AX- 090 1

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OWNERS MANUAL MODE DEMPLOI BEDIENUNGSANLEITUNG BRUKSANVISNING MANUALE DI ISTRUZIONI MANUAL DE INSTRUCCIONES GEBRUIKSAANWIJZING
SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES ACCESSOIRES FOURNIS MITGELIEFERTES ZUBEHOR MEDFOLJANDE TILLBEHOR ACCESSORI IN DOTAZIONE ACCESORIOS INCLUIDOS BIJGELEVERDE ACCESSOIRES

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After unpacking, check that the following parts are contained. Aprs le dballage, vrifier que les pices suivantes sont incluses. Nach dem Auspacken berprfen, ob die folgenden Teile vorhanden sind. Kontrollera efter det apparaten packats upp att fljande delar finns med. Verificare che tutte le parti seguenti siano contenute nellimballaggio dellapparecchio. Desembale el aparato y verificar que los siguientes accesorios estn en la caja. Controleer na het uitpakken of de volgende onderdelen voorhanden zijn.
Remote Control Transmitter Emetteur de tlcommande Fernbedienung Fjrrkontrollsndare Telecomando Transmisor del control remoto Afstandbediening
Batteries (size AA, R6, UM-3) Piles (taille AA, R6, UM-3) Batterien (Gre AA, R6, UM-3) Batterier (storlek AA, R6, UM-3) Batterie (dimensioni AA, R6, UM-3) Pilas (tamao AA, R6, UM-3) Batterijen (maat AA, R6, UM-3)
Thank you for selecting this YAMAHA stereo amplifier.

English

FEATURES

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CONTENTS
Supplied Accessories...2 Connections..4 Controls and Their Functions..6 Operations...9 Notes about the Remote Control Transmitter..13 Troubleshooting..14 Specifications...15
145W + 145W (8) RMS Output Power, 0.01% THD, 2020,000 Hz High Dynamic Power, Low Impedance Drive Capability Continuously Variable Loudness Control PURE DIRECT Switch to Reproduce the Purest Source Sound SUBSONIC FILTER Switch to Cut Out Undesirable UltraLow-Frequency Signals PRE OUT/MAIN IN Terminals for Connecting An Equalizer, Sound Processor, etc. Turnover Frequency Switch for Tone Controls High Quality Component Parts Remote Control Capability
CAUTION: READ THIS BEFORE OPERATING YOUR UNIT.
To assure the finest performance, please read this manual carefully. Keep it in a safe place for future reference. Install this unit in a cool, dry, clean place away from windows, heat sources, sources of excessive vibration, dust, moisture and cold. Avoid sources of humming (transformers, motors). To prevent fire or electrical shock, do not expose the unit to rain or water. Never open the cabinet. If something drops into the set, contact your dealer. Do not use force on switches, controls or connection wires. When moving the unit, first disconnect the power plug and the wires connected to other equipment. Never pull the wire itself. The openings on the cabinet assure proper ventilation of the unit. If these openings are obstructed, the temperature inside the cabinet will rise rapidly. Therefore, avoid placing objects against these openings, and install the unit in well-ventilated condition. Make sure to allow a space of at least 20 cm behind, on the both sides and above the top panel of the unit. Otherwise it may not only damage the unit, but also cause fire. Always set the VOLUME control to before starting the audio source play: increase the volume gradually to an appropriate level after the play has been started. Do not attempt to clean the unit with chemical solvents; this might damage the finish. Use a clean, dry cloth. Be sure to read the TROUBLESHOOTING section regarding common operating errors before concluding that the unit is faulty. When not planning to use this unit for long periods of time (ie., vacation, etc.), disconnect the AC power plug from the wall outlet. disconnect the antenna cable when there is an electrical storm.

13. Voltage Selector (General Model only)
The voltage selector on the rear panel of this unit must be set for your local main voltage BEFORE plugging into the AC main supply. Voltages are 110/120/220/240 V AC, 50/60 Hz.

3. 4. 5.

IMPORTANT Please record the serial number of this unit in the space below. Serial No.: The serial number is located on the rear of the unit. Retain this Owners Manual in a safe place for future reference. WARNING TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS UNIT TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

6. 7. 8. 9.

The apparatus is not disconnected from the AC power source as long as it is connected to the wall outlet, even if the apparatus itself is turned off.
10. To prevent lightning damage, disconnect the AC power plug and 11. Grounding or polarization Precautions should be taken so that
the grounding or polarization of an appliance is not defeated.

12. AC outlet

Do not connect audio equipment to the AC outlet on the rear panel if that equipment requires more power than the outlet is rated to provide.

CONNECTIONS

Before attempting to make any connections to or from this unit, be sure to first switch OFF the power to this unit and to any other components to which connections are being made. When making connections between this unit and other components, be sure all connections are made correctly, that is to say L (left) to L, R (right) to R, + to + and to. Also, refer to the owners manual for each component to be connected to this unit. If you have YAMAHA components numbered as 1, 2, 3, etc. on the rear panel, connections can be made easily by making sure to connect the output (or input) terminals of each component to the same-numbered terminals of this unit.

Compact disc player

Tape deck 1

Tape deck 2

Speakers A

OUTPUT

LINE OUT

LINE IN

T U O IN E N LI LIN E

(General model)

VOLTAGE SELECTOR
COUPLER MAIN IN TAPE PB TAPE 1

REC OUT

AC OUTLETS

PRE OUT

TAPE PB TAPE 2

REMOTE CONTROL

SPEAKERS

TAPE PB TAPE 3

REC OUT AUX

SWITCHED 200W MAX. TOTAL

A OR B:6MIN./SPEAKER B:l2MIN./SPEAKER A

GND OUTPUT

To AC outlet
AUDIO OUT LINE IN LINE OUT

Turntable

Video cassette player, LD player, etc.

Tape deck 3

Speakers B
: Refer to ABOUT THE OTHER REAR PANEL PARTS on page 5.
AC OUTLETS (3 SWITCHED OUTLETS)
Use these to connect the power cords from your components to this unit. The power to the SWITCHED outlets is controlled by this units POWER switch or the provided remote control transmitters POWER key. These outlets will supply power to any component whenever this unit is turned on.
The maximum power (total power consumption of components) that can be connected to the SWITCHED AC OUTLETS is 200 watts.

CONNECTING SPEAKERS

Connect the SPEAKERS terminals to your speakers with wire of the proper gauge, cut as short as possible. If the connections are faulty, no sound will be heard from the speakers. Make sure that the polarity of the speaker wires is correct, that is, + and markings are observed. If these wires are reversed, the sound will be unnatural and will lack bass. Do not let the bare speaker wires touch each other and do not let them touch the metal parts of this unit as this could damage this unit and/or speakers.
One or two speaker systems can be connected to this unit. If you connect only one speaker system, connect it to either the SPEAKERS A or B terminals. Use speakers with the specified impedance shown on the rear of this unit. <General model only> Banana Plug connections are also possible. Simply insert the Banana Plug connector into the corresponding terminal.
How to Connect: Red: positive (+) Black: negative ()
Unscrew the knob. Insert the bare wire.
[Remove approx. 5mm (1/4) insulation from the speaker wires.] Tighten the knob and secure the wire.
ABOUT THE OTHER REAR PANEL PARTS
REMOTE CONTROL (PHONO) connector
If you have a YAMAHA turntable with a terminal for remote control, connect it to this connector by using the cable provided with the turntable. This connection allows you to control the turntable from the provided remote control transmitter.

