Yamaha Unveils Its New AVENTAGE RX-A-70 Series of Network AV Receivers

Yamaha Unveils Its New AVENTAGE RX-A-70 Series of Network AV Receivers​

Yamaha(May 2, 2017) Yamaha has experienced tremendous success with its popular AVENTAGE series of network AV receivers. Now entering its eighth generation, this premium line is receiving a major refresh. Yesterday, Yamaha announced six new exciting models officially falling under the “RX-A-70” banner. These models include the entry level RX-A670, RX-A770, RX-A870, RX-A1070, RX-A2070, and the flagship RX-A3070.

Each RX-A-70 model is primed to play nicely with current iterations of HDR (High Dynamic Range) video profiles, shipping with the necessary hardware to support three different versions of the technology: HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG). Both Dolby Vision and HLG are relatively new to the scene and have importance in the live HDR broadcast realm. Of course, Dolby Vision is also expected to have a weighty presence in the world of Ultra HD Blu-ray. Both HLG and Dolby Vision compatibility will be unlocked this coming fall via a firmware update.

Audio-wise, all RX-A-70 receivers carry high-performance DSPs for active support of the two most common immersive audio codecs: Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. You’ll also find support for common legacy codecs. Yamaha has given each model MusicCast, which is the company’s app controlled wireless audio solution. Both TIDAL and Deezer support are being added to the app list, which is particularly exciting for music fans looking to stream Hi-Res music. The AVENTAGE RX-A670, RX-A770, and RX-A870 AV receivers will be able to access both services following a firmware update soon after release; the RX-A1070, RX-A2070 and RX-A3070 models will ship with active support.

“By including the latest video technologies like Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma HDR, Yamaha AVENTAGE receivers will keep home theater audiences enthralled - not only with dazzling 3D surround sound - but also realistically rich imagery,” said Bob Goedken, general manager, AV division, Yamaha Corporation of America. “The high level of innovation and craftsmanship that Yamaha consistently achieves in the AVENTAGE series gives custom installers the flexibility and performance they need for quality installs. Our wireless expansion capabilities offered with MusicCast make AVENTAGE the most flexible system on the market today for the most challenging installations.”

YamahaSpecs across the six new models are tiered, with the entry-level RX-A670 offering 80 Watts of power per channel with 7.2-channel performance. The A670 also offers four HDMI 2.0 inputs, YPAO room correction, and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity. A few steps higher, buyers will find 100 Watt per channel performance on the RX-870, which carries seven HDMI inputs (three with HDCP 2.2 compatibility), in addition to a phono input.

Both the RX-A2070 and flagship RX-A3070 receivers give owners access to 9.2 channels, with the RX-A3070 possessing processing power for 11.2 channels. That means you’ll need to purchase an external amplifier to run a full 7.1.4 system. The A3070 offers the most robust power output, with 150 Watts per channel and the addition of an ESS ES9026PRO SABRE DAC and SABRE32 Ultra DAC (which deliver minimized distortion and groundbreaking signal-to-noise levels). The receiver also includes XLR-balanced inputs for secure and stable pro-level signal transmission with reduced degradation from supporting source components.

The RX-A670 and RXA770 are available for purchase now. Yamaha says the rest of the RX-A-70 series will hit the market in June 2017. For more information, visit Yamaha on the web.




Pricing and Availability

• RX-A670 ($599.95; May availability)
• RX-A770 ($699.95; May availability)
• RX-A870 ($999.95; June availability)
• RX-A1070 ($1,299.95; June availability)
• RX-A2070 ($1,699.95; June availability)
• RX-A3070 ($2,199.95; July availability)

 

[Todd Anderson]

I've been running an RX-A3050 since reviewing it in 2015. It was one of the first consumer-level AVRs (as opposed to custom install) to offer 7.1.4 performance. I believe Onkyo had released a 7.1.4 model earlier in the year.

Power and performance have been absolutely top notch on the A3050... I run a full 7.2.4 array, and Atmos/DTS:X sound fantastic. And the included remote app is super handy. Can't say enough about my user experience. I've asked Yamaha for a few review samples, so look forward to a closer inspection of the A3070 and a lesser model later this year!

