A wide diversity in audio and HD formats makes the Yamaha RX-A2060 exciting to review. The system supports DTS-X as well as Dolby Atmos, great news for fans of surround sound. Just a few minutes of discussion about this Aventage home theater system will makes it simpler to compare to other devices before selecting a product to purchase now or add to a wish list. Yamaha has long been acknowledged as a leader in sound quality, whether you’re comparing musical instruments or sound-producing entertainment.
The Good and Not-so-Good
Pros:
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X deliver incredible home theater sound
- Up to 1080p and 4K Video upconversion for analog and HDMI sources
- Stream music without a wireless home network using a Smartphone and Wireless Direct
Cons
- MusicCast button is only on the front panel
Comparison of Yamaha RX-A2060 and RX-A2050
RX-A2060 has several changes from and advantages over the Yamaha’s 2050. The most notable is that the Dolby Atmos/DTS-X/HDR BT.2020 pass-through is ready right out of the box. It also has:
- Extra Bass Zone for 2 and 3
- USB iPod/Apple USB Support removed
- New HD GUI interface
- New Power Amp Assign for 5.1.2 & Bi-Amp
The power specifications did not change from the previous model RX-A2050. Both units use 2-channel driven (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 0.06% THD, 8 ohms) 140 W. While the 2050 remains a competitive unit, the Yamaha RX-A2060 has enough new and improved features to warrant a serious consideration for ownership.
Below is the back panel layout. Click on image to enlarge for a clearer view.
Yamaha RX-A2060 Back Panel
Appearance and Design
The durably constructed Yamaha 2060 features an H Frame body and front panel constructed of aluminum. The inner construction of the deck helps resist interference. The right channel and left channel of the amplifier are physically and electrically isolated. This is to improve upon the signal to noise ratio while presenting an open stage of sound. Built into this dynamo is a digital to analog converter (DAC) manufactured and produced by ESS Technology Incorporated. The 192 kHz 24-bit converter provides a stable groundwork for movies and music.
The uncluttered face panel doesn’t host a bunch of buttons and other in-the-way items. This AV receiver places most everything neatly under the front plate. About the hardest thing to do (and it takes very little effort) is to push in and hold the MusicCast button for 5 seconds to complete set up.
For people who do not have dainty fingers, the remote design leaves a bit to be desired. There are too many buttons and not enough space to maneuver through them all without sometimes selecting the wrong thing. A better option is to use available applications on Android or iOS formats. There is a bit more range and almost everything is accessed through the app. The MusicCast button does not appear on the app or remote, making front panel access mandatory. I’m not sure why, but can assure you it is a minor distraction.
Ready to Connect
A multitude of options are available to connect the Yamaha RX-A2060. There is an RS-232 input, IR output, as well as a 12V trigger to set up home automation and home theater systems. The configuration provides convenient and easy to install set-up, providing 2 HDMI outputs and 6 HDMI inputs. It’s an ideal match with today’s Ultra HD televisions and Blu-Ray players, offering full support for High Dynamic Range (HDR) and 4K video technology.
Connectivity
Connections through Apple AirPlay, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth means just about everyone can use the services offered through the Yamaha amplifier. Wireless streaming is a music lover’s dream through formats like Rhapsody, Napster, Pandora. Pairing devices are simple to use. The compressed music enhancer presents improved sound quality from Bluetooth formats.
Sound Quality
The surround sound made me feel as if I was at the event instead of listening to a reproduction. It enveloped me and gave me a feeling of first-hand experience. Rather than a dismal pitter-pat of raindrops, my eardrums were taunted by a torrential downpour. Even though the Yamaha RX-2060 is under the umbrella of the Flagship 3060 model, its performance could easily put it in a league of its own. Every component in this system has been selected with sound performance in mind.
What about MusicCast?
MusicCast sets Yamaha Aventage home theater systems above the competition. I’m constantly flabbergasted with its ability to produce favorite music channels throughout the house using tablet, Smartphone, computer or network attached storage devices. Direct output to Bluetooth speakers or headphones or to multiple speakers simultaneously in as many as 9 locations inside the home.
Technical Info
The Yamaha Aventage RX-A2060, a network audio visual receiver, features a 9.2 channel technology with 155W power output rating and Cinema DSP Surround sound processing. Audio features include a Compressed Music Enhancer and a High-resolution Music Enhancer. Video features include a 4K Ultra HD pass-through and upscaling plus HDMI 3D pass-through with upscaling.
Superior engineering technology delivers a user-friendly setup that requires just a short amount of time for setup. The design minimizes vibration and sound distortion with the help of the H-Frame design and 5th foot stabilizer. Yamaha keeps the process simple with the YPAO calibration system. Dial in connected speakers and manipulate other features as desired. I arranged the sound to my satisfaction by using the various options and comparing the differences.
Users who may be a little tech challenged or just not too familiar with AV equipment will like the setup application supplied by Yamaha and compatible with most tablets. Just type in the AV receiver model to pull up the manual, which will walk you through the process. A minimum 7-inch screen is needed for the program o work properly.
The Yamaha RX-A2060 is a solid choice for an incredible home theater experience. Sound bars and speakers can be placed at the user’s discretion to personalize the listening experience. Moreover, it can be modified to fit nearly any location while providing stellar performance.
Update: There is a newer model > Yamaha RX-A2070