COUPLER MAIN IN

GND terminal (For turntable use)
Connecting the ground wire of the turntable to this terminal will normally minimize hum, but in some cases better results may be obtained with the ground wire disconnected.
PRE OUT/MAIN IN terminals

Removing the jumper pins enables this unit to independently perform the functions of a control amplifier and a power amplifier. These terminals are for connection of a signalprocessing system such as a graphic equalizer or sound processor. If a sound processor or other external unit is connected between these terminals, the VOLUME control of this unit can be used for overall adjustment of the level of sound. To connect such a unit, remove the jumper pins from the PRE OUT/MAIN IN terminals, connect the inputs of that unit to the PRE OUT terminals and its outputs to the MAIN IN terminals. For details, refer to the owners manual included with the unit to be connected.
Notes q If you will not use the PRE OUT/MAIN IN terminals, never remove the jumper pins from these terminals. If removed, no sound will be output from this unit. q If you will use this unit with an external unit connected between the PRE OUT and MAIN IN terminals, make sure that the PURE DIRECT switch on the front panel is turned off. q If you will use this unit as a power amplifier, connect the outputs of an external control amplifier etc. to this units MAIN IN terminals. In that case, this units controls will not function except the PHONES jack and the SPEAKERS switches, so use the controls on the external control amplifier to make volume adjustment etc.
CONTROLS AND THEIR FUNCTIONS

FRONT PANEL

VOLUME
NATURAL SOUND STEREO AMPLIFIER AX 1090
CD TAPE 1 TUNER 28 PHONO 34 TAPE 50 AUX 20 24

l4 l2 ll 0

PURE DIRECT

TAPE 2

PHONES

A ON B ON

TURNOVER FREQUENCY TREBLE
DEFEAT l 400Hz 2.5kHz 200Hz 5kHz 4

DEFEAT l 4

SUBSONIC FILTER

BALANCE

l 0 l R

LOUDNESS

l FLAT

CD TUNER PHONO

1 2/3 40dB TAPE COPY 1/8 AUX

STEREO

1 POWER switch Press this switch to switch the power on. Press it again to switch the power off. * Standby mode While the power is on, pressing the POWER key on the remote control transmitter switches the unit to the standby mode. (In this mode, the power indicator is half illuminated.) 2 Power indicator Lights up while the power is on. 3 Remote control sensor Receives signals from the remote control transmitter. 4 PURE DIRECT switch and indicator Press this switch so that the indicator lights up to listen to an audio source in the purest sound. (Refer to page 12 for details.)

5 INPUT selector Selects a program source to listen to. 6 VOLUME control Used to raise or lower the volume level. * When the volume is decreased by pressing the MUTING key on the remote control transmitter, the indicator on the VOLUME control flashes on and off. 7 PHONES jack When you listen with headphones, connect the headphones to the PHONES jack. When listening with headphones privately, set both the SPEAKERS A and B switches to the OFF position.
8 SPEAKERS switches Set the switch A or B (or both A and B) for the speaker system (connected to this unit) you will use to the ON position. Set the switch for the speaker system you will not use to the OFF position.

9 BASS control

Used to increase or decrease the low frequency response. The DEFEAT position produces flat response.
0 TURNOVER FREQUENCY switches
Used to adjust the turnover point of the BASS and TREBLE controls respectively. This gives you flexible control over bass and treble response characteristics.

A TREBLE control

Used to increase or decrease the high frequency response. The DEFEAT position produces flat response.

B SUBSONIC FILTER switch

Used to cut out undesirable ultra-low-frequency signals caused by turntable rumble or warped records without losing sound quality.

C MODE switch

This switch can be used for switching between stereo and monaural operation. Normally this switch should be set to the STEREO position.

D BALANCE control

Adjusts the balance of the output volume to the left and right speakers to compensate for sound imbalance caused by speaker location or listening room conditions.
E Continuously variable LOUDNESS control
Used to compensate for the human ears loss of sensitivity to high and low-frequency ranges at low volume.

F REC OUT selector

This switch can be used to select a program source and supply that source directly to the REC OUT terminals on the rear panel, independently of the setting of the INPUT selector. This function allows you to record the selected program source while listening to another program source.

G PHONO (MM/MC) switch

This switch can be used to select either the MM (moving magnet) or MC (moving coil) position to match the phono cartridge used. (Refer to page 12 for details.)
REMOTE CONTROL TRANSMITTER
The remote control transmitter provided with this unit is designed to control all the most commonly used functions of this unit. If the CD player, tuner, tape deck and turntable connected to this unit are YAMAHA components designed for remote control compatibility, then this remote control transmitter will also control various functions of each component.

For Control of This Unit 1 Input selector keys

Selects input source.

2 MUTING key
YAMAHA HIFI SYSTEM REMOTE CONTROL TRANSMITTER
When pressed, decreases the volume level by 20 dB. To resume original volume level, press this again. While muting, the indicator on the VOLUME control flashes on and off continuously.

TAPE 3

DIR B REC/PAUSE

3 VOLUME +/ keys

Turns the volume level up/down.

TAPE 1

PRESET

A/B/C/D/E

4 POWER key
Turns the power on/off. * While the power is on, pressing the POWER key on the remote control transmitter switches the unit from the power-on mode to the standby mode, and vice versa. (In the standby mode, the power indicator on the front panel is half illuminated.)

CD PLAY /CUT PHONO

VOLUME MUTING
For Other Component Control
Identify the remote control transmitter keys with your components keys. If these keys are identical, their functions will be the same. On each key function, refer to the corresponding instruction on your components manual.

1 Tape deck keys

Controls tape deck. * DIR A, B and A/B are applicable only to double cassette tape deck. * For a single cassette deck with automatic reverse function, pressing DIR A will reverse the direction of tape running.

2 Tuner keys

Controls tuner. +: Selects higher preset station number. : Selects lower preset station number. A/B/C/D/E: Selects the group (A E) of preset station numbers.

3 CD player keys

Controls compact disc player. * DISC is applicable only to compact disc changer.

4 Turntable key

Starts/stops record play on turntable.

OPERATIONS

VOLUME INPUT
CD 20 TUNER 28 PHONO 34 TAPE 50 AUX 0 dB l 24 l8 l6 l4 l2 l0 8

7 1, 6

TO PLAY A SOURCE
Select the speakers to be used.

VOLUME ll6 l4 l2 ll 0 dB

Set to the

position.

* If you use two speaker systems, press both the A and B switches.

Turn the power on.

Play the source.

VOLUME ll6 l4 l2 ldB l

Select a desired input source.
CD TAPE 1 TAPE 2 TUNER PHONO
Adjust to the desired output level.
If desired, adjust the BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE and LOUDNESS controls, etc. (Refer to page 1112.)
* If you select turntable as an input source (PHONO position), you should confirm that the PHONO (MM/MC) switch is set to the position corresponding to the type of cartridge being used by the turntable. (Refer to page 12.)

