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: StarStarStarStarStar
* Value Rating: StarStarStarStar
* Review Date: February 08, 2009
* MSRP: $2699

Specifications

*140 watts x 7 into 8 ohms (20-20,000 Hz) at 0.04% THD
*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
*1080p-compatible HDMI switching: 5 in, 2 out (including 1 front-panel input)
*Selectable 480p/720p/1080i/1080p video upconversion for all non-HD and HDMI sources (upconverted video available through HDMI output only)
*HDMI version 1.3a with support for Deep Color, x.v.Color, 120Hz and 24Hz refresh rates, and auto lip-sync compensation
*Home PC networking capability with Web browser control
*Built-in HD Radio tuner with multi-casting reception and iTunes® tagging
*Cinema DSP 3D modes and enhanced Adaptive DSP level for fuller surround effects at low volumes
*Enhanced Adaptive DRC (dynamic range control) for better clarity at lower listening levels
*Anchor Bay PReP™ and VRS™ video processing

*XM / SIRIUS Satellite Radio Ready (requires XM subscription and optional XM Mini-Tuner package)
*iPod integration (requires optional Yamaha YDS-11)
*Neural-THX Surround decoder for XM's HD Surround channels
*Improved Compressed Music Enhancer for MP3s and other digital music files, including multi-channel sources
*Four-room/four-source output: powered and line-level stereo audio output for second and third rooms, digital audio optical out for 4th room
*Front-panel USB port for audio playback from USB flash drives and portable USB music players
*6 audio/video inputs, including phono
*Digital audio: 5 optical inputs (including 1 front-panel) and 2 outputs, 3 coaxial inputs
*7.1-channel analog audio preamp input and outputs
*Back surround speaker channels re-assignable for bi-amping front left and right speakers
*Assignable component video output with HD pass-through and 480i to 480p conversion of composite/S-video signals for second room
*Composite video output for second and third rooms (same source for both rooms)
*Digital ToP-ART design with high-current, low-impedance amplifier construction
*192kHz/24-bit Burr-Brown digital-to-analog converters for all channels
*Pure Direct mode for better sound from stereo sources
*Silent Cinema for simulated surround sound via standard stereo headphones
*On-screen GUI (Graphic User Interface) with display overlay
*Learning/multibrand remote
*Basic remote for second or third listening room (requires remote control extender system, not included)
*RS-232C port for automated control systems
*Detachable power cord
*Weight: 40.6lbs
*Dimensions: 17-1/8"W x 7-1/8"H x 17-1/4"D
*Warranty: 5 year

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
The Yamaha RX-Z7 offers benchmark performance in virtually every category with the only caveat being it generates a lot of heat. Armed to the teeth with all of the latest audio and video processing features, along with a host of multi room and networking capabilities, the RX-Z7 leaves little to be desired for even the most sophisticated home theater installs. Its ability to transform your listening space into a concert venue or mega Cineplex is unrivaled. The RX-Z7 proudly lives up to the "Z" heritage and in some aspects out Z's their very own flagship RX-Z11.

1. Yamaha RX-Z7 7.1 Design Overview
2. Yamaha RX-Z7 7.1 System Setup and Configuration
3. Yamaha RX-Z7 7.1 Video Setup and Test Results
4. Yamaha RX-Z7 7.1 DSP Processing & Network Configuration
5. Yamaha RX-Z7 7.1 Listening Tests
6. Yamaha RX-Z7 7.1 Measurements and Analysis
7. Yamaha RX-Z7 7.1 Conclusion