Yamaha RX500A: HDMI 2.1, HDR, 8K/60 and 4K/120££££
Like the Yamaha RX300A, the RX300A features HDMI 2.1 connectors (4 inputs/1 output), compatible with 8K/60 and 4K/120. ALLM, VRR, and QMS features are also included, ideal for gamers. The HDMI output is eARC/ARC compatible for receiving HD audio from the TV. Regarding HDR, the RX500A supports HDR10+, Dolby Vision HDR, and HLG HDR.
Yamaha RX500A: Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Qobuz Connect, Tidal Connect…££££
Unlike the RX300A, which is limited to Bluetooth only, the Yamaha RX500A proves to be a true network amplifier. It integrates Wi-Fi 5 and an Ethernet port, and supports the main streaming services on the market, including Spotify Connect, Qobuz Connect, and Tidal Connect.
Google Cast (or Chromecast (built-in)) and AirPlay 2 are also included, along with access to internet radio and podcasts. Bluetooth connectivity remains available via the 5.3 multipoint standard, allowing you to connect two devices and instantly switch between them. Finally, the four Scene buttons on the front panel still allow you to save custom configurations associating source and audio settings, which can be activated with a single press. The Yamaha RX500A's connectivity is based on the RX300A but expands upon it to meet the needs of a 7.2 system. The unit features four HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, two RCA analog inputs, one optical input and one coaxial input, plus seven pairs of screw terminals and two LFE outputs. The front-panel USB port allows for audio file playback and firmware updates, while the FM tuner provides radio reception (still without AM). On the audio side, the Yamaha RX500A offers the brand's usual sound modes: Pure Direct, Straight, Movie, All Channel Stereo, 2 Channel Stereo, Music, and Night. Additional features include Extra Bass, Subwoofer Trim, Dialogue Level, and lip-sync, as well as an automatic room correction system using a microphone. The RX500A also adds Hi-Res Audio playback via USB: FLAC, ALAC, AIFF, and WAV. As a reminder, MP3, AAC, and WMA, already available on the RX300A, remain supported. The Yamaha RX500A features meticulous construction and vibration reduction. The Yamaha RX500A incorporates the Anti-Resonance Technology (ART) Wedge system, a fifth central foot designed to reduce vibrations. Yamaha also highlights a large heat sink positioned above the HDMI circuits to ensure optimal stability when switching high-bandwidth signals. Availability is announced for September. Suggested retail price is still unknown. Key features of the Yamaha RX500A: • Model: 7.2 • Power: 7 x 70 W into 8 ohms, 7 x 1445 W into 6 ohms • THD (Total Harmonic Distortion): 0.09% THD, 2 channels driven • Frequency Response: 20 - 20,000 Hz • Inputs: 4 HDMI 2.1 CEC inputs, 1 optical input, 1 coaxial input, 2 stereo RCA inputs, 1 front-panel USB Host port • Outputs: 1 HDMI output (eARC function), 2 subwoofer outputs, 1 headphone output 7 pairs of screw terminal blocks
• Functions [abc]ALLM[/abc]
• Functions [abc]VRR[/abc]
• Functions QMS
• Functions [abc]Ultra HD[/abc] [abc]4K[/abc]/120 fps or [abc]8K[/abc]/60 fps
• Flac HD compatibility
Spotify Connect Features
• Tidal Features Connect
• Qobuz Connect Features
• Room Correction Calibration
• Anti-Resonance Technology (ART) Wedge System
• Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer Audio
• Dolby Atmos 5.2.2 Audio
• eARC Audio Function
• HDR10/HDR10+ Video
• HDR HLG Video
• HDR Dolby Vision Video
• BT.2020 Compatibility Video
• Ultra HD Pass-Through Video
• 3D Ready Video
• Bluetooth 5.3 Network
• Hi-Res Audio Streaming via USB/Network: Yes
• Hi-Res Audio certified; • Internet radio: yes; • HDCP 2.3 certified; • FM tuner with 30 presets; • Headphone output: yes; • Dimensions (W x H x D, mm): 434 x 319 x 157 mm; • Power consumption: 260 W; • Weight: 8 kg