To turn off the power

Press the POWER switch again. Caution If you will press the PURE DIRECT switch to turn it on when the LOUDNESS control is set at a position other than FLAT, be sure to decrease the volume by turning the VOLUME control counterclockwise before pressing the PURE DIRECT switch, otherwise the volume may become extremely high suddenly causing harm to your ears and damage to the speakers.
CD TAPE 1 TUNER 28 PHONO 34 TAPE 50 AUX 0 dB l l8 l6 l4 l2 l0 8

3, 5 3

TO RECORD A SOURCE TO TAPE (OR DUB FROM A TAPE TO ANOTHER)
Notes q If you want to enjoy another source while recording, select it with the INPUT selector. q The settings of VOLUME, BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, LOUDNESS controls and PURE DIRECT switch have no effect on the material being recorded.
Select the source to be recorded.
1 2/3 TAPE COPY 3 1/2 AUX CD TUNER PHONO
REC OUT selector setting on tape dubbing
Play the source. To dub from tape deck 1 to tape deck 2 or 3 (or both tape deck 2 and 3 at the same time)
Confirm the source by selecting it with the INPUT selector and turning up the VOLUME control.

CD TAPE 1 TAPE 2 TUNER

l4 l2 l3 2

0 dB l

To dub from tape deck 3 to tape deck 1 or 2 (or both tape deck 1 and 2 at the same time)
Set the tape deck to be used for recording in the recording mode.
* Tape dubbing cannot be done from tape deck 2 to tape deck 1 or 3.
To monitor the sound to be recorded (or being recorded), select the tape deck being used for recording with the INPUT selector.
Adjusting the BALANCE control
Adjust the balance of the output volume to the left and right speakers to compensate for sound imbalance caused from speaker location or listening room conditions.
Selecting the SPEAKER system
Because one or two speaker systems can be connected to this unit, the SPEAKERS switches allow you to select speaker system A or B, or both at once.

l 4 L5 5R 0 l 4

Adjusting the BASS and TREBLE controls
Adjusting the continuously variable LOUDNESS control
This control provides compensation for the human ears loss of sensitivity to high and low-frequency ranges at low volume. This control is adjustable to retain full tonal range at any volume level.

TREBLE

Set to the FLAT position.
: Turn this clockwise to increase (or counterclockwise to decrease) the low frequency response.
TREBLE : Turn this clockwise to increase (or counterclockwise to decrease) the high frequency response.
Set to the loudest listening level that you would listen to.
VOLUME l24 l6 l4 l2 ldB l
TURNOVER FREQUENCY switches
These switches can be used to adjust the turnover point of the tone controls: either 200 Hz or 400 Hz for BASS and either 2.5 kHz or 5 kHz for TREBLE. This gives you flexible control over bass and treble response characteristics.

TURNOVER FREQUENCY

Turn until the desired volume is achieved.

2.5kHz

Using the PURE DIRECT switch
You can enjoy the purest possible sound from your audio sources by setting this switch so that the indicator lights up. By doing so, the audio signals bypass the BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, LOUDNESS controls, SUBSONIC FILTER switch, MODE switch and the PRE OUT/MAIN IN terminals, thus eliminating any alterations to the audio signals.

PHONO (MM/MC) switch

Select either MM or MC position depending on your PHONO cartridge, Moving Magnet or Moving Coil type. However, if you use a high output MC cartridge, select MM position. To select the MC position, press this switch so that it is held inward. To select the MM position, press this switch so that it is released outward.
Setting the SUBSONIC FILTER switch
If you set this switch to ON position, undesirable ultra-lowfrequency signals caused by turntable rumble or warped records can be cut out without losing sound quality.

Setting the MODE switch

Open/close the control door
When it is not necessary to operate controls inside the control door, close the door. To open the door To close the door
NOTES ABOUT THE REMOTE CONTROL TRANSMITTER
Battery installation Remote control transmitter operation range
Within approximately 6 m (19.7 feet) Remote control sensor

Battery replacement

If you find that the remote control transmitter must be used closer to the main unit, the batteries are weak. Replace both batteries with new ones. Notes q Use only AA, R6, UM-3 batteries for replacement. q Be sure the polarities are correct. (See the illustration inside the battery compartment.) q Remove the batteries if the remote control transmitter will not be used for an extended period of time. q If batteries leak, dispose of them immediately. Avoid touching the leaked material or letting it come in contact with clothing, etc. Clean the battery compartment thoroughly before installing new batteries.
Notes q There should be no large obstacles between the remote control transmitter and the main unit. q If the remote control sensor is directly illuminated by strong lighting (especially an inverter type of fluorescent lamp etc.), it might cause the remote control transmitter not to work correctly. In this case, reposition the main unit to avoid direct lighting.

TROUBLESHOOTING

If the unit fails to operate normally, check the following points to determine whether the fault can be corrected by the simple measures suggested. If it cannot be corrected, or if the fault is not listed in the SYMPTOM column, disconnect the power cord and contact your authorized YAMAHA dealer or service center for help.
SYMPTOM The unit fails to turn on when the POWER switch is pressed. No sound. CAUSE Power cord is not plugged in or is not completely inserted. Incorrect output cord connections. Appropriate input source is not selected. The SPEAKERS switches are not set properly. Speaker connections are not secure. The sound suddenly goes off. Only one side speaker outputs the sound. The protection circuit has functioned because of short circuit etc. Incorrect setting of the BALANCE control. Incorrect cord connections. There is a lack of bass, and no ambience. Sound hums. The + and wires are connected in reverse at the amplifier or speakers. Incorrect cord connections. REMEDY Firmly plug in the power cord. Connect the cords properly. If the problem persists, the cords may be defective. Select an appropriate input source with the INPUT selector. Set the SPEAKERS switch which corresponds to the speakers to be used to the ON position. Secure the connections. Turning the unit off and then on will reset the protection circuit. Adjust it to the appropriate position. Connect the cords properly. If the problem persists, the cords may be defective. Connect the speaker wires in the correct phase (+ and ). Firmly connect the audio plugs. If the problem persists, the cords may be defective. Make the GND connection between the turntable and this unit. Set the LOUDNESS control to the FLAT position. Set the PHONO (MM/MC) switch to the proper position. First, turn the volume control to the full left. Then, turn the MUTING key OFF with the remote control transmitter and adjust the volume. The PURE DIRECT switch must be switched OFF to use those controls.
No connection from the turntable to the GND terminal. Sound level is low or sound is distorted while playing a record on the turntable. The LOUDNESS control is functioning. The PHONO (MM/MC) switch is set to the improper position. The MUTING key is ON.

Using the BASS, TREBLE, BALANCE, LOUDNESS controls, SUBSONIC FILTER switch and MODE switch does not affect the tone. The volume level cannot be increased, or sound is distorted. The sound is degraded when listening with the headphones connected to the compact disc player or cassette deck that are connected with this unit. The remote control transmitter does not work. The distance or range within which the remote control transmitter can be used decreases.
The PURE DIRECT switch is ON.
The power to the component connected to the REC OUT terminals of this unit is off. The power to this unit is off.
Turn the power to the component on. Turn the power to this unit on.
Direct sunlight or lighting (of an inverter type of flourescent lamp etc.) is striking the remote control sensor of the main unit. The batteries of this remote control transmitter are too weak.
Change position of the main unit.
Replace the batteries with new ones.

