YAMAHA RX-V481bl 5.1 Channel Network A/V Receiver Review
If you like making your home feel like a theatre or live event, the Yamaha RX-V481BL might be your best friend. Anyone who wants to feel blasts and hear clear words can use this great technology. It's great for medium-sized homes and makes it seem like an audio expert chooses your pleasure.
Our Verdict
Despite occasional issues, the Yamaha RX-V481BL is a loyal friend that always leaves a lasting impression. Several choose this product owing to its sleek style, high-quality audio, and several connecting options. However, the rare Bluetooth glitch and the need for the stronger build are minor flaws in an otherwise excellent device. The RX-V481BL is still a good choice for a flexible, affordable AV receiver for your home entertainment system. If you want to improve your audio experience, this may be the chance.
PROS
- Sleek and modern design.
- Immersive surround sound.
- Extensive connectivity options.
- User-friendly setup process.
- 4K Ultra HD pass-through.
- Bluetooth for wireless streaming.
- MusicCast technology compatibility.
- Affordable mid-range pricing.
CONS
- Occasional Bluetooth connectivity issues.
- Limited HDMI inputs (4).
- Build quality could be sturdier.
GENERAL
| Receiver Type | A/V Receiver |
|---|---|
| Number Of Channel | 5.1 Channel |
| Number Channel Processing | 5 |
| Audio Feature | |
| Video Feature | Dolby Vision , HDCP 2.3 |
| Watts Per Channel | 80 W (6 ohms, 0.09% THD) |
| Zones | 1 |
| Radio | Internet Radio , Pandora , Spotify , Tidal , Deezer , Napster , SiriusXM |
| Amplifier | Class A/B |
CONNECTIVITY
| Ethernet | Yes |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes |
| USB | Yes |
| RCA LIne Input: | 4 |
| RCA LIne Output: | 1 |
| RCA Pre-Outs: | 1 |
| XLR Line Inputs: | No |
| XLR Pre-Outs: | No |
| Phono Input: | Yes |
| Optical Inputs: | 1 |
| Optical Output: | No |
| Coaxial Inputs: | 2 |
| Multi-Channel Input: | No |
| Headphone Out: | 1 |
| HDMI Inputs: | 4 |
| HDMI Outputs: | 1 |
| 8K Inputs: | No |
| Composite Video Input | No |
| Composite Video Output: | No |
| Component Video Input: | No |
| Component Video Output: | No |
| Front A/V Inputs: | No |
| Speaker A/B: | No |
AUDIO FEATURES:
| Maximum Channel Processing | 5 |
|---|---|
| Dolby Atmos | No |
| Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization | N/A |
| Dolby Atmos Music | N/A |
| Dolby TrueHD | Yes |
| Dolby Digital Plus | Yes |
| Dolby Surround Upmixer | N/A |
| Dolby Pro Logic | N/A |
| Dolby Digital EX | N/A |
| Surround EX | N/A |
| DTS:X | No |
| DTS Neural:X | N/A |
| DTS Virtual:X | N/A |
| DTS Neo | N/A |
| DTS-HD Master Audio | Yes |
| DTS-HD High Resolution Audio | Yes |
| DTS 96/24 | Yes |
| DTS Express | Yes |
| DTS-ES | No |
| IMAX Enhanced | N/A |
| PCM | Yes |
| Music Playback via USB | Yes |
| High Resolution Music Playback via USB and/or Network | Yes |
| High Resolution Audio Formats via USB | WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC, DSD |
| Gapless Playback | Yes |
| DSD via HDMI | No |
| DSD via USB | Yes |
| DSD to PCM Converter | N/A |
| USB DAC | N/A |
| Jitter Reduction | Yes |
| DTS Dialog Control | N/A |
| Dialog Enhancement | N/A |
| Dialog Level Adjustment | Yes |
| Dialog Normalization | N/A |
| Dialogue Lift | N/A |
| Compressed Music Enhancer | Yes |
| High-resolution Music Enhancer | N/A |
| Audyssey Dynamic EQ | N/A |
| Audyssey Dynamic Volume | N/A |
| Audyssey LFC | N/A |
| Audyssey Sub EQ HT | N/A |
| Audyssey DSX | N/A |
| Direct Mode | Yes |
| Pure Direct Mode | Yes |
| Independent Subwoofer Outputs | Yes |
| Auto Speaker Calibration System with Mic. | YPAO |
| Audyssey App Support | N/A |
| Bass Sync | N/A |
| Optimized Bass Redirection | N/A |
VIDEO FEATURES:
| HDMI Version | 2.0a |
|---|---|
| Enhanced ARC | N/A |
| HDCP Version | 2.2 |
| HDR10+ | N/A |
| Dynamic HDR | N/A |
| Dolby Vision | Yes |
| HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) | Yes |
| QMS (Quick Media Switching) | N/A |
| 3-D Ready | Yes |
| Video Signal Passthrough | Yes |
| Video Signal Upscaling | N/A |
| Analog To HDMI Upconversion | N/A |
| Component Video Upscaling | N/A |
| isf Certified Calibration Control | N/A |
