When it comes to big-name consumer electronics manufacturers, few are as prolific as Yamaha. Makers of everything from receivers to motorcycles, Yamaha seemingly does it all and, like everything they do, they do it well. This is evident in the RX-V1800 home theater receiver reviewed here. Retailing for $1,299.95 and sold practically everywhere, the RX-V1800 isn't quite a no-holds-barred receiver, but it's robust enough to be the centerpiece of a very capable, affordable home theater.
The RX-V1800 features all of the latest connection options, including four HDMI 1.3a ins and one HDMI output. The RX-V1800 can upscale legacy video sources to full 1080p quality via its internal ABT chipset, one of the best in the business. Along with its video prowess, the RX-V1800 can play back all of the latest surround sound codecs, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. The RX-V1800 features Yamaha's own YPAO automatic EQ system, which is similar to the Audyssey system found on many other receivers. However, I must say I prefer Yamaha's YPAO to the Audyssey. The RX-V1800 also features a robust set of simulated surround sound options, most notably Yamaha's Compressed Music Enhancer, which works wonders on compressed audio formats, such as MP3. Speaking of MP3s, the RX-V1800 can fully integrate with an iPod via Yamaha's own iPod dock (sold separately), turning it into a very simple yet effective music server.
Aside from the copious features contained inside, the RX-V1800 has its fair share of muscle to accompany its brains. The RX-V1800 features seven channels of amplification rated at 130 watts per channel, which is good enough to power just about any speaker available on the market today.
Read The High Points, Low Points and Conclusion on Page 2
High Points
• The Yamaha RX-V1800 is as easy to use as it is stylish, making it a wonderful and affordable centerpiece to any home theater, regardless of budget.
• The RX-V1800 is packed with nearly every bell and whistle out there, ensuring its longevity in an ever-changing marketplace.
• The RX-V1800, like all Yamaha products, possesses a lively, slightly forward sound that is never fatiguing or unnatural, though it can add a bit of oomph to any music or movie's performance.
• Yamaha's YPAO room EQ system is topnotch and far more accurate and engaging in my rooms than Audyssey's auto EQ found on other receivers.
• While there are more powerful receivers out there, trust me when I say the RX-V1800 is all you'll need and then some when it comes to powering any 5.1 or 7.1 channel home theater.
• Clearly the RX-V1800 is designed to be the cornerstone of a home theater rig. However, its stereo playback capability is first-rate for a receiver in this price range.
Low Points
• The RX-V1800's small display window isn't as clear or easy to decipher as some.
• The remotes - yes, the RX-V1800 has two - are functional and adequate. However, they are somewhat cluttered and feel a bit cheap, given how the RX-V1800's solid, smart design.
Conclusion
The $1,000 receiver market is hotter than ever, as manufacturers clamor to pack as much functionality and power into a simple box for less than the other guy. However, you get what you pay for and, while it may be easy to find a receiver that costs half as much as the RX-V1800 yet features most if not all of the same bells and whistles, I promise you it's not the same. If you only have five or six hundred to spend, look elsewhere in the Yamaha receiver line. However, if you're in that magical $1,000 club, consider the RX-V1800, for it may be all the receiver you'll ever need. If you're looking at spending more than the RX-V1800's asking price, take a listen before you do, because in these tough economic times, sometimes the greatest feeling comes from getting what you want while still hanging onto a bit more of what is already yours.
2023-06-21 01:28:23
WARNING !!! No Remote = No YPAO and remotes are not available