Designed for Digital

The Ideal Receiver for Digital Home Theater Entertainment
Digital Home Theater Receiver

RX-V4600

The RX-V4600 makes the most of all digital sources, giving you new possibilities for audio and video entertainment.
The RX-V4600 is a receiver designed for the digital era. It sets the standard for a new generation of receivers that will increase home theater enjoyment with more vivid images and richly detailed sound, plus greater versatility and convenience. With CD-quality digital HD Radio, digital data links and advanced digital processing circuitry, it takes full advantage of the latest digital sources. It also has a new front panel design whose elegance matches its capabilities. For movies and music, multi-channel surround sound and stereo, the RX-V4600 will ensure that your entertainment is totally enjoyable.

Radio Goes Digital!

For maximum radio enjoyment, the RX-V4600 is capable of receiving HD Radio broadcasts. The only terrestrial digital broadcast system, HD Radio delivers crystal-clear sound via the normal AM/FM bands. This greatly improved digital quality means that FM broadcasts have CD-quality sound and AM is as good as present FM stereo, with no static hiss. It also provides a variety of program-associated data such as song titles and artist names, as well as the ability to tune to multiple programs at the same dial position. Already available from hundreds of stations, more than 2,500 stations are planning to upgrade to HD Radio. And because this is public broadcasting, it is completely free.
HDMI Interface for Video and Audio The HDMI interface is the most advanced, highest quality connection for delivering video sources to your home theater system. Extremely high speed digital transmission of the video signal ensures that there is no deterioration in quality, so you can enjoy High Definition TV, DVD movies and satellite broadcasts with the best possible resolution. As an additional benefit, the RX-V4600 is compatible with the latest HDMI format, Ver. 1.1, meaning it can also handle digital audio signals, including DVD-Audio, CD, Dolby Digital and DTS. The RX-V4600 provides two-in/one-out HDMI
switching, letting you connect two digital sources, with each connection requiring only a single cable! HDMI is compatible with copyright protection technology as well, and is expected to be the standard digital transmission format in the future.
* When connecting DVI compatible equipment, confirm HDCP compatibility.
Dual i.LINK Terminals You can also select a second means of digital connection, called i.LINK. This is the name for the international IEEE1394 standard that provides high quality, two-way transmission of digital audio signals. It can handle the DVD-Audio, Super Audio CD, Dolby Digital and DTS formats, and offers full copyright protection. i.LINK provides greater convenience also, as only a single cable is required.
* i.LINK handles digital audio data only.
Just connect Yamaha's digital cinema projector and DVD-S2500 via HDMI, you can fully enjoy highest quality video and audio.
RX-V4600 Digital Home Theater Receiver

Superb Audio Quality

Digital ToP-ART and High Current Amplification Digital ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) is Yamahas design philosophy whose goal is to maximize the sound quality and functionality of the digital section by directly connecting it to the wide-range power amplifier. The culmination of the best digital engineering and design possible today, it combines high performance digital circuitry, high density CINEMA DSP circuitry and a high quality, wide dynamic range power amplifier. You can be sure that this receiver will deliver the full impact and dynamism of movies, with generous amounts of power. Yamahas High Current Amplification uses superior components to achieve low impedance,

high current power from input (power supply circuit) to output (speaker terminals). This drives the speakers much more smoothly and dynamically, for better sound from all sources, including 2-channel audio. Supporting all this are the Yamaha ToP-ART base and dual-bottom construction, which provide stability and further vibration damping. Design Focused on High Sound Quality All circuits employ carefully selected parts that are utilized in the best of thousands of possible combinations to achieve highest sound quality. Especially noteworthy is the power supply, which has a much larger capacity than previous
units, for power output that is clean and stable down to the lowest bass frequencies. Pure Direct Pure Direct is a special Yamaha function that configures the receiver to achieve the highest possible sound quality for enjoying music from stereo analog, multi-channel and digital sources. Engaging the Pure Direct mode turns off the power to all noise-producing circuits that are not in use and makes the signal flow as direct as possible by bypassing certain circuitry, maximizing sound purity. As a result, this A/V receiver achieves better sound quality than many high-end stereo amplifiers. Also Contributing to High Sound Quality 192kHz/24-bit DACs for all channels Digital tone controls for front, center, surround and subwoofer
Extra-large 11.9 lbs. transformer
Custom-made 18,000 F block electrolytic capacitors
Highest quality parts, including custom-made parts, are used throughout. Top: power amp section. Bottom: power supply section.
More Convenience and Flexibility
YPAO Automatically Sets the Best Sound for Any Room, Any Speaker Placement Yamahas YPAO system uses a small microphone and sophisticated equalization techniques to automatically set the best sound for any room, no matter where the speakers are. All you do is place the microphone, hit a button and wait for three minutes. YPAO is faster and more accurate than other systems of this type, and it automatically optimizes settings that are very difficult to adjust manually. A Trim function lets you control three parameters to tailor the sound to your own preferences. You can store six YPAO settings in the memory, making it easy to switch input/output sources and listening positions. Optimizer Microphone On-Screen Display with GUI Even though the receiver offers a wide selection of functions, operating it is easy and intuitive. You get clear menus and instructions via a GUI
(Graphical User Interface) display that appears on your TV or monitor. Colorful and easy to navigate, the GUI lets you do everything from choosing inputs and surround programs to detailed sound adjustments. Menus can be displayed in English, French or German.

