The "Official" Yamaha RX-V659 / HTR-5960 Thread!

eightninesuited · 10-08-06, 12:22 PM

Well now, there's so much talk of these receivers, that it would be a crying shame if the 659 and 5960 didn't have its own official thread.

For those curious about these receivers, check out the through, and professional Review conducted by Audioholics.

I have the 5960 and I'm loving it! I'm hoping owners/future-owners of these receivers can share settings, impressions and just have a plain good time knowing the awesome value Yamaha provided.

More information direct from Yamaha on RX-V659 and HTR-5960

Catt99 · 10-08-06, 02:23 PM

I've been planning on getting the 5960 but have some concerns about physical dimensions given my cabinet requirements. The specs are listed with a depth of 16 9/16".

Could someone who owns this unit please check their precise measurements for me? Is the depth truly 16 9/16" including the projection of the binding posts, etc.? I have a cabinet that is 17" depth and worry about it fitting with connections attached. To that end, would also appreciate knowing how far back from the leading edge the support "feet" are -- it won't be a problem if the feet come right to the edge of my shelf and the leading edge of the front panel overhangs a bit.

Also, I've heard these units can run pretty hot. I have 9.5" of vertical clearance which, if the 6.75" H measurement is accurate, would leave 2.75" clearance above the top of the cabinet. Any owners think this could be problematic?

Thx.

eightninesuited · 10-08-06, 03:06 PM

I don't have a tape measure (using a 6inch ruler) but Yamaha's measurements seem pretty accurate.

Mine doesn't run all that hot. But then again, I keep mine at -18, so I'm not pushing it to reference levels. Even still it's pretty loud.

At 2.75inch clearance, you're certainly limiting air. I'd find a way to attach a fan or put it on top of the cabinet.

From what I read so far, reliability on these have been excellent! So I really wouldn't worry too much.

irvin · 10-08-06, 03:12 PM

I love my HTR 5960. Movies sound better in my room than any movie theater around my area. I was worried that my 5960 would be to bright for my Athenas but I think they sound very natural and amazing. IMO the 659 or 5960 is the best bang for your bucks receiver.

eightninesuited · 10-08-06, 04:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by irvin

IMO the 659 or 5960 is the best bang for your bucks receiver.

Haha! It the 1015TX of 2006. Heck, it can get a LOT louder than a 1015 and still remain clear.

I just picked up the new black 8gb Nano (This thing is so cool!) and have it hooked up to my receiver via the dock. The "enhancer" is really sweet! It sounds almost like a CD.

Dayter · 10-09-06, 01:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by irvin

I love my HTR 5960. Movies sound better in my room than any movie theater around my area.

Does this really happen?

Fnord · 10-09-06, 01:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dayter

Does this really happen?

Yes.

Impala1ss · 10-09-06, 01:03 PM

Just got the 659 and love it. Great sound plus bells and whistles if you want to use them. The On Screen Display is worth a lot to me also. The best bang for the buck affordable receiver.

Catt99 · 10-09-06, 05:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Catt99

Could someone who owns this unit please check their precise measurements for me? Is the depth truly 16 9/16" including the projection of the binding posts, etc.? I have a cabinet that is 17" depth and worry about it fitting with connections attached. To that end, would also appreciate knowing how far back from the leading edge the support "feet" are -- it won't be a problem if the feet come right to the edge of my shelf and the leading edge of the front panel overhangs a bit.

Pretty please? Someone with a tape measure? I'd hate to order this and have the WAF present serious problems on an issue I might have been able to address proactively.

Thanks for any help.

Stryker412 · 10-09-06, 06:30 PM

I plan on getting the 5960 once (hopefully) my warranty replacement goes through at BB.

anonymouse99 · 10-10-06, 10:57 AM

I was not aware that the Yamaha RX-V659 won the 2006/2007 EISA (European Imaging and Sound Association) award for the best HT receiver !! (scroll down towards the middle of the page link)

The European model I believe is rated @ 150 Watts/channel.

Quote:

"In terms of sound quality and features, the Yamaha RX-V659 offers everything you would demand from a one-box AV receiver in this price range – plus a lot more. It boasts a full 7.1-channel architecture, with decoders for both DTS 96/24 and DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, as well as Dolby Digital EX and Pro Logic IIx. Internal video conversion allows the flexibility the modern home theatre enthusiast needs, while YPAO Automatic System Calibration makes accurate speaker set-up a straightforward operation. Yamaha’s Compressed Music Enhancer gives the user even more opportunities, and useful iPod compatibility is provided via the optional YDS-10 docking station."

Also, I see that Yamaha offers this unit in gold finish in Japan. Here are some details on their Japanese site.