SPECIFICATIONS

Minimum RMS Output Power per Channel 8 ohms, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, 0.01% THD..145W+145W 6 ohms, 20 Hz to 20 kHz, 0.02% THD..185W+185W Dynamic Power per Channel (by IHF Dynamic Headroom measuring method) 8/6/4/2 ohms.220/290/360/460W DIN Standard Output Power per Channel [Europe model only] (4 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.7% THD).250W Dynamic Headroom [General model only] 8/6 ohms..1.81 dB/1.95 dB IEC Power (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.01% THD) [Europe model only]...170W Power Band Width 8 ohms, 72.5W, 0.03% THD..10 Hz to 50 kHz Damping Factor 8 ohms, 20 Hz to 20 kHz..350 or more Input Sensitivity/Impedance PHONO MM.2.5 mV/47 k-ohms PHONO MC.160 V/220 ohms CD/TUNER/TAPE/AUX..150 mV/47 k-ohms MAIN IN.1.0V/47 k-ohms Maximum Input Signal (1 kHz, 0.01% THD) PHONO MM..170 mV PHONO MC..13.5 mV Output Level/Impedance REC OUT..150 mV/2.2 k-ohms PRE OUT..1.0V/1.8 k-ohms Maximum Voltage Output 20 Hz to 20 kHz, 0.02% THD.6.5V Headphone Jack Rated Output/ Impedance Output Level (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.015% THD)..1.05V Impedance..220 ohms Frequency Response (20 Hz to 20 kHz) CD/TUNER/TAPE/AUX.00.5 dB MAIN IN..00.5 dB RIAA Equalization Deviation (20 Hz to 20 kHz) PHONO MM..0.3 dB PHONO MC..0.5 dB Total Harmonic Distortion (20 Hz to 20 kHz) PHONO MM to REC OUT (3V)...0.003% PHONO MC to REC OUT (3V)...0.007% CD/TUNER/TAPE/AUX to PRE OUT (1V)...0.004% CD/TUNER/TAPE/AUX to SP OUT (72.5W/8 ohms)..0.007% MAIN IN to SP OUT (72.5W/8 ohms)..0.005% Signal-to-Noise Ratio (IHF-A Network) PHONO MM (5 mV Input Shorted).. 92 dB PHONO MC (500 V Input Shorted).. 75 dB CD (Input Shorted) (PURE DIRECT; ON)..110 dB TUNER/TAPE/AUX (Input Shorted) (PURE DIRECT; ON)..106 dB Residual Noise (IHF-A Network) CD (PURE DIRECT; ON).40 V TUNER/TAPE/AUX (PURE DIRECT; ON).80 V Channel Separation (Vol. 30 dB) PHONO MM/MC (Input Shorted 1 kHz/10 kHz)..70 dB/55 dB CD/TUNER/TAPE/AUX (Input 5.1 k-ohms Terminated 1 kHz/10 kHz)..65 dB/50 dB Tone Control Characteristics BASS: Boost/cut.10 dB (20 Hz) Turnover Frequency.200, 400 Hz TREBLE: Boost/cut.10 dB (20 kHz) Turnover Frequency.2.5, 5 kHz Filter Characteristics SUBSONIC FILTER..15 Hz, 18 dB/oct Continuous Loudness Control (Level related equalization) Attenuation..40 dB (1 kHz) Audio Muting..20 dB Gain Tracking Error (0 to 60 dB).2 dB Power Supply [Europe model].AC 230V, 50 Hz [General model].AC 110/120/220/240V, 50/60 Hz Power Consumption..370W AC Outlets 3 SWITCHED OUTLETS.200W max. total Dimensions (W x H x D)..435 x 171 x 448 mm (17-1/8 x 6-3/4 x 17-5/8) Weight.18.3 kg (40 lbs. 4 oz.) Accessories.Remote control transmitter Batteries Specifications subject to change without notice.

YAMAHA YAMAHA YAMAHA YAMAHA YAMAHA YAMAHA YAMAHA
ELECTRONICS CORPORATION, USA 6660 ORANGETHORPE AVE., BUENA PARK, CALIF. 90620, U.S.A. CANADA MUSIC LTD. 135 MILNER AVE., SCARBOROUGH, ONTARIO M1S 3R1, CANADA ELECTRONIK EUROPA G.m.b.H. SIEMENSSTR. 22-34, 25462 RELLINGEN BEI HAMBURG, F.R. OF GERMANY ELECTRONIQUE FRANCE S.A. RUE AMBROISE CROIZAT BP70 CROISSY-BEAUBOURG 77312 MARNE-LA-VALLEE CEDEX02, FRANCE ELECTRONICS (UK) LTD. YAMAHA HOUSE, 200 RICKMANSWORTH ROAD WATFORD, HERTS WD1 7JS, ENGLAND SCANDINAVIA A.B. J A WETTERGRENS GATA 1, BOX 30053, VSTRA FRLUNDA, SWEDEN MUSIC AUSTRALIA PTY, LTD. 17-33 MARKET ST., SOUTH MELBOURNE, 3205 VIC., AUSTRALIA

VU 60520

review 12. 1 4. 1 0
Yamaha RX-A3000 Aventage 11.2 Networking A/V Receiver Review
Review by Clint DeBoer & Gene DellaSala of Audioholics.com

Introduction

AV receivers are constantly changing, constantly leap-frogging one another in features and capabilities. This year Yamaha announced its Aventage (RX-A) line and, in the process, jumped over a lot of the competition. And not a little jump, more like an Olympic gold medal long jump. Much of that jump is simply in the way of value - I mean the Aventage line in general has build quality and features that seem like it should cost a lot more than it does. The RX-A3000 takes that to the nth degree. There are five receivers in the Aventage lineup and the RX-A3000 is the flagship. The line is a simplified high-end run at the AV receiver concept. As such, there is a very defined delineation between models, but a few specific break points define some key places where some users will seek to spend a little more and up the ante on the return for their investment. Lets take a quick look (see chart on page 2). As we see it, there is a definite line in the sand drawn after the RX-A1000 which adds a significant amount of power, HQV Vida processing and Zone 2/3 video capabilities. If you want the high-end of what Yamaha is now offering, youre going to want to get into the RX-A2000 or RX-A3000. Take a look down the line, however, and its remarkable what the first three of the line manage to cram in at much lower price points. Economy of scale has done much to bring down the price for features you would simply not have dreamed of just a few years ago. HDMI Standby-through mode in a $600 receiver with a motion GUI interface and 12V trigger outputs? 2011 is going to be a good year for upgraders. Now for a trip back through memory lane. Back in 2008 Yamaha released its

www.audioholics.coM

top of the line RX-Z7 AV receiver. It had 7 channels of amplification with 140 watts each. All manner of video upscaling (analogue and digital) was included and it had a whopping 5 HDMI inputs and even two paralleled outputs. For room correction, Yamaha pulled out the stops and debuted a new proprietary YPAO-based multi point room calibration system. For multi-room applications there was support for 4 Zones of audio (including a dedicated digital audio output for Zone 4) and networking features to stream online music and even allow the receiver to be controlled by an iPod Touch or iPhone. It weighed just over 40 pounds and cost $2700. It was pretty impressive to say the least. Then, two years later, Yamaha released the RX-A3000 Aventage receiver. It too has 7 channels of 140Watts each, the same analogue and digital upconversion. But it has 8 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, all
3D compatible and supporting the latest features like Audio Return Channel. It also has even more impressive features, like the ability to bypass HDMI while in standby, so you can use your TV without having to turn on the receiver. It has close to the same advanced multi-zone YPAO room correction system and network features and the 4 Zones of audio. It adds another component video input, bringing the total to 4 - which is more than enough in our opinion, especially given the decline and phase-out of analogue outputs in favor of HDMI. It does remove one digital audio input and output. It also removed the two switched outlets on the back. But heres the kicker. Its nearly as hefty as the RX-Z7 and costs just $1700. Now were not going to say that the amplifier section is exactly the same as the RX-Z7, but given the feature set, weight and $800 cost savings, Yamahas RX-A3000