* On-screen display does not function with HDMI.
Subwoofer Crossover and Phase Selection The RX-V4600 provides a choice of nine subwoofer crossover frequencies for maximum efficiency and performance, plus phase switching for best bass sound. Direct Access Remote Control The remote control can learn the functions of other components, so you can use it as a single remote for the entire system. You can also set Macro commands, enabling the remote to initialize a chain of functions at the touch of a single button. Input sources are shown in the LCD window, and you can change their names. Frequency used functions are easily accessible on the front, while others are located under the sliding panel. Main buttons are illuminated.
Component Video Up Conversion One way of ensuring the highest video quality for your home theater system is to use the best possible video signal. The RX-V4600 automatically upgrades the input signal to the best one that your monitor or TV can accept (composite to S-Video or component, S-Video to component). You never have a problem if your monitor or TV doesnt accept a certain signal, and even if it accepts all three, system connections are easier when conversion is handled inside the receiver. In short, you simply use the best possible cable between the receiver and the monitor/TV, and then whatever the source is, you are assured of getting the highest possible quality.
Component Video S-Video Composite Video English GUI display French GUI display German GUI display
Component Video S-Video Composite Video
Full Video Up Conversion upgrades the input signal to the best type that the monitor can handle.
YPAO Acoustic Customization: 5 Tuning Factors
YPAO provides frequency response compensation of all channels via a 7-band parametric equalizer.

Large -0.5dB

-2.5dB +0.5dB 0dB

+0.5dB

Level Level Frequency
+2.5dB +0.5dB 0dB +0.5dB 0dB +1.5dB +1.5dB 0dB 0dB
Graphic Equalizer For example: if there is the Dip like this.

Small Small

+4.5dB

Parametric Equalizer

1) Speaker Connections Checks for missing connections and subwoofer phase control (here the right surround speaker is not connected).
2) Speaker Distance Measures speaker distances from the listening point and corrects for differences down to 5cm.
3) Speaker Size Checks speaker sizes (large or small) and subwoofer crossover frequency.
4) Speaker Frequency Response Measures and optimizes each speakers frequency response using the parametric equalizer.
5) Sound Pressure Level Measures and aligns the sound pressure levels of all speakers.
Graphic equalizers adjust only the level, while parametric equalizers adjust gain, frequency and Q factor, thus providing more detailed and effective sound equalization.

Zone B [Terrace]

Zone 3 [Kitchen]

Zone 2 [Bedroom]

Main Zone [Living Room]
The RX-V4600 makes it possible to enjoy watching a DVD in the living room, watching satellite TV in the kitchen and listening to the radio in the bedroom all at the same time, each with its own volume and status control.
Extensive Flexibility for Multi-Zone Custom Installations The RX-V4600 provides an extensive range of functions that make it ideal for a multi-room, custom installation. It lets you select and enjoy three different sound sources in three rooms (called zones). In addition, people in Zone 2 can watch a different video than the one playing in the main zone. You can even have sound in a fourth room by using the Speaker B output for an additional set of speakers. When Speaker A is off in the main zone, the Zone B signal becomes Virtual CINEMA DSP. Dedicated Remote Control The receiver comes supplied with a dedicated Zone Remote Unit. You can use this in Zone 2 or 3 for power on/off, volume control, input source selection, preset radio station selection and mute. If you use it with an extended remote control receiving/emitter unit,* you can even command the RX-V4600 (located in the main zone) from another zone.
* Extended remote control receiving/emitter units are not available from Yamaha.
Front Panel Controls You can turn the power to the Main Zone, Zone 2 and Zone 3 on and off via switches on the front panel. A Zone Control button is also provided on the front, which enables you to adjust the volume and select the sources for Zone 2 and Zone 3.

Main Zone

Zone 2

5.1ch Off

On Second Room

Main Room

Amplifier Assignability Although the amplifier has seven channels, it has speakers terminals for nine channels, so if you connect the Surround Back and Zone 2* speakers to separate terminals, you can easily switch between them. You can assign two channels of amplifier power to drive the speakers in Zone 2. As a result, you dont need a separate amplifier for the speakers in that zone, but it is fully independent with its own 2-channel power. At the same time, people in the main zone can still enjoy 5.1-channel sound.

* Cannot be used at the same time as the Presence speakers.
Dual Remote Ports, Dual Trigger Outputs and RS-232C Interface The RX-V4600 offers dual remote input/output ports for remote control capability in Zone 2 and 3, and dual +12V trigger outputs for automatic power-on of Zone 2/3 amps. In the Main Zone, a projector, curtains, etc. can also be controlled. An RS-232C interface provides a link to a Creatron or AMX touch panel controller. Other Advanced Functionalities Rec Out/Zone 2 selector Speaker A, B, A+B selection via remote unit and front panel

Custom Zone Control

Main/Zone 2/Zone 3 Power On/Off and Zone Control buttons are located on the front panel of the receiver, and a Zone B (speaker B) can be set up.
2-channel amplifier for Zone 3

Zone B

2ch Audio
Zone B You can hear 2-channel audio (same source as in Main Zone).

5.1ch Home Theater

Main Zone You can enjoy 7.1-channel home theater, or 5.1-channel home theater when using two channels for zones 2/3.

2ch Home Theater

Zone 2 You can enjoy video plus 2-channel audio from the same or a different source than that in the main zone.

Zone 3

Zone 3 You can hear 2-channel audio from the same or a different source than that in the main zone.
Presence (Front Line) Sound Field Conventional 7.1-Channel Systems Quad-Field CINEMA DSP Dialogue Effect Music
Surround Left Sound Field
Surround Right Sound Field
Truly Realistic Surround Sound
Surround Back Sound Field
Yamahas Unique CINEMA DSP The RX-V4600 delivers a surround sound experience that is not only theater-like, it actually sounds better than many theaters. The reason is CINEMA DSP, a unique technology that enables movies to be heard with the same degree of realism and impact that the directors and sound engineers intended. It creates a deep, expansive and rich surround sound field, without the need for precise speaker placement. CINEMA DSP brings out the full potential of all movie sound formats, including the newest ones. Extensive listening tests have confirmed that it is simply the best system for enjoying home theater sound.
32/64-bit floating point quantization LSI for format decoding and two Yamaha original YSS-930 LSIs for DSP processing and audio delay