Stryker412 · 10-10-06, 10:59 AM

Is there any real big differences between the 659 and the 5960? BB doesn't offer the 659, and I want to know if I'm missing out on anything by not getting a 659.

anonymouse99 · 10-10-06, 11:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stryker412

Is there any real big differences between the 659 and the 5960? BB doesn't offer the 659, and I want to know if I'm missing out on anything by not getting a 659.

Check this out!

Impala1ss · 10-10-06, 12:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stryker412

Is there any real big differences between the 659 and the 5960? BB doesn't offer the 659, and I want to know if I'm missing out on anything by not getting a 659.

SAve $150 and get it over the Internet. While not "authorized" dealers you get the same unit from Yamaha for a lot less $$$.

Stryker412 · 10-10-06, 12:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Impala1ss

SAve $150 and get it over the Internet. While not "authorized" dealers you get the same unit from Yamaha for a lot less $$$.

Unfortunately I don't have a choice. This purchase will be a replacement through warranty at BB. I'll really only be paying the difference so it's like $120.

Thanks anonymouse. So if I don't really need another zone, the 5960 should be just fine right?

camboris · 10-10-06, 12:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Catt99

I've been planning on getting the 5960 but have some concerns about physical dimensions given my cabinet requirements. The specs are listed with a depth of 16 9/16".

Could someone who owns this unit please check their precise measurements for me? Is the depth truly 16 9/16" including the projection of the binding posts, etc.? I have a cabinet that is 17" depth and worry about it fitting with connections attached. To that end, would also appreciate knowing how far back from the leading edge the support "feet" are -- it won't be a problem if the feet come right to the edge of my shelf and the leading edge of the front panel overhangs a bit.

Also, I've heard these units can run pretty hot. I have 9.5" of vertical clearance which, if the 6.75" H measurement is accurate, would leave 2.75" clearance above the top of the cabinet. Any owners think this could be problematic?

Thx.

the unit is about 16" with the feet right on the edge of the table. thats from the feet to the back of the unit with plugs. if you only have 17" you might just clear the cabinet but the knobs and front of the unit will be a full inch out in front of your cabinet.

msh1285 · 10-10-06, 12:24 PM

Just bought my V659, should be here soon to go with my PSB T45's and NAD C320BEE, can't wait!

Fnord · 10-10-06, 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stryker412

Thanks anonymouse. So if I don't really need another zone, the 5960 should be just fine right?

Damn straight.

Catt99 · 10-10-06, 03:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by camboris

the unit is about 16" with the feet right on the edge of the table. thats from the feet to the back of the unit with plugs. if you only have 17" you might just clear the cabinet but the knobs and front of the unit will be a full inch out in front of your cabinet.

Thank you. There are no doors on my space, so I can live with the overhang just so long as the feet are completely seated on the shelf. Looks like I just can squeeze it in. Thanks again.

eightninesuited · 10-10-06, 08:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stryker412

Thanks anonymouse. So if I don't really need another zone, the 5960 should be just fine right?

While I haven't experimented with Zone 2, I'm pretty sure the "Presence" inputs are for Zone 2.

Daryl L · 10-11-06, 11:21 AM

Looks like the V659 uses Burr Brown DAC's. I doubt the 5960 uses Burr Brown DAC's.

eightninesuited · 10-11-06, 11:47 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Daryl L

Looks like the V659 uses Burr Brown DAC's. I doubt the 5960 uses Burr Brown DAC's.

5960 uses Burr Brown DACs.

anonymouse99 · 10-11-06, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Stryker412

... Thanks anonymouse. So if I don't really need another zone, the 5960 should be just fine right?

I have not received my unit to give you a firm answer, but what you are indicating makes sense.

What I don't know is if these changes between the two units are mainly additions to the 659, plus cosmetic changes, or if the VX series indeed uses better components? Anyone care to comment?? Thanks!

anonymouse99 · 10-11-06, 12:17 PM

I also meant to ask, my 659 unit is being shipped as we speak. I am a little concerned about the 2-channel stereo audio quality for various reasons. I have never owned a Yamaha before - I hear folks saying that the audio response of Yamaha series in general is on the bright side.

Secondly, how does the audio compare to the expensive units i.e. the 1600's and 2600's - are they compareable or do the more expensive Yamaha receivers have a significantly higher audio response quality?

eightninesuited · 10-11-06, 12:27 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by anonymouse99

I have not received my unit to give you a firm answer, but what you are indicating makes sense.

What I don't know is if these changes between the two units are mainly additions to the 659, plus cosmetic changes, or if the VX series indeed uses better components? Anyone care to comment?? Thanks!

I got my 5960 for $550can total, per a Best Buy employee who happens to be a good friend. I also play poker with a guy from 2001 Audio Video (Canadian retailer) who told me their cost for the 659. It's actually $10 less than the 5960 at BestBuy. Although he couldn't give me the 659 at that price, and I exchanged my 1016 for the 5960 at BB anyways.