RX-A3000 Aventage Receiver Review Summary
Manufacturer: Yamaha Electronics Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Stars Value Rating: 5/5 Stars MSRP: $1799.95 www.Yamaha.com/ hometheater
Tons of configurability options HDMI standby pass-through (can change inputs) Dual configurable subwoofer outputs Supports full 11.2 home theater use iPad and iPhone app controllable
Over abundant configurable options can be confusing Not compatible with MusicCast Gen 1 Bulky and poorly designed remote control

RX-A3000

Price Power (RMS) HDMI 1.4a (in/out) USB audio Network receiver HD Radio Sirius Internet Video Processing Analog to HDMI H-shape cross member frame Symmetrical power amp layout Learning remote HDMI standby-through

RX-A2000

$1400 130Wx7 8/2 Yes Yes Yes Yes HQV Vida Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (w/Zone) Yes 2 9.2 Yes No Yes

RX-A1000

$1000 105Wx7 8/2 Yes Yes Yes Yes Proprietary Yes No Yes No Yes Yes Yes 2 None No No No

RX-A800

$750 95Wx7 6/2 No No Yes No Proprietary Yes No No No Yes Yes No 1 None No No No

RX-A700

$600 90Wx7 6/1 No No No No None No No No No Yes Yes No 1 None No No No
$1800 140Wx7 8/2 Yes Yes Yes Yes HQV Vida Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes (w/Zone) Yes 2 11.2 Yes Optical Yes
GUI IPhone App Control / Web browser control 12V Trigger output Channel expandability Zone 2/3 video Zone 4 output Zone remote

Specifications

Yamaha RX-A3000 Aventage
Channels: 7.2 RMS Output Power: (20Hz - 20kHz): 140W x 7 Total Power: (20Hz - 20kHz): 980W Audio Dolby TrueHD Dolby Digital EX / Pro Logic IIx DTS-HD Master Audio DTS-ES Discrete 6.1 DTS 96/24 / DTS Neo:6 Pure Direct D/A Conversion: 192 kHz / 24 bit Selectable Subwoofer Crossover (9-band) Video Time Base Corrector HDMI 3D Capable Analog Video to HDMI Upconversion (up to 1080p) HDMI Video Adjustments (Adjustable) HDMI to HDMI Upscaling HDMI Video Processing (HQV Vida) Component Video Upconversion S-Video Upconversion 5th Foot w/ Anti-Resonance Technology Low Jitter PLL Circuitry (Ultra Low) H-shape Cross Member Frame Symmetrical Power Amplifier Layout Connections HDMI 1.4a (In/Out): 8/2 Component Video (In/Out): (4/1) A/V Inputs (S-Video): 5 Optical Inputs: 4 Coaxial inputs: 3 Optical Outputs: 1 Front A/V with Digital Input (HDMI/S-Video/Optical0) Front USB Input For Flash Memory Drives RS-232C Interface 8-Channel Decoder Inputs Custom Features 12V Trigger Outputs (x 2) Assignable Power Amp Channel Expandability w/ Ext. Amp (Up to 11.2) Zone Speaker Terminals Zone 2 Output (Component / Composite) Zone 3 Output (Component / Composite) Zone 4 Output (Optical) Zone Power Switching Zone Remote Control IR Inputs/Outputs (x 2) Receiver Manager Software Pre-Out All Channels Dimensions: 17-1/8 W x 7-1/8 H x 16-7/8 D Weight: 37.5 lbs. 2 switched outlets No switched outlets 4 Zones 7 digital audio inputs, 2 outputs 4 Zones 6 digital audio inputs, 1 output Advanced Features Four SCENE Buttons HD Radio Tuner iPod Compatibility (With Optional YDS-11/12 or YID-W10) Bluetooth Compatibility Compressed Music Enhancer Network Receiver Functions (DLNA 1.5/Win 7/Rhapsody/SIRIUS/ Internet Radio) SIRIUS Satellite Radio Ready HDMI Audio Return Channel (ARC) HDMI CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) HDMI Standby-through (can change inputs) Dialogue Lift YPAO (w/Optimizer Microphone) On-Screen Display (also w/ Zone GUI) Auto Power Down Web Browser Control Learning Remote w/macro Capability DSP Programs: HDMI 1.3a Inputs, 2 Outputs 3 component video inputs, 1 output Multi-point YPAO 7 x 140 watts per channel 8 HDMI 1.4a Inputs, 2 Outputs 4 component video inputs, 1 output Multi-point YPAO 7 x 140 watts per channel

the RX-A3000 splits this duty off to smaller dual heatsinks mounted on each side of the power transformer in what Yamaha calls dual symmetric power amplifier layout. At first glance, these heatsinks appear small but more careful observation reveals extra thick metal plating at the base of the heatsink mounted to a very thick bottom cover to help dissipate heat and increase chassis rigidity. Yamaha also employed brand new thermal control regulated power transistors in this baby to better manage heat. It was clear to us that Yamaha proved their masterful craftsmanship with the execution of this compact, well engineered A/V receiver.

HDMI Features

There are a lot of HDMI functions that I want to espouse on behalf of the RX-A3000. First off, the receiver can take in anything and output it via HDMI - we already went into that. What we didnt talk about was the new HDMI Standby feature. Ever want to watch something on TV without turning on your system? Me neither. but your wife or spouse probably has. HDMI Standby means that you can pass HDMI (audio and video) through the receiver without turning it on. So now you can watch TV with the audio coming through the TVs integrated speakers, without turning on the receiver and powering up your whole AV system. But theres something more - you can switch HDMI inputs. while in Standby mode. This is very cool (and pretty necessary when you think about it, lest you only be able to use a preselected input like the RX-Z7). Another important feature upgrade the RX-A3000 has over the RX-Z7 is in power management. Unlike the RX-Z7, the RX-A3000 employs a hybrid power supply which turns off all of the analog circuits when the receiver is powered down and engaged in HDMI Standby. This offers tremendous savings on power and heat dissipation compared to the RX-Z7. Welcome to the new AV receiver standard. Aside from these great features, the Yamaha RX-A3000 also supports Audio Return Channel (ARC) and the latest audio format support. It also can apply video processing to HDMI signals as well as standard definition sources. Were talking HQV Vida processing with a myriad of different Noise Reduction options, Contrast/Brightness/Saturation controls, and Detail and Edge Enhancement options (which we recommend leaving off for best picture). Auto lip sync and Deep color, as well as 24Hz processing modes are also available.

Speaker Set-Up

This is where you engage the Auto setup using the included multi-point microphone, and also where you configure the speakers with the manual setup function. We have beat YPAO to death in the past, so were not going to waste valuable real estate rehashing that system here. What we are going to talk about is the new design of the manual Speaker Setup menu, which operates under a new Select Your Speaker Configuration methodology. In the past, Yamaha had you select how the amplifiers were going to be used, and select the way the Surround Back and Presence channels were to be allocated, often without any provision for utilizing both a second or third Zone and the Presence Channels. In short, Yamaha was severely limited in the past. With the RX-A3000, the on-screen GUI interface literally shows you what your options are, and you can pick and choose how you want to run your speakers and how you are planning to amplify them in the various situations. The amplifier assignments are automatically selected when you scroll through the configuration options - and you have only to observe the notation and graphical representation to understand what is possible. In this way, the complexity of selecting amplifier routing is removed and all possible permutations are granted simultaneously. This is the first time weve seen this in an AV receiver.