directors use, stored and processed by powerful and sophisticated LSIs. Therefore, listeners can hear movies as the director intended them to be heard, and music as it would sound in famous places like the Bottom Line or in locations like churches and stadiums.
Direct Sound Early Reflection The Bottom Line A world famous jazz club in New York. With an extremely wide floor, the 300-seat club has a realistically live sound field. Imaginary Sound Source Distribution of Sound Field Data Sound source distribution with listening position at center. Each circle represents an actual or reflected sound source, showing strength and position.
22 Surround Programs and Latest Surround Format Compatibility You have the extremely enjoyable choice of 22 surround programs in three categories: CINEMA DSP, HiFi DSP and THX. The movie programs include Spectacle, SciFi and Adventure, while the music programs feature the sound fields of actual venues. The RX-V4600 is capable of decoding all of the Dolby and DTS formats, including Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, Dolby Pro Logic IIx and DTS Neo:6. It also offers latest THX Select2 processing. Circle Surround II The RX-V4600 offers full function of Circle Surround II, a matrix surround sound decoder (from SRS Lab) that provides up to 6.1 multi-channel surround sound playback from mono, stereo, Dolby Surround and Circle Surround II-encoded sources such as HD Radio and cable/satellite TV programs. 9-Channel Output and Dialogue Lift The presence speakers in the upper front provide the front sound field with an overwhelming sense of solidity. With 6.1-channel or 7.1-channel decoding, a surround back sound field with smoother and
Use of Actual Sound Field Data The sensational sound that CINEMA DSP provides is due in great part to Yamahas advanced sound field data and processing techniques. The overwhelming sense of realism is made possible by the use of data from actual acoustic venues around the world including dubbing stages in film studios where sound
Quad-Field CINEMA DSP Quad-Field CINEMA DSP, projects four sound fields into the home theater: a presence sound field in the front, two surround sound fields on the sides, and a surround back sound field. This results in a surround sound environment with highly accurate localization, smooth movement, exceptional clarity and richness, and startlingly realistic presence.

22 Surround Program

Compatible Decoding Format HiFi DSP Programs 7 10 Hall in Munich Hall in Vienna Freiburg Bottom Line Roxy Theatre Disco 7 Channel Stereo Dolby Digital Dolby Digital EX DTS Digital Surround DTS 96/24 DTS-ES Matrix 6.1 DTS-ES Discrete 6.1 Dolby Pro Logic Dolby Pro Logic II Music Dolby Pro Logic II Movie Dolby Pro Logic II Game Dolby Pro Logic IIx Music Dolby Pro Logic IIx Movie Dolby Pro Logic IIx Game DTS Neo:6 Music DTS Neo:6 Cinema Circle Surround II Music Circle Surround II Cinema

more natural expansion can be obtained from the surround back speaker. Yamaha utilizes both benefits to provide speaker terminals for nine channels so that nine speakers can be used. The amplifier has seven channels, but it is possible to selectively use the presence speakers and the surround back speaker according to the sound source and the surround program without changing the wiring. In addition, the presence speakers allow use of a Dialogue Lift function. When the center speaker is below a large screen, the sound image of the dialogue is oriented below the picture, which sounds strange. Dialogue Lift performs signal processing on the center channel signal and presence channels signals (located higher than the center channel), orienting the sound image of the dialogue to the proper position. This ensures natural reproduction that matches the location of the dialogue to the screen image.
* Because the selectable presence and Zone 2 speakers use the same terminals, they cannot be used together.
and Music, with threelevel selectability, which will ensure that you dont miss movie dialogue or quiet passages, or lose overall surround spaciousness. It works for all surround programs, including Dolby Pro Logic IIx. The SILENT CINEMA mode allows private listening enjoyment of multi-channel music or movies, with an accurate simulation of surround sound, through ordinary headphones. Audio/Video Synchronization The latest display devices perform complex internal processing, causing a slight time lag to occur between the time the video signal is received and when it is output to the screen. The sound thus arrives a fraction of a second sooner, which can be perceptible enough to cause a strange sensation. The Audio Delay function (0240ms) matches the audio to the timing of the output of the video on the screen, correcting the audio video time lag.
ENTERTAINMENT STEREO Program Subtotal CINEMA DSP Programs ENTERTAINMENT MUSIC
MOVIE THEATER ENHANCED Program Subtotal THX Programs
Game Mono Movie Variety/Sports Pop/Rock Classic/Opera Spectacle Sci-Fi Adventure General Enhanced