 

[JBrax]

I was so close to going with the A3050 when I bought my Marantz SR-7010. I really wanted something that would last and offer top notch music playback. Yamaha makes top notch AVR's and I never hesitate to recommend them.

 

[Todd Anderson]

I agree, Jeff. You can't go wrong with Yamaha. Of course, that Marantz is pretty sweet too!

 

[Bacovish]

For the last 30 years I've been through 4 yamaha receivers. Never had a problem with any of them. I have 2 of them in the closet and in working condition.

Picked up a RX-A 1050 back in December and have been pretty impressed. Love the PEQ adjustments it has. I've been able to turn my Dali speakers to the point of being uncomfortable and it seemed to have plenty of head room left. Also could not detect any distortion. Very quite amp...no hum or hissing.

As far as new bells and whistles are there any differences internally between the 2015 line and the 2017 line?

 

[Todd Anderson]

Can't agree more with your assessment of Yamaha AVRs... they are rock solid performers.

In terms of differences, the 2017 model ships with a Dolby Vision chip onboard (2015 doesn't have that)... I don't think 2015 models are being supported with firmware updates for TIDAL, HLG HDR, etc... 2016 models definitely were recently updated. I'd also imagine (but need to confirm) that they have new more powerful digital to analog converters onboard.

 

[Sonnie Parker]

I remember having the 3020 in my setup for a while, but the YPAO was not that great. Have they improved on that any... particular the number of filters for bass?

Love the PEQ adjustments it has.

How many PEQ filters does it allow... and what's the lowest frequency you can adjust?
Can the PEQ be adjusted with YPAO set as well... or is it one or the other?

 

[JBrax]

You Yamaha guys with your built rock solid talk. Always rubbing it in our faces! I just hope my Marantz gives me at least 5-6 years of dependable service. If by chance (knock on wood) it doesn't my next AVR will most likely be a Yamaha. Respect to their build quality.

 

[Bacovish]

I remember having the 3020 in my setup for a while, but the YPAO was not that great. Have they improved on that any... particular the number of filters for bass?

How many PEQ filters does it allow... and what's the lowest frequency you can adjust?
Can the PEQ be adjusted with YPAO set as well... or is it one or the other?

Yes you can copy the auto YPAO and manually adjust.
I can adjust from 31.3HZ up to 16khz
You can manually adjust 7 filters with a -6db or +6db adjustment. I can adjust the "q" curve as well.
I have no clue if other models or brands in my price range have more filters or less...but coming from a 10 year old receiver it sure is fun to stay up late when everybody else is asleep and tweak it a little.

 

[Bacovish]

You Yamaha guys with your built rock solid talk. Always rubbing it in our faces! I just hope my Marantz gives me at least 5-6 years of dependable service. If by chance (knock on wood) it doesn't my next AVR will most likely be a Yamaha. Respect to their build quality.

I don't think you can go wrong with either brand. These days with all the bells and whistles these AVR's have any brand is bound to have issues sooner or later. These things are loaded with apps and new tech that can just about wash your dishes for you. just my opinion.

 

[JBrax]

I don't think you can go wrong with either brand. These days with all the bells and whistles these AVR's have any brand is bound to have issues sooner or later. These things are loaded with apps and new tech that can just about do you dishes for you. just my opinion.

I couldn't agree more and I literally had to flip a coin when I upgraded last year. I did own a Onkyo that unfortunately failed me twice so reliability was pretty high on my list. Can't go wrong with Yamaha in that respect and honestly had the 3050 in my basket several times before going with my Marantz.

 

[Todd Anderson]

I remember having the 3020 in my setup for a while, but the YPAO was not that great. Have they improved on that any... particular the number of filters for bass?


How many PEQ filters does it allow... and what's the lowest frequency you can adjust?
Can the PEQ be adjusted with YPAO set as well... or is it one or the other?

The filters in the LFE region aren't that powerful. I still have to use an old feedback destroyer...honestly, that's the biggest weakness of a lot of these room correction packages (MCACC, YPAO, AccuEQ...)... they just don't have a meaningful impact on bass.