Screenshots are great, video is even better, so check out our Yamaha RX-A3000 Video Preview for a sneak peak at the menus in action. Starting at the top, even the background of the menu system, the splash screen, can be configured: Within the system menu we found that the RX-A3000 unlocks an almost limitless amount of options for the amplifiers, inputs, HDMI and DSP. Were talking a massive amount of configurability, and the visual representation of what you are doing makes it easy to understand the settings. The Setup menu system, which slides up and down, and left to right depending upon the submenu you are in, generally allows you to edit settings on the fly while watching video in the background and is broken up into 8 main sections:

Menu System

One of the things we really like about the RX-A3000 is its new and improved GUI with snappy, animated menus that can also superimpose itself over video. Earlier menu systems were gussied up textbased interfaces - this is more like an app.
Take this scenario, for example, which is my favorite: I am operating a 7.1 system + a second Zone. In this configuration I am not bi-amping the mains, but I am using an external 2-channel amplifier to power my Zone 2 speakers. This is designated as EXTRA SP1: Zone 2. It also gives me the flexibility to select how I am using my last 2 channels of amplification - as Surround Back speakers, or in Zone 2. The beauty is, with 11 pars of binding posts, I dont have to do We complained (OK, whined) about that any fancy rewiring; everything is all set. Here for years, and finally Yamaha seems to is how it looks: have taken the hint and allocated enough processing power and preamp outputs to handle even the most difficult configurations. It seems that if you can add external amplifiers, you can truly harness the power of this 11.2-channel receiver. Not since their flagship RX-Z11 selling for more than 2 the price, was this possible. OK, so thats just the speaker allocation and power amp assignments. You still have the ability to configure the speaker levels (0.5dB steps), distances (0.2 ft/.05m Now, suppose I wanted, instead to opt increments), and Extra Bass (where the for pulling both the Surround as well as receiver can send fullrange information to the Surround Back amplifiers in order to the front speakers and bass from the front power two additional zones? No problem, speakers to the subwoofer). You can also, Yamahas RX-A3000 can allocate amplifiers and this is a BIG deal for a receiver at this as needed to do that as well. Heres how price point, connect two subwoofers with that particular configuration looks: independent level and trim control and set the subwoofers for either mono, stereo (left + right), or front/rear. We typically recommend Mono, but some audiophiles may want to experiment with the stereo setting. We dont recommend the front/ back setting since it only sends LFE info to the rear sub. For more information, read: Home Theater Multiple Subwoofer But I want to use my Presence channel Set-Up Guide speakers, you say. You know what, thats a http://www. great idea. Yamaha allows you to configure audioholics.com/ those for use with an external amplifier tweaks/get-good(they have dedicated preamp outputs) and bass/multiplenow you can opt to allocate the internal subwoofer-setupamplifier between Surround Back channels calibration-1) and the optional Zone 2 you configured. This is how that scenario would look on the setup menu:

Bass Management

As was the case with the RX-Z7, the RX-A3000 provides for variable crossover settings per speaker group (ie. Mains, Center, Surrounds but doesnt give you a choice for the subwoofer crossover which I found through my testing to be dependent on the main channel crossover setting. Thus I highly recommend you keep each speaker groups crossover setting within 20Hz to ensure a more optimal integration with the subwoofer during all playback modes (ie. discrete 5.1 sources and 2 CH music in PLIIx Music Mode). Yamaha still allows you to the center and surround channels to large even if you select small for the main channels. I would have preferred Yamaha to automatically set all speakers to small if the mains were set small. Pay extra attention when manually configuring speaker size groups or use one of their presets that sets all speakers to small. The crossovers worked as expected for a THX Ultra2 certified receiver (except the RX-A3000 is not THX certified) as indicated by the 12dB/oct High Pass Filter (HPF) slopes on speakers set small and 24dB/oct Low Pass Filter (LPF) slopes on the subwoofer output which we measured with our Audio Precision APx585. The only oddity was that the subwoofer channel was down about 1.5dB at 10Hz which to us indicated a rather conservative HPF employment on this channel since this slight attention didnt show up on any of the seven main channels.
disable the video processing features for the HDMI video - also helping you to determine exactly who is doing the video processing: the receiver, the player, or your display. If you enable it, you can set the output resolution to 480p, 720p, 1080i, 1080p or Through (same resolution as what is being input). Please read: Video Processing in Bluray Players, Receivers and Displays (http:// www.audioholics.com/education/displaySound formats-technology/video-processing-inThis menu isnt nearly as exciting as the dvd-players-receivers-and-displays) Speaker menu, but it does offer access to basic functionality like Lipsync delay (HDMI auto or manual) and Dynamic range (for Dolby Digital soundtracks). If you are Yamahas RX-A3000 adjusting delay, the range is from 0 (the just became the most default) to 250 ms in 1 ms increments - now thats precise! You can also configure Max modern big man on and Initial Volume settings and whether or campus and its going not video outputs in Pure Direct Mode (we to take quite a bit to recommend it be off, or whats the point). topple this goliath. Max Volume can be set anywhere from -30.0 dB to +16.5 dB (the maximum) in 5dB Clint & Gene increments. Initial Volume is nearly identical, except that you can adjust it in 0.5dB steps to get a more precise starting point. Lastly, you can set the Adaptive DSP level (On or Aside from processing and conversion, Off), which varies the DSP effect with the this menu provides for scaling options of volume level of the receiver for a more converted video, and picture controls such realistic effect. as Contrast, Brightness, and Resolution Enhancement. Unless you have a deficient Video source component, we recommend The Video setup menu has some very largely leaving these options alone with unique and helpful settings. In particular, we one exception. We found that the various felt it was wise of Yamaha to allow users Noise Reduction circuits were handy in to disable analogue-to-analogue conversion. reducing mosquito noise and the analogue In that way you can force your expensive noise found on older program material. In display to do the work and maintain the either case, its a truly advanced feature purity of your video signal (its also an with six configurable Presets which allow excellent way to troubleshoot analogue adjustment over: video compatibility problems). You can also Contrast enhancement Resolution Enhancement Detail Enhancement Edge Enhancement Noise Reduction Mosquito Noise Reduction (NR) Block Noise Reduction (NR) Temporal Noise Reduction (NR) Brightness Contrast Saturation

Thats an extensive list, driven by the new HQV Vida video processing chipset. Since you can customize and store up to six different presets, its incredibly powerful and offers a great way to tweak the system when your display or source doesnt allow for easy application-specific customization.
As with most receivers with dual HDMI outputs, the Yamaha RX-A3000 lets you set which output will handle CEC functions (and enable or disable the function entirely). Unfortunately, since HDMI has provided such poor implementation standards for CEC functions under the guise of freedom for manufacturers to choose, the results are almost always unpredictable, even when you stick to products made by the same manufacturer. This menu is also where you would enable Audio Return Channel (ARC) functionality (and the Control Select function determines which HDMI output receives the audio signals from the TV). You can also select which input receives this audio. The other thing we really liked was that you could set what is output via the two HDMI output jacks - namely, whether audio and video, or just video are output. Whats semi-unique about the RX-A3000 is that you can have the receiver simultaneously

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read audio from an HDMI input and also send that audio out through one or both HDMI outputs on the back. This means that you can do a sort of multi-cast of program material. Why is this important? At times, during our annual Super Bowl party for example, weve wanted to take audio from a source and also pass it along to another room where it can feed a television.Typically you must choose one or the other - either you are pulling audio and passing video on to a television, or you are passing all audio through the receiver without using it. With the RX-A3000, you can have your cake and eat it too. Lastly, HDMI Standby is activated here and you can select the HDMI input even when the unit is in Standby mode!
but oddly no Pandora support as of the time this review was written. Perhaps Yamaha will offer a future firmware upgrade for Pandora support. It seems Onkyo has Pandora cornered in the A/V receiver market for now.