AMPLIFIERS
| Channels | 5 |
|---|---|
| Front Wide Channel Support | N/A |
| Current Feedback Topology | N/A |
| Discrete Amplification | Yes |
| HDAM | N/A |
| THX™ Certification | N/A |
| Continuous 6 Ω Rated | Yes |
| Certified 4 Ω Performance | N/A |
| Bi-amp Capability | Yes |
GAMING FEATURES
| Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) | N/A |
|---|---|
| Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) | N/A |
| Quick Frame Transport (QFT) | N/A |
ZONES
| Zones | 2 |
|---|---|
| Powered Zones | 1 |
| Zone 2 Outs | 1 |
| Zone 3 Outs | No |
| RS-232C Interface | N/A |
| +12V Trigger Output | 1 |
RADIO
| Analog Tuner | Yes |
|---|---|
| Digital Radio | N/A |
| Internet Radio | Yes |
| Pandora | Yes |
| Spotify | Yes |
| Tidal | Yes |
| Deezer | Yes |
| SiriusXM Internet Radio | Yes |
| Napster | Yes |
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
| On-Screen Display | Yes |
|---|---|
| GUI Languages | 8 |
| Web Browser Control | Yes |
| IP Control for CI | Yes |
| Control4 SDDP | N/A |
| PreAmp Mode | N/A |
| Display | Dot Matrix |
| Remote Controller | Yes |
| Remote Control In/Out | No |
| LCD Display | N/A |
| Detachable Power Cord | Yes |
| Setup Assistant | N/A |
POWER
| Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 2 | 115 W + 115 W |
|---|---|
| Rated Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, IEC) | No |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (3 Ω, Front) | 140 W |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (4 Ω, Front) | 120 W |
| Dynamic Power per Channel (8 Ω, Front) | 80 W + 80 W |
| Power Output (8 Ω, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 2 | 80 W + 80 W |
| Maximum Effective Power Output (6 Ω, 1 kHz, 1 channel driven, JEITA) | No |
| Power Supply | AC 120 V, 60 Hz |
| Toroidal Transformer | N/A |
| Power Consumption | 370 W |
| No Sound Power | 0.1 W |
| Standby Power | 0.3 W |
BUILD
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 435 x 161 x 327 mm; 17-1/8” x 6-3/8” x 12-7/8” |
|---|---|
| Weight | 8.1 kg; 17.9 lbs. |
| Chassis | Brushed aluminum |
| Front Panel | Black |
| Speaker Terminals | 5 |
| Large Speaker Terminals | No |
| Color-Coded Speaker Terminals | Yes |
| Transparent High-Grade Speaker Terminals | N/A |
| High Grade Audio Components | N/A |
| ECO Mode / Hybrid Standby Function | Yes |
| Auto Power off | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years |
SPECIFICATIONS
| THD digital | 0.06% (20 Hz-20 kHz) |
|---|---|
| Analog Distortion | 0.06% (20 Hz-20 kHz) |
| Phono Distortion | 0.025% (20 Hz-20 kHz) |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Line) | 200 mV / 47 k-ohms |
| Input Sensitivity and Impedance (Phono MM) | 3.5 mV / 47 k-ohms |
| Rated Lineout Level and Impedance | 1 V / 470 ohms |
| Rated Output digital | 2 V / 470 ohms |
| S/N Ratio (Line, IHF-A) | 98 dB (S: 200 mV) |
| S/N Ratio (Phono MM, IHF-A) | 82 dB (S: 3.5 mV) |
| S/N Ratio (digital) | 100 dB (S: 2 V) |
| Phono RIAA Deviation | 100 dB (S: 2 V) |
| Frequency Response (Analog In) | 10 Hz - 100 kHz +/-1.0 dB |
| DSD Sampling Rates via HDMI | 2.8 MHz / 5.6 MHz |
| DSD Sampling Rates via USB | 2.8 MHz / 5.6 MHz |
| Video Input Sensitivity/Output Level and Impedance | No |
| Video Frequency Response | No |
| Ethernet Standard | IEEE 802.3, 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX |
| Wi-Fi Standard | IEEE 802.11b/g/n |
| Wi-Fi Terminal Frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| Bluetooth Version | 2.1 + EDR |
| Bluetooth Frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| USB Terminal | Yes |
| FM Frequency | 87.5 MHz - 107.9 MHz |
| FM 50 dB Quiet Sensitivity (IHF, 1 kHz, 100% MOD.) | 3 μV (20.8 dBf) |
| FM S/N Ratio | 65 dB / 64 dB (Mono/Stereo) |
| FM Harmonic Distortion (IHF, 1 kHz) | 0.7% / 1.0% (Mono/Stereo) |
| AM Effective Sensitivity | 300 μV/m |
| AM Frequency | 530 kHz - 1710 kHz |
Design
The sleek black finish adds a touch of sophistication that seamlessly complements any home theater arrangement for this receiver. The front panel is well-arranged, with a user-friendly display and buttons that quickly respond. People have been really impressed with the minimalist design because it's not only visually pleasing but also very practical.