 

[Todd Anderson]

I couldn't agree more and I literally had to flip a coin when I upgraded last year. I did own a Onkyo that unfortunately failed me twice so reliability was pretty high on my list. Can't go wrong with Yamaha in that respect and honestly had the 3050 in my basket several times before going with my Marantz.

Looks like I've finalized a review of the Marantz SR7011... I'm curious to run it through its paces. But will also take Auro3D for a test drive!

 

[JBrax]

Looks like I've finalized a review of the Marantz SR7011... I'm curious to run it through its paces. But will also take Auro3D for a test drive!

Oooohhhh…nice! I've read good things about Auro3D but never paid for the update. That whole God channel being one speaker centered on my ceiling just didn't seem feasible. I've got enough black boxes hanging as it is and I just couldn't see that working. I'll be looking forward to your review on the 7011. Gotta say though I think it's gonna do well.

 

[Bacovish]

Looks like I've finalized a review of the Marantz SR7011... I'm curious to run it through its paces. But will also take Auro3D for a test drive!

Honestly haven't heard anything bad about the marantz line. My wife or debit card will be scared when you do post this. Eagerly waiting.

 

[Bacovish]

I couldn't agree more and I literally had to flip a coin when I upgraded last year. I did own a Onkyo that unfortunately failed me twice so reliability was pretty high on my list. Can't go wrong with Yamaha in that respect and honestly had the 3050 in my basket several times before going with my Marantz.

I have you beat. Lol. I was at the sales counter with the marantz 6010 in my hands before I set it down and picked the Yamaha.

 

[JBrax]

I have you beat. Lol. I was at the sales counter with the marantz 6010 in my hands before I set it down and picked the Yamaha.

Well, my shopping experience was virtual and when I said I had it in my cart/basket at checkout? Hahaha…I was still reading threads and reviews and I really don't know how many times I changed my mind? It's probably a good thing I was alone and the event wasn't recorded or witnessed. My OCD's would have been on display.

 

[Bacovish]

Well, my shopping experience was virtual and when I said I had it in my cart/basket at checkout? Hahaha…I was still reading threads and reviews and I really don't know how many times I changed my mind? It's probably a good thing I was alone and the event wasn't recorded or witnessed. My OCD's would have been on display.

It sounds like a tie. We get mad at our wives for changing their mind in the drive thru 10 times. Go figure.
My apologies to Todd for hijacking his review thread with our OCD issues.

 

[JBrax]

Yep, sorry Todd. Now where's that 7011 review!

 

[Todd Anderson]

Yeah, the God Channel is a bit of an inconvenience, but, depending on your room size/ceiling height, it's not necessary.

I meant to say that Marantz has agreed to a review... just waiting on confirmation that a unit has shipped ;-))

 

[Leonard Caillouet]

Yamaha has been a consistently excellent product for the 40 years that I have been associated with the industry. Even their low points were still better than average. I worked for dealers that sold and serviced them along with other products for over 20 years and overall they were consistently the most reliable and most solid performers in each class in terms of receivers. The only knock I have on them is YPAO is simply not as good as competitors, but in the average system still works pretty well. Yamaha has always erred on the side of quality over features, compared to say Onkyo, Sony, or Pioneer, but they are the kind of product that you own for 20-30 years and they continue to do the job.

 

[Todd Anderson]

The biggest knock (that I'm aware of) has been the removal of multichannel inputs... but, honestly, if you're looking for that, wouldn't you just got strait to amp/pre-amp separates at this point?

 

[Asere]

I hope to own an Aventage one day. Like others though I worry about how well it will do with the sub EQ.

 

[Todd Anderson]

I have an agreement with Yamaha to snag two review units this summer... so I'll have some measurement graphs for you. But, I don't expect to see major changes in that department.

That being said, they are great performing receivers and you can easily add an outboard sub-eq product from mini-dsp if so desired! ;-) Easy fix!

 

[Asere]

I have an agreement with Yamaha to snag two review units this summer... so I'll have some measurement graphs for you. But, I don't expect to see major changes in that department.

That being said, they are great performing receivers and you can easily add an outboard sub-eq product from mini-dsp if so desired! ;-) Easy fix!

Great! I look forward to reading your review Todd and thank you.