Yamaha RX-V385 AV Receiver Review 4K Ultra HD and Bluetooth Features

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Yamaha RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver strikes a balance between sleek modern aesthetics and practicality. With its compact dimensions of 12.4 x 17.13 x 6.34 inches, it fits snugly into my entertainment setup without dominating the space. Right out of the box, the solid construction and weight of 16.3 pounds signaled durability. The front panel is intuitive, with clearly labeled buttons and a smooth volume knob that feels satisfyingly responsive. I appreciated the minimalist design, which avoids overwhelming users with unnecessary clutter, yet maintains an air of sophistication. The black matte finish resists fingerprints, keeping it looking pristine even after frequent adjustments.

Audio Performance

As someone who values immersive sound, this AV receiver didn’t disappoint. The 5.1-channel surround sound delivers a rich and powerful audio experience, whether I was watching an action-packed movie or listening to my favorite playlists. During testing, the Dolby Vision and HDR10 compatibility elevated the overall audio-visual experience, making me feel as though I was right in the middle of the action. The YPAO auto-calibration technology was a lifesaver; it analyzed my room’s acoustics and adjusted the sound accordingly. This feature saved me from hours of manual tweaking and ensured the audio was balanced no matter where I sat in the room. One small detail I loved was the customizable audio delay (0-500 ms), which helped sync sound perfectly with on-screen visuals.

Connectivity Options

The connectivity options on this receiver are nothing short of impressive. With HDMI 2.1 compatibility, it supports the latest video standards, including 4K Ultra HD, HDR10, and hybrid log-gamma. I connected multiple devices using the four HDMI inputs and single output, and everything worked seamlessly. The Bluetooth feature allowed me to pair my phone quickly for wireless music streaming, which became an instant favorite during gatherings. There’s also HDMI CEC, enabling me to control multiple devices with just one remote. However, I did wish there were more analog inputs, as not all my older devices could be connected directly.

Ease of Setup

Setting up the receiver was straightforward and surprisingly quick. The YPAO calibration mic, included in the box, made it effortless to optimize sound for my specific room layout. The on-screen setup guide was clear, walking me through each step with ease. Even though I’m far from a tech expert, I had everything up and running in no time. The receiver supports BT.2020, which ensures vibrant color and contrast when paired with a compatible TV. While the setup process was smooth, some of the advanced settings required a bit of digging through the manual to fully understand.

Positive Features

The Yamaha RX-V385 has several winning points that set it apart from other AV receivers in its price range:

• 4K Ultra HD support with HDR10 and Dolby Vision for superior picture quality.
• YPAO auto-calibration significantly simplifies the audio tuning process.
• Bluetooth connectivity makes wireless streaming incredibly convenient.
• Sturdy build quality ensures long-term reliability.

Negative Attributes

Despite its many strengths, there are a few shortcomings that I noticed:

• Limited analog inputs, which may be problematic for users with older devices.
• The remote control feels a bit outdated in design and lacks backlighting, making it hard to use in dim settings.
• Advanced settings might be slightly overwhelming for beginners without prior experience with AV receivers.

Competing Products

When considering competing brands, I compared this receiver with the Denon AVR-S540BT and the Sony STR-DH590. Both competitors offer 5.2-channel surround sound, giving them a slight edge in terms of speaker flexibility. However, the Yamaha excels in audio calibration, as neither competitor includes technology as advanced as YPAO. In terms of build quality, the Sony model felt less robust, while the Denon was similar but lacked the same intuitive setup process. I also found that Yamaha’s Bluetooth integration worked more seamlessly compared to the occasional lag I experienced with the other two products.

Affordable Quality

From a value for money perspective, the Yamaha RX-V385 delivers a fantastic mix of features and performance. It’s not the cheapest option available, but the inclusion of 4K support, superior audio calibration, and robust connectivity makes it worth the price tag. While the lack of extra analog inputs might deter some buyers, the overall package feels like an excellent investment for anyone seeking an entry-level AV receiver that doesn’t skimp on quality.

Additional information