However, a few users mentioned that they had difficulty navigating the buttons on the front panel in low-light conditions due to their small size. In addition, some users mentioned that the build quality could be more durable, although they found the overall design to be appealing.
Connectivity
Users can easily connect and use all their audio-visual devices thanks to the wide range of input and output options available. With four HDMI inputs and one output featuring 4K Ultra HD pass-through, this device guarantees seamless compatibility with the latest multimedia standards.
And the connectivity options keep going. With Bluetooth, you can effortlessly stream wirelessly from your smartphones and tablets. On the other hand, a few users have mentioned that they have experienced occasional connectivity problems with Bluetooth, which has had an impact on their overall experience.
In addition, the receiver's connectivity is enhanced with the inclusion of MusicCast technology, allowing for wireless multi-room audio playback. People enjoyed being able to stream music all over their houses, which made for an engaging and immersive audio experience.
Performance
The Yamaha RX-V481BL is truly impressive. Featuring an impressive power output of 80 watts per channel, this audio system provides a rich and immersive sound experience. People were impressed with the receiver's versatility in handling different audio formats, giving them a surround sound experience that felt just like being in a movie theater.
Users have shared their positive experiences with the receiver's low latency mode, which greatly reduces audio lag and enhances the gaming experience. Movie nights took on a whole new level of immersion as the dialogue became clear and the effects reverberated throughout the room.
Nevertheless, no product is flawless. Several users mentioned that although the receiver performed well with high frequencies, they felt that the bass response could be more pronounced. In addition, some users have reported occasional glitches in the on-screen display. While these minor hiccups didn't have a significant impact on the overall performance, they are worth mentioning
Where and When to Use
The Yamaha RX-V481BL is an incredibly versatile device. No matter your interests, this AV receiver is perfect for you. It effortlessly blends with your home theater setup, providing a captivating cinematic experience. Players will find the low latency mode to be a great addition, as it significantly improves their gaming experience. With MusicCast technology, music enthusiasts can effortlessly fill their entire home with their beloved tunes. This versatile device is designed to enhance your entertainment experience.
The RX-V481BL is known for its ability to work seamlessly with many devices. It is compatible with 4K Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. People loved how easy it was to connect their devices and found the auto-calibration feature to be a great addition, as it adjusted the audio settings to match the connected components. Some users mentioned that not having Wi-Fi connectivity could be a downside for those who prefer wireless streaming with Bluetooth.
The on-screen setup wizard makes it easy for users to go through the initial configuration and get everything up and running smoothly for this one. The remote control provided is very user-friendly, and the buttons specifically designed for different inputs make it easy to switch between them. On the other hand, a few users expressed their frustration with the menu navigation, especially when trying to make changes to advanced settings. In general, users tend to pick up the interface quickly and find the learning curve to be minimal.
The Yamaha RX-V481BL is a great option for those looking for a receiver that strikes a good balance between features and price. Customers found the product to be a great deal, thanks to its strong connectivity options, impressive performance, and stylish design. Although other options are more affordable, the RX-V481BL stands out with its versatility and impressive audio performance.
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