Multi-zone

If you use this receiver for multiple zones - and you should because its good at it - youll spend some time here setting it up. Once you configure the speakers in the Speaker menu, whats left is to tell the receiver whether you want Fixed or Variable volume in Zones 2 and 3 and what the Max Volume needs to be set at (a lifesaver if I ever saw one). Having this level of Zone audio control is extremely handy for when, as in our case, you are using a Zone for outdoor speakers and want to limit the output levels to reduce the potential for distortion or overdriving your speakers. You can even set Initial Volume and select the digital output to be assigned to Zone 4 or the main zone. A Party Mode can be configured to allow you to enable all or just some of the zones to respond with identical audio from the main zone source. In this way you can literally light up your house

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Returning back to where we started, the Function menu is what lets you set the front panel dimmer level, scrolling mode, trigger functions and the wallpaper for the menu. While Yamaha gives you 4 options for the wallpaper, none of them is custom - and odd thing since they have both USB access and networking functions as a means to grab a compatible file.

Aventage iPhone/iPad App

Speaking of apps, Yamaha also released an Aventage iPhone/iPad app which allows user control over features like Zone volume and source selection. It even grants control over the tuner and Internet radio sections of the receiver. We have to be honest, the App was a bit of a dog in our testing, with slow feedback and a quirky interface, but its a great start - and for free its hard to complain. Particularly with respect to using multiple Zones, its almost a life-saver. Near the end of our review Yamaha added some new functionality to the App - namely a cursor or menu control system whereby you can use your iPad or iPhone to control the GUI menu system of the RX-A3000. (It should be noted we tested ver 1.0.1 at the time of this review, and there is now a newer version 2.0.1 app which Yamaha claims to have improved interface options and speed.) We are starting to see more and more of this and, as such, its going to be surprising if we dont eventually see the end of remote controls entirely - at least
as we know them to be today. Lets face it - as receivers become more complex, our complaints about remote controls go up. You just cant sufficiently add enough functionality on the face of a remote with such limited real-estate. Add an LCD touch screen, however, and you now have the ability to configure modes and much more ergonomic control functions. The future is coming, and Yamaha brings it partially here with its App.

Remote Control

OK, on to the remote control. Look, we hate the Yamaha RX-A3000 remote. Its a standard Yamaha remote and the company seems to have a knack for making things over-complicated and just difficult. Remember the RAV 172 remote? These guys make an art form out of unusual interfaces. The new RX-A3000 remote doesnt have an unusual interface, it just features a ton of buttons on the front face and a flip up panel at bottom to allow even more functionality - like a number pad for tuner control. Aesthetically, it looks, at first blush, like an inversion of the x67series remotes, but with more buttons. But the real problem is that the Source buttons all have useless labels. like AV1, AV2, and AV3. Um,thats descriptive. Like the unusable nomenclature on the rear of the unit, Yamaha shoots users into oblivion with their labelfree alphanumeric designations that will be sure to drive anyone (except

Audioholics Bench Testing Summary of Test Results
Since Yamaha touted its use of the HQV Vida chip and the RX-A3000 has such a wide variety of settings and video processing capabilities, we thought wed give it a thorough testing and see what it did in terms of our performance benchmarks. While we typically run it through a series of practical DVD ad Blu-ray tests, the use of a few benchmark discs allows us to at least have some sort of objective baseline for comparison.

HQV Perfect Score is 130

Yamaha RX-A3000 Benchmark total score: 130/130
HQV HD Perfect Score is 100
Yamaha RX-A3000 Score: 100/100
maybe the person who sets up this receiver) batty in less than 60 seconds. Scratch that, it drove us batty - and were the ones who set it up! With a new GUI interface, perhaps Yamaha is subconsciously drawing users to use that (and their iPhone/iPad app). Advanced users will want to take advantage of Yamahas Receiver Manager software integration capability which weve covered in prior reviews. This will come in handy to relabel inputs into more meaningful names. Yamaha needs to buy some stock in Logitech or Universal Remote, because with flagship remotes like this they are practically driving everyone to use a competing device to retain their sanity. I could go into the way they broke down the remote, but you have eyes and we included a picture - add $200 to this receiver and get yourself something you can actually give your significant other to use. If youre single, you can make due with this and it does allow for learning of other device codes - it just wont support the four color buttons that are required for advanced use of Blu-ray players and (particularly) any Samsung device.
kick drum and its punctuated attack was topped by a crisp snap that really came across as authentic and live-sounding. Let Go was another song that we listened to for midrange clarity given a tight mix and an almost wall of sound performance. With this type of music (Alternative/Rock) it was amazing to hear the Yamaha really fill up the theater room with punchy, driving bass a nice, full drum kit and real heavy metal guitars that played in tandem to generate a thick sound that had us sitting back and enjoying nearly the full album before moving on. CD: Switchfoot The Beautiful Letdown This is Your Life was a track I wanted to get playing in the Yamaha since it arrived. Popping this CD into our Oppo BDP-83 we were treated to the synthy bass and drums that punctuate a really simple intro that builds into a robust crescendo of a chorus that sits just under the lead male vocal. Man the deep, resonant bass just reverberated throughout the room and filled it up nicely as the Moog-sounding keys came in and the contrasting clean electric guitars entered in from the sides. Dare You to Move is a song form this band that hit mainstream pretty hard and I liked it for the up front vocals and the persistent percussion that pokes way out during the verses and carries through the choruses in the form of a shaker. The bass was also driving through this song, as was the kick, with a throaty hit that sat back in the mix but resonated with a nice upper-mid tone.

Listening Tests - Music

We did a significant amount of stereo listening tests using the Yamaha Aventage RX-A3000 AV Receiver. I wanted to hear it critically and determine if this was truly an audiophile product, or suitable for just your typical dialogue-explosion movie soundtrack. Our testing system was the RBH Sound CinemaSITE system with updated Signature Series SI-760/R MTM mains and center. Surrounds are rendered by the 66-SE/R speakers. The bottom end is rounded out by a pair of SI-1010P subwoofers. We have room treatments by RPG Diffuser Systems and we find the room to be live with fairly smooth bass response to the primary and secondary seating positions. CD: RED End of Silence Track two off this album is compressed, being a modern album, but it does offer some excellent high-hat work, driving bass guitar and a male lead vocal thats truly in your face. Breathe Into Me has a bass line that plays in lock step with the driving
them to be convincing - with a solid and believable midrange. I cant tell you how many systems Ive listened to that will subdue the midrange of a piano or pull back on the true sound of Don Henleys voice. When the reverb rolled in atop the keyboards I was in music-nirvana. It was like dry ice flowing in gently over the soundstage and man did it sound smooth. The prominent kick drum and subtle hi-hat lifts were next and they really impressed me - moreso than I remember in a long time. At this point I was simply in - I wasnt about to stop until this album was done. Might as well take some more notes. Tequila Sunrise showed off some nice stereo separation as the guitars split and the acoustic in the middle revealed honest playing with the sound of the strings being strummed and Glenn Freys beautiful voice putting out its warmth throughout the room. The Yamaha RX-A3000 seemed to coax everything it could out of the RBH Sound Signature Series speakers - nothing was let on the table with regard to sound.
Blu-ray: John Gorka The Gypsy Life (AIX Records) Branching Out is the first track on this Bluray disc (which we listened to in Dolby TrueHD uncompressed). Its a nice 60s-style folksy song thats heavy on vocals and guitar with ample rolling non-percussive bass. Its also a really goofy song with lyrics like when I grow up I wanna be a tree. but I like the sound. The use of a mandolin in the track really punctuated the sound and it was rendered authentically by the Yamaha, with DTS CD: Eagles Hell Freezes Over all of its upper mid and top end perfectly Starting with my standard New conveyed into the listening space. Stranger York Minute, I listened intently for the with Your Hair is a soft acoustic guitar song introductory strings and piano, and found that is just as goofy, and just as wonderfully

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honest and natural. I love the gentle vocal singing and the timbre of Johns voice really sounded warm through the Yamaha receiver. The lyrics may be odd, but the sound of this album is exceptional.

