Yamaha Refreshes Its AVENTAGE AVR Lineup with Loads of Tech, All-New Look

(May 23, 2021) Competition in the AV receiver market is heating up, and Yamaha is flexing its collective muscle with a re-tooled AVENTAGE receiver lineup. The company recently revealed the series’ top three models – the 7.2-channel RX-A4A, 9.2-ch RX-A6A, and 11.2-ch RX-A8A – all of which offer cutting-edge video technologies, broad immersive audio capabilities, and a stunning new look.

The styling of Yamaha’s 2021 AVENTAGE AVRs is notably bold and visually seductive, radically departing from previous model years. While some appointments, such as Yamaha's signature anti-resonance “fifth foot," remain, just about every other aspect has changed. The front faceplate is dominated by a large center-mounted volume knob. That knob is flanked by a newly designed hi-res LCD display, a rotary jog dial, and touch-sensitive buttons. The topside features a gorgeous, large venting area, while the bottom portion of the chassis almost appears to be a separate component, offering quite a bit of detail for the eye to digest.

The backside of each new model is slightly different and relatively routine, however, enthusiasts will appreciate the inclusion of balanced XLR stereo inputs/outputs and multi-channel RCA outputs on the RX-A6A and RX-A8A.

Tech-wise, all three receivers are ready to tackle HDMI 2.1 and associated video capabilities. Those include 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, and 4K/60Hz resolutions, along with auto low latency mode (ALLM), variable refresh rates (VRR), quick frame transport (QFT), and quick media switching (QMS). Each model carries seven HDMI 2.1 inputs and three HDMI 2.1 outputs, offering owners a massive amount of connection flexibility.

Immersive audio is managed by Qualcomm’s QC407 quad-core audio processor, providing access to DTS:X, Dolby Atmos, Auro-3D (RX-A6A and RX-A8A only), and associated upmixing options. The QC407 also brings Yamaha’s Surround:AI to life, a technology that analyzes DSP parameters and optimizes various sound components (e.g. dialogue, background music) in real-time.

Sound quality is tuned by Yamaha’s proprietary YPAO R.S.C. multi-point correction suite. New for 2021 is a parametric equalizer option called Low Frequency Mode (LFM). Yamaha says LFM identifies problems in the 15.6Hz to 250Hz frequency spectrum and corrects issues by recruiting the help of all available parametric filters. Hardware-wise, sound is honed through the use of mechanically isolated transformers, symmetrical amplifier layouts with optimized signal paths, high-quality SABRE DACs, and high slew rate amplifiers with stable signal transmission for rapid, accurate adjustments to input levels.

Wirelessly speaking, Yamaha includes its MusicCast streaming platform, along with app control, Wi-Fi, AirPlay2, Spotify Connect, and a host of popular built-in music services (such as Amazon Music HD, TIDAL, Qobuz, Pandora, and Spotify).

The RX-A8A is priced at $2,999.95 MSRP, while the RX-A6A and RX-A4A are $2,199.95 (MSRP) and $1,299.95 (MSRP), respectively. All three models will begin shipping this coming summer.


Select Specifications
RX-A8A

• 11.2-ch., 150-watt AV receiver with Zone 2, 3 and 4
• HDMI 2.1* with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (7-in/3-out)
• 8K/60Hz* & 4K/120Hz* (7-in/3-out)
• Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, Surround:AI, Auro 3D*
• YPAO R.S.C. automatic room calibration with multi-point measurement, precision EQ and low frequency mode
• Simply to use and control, with AV Setup Guide app, MusicCast app and web setup
• Integration-friendly, with full two-way control with home automation and smart home control systems
• Voice control with Amazon Alexa, Siri (via AirPlay 2) and Google Assistant

