Yamaha RX-397 100 Watt Natural Sound AM/FM Stereo Receiver Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Despite the current fad for multi-channel audio/video receivers, the majority of people still listen to music with two speakers and only need a two-channel stereo receiver to drive them. As fanatic audiophiles with excellent stereo speakers, my wife and I recently purchased this receiver because of very good previous experience with Yamaha electronics products. This is a superb receiver in all respects. Some people may think that they need more than this receiver's rated power of 50 watts per channel, but Yamaha's power ratings are extremely conservative and this receiver will drive virtually any speakers to deafening levels (which I don't recommend doing). More important than it's ample power is its very low distortion. Yamaha specializes in low distortion products for very clean sound. In addition to robust power and ultra-low distortion the RX-397 has a full complement of controls, plus an easy to use remote. But as a fanatic audiophile another feature, typical of Yamaha, which I particularly appreciate is a button which sends the signal from our CD player (or any other non-phono cartridge input) directly to the amplifier -- bypassing the preamp circuitry, which is not needed except when playing LPs (which most people rarely do these days) -- for the lowest distortion and best signal to noise ratio. There are plenty of slighty less expensive -- and less good -- stereo receivers available, but if you want suberb performance at a moderate price I highly recommend this Yamaha.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha RX-397 100 Watt Natural Sound AM/FM Stereo Receiver

Click here for more information about Yamaha RX-397 100 Watt Natural Sound AM/FM Stereo Receiver

Read More...

Yamaha R-S300BL Stereo Home Theater Receiver (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This model is for all who are looking for a simple receiver resembling vintage audio equipment while built around modern technology, providing essential functionality with only a few welcome extras. It is not for those who like to play with feature-loaded gadgets offering seemingly infinite range of settings and features. Yamaha R-S300 has been designed to deliver music: set it up and forget about it.
This receiver delivers clean sound, which is not processed or enhanced in any way and may sound a bit empty at first, but don't worry you'll quickly get used to it and learn to appreciate the details and definition. At the same time it also means Yamaha R-S300 is very demanding in terms of input signal quality. Make sure you pair it with other high quality components. The FM radio tuner is sensitive and delivers good sound, although it may be a bit too restrictive, cutting off all radio stations with less then excellent signal strength. Tuner does have RDS capability, which is not indicated on packaging or unit front panel markings. Mechanical construction and finish are very good, black version looks very classy and is completely unobtrusive. Controls are simple and easy to operate, but make sure to read the manual for a few convenient extra features accessible only through the menus.
On Pure Direct feature: It bypasses the tone controls extending frequency range to 10Hz-100KHz, but it also blanks the display (which briefly comes back to life if operating digital controls or using the remote). Some reviewers could not see any reason why Pure Direct should have anything to do with the display, however, Pure Direct aims to minimize or eliminate all possible sources of distortion or interference and since most displays are refreshed at a high frequency which at least in theory could result in signal interference, it makes perfect sense to turn the display off. (I doubt anyone would be able to hear any difference, but it is good to know Yamaha engineers are thinking about details.)
Matching speaker impedance: Yamaha R-S300 has two speaker impedance settings. HIGH to use with speakers rated 8-ohms or higher (16-ohms or up in A+B configuration) and LOW for speakers rated 4-ohms or higher (8-ohms or up in A+B configuration). Following the instructions, I selected LOW for my Wharfedale Diamonds 10.1 which are rated at 6-ohms. Not good! Sound was in a way flat and not too exciting. However, I have always used 6-ohm speakers with 8-ohm amplifiers or receivers with great results and no problems, so I decided to ignore the instructions and set the switch back to HIGH setting. Problem solved! Full, well defined and dynamic sound, while receiver produces barely noticeable heat at medium volume levels. To quote the specifications sheet: "High Dynamic Power/Channel (8/6/4/2 ohms): 70/77/89/100W". I presume this is all at 8-ohm (HIGH) setting, and I was unable to find any warning anywhere related to using 2, 4, or 6-ohms speakers with 8-ohms (HIGH) setting, so I'd say it is perfectly safe. (Plus, there is a thermal and short circuit protection built-in anyway.)
A few minuses, mostly minor annoyances though: Deleting FM preset returns tuner to the first preset. Can be annoying if cleaning up 30 or so presets; Continuous Loudness dial: I'd prefer a simple button; Display dimmer: there is high, medium, low setting. No display off, only with Pure Direct; Display layout: PRESET, STEREO and TP are packed close together so it is hard to see if TP is there or not. A red STEREO or TP indicator would have been better (SLEEP is red colored BTW); Also, selected input display indicator is barely brighter than non selected inputs, should be better contrast to see selected input more easily. (Online pictures show more contrast than there really is!); Volume step of 0.5db is not really necessary making adjusting volume from the remote somewhat slow (I would welcome either no 0.5db steps or faster change); Remote control design is visually symmetrical, I often grab it and point it the wrong way (it is good otherwise); Black finish is a magnet for fingerprints. Fortunately, you'll be rarely touching it since once you set it up almost everything could be accessed from the remote control.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha R-S300BL Stereo Home Theater Receiver (Black)

The Yamaha R-S300BL Stereo Home Theater Receiver offers affordable stereo enjoyment with advanced features, such as 50 watts per channel of pure, clean power, ToP-ART stability, Continuously Variable Loudness Control, 40 AM/FM station presets, preset remote control, and a built-in port for supported Yamaha iPod docks (sold separately).