Night Listening Enhancer and SILENT CINEMA During low-volume listening, such as late at night, dynamic range suffers and you may miss some sounds. The Night Listening Enhancer offers two modes, Cinema
Cinema Select2 Cinema Music Mode Game Mode THX Surround EX
Program Subtotal Program Total : HiFi DSP Programs : Tri-Field CINEMA DSP
: THX Programs : CINEMA DSP : Quad-Field CINEMA DSP
RX-V4600 Extensive Connections: HDMI (2 In/1 Out) Interface Dual i.LINK (IEEE1394) Terminals 5 Optical* and 3 Coaxial Digital Inputs, and 2 Optical Digital Outputs (fixed and assignable) 7 A/V* (with S-Video) and Audio Inputs, and 2 A/V (with S-Video) and 2 Audio Outputs 3 Component Video Inputs (fixed and assignable) and 1 HDTV Compatible Component Video Monitor Output RS-232C Interface Dual Remote Ports Dual Trigger Outputs (+12V, 15mA) Zone 2 Audio and Video (with S-Video) Outputs, and Zone 3 Audio Output 6-Channel External Decoder Input (8-Channel Compatible) Front L/R, Center, Surround L/R and Surround Back Preout, and Subwoofer Output Terminals S-Video and Composite Monitor Outputs 9-Channel Speaker Terminals including Zone 2/Presence Speaker Terminals * Including Video Aux terminals on front panel (power assignable) 2-Way Binding Post Speaker Terminals (Banana-Plug Compatible, Except Presence/Zone2)
RX-V4600 Main Specifications
AUDIO SECTION Minimum RMS Output Power (8 ohms, 20 Hz20 kHz, 0.04% THD) Front Channels Center Channel Surround Channels Surround Back Channel High Dynamic Power, Low-Impedance Drive Capability Dynamic Power/Channel 8 ohms 6 ohms 4 ohms 2 ohms Linear Damping Damping Factor (8 ohms, 20 Hz20 kHz) Input Sensitivity/Impedance Phono (MM) CD Frequency Response Total Harmonic Distortion (20 Hz20 kHz) CD (Front Sp Out) Signal-to-Noise Ratio (CD, 250 mV) Filter Characteristics Front, Center, Surround, Surround Back (Small, fc=) [High Pass Filter, Variable Crossover] Subwoofer (fc=) [Low Pass Filter, Variable Crossover] 40,60, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 160 and 200 Hz (12 dB/oct.) 40,60, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 160 and 200 Hz (24 dB/oct.) GENERAL Standby Power Consumption Dimensions Weight (W x H x D) Less than 0.2 W 17-1/8 x 6-3/4 x 17-1/4 39.7 lbs. 0.04% 100 dB 130 W + 130 W 130 W 130 W + 130 W 130 W + 130 W Yes 165 W 205 W 260 W 340 W Yes 140 (speaker A) 3.5 mV/47 k-ohms 200 mV/47 k-ohms 10 Hz100 kHz +0, -3 dB FM FM FM FM FM Selectivity Signal-to-Noise Ratio Harmonic Distortion (1 kHz) Stereo Separation (1 kHz) Frequency Response Signal-to-Noise Ratio Monitor Out Frequency Response Composite/S-Video Signal Component video Signal TUNER SECTION FM 50dB Quieting Sensitivity (1 kHz, 100% Modulation) Mono Stereo 400 kHz Mono/Stereo/HD Radio Mono/Stereo/HD Radio Stereo/HD Radio Mono/Stereo HD Radio 2 V (17.3 dBf) 25 V (39.2 dBf) 70 dB 76/70/80 dB 0.2/0.3/0.03% 42/70 dB 20 Hz15 kHz +0.5/2 dB 20 Hz18 kHz +0.5/3 dB 5 Hz10MHz -3 dB 5 Hz-60MHz -3 dB Component Video Signal Level VIDEO SECTION Video Signal Level S-Video Signal Level Y C Y Pb/Cb, Pr/Cr 1 Vp-p/75 ohms 1 Vp-p/75 ohms 0.286 Vp-p/75 ohms 1 Vp-p/75 ohms 0.7 Vp-p/75 ohms 60 dB

RX-V4600 7.1-Channel Digital Home Theater Receiver
d-cinema is the slogan of Yamaha A/V products and technology, reflecting our focus on digital technology and our leadership in creating and refining digital home theater. Yamahas unique technology for the creation of sound fields is capable of powerfully reproducing the three-dimensional environment that movie sound engineers aim to convey, in any audio format from monaural to the latest 6.1-channel digital surround. It is compatible with DVD and all other A/V sources. Yamaha CINEMA DSP technology has received a patent in the U.S. (Patent No. 5,261,005). Silent is a trademark of Yamaha Corporation. Dolby, Pro Logic and Double D are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Corporation. DTS, DTS-ES and Neo:6 are trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc. THX and the THX logo are registered trademarks of THX Ltd. Surround EX is a jointly developed technology of THX and Dolby Laboratories, Inc. and is a trademark of Dolby Laboratories, Inc. TruBass and the SRS symbol are trademarks of SRS Labs., Inc. HD Radio is a trademark of iBiquity Digital Corp. i.LINK and the i.LINK logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation. HDMI, the HDMI logo and HighDefinition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC. Product designs and specifications are subject to change without notice.
For details please contact:
Yamaha Electronics Corporation USA, P.O. Box 6660 Buena Park, CA 90622
Visit us at our website: http://www.yamaha.com

YAMAHA CORPORATION

P O. Box 1, Hamamatsu, Japan.
UEN 10505 T Printed in Japan

Automatic Configuration

Just as most of the latest generation Yamaha receivers, the RX-V4600 features their YPAO system which automatically checks and/or configures: Wiring Distance Size Equalizing Level
Editorial Note About the External Analog Inputs on the RX-V4600
In order to utilize the 8CH inputs you must route the front outputs of your 8CH source into the DVD Inputs, and the Surround Back Outputs of your 8CH source into the Front/SB EXT Inputs. Then properly configure the Multi CH assignments in the GUI of the RXV4600 for 8CH. Otherwise use the standard 6CH EXT analog inputs labeled on the back of the RX-V4600 for DVD-A/SACD, assuming your universal player doesnt have an active i.LINK / IEEE 1394 interface connection.
YPAO Parametric Room EQ Settings
YPAO allows you to set equalizing to the following parameters intended to aid in correcting the system for both room anomalies and differences in loudspeaker frequency response. One thing I found odd was the wording of the EQ modes. Wording in the manual almost suggests that Yamahas YPAO is focused on taming the anomalies associated
For more information about this interface, see our Yamaha RX-Z9 review at: www.audioholics.com

