Yamaha RX-Z7 7.1 Channel Networking A/V Receiver Review
Summary
- Product Name: Yamaha RX-Z7 7.1 Channel Networking A/V Receiver
- Manufacturer: Yamaha Electronics Corporation
- Performance Rating:
- Value Rating:
- Review Date: February 09, 2009 00:09
- MSRP: $ 2699
- Specifications
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140 watts x 7 into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.04% THD
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Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD™ Master Audio, Dolby Digital Plus, DTS-HD™ High Resolution Audio, Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES™, Pro Logic® IIx, DTS Neo:6, and SRS Circle Surround II decoding
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1080p-compatible HDMI switching: 5 in, 2 out (including 1 front-panel input)
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Selectable 480p/720p/1080i/1080p video upconversion for all non-HD and HDMI sources (upconverted video available through HDMI output only)
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HDMI version 1.3a with support for Deep Color, x.v.Color, 120Hz and 24Hz refresh rates, and auto lip-sync compensation
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Home PC networking capability with Web browser control
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Built-in HD Radio tuner with multi-casting reception and iTunes® tagging
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Cinema DSP 3D modes and enhanced Adaptive DSP level for fuller surround effects at low volumes
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Enhanced Adaptive DRC (dynamic range control) for better clarity at lower listening levels
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Anchor Bay PReP™ and VRS™ video processing
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XM / SIRIUS Satellite Radio Ready (requires XM subscription and optional XM Mini-Tuner package)
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iPod integration (requires optional Yamaha YDS-11)
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Neural-THX Surround decoder for XM's HD Surround channels
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Improved Compressed Music Enhancer for MP3s and other digital music files, including multi-channel sources
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Four-room/four-source output: powered and line-level stereo audio output for second and third rooms, digital audio optical out for 4th room
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Front-panel USB port for audio playback from USB flash drives and portable USB music players
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6 audio/video inputs, including phono
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Digital audio: 5 optical inputs (including 1 front-panel) and 2 outputs, 3 coaxial inputs
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7.1-channel analog audio preamp input and outputs
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Back surround speaker channels re-assignable for bi-amping front left and right speakers
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Assignable component video output with HD pass-through and 480i to 480p conversion of composite/S-video signals for second room
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Composite video output for second and third rooms (same source for both rooms)
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Digital ToP-ART design with high-current, low-impedance amplifier construction
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192kHz/24-bit Burr-Brown digital-to-analog converters for all channels
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Pure Direct mode for better sound from stereo sources
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Silent Cinema for simulated surround sound via standard stereo headphones
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On-screen GUI (Graphic User Interface) with display overlay
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Learning/multibrand remote
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Basic remote for second or third listening room (requires remote control extender system, not included)
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RS-232C port for automated control systems
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Detachable power cord
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Weight: 40.6lbs
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Dimensions: 17-1/8"W x 7-1/8"H x 17-1/4"D
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Warranty: 5 years
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Pros
- Benchmark audio and video performance
- Unparalleled multi channel experience for music and movies
- One box solution for whole home audio and video distribution
- Excellent Network Streaming and Web Browsing functionality
Cons
- Runs hot and needs adequate ventilation
- Complex setup
- Lame secondary remote control with limited functionality
Introduction
See also:
Recent Forum Posts:
Ebay Item Number: 220661078894
PaulF;737584
Thanks Gene, I'll try your suggestion.
I did some testing and it appears the volume adjusts by 0.5dB increments initially and then jumps to about 4.0db (hard to tell exactly as it skips so fast) after a few seconds if you hold your finger on the button. My TIVO peanut remote produces the same effect as Yamaha's remote in this regard.
Can you tell me the remote you're using, and were you able to program the effective responsiveness?
I have a programmable logitech remote that I use to control everything and the volume functions the same way on that remote as well, the longer you hold it down, the faster the increments in loudness.
I did some testing and it appears the volume adjusts by 0.5dB increments initially and then jumps to about 4.0db (hard to tell exactly as it skips so fast) after a few seconds if you hold your finger on the button. My TIVO peanut remote produces the same effect as Yamaha's remote in this regard.
Can you tell me the remote you're using, and were you able to program the effective responsiveness?
Does anyone know if there is a way to change the default volume step size in the Z7, perhaps in the service menu? I find the 0.5dB step size far too granular.
My old RX-V2095 had a much more responsive volume. It had to as the knob had one sweep from about 7 o'clock to about 5 o'clock, not like the free rotating knobs of today. The web interface on the Z7 supports a 5dB step option so that gives me some hope. It would be nice to have a user settable parameter in the volume menu. Yamaha USA says this has been asked of Yamaha Japan but they don't care.
Paul the problem isn't with the stepsize on the VC. Its the lack of responsiveness from the remote. I have the same issue unless I use a different remote programmed with Yammie codes. I suggest you increase the power up volume to a level slightly lower than you normally listen to so its quicker to crank it up when you want to. I have mine set for -30dB for power up for example.