Listening Tests - Movies

I had an enjoyable time listening to music on the Yamaha RX-A3000, but movies were an absolute blast. sometimes literally. We watched a ton of movies on this receiver and I made a few notes on some of the more impressive titles. Blu-ray: Prince of Persia Right from the opening, this movie impressed with its full score and the chase scene throughout the city. Im a sucker for foley effects and there were plenty that creeped up through the score, such as running, sword sounds and plenty of impacts from landings on roofs and general scuffling. In the scene prior to the sands of time being recovered by the evil uncle, the fight scene between the blade-wielding Hassansin whip man and Dastan was absolutely perfect, with the chain weapon coming out of every speaker at one point of another. The sound was extremely crisp and it had the effect of commanding your immediate attention to the location from which the weapon originated - and all without being distorted or compressing the peaky effect. Later, when the Seso character fights the Hassansin, we were treated to an awesome surround sound experience that culminated in about thirty different point source daggers making their way around the entire theater room. The final fight scene is just as intense, and the Yamaha RX-A3000 did a great job rendering the punchy bass hits and low frequency effects that accompanied the snake-wielding assassin.
Blu-ray: 2012 For quite possibly the worst movie ever made, 2012 actually has some decent sound. The scene about 45 minutes in where everything starts to fall apart is simply amazing. The subs exploded with the San Andreas fault collapse and the crisp sound of earth disappearing into the abyss while the private plane lifted off was nothing short of mind-blowing. I loved the surround effects as they flew over and through a collapsing world, seemingly because they felt it would be boring to pull back on the stick and climb a few hundred feet higher. no, that just wouldnt be Hollywood - best to just fly through a building. Later, when fire reigns from the sky, and the plane once again takes off, the sound of explosive lava and earthy hits was awesome to behold. The final crescendo of course, is the total collapse of the Sistine Chapel, whose fullyenveloping explosive destruction was felt by all in the room. Movies like this just sound awesome on this receiver. It has enough power to drive the audio to insanely loud levels and there are no gaps in its ability to provide a convincing environment that pulls you into the film.

Yamaha RX-A3000 Measurement & Analysis
Measurements & commentary by Gene DellaSala All measurements were conducted using our Audio Precision APxChannel HDMI Audio Analyzer. The Yamaha RX-A3000 was defaulted to high impedance mode (8 ohms or more) which is the setting we recommend using regardless of your loudspeakers impedance rating if you are concerned about achieving maximum output power and performance from this unit.
Yamaha RX-A3000 Preamplifier Measurements
I did some quick spot-checking on the RX-A3000 pre-amplifier gain structure to ensure it could be properly drive a wide assortment of power amplifier. My personal criteria for amplifier gain structure is that it should be able to hit full power when driven with 2Vrms. The RX-A3000 was able to deliver 3.3Vrms unclipped out of the analog multi channel outputs. Once I exceeded this output level, the auto protection circuits shut the receiver down. This is more than enough clean output voltage to drive any audio amplifier to clipping. Frequency Response was ruler flat from 10Hz to 80kHz (the limit of the APx585 test equipment) with +-.025dB variation. The preamp gain (Av) = 13.6dB similar to what I measured on the RX-Z7. Driving the RX-A3000s HDMI input with a -20dBFS signal, I adjusted the volume control until I measured 1Vrms via the preamp outputs., The RX-A3000 displayed an excellently clean FFT distortion profile with the magnitude of the 2nd harmonic
It was clear to us that Yamaha proved their masterful craftsmanship with the execution of this compact, well engineered A/V receiver. Clint & Gene

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of (-.733 +108.15)dBv = 107.4dBv or 100*alog^-1(-107.4/20) =.0004% THD + N. The output, residual noise products were virtually nonexistent. Using the HDMI input driven at -20dBFS with 1Vrms out of the preamp analog outputs, I measured 86dB (unweighted). This is a pretty clean measurement. I repeated this test via the analog inputs and noticed an elevated result likely due to clock noise or just digital artifacts well above the audio band corrupting the measurement. Engaging Pure Direct made about a 3dB improvement to this measurement coming close to the SNR performance I measured when driving the RX-A3000 via an HDMI input source. The RX-A3000 exhibited commendable channel to channel crosstalk performance. With all channels acting as the noise source or disturber driven via the HDMI input, I measured each idle channel one at a time to determine the worst case channel to channel crosstalk. At 1kHz the RX-A3000 yielded -70dB @ 1kHz dropping lower with frequency (odd but true) and still maintaining -70dB at 20kHz for its noisiest channel. I consider anything less than -40dB @ 10kHz acceptable so the RX-A3000 met that minimum requirement with 30dB to spare! With only one channel driven at a time, channel to channel crosstalk performance was about 10dB better across the board putting it on par with what I measured on the RX-Z7 two-channel crosstalk tests.

Let no skeptic tell you otherwise, the RX-A3000 has a darn respectable amplifier section not only for a receiver but for a modestly priced seven channel power amplifier. Clint & Gene
Yamaha RX-A3000 Dynamic Power Test (1kHz) 2CH Driven, 4 ohms

Conclusion

Booyah! Yamaha has hit it out of the park with this one. The RX-A3000 proved itself to be a worthy and most importantly less costly successor to the venerable RX-Z7 (though we do miss Yamahas signature orange frontpanel display). Say all you want about our ranting about the remote - apart from that, the Yamaha RX-A3000 is a real winner that shows its true colors as an audiophile product that has legs. Its an incredibly flexible and powerful system that works well, measures well and looks. well, it looks like every other black box - but thats not how we shop for these things. On the list of surprises was the adept iPhone/iPad app. Its not perfect, but its a nice touch and its free. We also liked the video processing performance and the way you can configure this receiver to utilize all 11.2 channels as needed. This is a keeper and we hope that its just the beginning for a company that seems to really get this market. By Clint DeBoer & Gene DellaSala Email - info@audioholics.com
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Score Card

The scoring below is based on each piece of equipment doing the duty it is designed for. The numbers are weighed heavily with respect to the individual cost of each unit, thus giving a rating roughly equal to: Performance x Price Factor/Value = Rating Audioholics.com Note: The ratings indicated below are based on subjective listening and objective testing of the product in question. The rating scale is based on performance/value ratio. If you notice better performing products in future reviews that have lower numbers in certain areas, be aware that the value factor is most likely the culprit. Other Audioholics reviewers may rate products solely based on performance, and each reviewer has his/her own system for ratings.
Audioholics Ratings Scale:
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