Item Name

Features
Yamaha RX-V4600 Receiver 7-Channel Powerful Surround Sound (130W x 7 RMS) [8-ohms, 20 Hz20 kHz, 0.04% THD] Digital ToP-ART and High Current Amplification Pure Direct Switch for High Quality 2-Channel and Multi-Channel Sound Reproduction 192 kHz/24-Bit DACs for All Channels YPAO Automatically Sets Best Sound for Any Room, Any Speaker Placement Dialogue Lift for Enhanced Dialogue Sound 9-Channel Speaker Outputs with Zone 2 Out On-Screen Display with GUI (Graphical User Interface) Main / Zone 2 Front Panel Power Switching Zone 2 S-Video Output Terminal THX Select2 HD Radio Accurate Touch Volume Control Audio Delay for Adjusting Lip-Sync (0240 ms) Digital Tone Controls for Front, Center, Presence and Subwoofer Rec Out/Zone 2 Selector Selectable 9-Band Subwoofer Crossover Subwoofer Phase Select Speaker A, B or A+B Selection (Front L/R) SILENT CINEMA and Virtual CINEMA DSP Direct-Access (Macro-Command, Learning and Preset Capable) Remote Control Unit with Macro-Command Buttons and Illuminated Buttons Dimensions: 17.125" W x 6.75" H x 17.2" D Weight: 39.7lbs MSRP: $1899
I didnt particularly care for the system response I was hearing with any EQ mode and was a bit disappointed in how little YPAO has evolved since its inception in the RX-Z9. While PEQ seemed to evoke a more intimate listening experience, it made the sound seem more forced and unnatural. The Natural response seemed to muddy up the mid-bass while the Flat setting seemed to sound overly bright with too much bass boost which caused some source material to overload the woofers in my satellite speakers since YPAO incorrectly identified them as large and didnt apply bass management to them.

sound quality in my system, depending on source material, sounding a bit forward and sibilant in the highs. Check: Front If your main speakers are of significantly better quality than the rest of the system this setting will attempt to adjust the frequency response of the other speakers to more closely blend in with the front channels. Evaluation Summary: This mode preserved the front soundstage but seemed to make the center channel sound a bit nasally or congested.
Editorial Note about the Impedance Selector Switch
I recommend the "Minimum 8-ohms" setting even for 4-ohm speakers of moderate efficiency (>89dB SPL). Yamaha includes a" 6-ohm" setting to satisfy UL heat dissipation requirements when driving 4-ohm loads, as well as easing consumer concerns about driving low impedance loads. These switches step down voltage feed to the power sections which can limit dynamics and overall fidelity. My advice is to keep the switch set to "Minimum 8-ohms" regardless of the impedance of your speakers and ensure proper ventilation of the Receiver. To illustrate this point further, I have tabulated my measured differences between the 8-ohm and 6ohm setting for driving 8-ohm and 4-ohm loads.

8 Ohm Setting

134wpc into an 8-ohm load @ 0.1% THD 210wpc into a 4-ohm load @ 0.1% THD

6 Ohm Setting

95wpc into an 8-ohm load @ 0.1% THD 180wpc into a 4-ohm load @ 0.1% THD

Editorial Note on YPAO

Its important to note that the YPAO system does not perform any corrections to frequencies below 62.5Hz, and does no correction whatsoever to the subwoofer channel meaning that it really cannot correct for many bass peaks caused by room modes. The best methods of dealing with room modes are: speaker/subwoofer location, listener location, adjustable PEQ. For more speaker calibration tips, please check out our System SetUp and Configuration Tips.
Some of the Key Benefits Touted About HD Radio technology include:

Enhanced sound quality and reception over standard FM radio. Application services offering new features and information. Easy upgrade path to convert from analog to digital radio without service disruption using existing radio channels and bandwidth. Elimination of static noise and fading associated with conventional analog broadcasts due to multipath, noise and interference. Allowing radio broadcasters to send audio and data content via digital signals on the existing AM/FM bands. No subscription fee. The last bullet certainly strikes points with me. At last - a high resolution broadcast format free to the general public. To get started, I advise checking out Ibiquitys website to locate HD Radio-capable channels in your area. I selected Florida, my home state, and got the list below. Using nothing more than the dental floss monopole FM antenna wire supplied with the RX-V4600, I began tuning in stations. The strongest station in this list was 97.1MHz which, from my home, could be picked up on a decent tuner without the use of an antenna (or a teenagers braces when they open their mouths.) Within a second or so, the RX-V4600
that would disable PEQ, but unfortunately t did not. In the end I did find a decent work around. By using the System Memory Settings feature (up to 6 storable allocations) of the RX-V4600, you can store independent Sound field program parameters, PEQ, Dynamic Range, LFE and speaker configuration settings. At this point it was a matter of toggling between Memory settings (#1 and #2 accessible on the remote) to do on-the-fly comparisons, though I would have preferred a single button toggle on the remote without the need to engage different memory banks. Comparing the auto level trim settings via the internal test tones, I found channel to channel balance to be matched within +-0.5dB, while speaker distances were pretty much dead on or closer than I could have gotten with a tape measure. But double check the subwoofer distance is accurate within a few feet as I have often found auto systems tend to incorrectly set the distance, especially if the sub is placed in close proximity to the listening position. YPAO was no exception and set my subwoofer distance to 22ft when it was actually only about 12ft away. Speaker sizes and crossover settings varied each time I ran the auto setup, thus I recommend taking your results with a grain of salt. Know your speakers and determine if the size and crossover settings are appropriate or not. If you arent sure, consult

your dealer and/ or loudspeaker manufacturer. At the very minimum, I would suggest using the auto setup feature for speaker level and distances since for the most part, they are at best relatively accurate and a good starting point for tweaking more accurate system performance. If you decide on using PEQ, Yamaha provides user flexibility to contour its response to your liking (a new feature not found on previous generation YPAO enabled receivers).

HD Radio

Radio seems to be the lost format in the home theater and music realm these days. Only a decade or so ago, tuner fanatics used to tweak and mod their AM/FM tuners for higher performance (see Yamaha T-80 Vintage Tuner Review). With tuner performance becoming less of a priority in preamps and receivers these days, this further caused a loss of focus on FM radio being taken seriously as a high quality source. Luckily the digital era we embraced seems to have addressed this. Enter HD Radio from Ibiquity Digital Corporation.

