three models max out at two zones of audio and offer slightly less advanced video processing, yet all but the 710 offer eight HDMI inputs and similarly robust build quality with Burr Brown DACs for all channels.
In case you fell prey to the falsely reported rumor that Yamaha was abandoning its very popular RX-V line of receivers, let us assure you that line is still alive and kicking. In fact, Yamaha plans to show off the RX-V871 at CEDIA as well and we’ll be sure to get you a good look at it while we’re there.
