Yamaha knows how to cure a case of the Mondays. The company is kicking off the week with two new receiver announcements.
The 7.2-channel RX-V773WA and RX-V673 were just added to Yamaha's line of RX-V series AV receivers. Both models boast AirPlay support, 3D video pass-through with Audio Return Channel (ARC), and direct connectivity for iPads, iPhones and iPods. Another huge perk is the addition of 4K video pass-through, which allows the user to future-proof an AV setup for components that are (hopefully) coming soon and promise four times the resolution of 1080p.
Other common features include a full complement of HD Audio format decoding, as well as web radio and DLNA support. The RX-V773WA makes some of that web connectivity a little easier, adding a WiFi adapter into the package.
The RX-V773WA also includes an improved version of the company's own YPAO system calibration, as well as YPAO R.S.C. (Reflected Sound Control). Both are designed to optomize sound based on your room's conditions, with that R.S.C. including multi-point room measurement. The RX-V673 also has R.S.C., but with automatic single-point room measurement.
Each of the new models has seven intelligent assignable amplifiers that direct output for surround back, front presence or Zone 2 speakers per listeners' preferences, all without having to change the speaker connections. Choose between one zone or to bi-amp and double power to main speakers or have a second zone. The RX-V773WA also has features for a party mode and Zone B dual HDMI outputs.
A few other notable features you'll find on both receivers includes a Video Direct Mode for gamers and Dialog Lift, Virtual Dialog Lift, and Dialog Level Adjustment for movie-watchers. Both also have a Virtual Presence Speaker function, four SCENE Mode buttons and CINEMA DSP 3D with 17 DSP programs.
Both receivers will also be compatible with the new and improved Yamaha AV controller app, which has native iPad and tablet versions for both iOS and Android devices. Yamaha also recently introduced an app for Amazon's Kindle Fire.
"These network AV receivers represent the culmination of our RX-V series and our belief that consumers seek sophisticated high performance features with simple intuitive source connectivity and operation," said Tom Sumner, senior VP of Yamaha Corporation of America. "This belief was the basis for our approach to the entire RX-V series line. The RX-V773WA and RX-V673 go a step further, adding a suite of multi-zone installation and setup features usually found in higher end models at moderate price points."
Yamaha says that the RX-V673 will start selling in May, with an MSRP of $649.95. The RX-V773WA will follow a month later, priced at $849.95.
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