Station

WBVM WPOI WSUN WWRM WFLA

FM FM FM FM AM

Frequency
90.5 MHz 101.1 MHz 97.1 MHz 94.9 MHz 970 kHz

Format

Christian Contemporary 80s Hits Alternative Soft AC News/Talk/Sport
locked onto the 97.1MHz HD Radio signal. My initial impressions were that I must have been listening to one of the music channels on my satellite receiver, because I was hearing no static or noise associated with AM/FM broadcasts. It wasnt until I heard the DJ and annoying commercials that my brain convinced my ears I was listening to a local radio station, though with CD-like fidelity. The HD Radio signal sounded much clearer and more detailed than standard FM making radio almost bearable. The AM HD Radio station was a bit too weak for me to lock onto which was a shame since I would have loved to listen to my favorite talk radio the Phil Hendrie Show noise free. I am not a big fan of radio, but if bubble gum pop or two-chord so-called alternative rock is your game, than you will certainly dig listening to it using this system. Best of all, it wont cost you anything other than purchasing a good antenna, though the Yamaha supplied ones may do you just fine.

Editorial Notes about HDMI (especially for computer folks)
You cannot connect display devices (such as presentation displays) that are NOT HDCP compliant. The result if you attempt this will be no picture. The RX-V4600 currently does not support analog video upconversion to HDMI, however it does support component video upconversion so its a good idea to use this feature when handling composite, s-video and component video connections. For more information on HDMI we recommend the following articles in the Specs & Formats and Cable Sections of Audioholics.com: HDMI Interface A Beginners Guide DVI & HDMI Video Connections Audio & Video Connections Guide

Video Set-Up

Alas, finally a Yamaha receiver with HDMI I/O connections (a feature lacking even on their flagship RX-Z9). The RX-V4600 is compliant to HDMI ver 1.1 which covers video up to 1080i and all audio formats except SACD (with SACDs almost universally-slow adoption rates were starting to think thats less and less of a big deal.) I opted to use i.LINK for audio and HDMI for video for most of my testing of this receiver.
Multi-Zone / Multi-Source Audio
As with most receivers in this price class, the RX-V4600 features Zone2 and Zone3 multi source audio with the option of Zone2 being amplified by the Surround Back / Presence channels. In fact, if you are running a full fledged 7.1 speaker arrangement in the main room, make sure you pick up a 2CH amp and set the Zone2 amp is to EXT otherwise the back channels will not function. Zone2 and Zone3 will only allow analogue audio connections, so dont forget to run analogue interconnects for the source components connected to these zones. If you need an additional zone of audio, you can also configure SPK B for Zone B, turn off SPK A and turn on SPK B. This will automatically disable the sub and surround speakers allowing you to use the Main preamp zone with digital audio inputs for another speaker location.
The RAV354 Universal Remote Control
The RAV354 fits easily in the hand so that most commonly used keys are positioned within easy reach of the thumb. This includes volume, channels, menu, navigational and the enter button. Even DSP functions are within easy reach without having to maneuver the remote control, though when using to the receiver in a dark room you better make sure you have the control selector set to amp otherwise you will wind up changing the channel rather than the DSP mode. The fact that all keys are now backlit (activated via a button on the left side of the remote) would be cause for small celebration except that the remote stopped just short of the first down and opted to include sea foam colored labels on many of the primary buttons - rendering them nearly invisible in the dark, even when backlit. One other thing to note is that the numeric keys (which are not arranged in the familiar 4 rows of 3 format) are also poorly and unevenly backlit. I suppose I am spoiled with my Universal MX800 remote, but I feel that all of the buttons should light up when you engage the backlighting even at the expense of battery life, which today is less of an issue with rechargeables being commonplace.

Yamaha RAV354 Universal Remote & RAV18 Zone Remote
The RAV remote controls are easy to operate, and have powerful feature sets. Now all we have to do is get Yamaha to fully backlight the RAV354 and we can retire the clapper.
Very easily programmed Fits nicely in the hand, new thinner design Dedicated receiver volume Source switch for controlling inactive components Powerful Macro Features
Seafoam button labels unreadable in dark, even with backlight Backlight barely lights up keypad Keypad does not adhere to standard layout
With Cinema DSP engaged, it brought me closer to the live experience providing a very expansive and reverberant surround field while still maintaining a great deal of vocal intelligibility and focus.

Gene DellaSala

I also tried twochannel sources in Circle Surround (CS) II Music Mode and found my results to vary depending on source material. In best case scenarios it added vocal clarity and expansiveness to two-channel sources. On the flip side, it either added no discernable improvement or a slight loss in stereo separation. CSII is certainly a value added tool in setups having only a primary pair of speakers for stereo. However, in the end I either listened to two-channel music sources in Source Direct or in PLIIx Music Mode. Had I only been using the RX-V4600 with two speakers, I would have likely taken more advantage of this processing feature.
Programming the remote is about as easy as it gets, short of using mental telepathy. The only difficulty I had, which was remedied with a paper clip, was accessing the programming buttons. This is understandable since you dont necessarily want these buttons to be easily accessible to the spouse or kids. I also liked the feel of the buttons themselves. The no-slip texture is easy on the hands and helps ensure you select the right buttons. Users of previous Yamaha remotes will need to get used to flipping the new AMP/SOURCE/TV switch which is a nice development that instantly directs remote control commands between the receiver, currently selected source, or television (as programmed into the DTV source.) Separate power buttons for the receiver, source and television help ensure that youll never mistakenly turn off the wrong device. I also appreciate the Audio Select button, which was incidentally backlit and allows the user to toggle between formats of a particular source (i.e. Auto, PCM, Analog). The numeral 7 Select button allows the user to toggle between different surround modes (i.e. PLIIx Music, Movie, DTS Neo:6, CSII, etc), a feature I most commonly utilized, really begged to be backlight. I am hopeful Yamaha reconsiders this for future iterations of this fine remote. Until then, my clapper remains plugged into the lamp in my listening room.

primary settings while trying to make the outdoor speakers louder at a pool party. This is the remote (if any) you let your guests use. It isnt backlit, but considering people using the Zone2 and Zone3 features likely never do so in the dark, I dont see this as being an issue.

Multi-channel Audio

DVD Title: Marbles on the Road Artist: Marillion

Listening Tests

All the features aside, it all boils down to sound quality in the end. For without it, we would all be happy with our clock radios or cube speaker systems.

