When I set out on my quest to find the perfect AV receiver, my goal was simple: to unearth a gem that wouldn’t break the bank and would elevate my audio experience to new heights. After much research and anticipation, I stumbled upon the Yamaha RX-V385, and I’m here to share my comprehensive review of this impressive piece of audio equipment.
Specifications :
- Power: Up to 70W per channel.
- Calibration: YPAO Sound Calibration.
- Upscaling : UHD upscaling.
- Connectivity : Bluetooth connectivity.
- Audio : HDMI with Audio Return Channel.
- HDMI: 4 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI output.
- Technology : CINEMA DSP technology.
- Capable : Bi-amp capable.
- Support : SILENT CINEMA support.
- Input :Flexible audio/video input assignment.
- Audio: Audio delay adjustment (0-500 ms).
- DAC :Burr-Brown 384 kHz / 32-bit DACs.
Pros:
- Powerful.
- YPAO calibration.
- 4K upscaling.
- Bluetooth streaming.
- High-quality DACs.
Cons:
- Limited HDMI ports.
- No Wi-Fi.
- Pricey for some.
Unboxing :
The first thing that struck me about the Yamaha RX-V385 was its unassuming yet sleek appearance. This AV receiver comes in a standard black finish that blends seamlessly into most home entertainment setups. It’s a no-nonsense design that reflects its focus on performance over flashy aesthetics.
Upon unboxing, I was pleasantly surprised for the build quality. The RX-V385 feels robust and well-constructed. It’s not too heavy, making it easy to handle during setup. Yamaha’s reputation for quality is evident from the moment you lay your hands on it.
A Powerhouse of Sound :
At its core, the Yamaha RX-V385 is all about power and sound quality. With the capability to deliver up to 70 watts per channel at 8 ohms, it’s clear that this receiver means business. I hooked it up to my home theater system, and the difference in audio quality was immediately noticeable. It breathed new life into my speakers, delivering crisp, clear, and powerful sound.
One of the standout features of the RX-V385 is its YPAO (Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer) Sound Calibration. This technology analyzes the acoustic properties of your room and automatically adjusts audio settings to create an optimal soundstage. It’s a game-changer for those of us with less-than-perfect room acoustics. Setting it up is a breeze – just place the included microphone where you’ll be sitting, and the YPAO calibration does the rest.
This is where the Yamaha RX-V385 truly shines. It doesn’t just pump out loud sound; it ensures that the audio quality is finely tuned to your space. No more muddled bass or piercing highs – the RX-V385 keeps the sound natural and balanced.
Visual Brilliance :
But the RX-V385 isn’t just about sound; it’s also equipped to handle the latest in visual technology. With UHD upscaling and HDR UHD pass-through, it effortlessly enhances your viewing experience. I hooked up my 4K TV and was amazed at the clarity and vibrancy of the images. Whether I was streaming content or watching a Blu-ray disc, the visual quality was top-notch.
The inclusion of HDMI with Audio Return Channel support was another plus. It simplified my setup and reduced cable clutter. It’s these small conveniences that make a big difference in the day-to-day use of an AV receiver.
Connectivity :
One of the modern must-haves for any AV receiver is Bluetooth connectivity, and the RX-V385 delivers on this front. It allows you to easily stream music from your Bluetooth-enabled devices to the receiver. This is a feature I’ve come to appreciate more and more, especially when I want to play my favorite tracks from my smartphone or tablet without the hassle of wires.
The Bluetooth functionality extends to connecting your Bluetooth headphones or speakers as well, making it incredibly versatile. Pairing devices with the receiver using the included remote control is straightforward, and the wireless playback experience is impressive. It adds a level of flexibility to your audio setup that’s hard to live without once you’ve experienced it.
Soundscapes :
One feature that sets the RX-V385 apart from the competition is its CINEMA DSP technology. It lets you immerse yourself in the soundscapes of famous venues from around the world. Whether you want to feel like you’re in a grand concert hall or a small jazz club, this technology can transport you there from the comfort of your living room. It’s a fantastic feature for those who appreciate the immersive quality of sound.
More Features :
The RX-V385 doesn’t stop there. It’s packed with a range of features that enhance the overall audio experience.
Bi-amp Capability: This is a notable feature for those who want to take their audio setup to the next level. It allows you to connect two sets of front speakers to the receiver, giving you more control over your sound.
SILENT CINEMA: This feature is perfect for those late-night movie or gaming sessions. It provides virtual surround sound through your headphones, immersing you in the audio without disturbing others.
Flexible Audio/Video Input Assignment: The receiver allows you to customize your input sources, making it easy to switch between devices and tailor your setup to your preferences.
Audio Delay Adjustment: If you’re finicky about audio and video synchronization, this feature is a lifesaver. You can fine-tune the audio delay, ranging from 0 to 500 milliseconds, to ensure everything is perfectly in sync.
HDMI 2.1 with eARC Compatibility: While the RX-V385 may not come with this feature out of the box, it’s good to know that it can be updated in the future via firmware. This ensures that you’re ready for the latest HDMI standards.
HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG, and BT.2020 Support: The RX-V385 is well-equipped to handle various HDR formats and color spaces, making it future-proof for your visual needs.
A Few Drawbacks :
While the Yamaha RX-V385 is a remarkable AV receiver, it’s not without a few downsides.
Limited HDMI Ports: It has a decent number of HDMI ports, but if you have a lot of devices to connect, you might find yourself needing more.
No Wi-Fi: For those who rely on wireless connectivity for streaming, the absence of built-in Wi-Fi may be a drawback. However, the Bluetooth feature compensates for this limitation to some extent.
Pricey for Some: While it’s reasonably priced for the features it offers, there might be more budget-friendly options for those with stricter financial constraints.
No Dolby Atmos: If you’re a fan of immersive audio experiences like Dolby Atmos, you’ll need to look elsewhere, as the RX-V385 doesn’t support this technology.
Conclusion :
In the world of AV receivers, the Yamaha RX-V385 is a standout performer. It combines power, versatility, and exceptional audio quality, all at a price point that won’t leave your wallet empty. Whether you’re a movie buff, a music enthusiast, or a gamer, this receiver delivers an immersive audio experience that’s second to none.
Yamaha’s commitment to quality is evident in the robust construction and thoughtful features of the RX-V385. While it’s not perfect and has a few limitations, it excels where it matters most – in delivering a captivating audio and visual experience for your home entertainment system. Yamaha has once again proven its reputation for excellence in the world of audio equipment, making the RX-V385 a worthy addition to any home theater setup.
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