Yamaha RXV Receivers

[farscaper]

Are there differences in sound between the Yamaha models other then the wattage?
(Let me rephrase it in the context of what my brother-in-law wanted to know.)

In a blind test..would you be able to hear the difference between the RXV-2600, 2500, 1500, 757, 657...?

Using equal or normal listening volumes, using identical sources, Is there more distortion with the lower models? Are there any "quality of sound" differences?

Thanks,
F

 

[jcPanny]

Yamaha Receivers

The newest generation Yamaha receivers include high quality Burr-Brown D/As and an improved preamp stage. See the web site for other differences including an options iPod port. The results of the preamp changes can be seen in the recent AH review of the RX-V2600. The newest models with these features are the RX-V2600, 1600, and 659 and the HTR-5990 and 5960. Another significant upgrade on the 2600 and 1600 is HDMI switching.

Despite these improvements, your bro would probably need really good gear (source, speakers, etc.) to hear an audible difference. I would also argue that a discounted RX-V2500 will probably sound and perform better than the new RX-V659.

Also keep in mind with the yamaha's that most of the RX-V's have equivalent models in the HTR line that are available online from authorized dealers.
For example:
RX-V HTR
1600 = 5990
659 = 5960