Two-Channel CD / SACD

Track List: The Invisible Man Marbles I You're Gone Angelina Marbles II Don't Hurt Yourself Fantastic Place Marbles III The Damage Marbles IV Neverland Bridge Living With the Big Lie The Party Between You and Me Uninvited Guest Cover My Eyes PLUS DVD EXTRAS Marbles EPK You're Gone (Promo Video) Don't Hurt Yourself (Promo Video)
The RAV18 Zone Remote Control
The sole purpose of this remote is to operate the Zone2 and Zone3 sections of the RXV4600. I really liked having a separate remote for these features as it helped eliminate an inexperienced user messing up your systems
First up was my usual listening sessions with my trusted Patricia Barber SACDs Caf Blue and Modern Cool. With i.LINK engaged between the RX-V4600 and my Denon DVD5900 it was smooth sailing. I enjoyed her melodic overtures and the bands instrumentals with full bass management. I didnt detect any noise issues like I did on the Integra Research RDC-7.1, nor did any distracting artifacts present themselves. Kicking off my shoes and opening a nice Belgium Lambic I popped in some Michael Franks Burchfield Nines which quickly evaporated my worries of daily life activities. The RX-V4600 had no qualms driving my reference speakers and did especially well at low listening levels indicating very good Signal to Noise (SNR) system performance.
A couple of months ago, I had the distinct honor of interviewing one of my all time progressive rock bands Marillion. During our interview of the band, we learned many insightful things such as the history of their music, the inside stories surrounding the meaning of the lyrics and much more. You could imagine I was tickled pink to get a signed copy of their latest concert tour titled Marbles on the Road. I switched off the Surround Back channels in favor of the Presence channels knowing I would

want to take advantage of Yamahas Cinema DSP modes, which in my opinion truly shine for concert videos and DVDs. I toggled between The Roxy Theatre and The Bottom Line music DSP modes but settled on the latter after toning down some of its adjustable parameters. It provided the most spacious sound field without sounding artificial or overbearing. The first track The Invisible Man is a strong opening for this DVD. It really demonstrates the versatility of the bands music and the power of Steve Hs vocals. With Cinema DSP engaged, it brought me closer to the live experience providing a very expansive and reverberant surround field while still maintaining a great deal of vocal intelligibility and focus. Listening to the live rendition of Bridge, the title track from the album Brave, was truly an awesome experience. The enveloping surround effect, of course the passion in Steve Hs voice, prompted me to pop in the Brave CD after he finished this performance. I found myself halfway into this CD before I realized it was nearly 2am! I actually preferred listening to the studio CD of Brave in PLIIx Music Mode. As with prior Yamaha receivers, I have found their music DSP modes to work best with live reverberant program material such as concert videos, but for normal music, I usually prefer either stereo or PLIIx Music Mode. In any event, Cinema DSP is a good tool to have in your audio bag of tricks which can enhance your listening experience with the right source material. For all other scenarios, Yamaha sports the standard surround processing or plain vanilla stereo bypass. allowing me to enjoy my favorite movies in the comfort of my home theater room and absence of a crowed and sticky cinemaplex with overpriced and over-salted popcorn.
Suggestions for Improvement
As good as the Yamaha RX-V4600 is, there is definitely margin for improvement which we would like to see in future model iterations such as: Single button toggle ability to engage/disengage PEQ More accurate and consistent auto speaker size and crossover configuration Subwoofer PEQ or an adjustable notch filter with variable gain and Q. Analog video upconversion to HDMI with OSD Display Easier accessibility of channel trim adjustments via the remote Fully-backlit remote control with standard keypad layout

Home Theater

I know The Fifth Element isnt exactly a current title, but come on, this movie is a classic. Its funny, surprising, loaded with cool visual effects and action and best of all it has Milla Jovovich. Adventure Mode overlaid with PLIIx Movie was most enjoyable. Though, I wished Yamaha would have provided an independent preamp output for the Presence channels so I could have engaged a full 7.1 + 2 speaker configuration with an additional twochannel amp. Engaging the Presence channels really makes Cinema DSP modes shine. As with their previous 7.1 receivers (i.e. RXV2400/2500) Yamaha missed the boat on this. The only current Yamaha receiver that can engage 7.1 EX with the additional two Presence channels is their $4,500 super receiver - The RX-Z9. Space battles from The Fifth Element and flight scenes from The Aviator sounded spectacular on the RX-V4600. Channel to channel separation was excellent, panning fluid, and surround field envelopment a hallmark of Yamaha since the days of their first Dolby Digital-enabled receivers. Power and dynamics were never an issue in my listening experiences, especially since I had all reasonably efficient speakers (>89dB SPL @ 1meter) crossed over at 80Hz with the very potent Axiom Audio EP500 subwoofer handling all of the starship and airplane explosions. Whether I listened to straight DDEX, PLIIx or Cinema DSP, the RX-V4600 provided a better than movie theater surround experience

Conclusions and Overall Perceptions
As with the tradition of all Yamaha A/V receivers I have had the pleasure of reviewing, the RX-V4600 lives up to the Yamaha name. Its feature packed, excellent processing capabilities stand out at this price point. Its improved amplifier performance over the RXV2500 (see test results), particularly when driving low impedance loads, opens it up to a bigger loudspeaker market while also making it somewhat more predictable sounding when driving the tougher loads. While there were some items I would have liked to see improvements on, they certainly didnt take away from the quality, value and enjoyment of this product. Whether used as a dedicated pre/pro or a full-fledged receiver, the RXV4600 will likely satisfy the needs of all but the most elaborate home theater installations. As with all prior Yamaha receivers I have reviewed, their forte is truly home theater, but this doesnt imply slouch performance for music. On the contrary, its arsenal of processing features to enhance music (ie. CSII, PLIIx, etc), i.LINK for high resolution formats such as DVD-A/SACD, and its improved amplifier performance makes it right at home for your music needs. Its always a difficult task to pack up a Yamaha receiver after my review is over and I almost always miss the Presence channels for use with cinematic and concert movies. The RX-V4600 is certainly no exception in this instance. Until then, I leave my extra speakers in place and an open theater chair for their next round.