Get 15% OFF

Click here for more information about Yamaha R-S300BL Stereo Home Theater Receiver (Black)

Read More...

Bellari Mm Tube Phono Preamp Usb Output Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have seen better phono pre-amps but the Bellari VP530 is all you'll ever need as it has all the features you will ever need. Controllable gain. RIAA or non-RIAA EQ, of course, computer-based vinyl ripping to your heart's desire.
Just a word of caution, don't judge this until sufficiently "broken-in". Tubes and components need some time to reach optimum performance. It wouldn't hurt too to do some tube-rolling and replace stock Russian tube with NOS US made ones which bring them to a higher level of enjoyment. My only gripe is perhaps they could have increased amount of gain possible to really make your records sing. How about adding another 12ax7 tube Bellari? Then you will truly have a winner!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Bellari Mm Tube Phono Preamp Usb Output

Get 20% OFF

Click here for more information about Bellari Mm Tube Phono Preamp Usb Output

Read More...

Onkyo HT-RC370 7.2-Channel THX Certified Network Audio/Video Receiver (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am a dyed in the wool Yamaha guy when it comes to home theater receivers, due to their build performance, quality and longevity versus price. But I've always had great respect and interest in Onkyo's product line as well. So this time around I went with an Onkyo and a great one at that! 7.2 channel surround, bi-amping capability, MP3 and computer connectivity, 3-D pass through, 100 watts per channel and enough HDMI inputs (7) to handle most anyone's component set. The THX Select 2 Plus is a bonus as well. The receiver is pretty much comparable sound and power wise to my $1,200 Yamaha receiver from 2007. Because the Onkyo is newer though, it boasts far more connectivity options and more format compatibility.
Over the years I've heard much praise for Onkyo HT receivers. They have a reputation for quality sound and compatibility options at a price that puts them right up there with Yamaha. If you're looking in the $800 - $1,000 price range for a HT receiver, you can't go wrong with Onkyo.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Onkyo HT-RC370 7.2-Channel THX Certified Network Audio/Video Receiver (Black)

To really get your home theater connected, hook up the ultra-versatile HT-RC370. With seven HDMI inputs including one on the front this THX Select2 Plus certified receiver offers unlimited scope for high-definition thrills. Along with lossless audio from Dolby and DTS, the HT-RC370 supports 3D video, an Audio Return Channel, and video up scaling to 4K resolution via Qdeo technology. Other inputs include a front-panel USB port for direct digital connection of iPod /iPhone , and a wide range of digital and analog inputs including S-Video and 7.1-channel analog inputs to handle legacy components. The HT-RC370 employs advanced Odyssey room-calibration and equalization technologies to optimize audio output, and a seamless graphical OSD and navigation GUI for browsing your content and adjusting settings. As a network receiver, the HT-RC370 also adds internet radio and PC audio to your entertainment options. Audiophile features, such as bi-amping capability and 7.2 multichannel pre-outs, help make the HT-RC370 an irresistible choice for the serious home theater fan.

Click here for more information about Onkyo HT-RC370 7.2-Channel THX Certified Network Audio/Video Receiver (Black)

Read More...

Yamaha A-S500BL Integrated Stereo Home Theater Amplifier (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Let me first say, I like the simple, retro, understated look of the A-S500. Photos on the web make it look solid, sturdy, well made, etc.
I did read reviews re: plastic knobs. So upon opening the box the first thing I checked were the knobs. I can't fault their movement characteristics (the way volume knob rotates or selector knobs click) but the plastic material used for the knobs makes the unit both appear and especially feel cheap. This is not the type of plastic that comes pretty close to simulating metal (like my Harman Kardon A/V receiver), these knobs don't even try to pretend to be anything but plastic.
A few other 'design' features disappoint as well. The power button is a small square; hard to see, and feels cheap. And, the sound that occurs when the A-S500 is turned on (that typical internal click sound that occurs 2-3 seconds after pressing power button)is very loud and "clunky" sounding. Also, LED lights on face are tiny, too tiny IMO. Very little effort spent designing remote either.
Now the good. Enabling the Pure Direct feature (bypasses tonal and loudness controls; prevents amp from altering audio signal) yields the best quality output. With Pure Direct enabled, there is a noticeable increase in sound stage, roundness to the sound and more clarity. If like me, your music source is your computer's media player that includes a volume control and EQ for adjusting tone, you'll want to enable Pure Direct and ignore the front dials.
With my speakers, I did not find the sound to be on the bright side as others mentioned. Not at all. Compared to my Harman Kardon receiver, the A-S500 cleaned up and brought out more lows and lower mid-range. That's where I saw the biggest difference - resulting in a fuller sound :-).
In my opinion, the A-S500 is lacking in fit and finish, even for its low price, but shines in sound quality, especially with Pure Direct enabled.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Yamaha A-S500BL Integrated Stereo Home Theater Amplifier (Black)

The Yamaha A-S500BL Integrated Amplifier offers clear sound in the Yamaha A-S2000 tradition, with 85 watts per channel of pure, clean power, ToP-ART stability, Continuously Variable Loudness Control, automatic power management, and a built-in port for supported Yamaha iPod docks (sold separately).

Get 11% OFF

Click here for more information about Yamaha A-S500BL Integrated Stereo Home Theater Amplifier (Black)

Read More...