RX-A6A

• 9.2-ch., 150-watt AV receiver with Zone 2, 3 and 4
• HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (7-in/3-out)
• 8K/60Hz* & 4K/120Hz* (7-in/3-out)
• Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, Surround:AI, Auro 3D*
• YPAO R.S.C. automatic room calibration with multi-point measurement, precision EQ and low frequency mode
• Simply to use and control, with AV Setup Guide app, MusicCast app and web setup
• Integration-friendly, with full two-way control with home automation and smart home control systems
• Voice control with Amazon Alexa, Siri (via AirPlay 2) and Google Assistant

RX-A4A

• 7.2-ch., 110-watt AV receiver with Zone 2
• HDMI 2.1* with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (7-in/3-out)
• 8K/60Hz* & 4K/120Hz* (7-in/3-out)
• Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, Surround:AI
• YPAO R.S.C. automatic room calibration with multi-point measurement, precision EQ and low frequency mode
• Simply to use and control, with AV Setup Guide app, MusicCast app and web setup
• Integration-friendly, with full two-way control with home automation and smart home control systems
• Voice control with Amazon Alexa, Siri (via AirPlay 2) and Google Assistant

Additional Images
RX-A8A

RX-A6A

RX-A4A

 

[Sonnie Parker]

Definitely different looking. Curious if their LFM will fix their lack of low-end resolution in the YPAO. Sounds like they might have at least tried.

 

[Todd Anderson]

I’m curious too... we have dibs on two units for review... So I guess we’ll find out!

 

[JStewart]

Definitely different looking.

I’m going to pick a nit and ask if a right handed owner can read the display when turning the large knob in the middle?
Nothing to do with Yamaha, but really, what’s the point of any physical controls on an AVR or processor anymore? Well, except for a power switch.

Curious if their LFM will fix their lack of low-end resolution in the YPAO.

I am too. That lack is what led me to the bass rabbit hole and different choices in gear.

 

[Todd Anderson]

I'm talking to Yamaha in a few weeks, will get some clarity on this issue. I agree, though, bass EQ is must have!

 

[NBPK402]

I really like the new look!

 

[RedHotFuzz]

I’m going to pick a nit and ask if a right handed owner can read the display when turning the large knob in the middle?

I'm also right-handed but don't find it difficult to twiddle a knob with my left.

 

[RedHotFuzz]

I really like the new look!

I worry how scratch-prone that glossy face will be. Seems most glossy electronics scratch simply by wiping dust off with a soft cloth. Brushed/matte finishes have been en vogue for decades for a reason.

 

[Kal Rubinson]

The blank space on the left cries out for a nice large touch screen (for lefties).

 

[TitaniumTroy]

I'm really forward to your review. Especially interested in the Surround AI, supposedly it corrects for your room, to make the surround speakers disappear. Also to pick the best soundfield for each individual scene within a movie.

 

[Coy Ramsey]

About 5 yrs ago I bought the Yam Rx-A660 Aventage AVR and, after a lengthy learning curve, it has served me well. But, as I age, my hearing is deteriorating and I need improved dialogue and am constantly looking for help (eg center channel speakers, room treatments, etc). This new AVR with the AI feature just might be a step forward for me. I made a mistake with the 660 in that it does not include pre-outs and this has bugged me in my quest for new L/C/R speakers and the A4A would correct that plus an improvement in power plus the addition of multi-point YPAO and RSC just might be worth the 2X price tag. However, I think that I'll wait until 2022 and hope that they work out some of the early "bugs".

 

[Todd Anderson]

I had an hour web call with Yamaha last week. They reviewed a deck highlighting the new receivers core technologies. @TitaniumTroy, SoundAI was a one of the big highlights. It delivers a sound presentation custom fit to a room. I'm looking forward to experiencing it.

Also... GREAT NEWS, the new Low Frequency Mode is, in fact, a new subwoofer EQ package. One of the designers said he a prototype on hand and is very pleased with the its performance, but they aren't ready to divulge specifics yet.

I should have both an A4A and an A8A on hand for review at launch. The A8A is looking to be a total BEAST. 11-channels of onboard amplification and serious build-quality attributes.

I have high hopes for this new lineup.