Whether used as a

dedicated pre/pro or a full-fledged receiver, the RX-V4600 will likely satisfy the needs of all but the most elaborate home theater installations. Gene DellaSala
Y amaha RX-V4600 Review Score Card
The scoring below is based on each speaker 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 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 speakers solely based on performance, and each reviewer has their own system for ratings.

Audioholics Ratings Scale:
Outstanding (reserved for features or areas that exceed market norms) Above Average Average Below average Very poor
Product Description Claimed Power Accessories Multifunction A/V Receiver 170wpc @ 8ohms x 10 IEC removable power cord, LCD Remote, Mic

COMMENTS

Class A/B amps 14-gauge 3-conductor

PERFORMANCE PARAMETERS

Frequency Response Linearity Damping Factor Output Impedance Measured Power into 8 ohms Measured Power into 4 ohms SNR Ratio Amp SNR Ratio Preamp

IDEAL = 5 STARS

20Hz to 20kHz +-0.25dB for all power levels > 40; all power levels across entire audio bandwidth less than 100mohms for entire audio bandwidth at least 100wpc ideally double the 8 ohm rating > 90dBr at 1 watt > 90dBr @ 1Vrms

MEASURED

see graphs see graphs see graphs measured > 134wpc measured > 210wpc > 81dB (unweighted with preamp!) > 96dB preamp PERFORMANCE SCORE
excellent linearity regardless of price

SUBJECTIVE EVALUATION

7.1 Channel Pro Logic IIx / DTS Neo Performance 7.1 / 5.1 Channel DD / DTS Performance Two Channel Performance SUBJECTIVE SCORE

PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Size: (WxHxD) Construction Material Quality Overall Finish Quality WAF Ease of Set-Up Remote
< ( 20" x 10" x 20")
17 /8"W x 6 /4"H x 17 /4"D
/2 /2 Moderate size and weight (39.7lbs) Aluminum brushed faceplate & Door on par with others in price class Seamless design Lots of configuration options may intimidate the Spouse Apply YPAO settings with a grain of salt
PRACTICAL OVERALL SCORE OVERALL VALUE

/4 //2

Associated Test Gear
Yamaha RX-V4600 MSRP: $1899 www.yamaha.com/yec
Yamaha Electronics 6660 Orangethorpe Avenue Buena Park, CA 90620 (714) 522-9105

HARDWARE

Denon AVR-5805 Emotiva MPS-1 Status Acoustics Decimos RBH Sound Signature 61-LSE with Status Drivers RBH 44-SEB (modified for back channel speakers) RBH 61-LSE with Status Drivers RBH Sound MC-4C Denon DVD-5900 Syntax Olevia LT30HV Blue Jeans Cables Impact Acoustics Impact Acoustics Cobalt Cables River Cable R.E. Designs

DESCRIPTION

10CH Multifunction A/V Receiver 200wpc x 7 Multi-channel Amplifier Reference Main Channels Reference Center Channel Reference Back Channels Reference Rear Channels Presence Channels Universal DVD Video Reference Player 30 LCD HDTV Video Coax Cables 1694A Sonicwave HDMI & DVI Cables Sonicwave Toslink Cables 10 AWG speaker cables 11AWG Starflex speaker cables Analog Interconnects

MANUFACTURER

Audio Precision Linear X Sencore Sencore Sencore Wayne Kerr Radio Shack Craftsman Ovation Software

MODEL #

SYS 2722 LMS&Leap5 SC3100 SP295C MX299 3260B 33-Avia Pro
Audio Analyzer Swept Sinewave Analyzer for loudspeaker measurements 100MHz Oscilloscope Audio Analyzer Microphone Multiplexer Magnetics Analyzer Sound Level Meter AC/DC Multi Meter Home Theater Calibration Software DVD Home Theater Calibration Software DVD

WEBSITE

Audio Precision Linear X Sencore Sencore Sencore Wayne Kerr Radio Shack Craftsman DVE Review Ovation Software

Digital Video Essentials

Measurements and Analysis Preamplifier Tests Frequency Response
The frequency response out of the preamp was ruler flat in the audio band (20Hz to 20kHz +-0.1dB) with a -3dB point around 120kHz. I also observed no measurable difference between Straight and Pure Direct.

FFT Distortion Analysis

When the analog preamp was driven at 1Vrms (typically 1/2 signal strength to achieve 1/2 of max power of most power amps with voltage gain of 29dB) distortion levels were (+0.497 + 88.955 = 89.452dBv) or 100*alog (-89.452/20) =.00337% This is certainly a commendably low distortion figure. At 2Vrms, the preamp section of the RXV4600 faltered. This is because Yamaha was likely using only a single rail 5V supply for the preamp section. I would prefer to see a preamp have the ability of driving 2Vrms undistorted to accommodate a wider assortment of power amplifiers. Though this didnt present any audible nasties when I used the RX-V4600 as a preamp to my Emotiva MPS-1 power amp, my advice here is to choose a power amp that can achieve maximum power output with about a 1.5Vrms input should you decide on buttressing your system with external amplification.

Signal to Noise Ratio

The Inputs can handle 3Vrms unclipped! Outputs Deliver nearly 2Vrms output unclipped! But FFT distortion becomes very high once output exceeds 1.5Vrms. Ch-A SIGNAL to NOISE RATIO -106.85 dB below 4.23 dBV Reference Level (at 0.10 % THD+N) <10 Hz - 22k Hz bandwidth, no option filter and no weighting With a 200mV Input Signal, I adjusted master volume for 1Vrms out, preamp gain (Av=5 or 14dB), I measured as follows: 18.5dBrA with signal -74.6dBrA without signal SNR: 93dBrA (commendable performance for a preamp at any price class)

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