Having said that, the only difference seem to the 12v trigger, IR and zone 2 (I think the 5960 has zone 2 as well). Other than that, it's all cosmetics, and I much prefer the less cluttered, and curved front face of the 5960 over the 659. I think Yamaha didn't want to confuse the customer of Big box stores with things they'll never use.

I think if you were to buy one new, get the 659 since it does have extra goodies. I'll never use Zone 2, no need for IR or 12v, so the 659 offers nothing more to me than what the 5960 can't do. Plus, I like the looks of the 5960 better. And in most cases, you'll find 5960s on sale at Best buy than you will at audio shops for the 659. So if you're like me and don't need the other stuff, save some money and get the 5960 if you can find it on sale.

eightninesuited · 10-11-06, 12:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by anonymouse99

I also meant to ask, my 659 unit is being shipped as we speak. I am a little concerned about the 2-channel stereo audio quality for various reasons. I have never owned a Yamaha before - I hear folks saying that the audio response of Yamaha series in general is on the bright side.

Secondly, how does the audio compare to the expensive units i.e. the 1600's and 2600's - are they compareable or do the more expensive Yamaha receivers have a significantly higher audio response quality?

I think I read somewhere in the v1600 thread that the 659/5960 is essentially identical to the v1600 audio-wise. What makes the 1600 more expensive are the metal face with door, and mainly the HDMI switching. It also has a larger heatsink on the side of the volume knob which gives it more heft. I know the 5960 is more powerful in a 7.1 setup (I have it) than the Pioneer 1016 - which is rated at 110w/c. But it's very possible that the 1600 will sound better. It should since it's more expensive.

spybreaka · 10-11-06, 12:40 PM

Can anyone tell me if the rx-v659 is adequate for powering Wharfedale 9.6 Diamond speakers? The speakers are rated at 40-200 watts @ 6ohms.

The reason I'm asking is that I've currently got a pair hooked up to the amp, running through a HTPC. I'm finding that the volume level is a bit low - if I really want to make it loud I need to adjust the receiver volume to higher than -10db, which seems quite high to me. Does this actually put the receiver under great load, or is it okay as long as there is no audible hiss? I don't want to destroy my brand new receiver. Is there anything else I can do to increase the output volume?

Thanks in advance!

Full speaker specs:
Nominal Impedance 6ohm
Sensitivity 90dB
Frequency 28-24k @ -6dB
Crossover 150Hz, 1.0kHz, 6.0kHz
Frequency Fb 30Hz

Glidedon · 10-11-06, 12:40 PM

I've got a 5960 and it's not bright! I also run Klipsch speakers and the combo is not bright.

I was hesitant buying a Yamaha to pair up with these Klipsch speakers after reading all this bright stuff but it's not true, a least not with the 5960.

The Yamaha HTR-5960 says right on the front panel "Natural Sound Receiver" and that's the way it sounds to me.

YMMV

Don

Vexeus · 10-11-06, 12:42 PM

I got my RX-V659 about a week ago, and was wondering if there is a problem in running a 4 ohm center channel while every other channel is 8 ohms? Anyone know?

anonymouse99 · 10-11-06, 12:46 PM

One thing I forgot to mention, in the review on Audioholics, it was found that the power rating on the 659 unit was measured 20% higher than advertized. Strangely enough, the Japanese, and European 659 models have a power rated from 140 - 150W per channel!

http://www.yamaha.co.jp/english/prod...ht/rxv659.html

Update ... never mind, I confused max with rms. My bad

10-08-06, 12:22 PM	#1 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a4ac4393' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:30&n=a4ac4393' border='0' alt=''></a>
eightninesuited Picard was a fool! Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Toronto, Republic of Canuckistan Posts: 4,675	The "Official" Yamaha RX-V659 / HTR-5960 Thread! Well now, there's so much talk of these receivers, that it would be a crying shame if the 659 and 5960 didn't have its own official thread. For those curious about these receivers, check out the through, and professional Review conducted by Audioholics. I have the 5960 and I'm loving it! I'm hoping owners/future-owners of these receivers can share settings, impressions and just have a plain good time knowing the awesome value Yamaha provided. More information direct from Yamaha on RX-V659 and HTR-5960 Last edited by eightninesuited; 10-08-06 at 12:29 PM..

10-08-06, 03:12 PM	#4 \| Link
irvin Member Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 184	I have the 5960 I love my HTR 5960. Movies sound better in my room than any movie theater around my area. I was worried that my 5960 would be to bright for my Athenas but I think they sound very natural and amazing. IMO the 659 or 5960 is the best bang for your bucks receiver.

10-09-06, 06:30 PM	#10 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a591f81a' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:36&n=a591f81a' border='0' alt=''></a>
Stryker412 AVS Special Member AVS CLUB MEMBER Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Ocean County, NJ Posts: 3,886 Classified Rating: 100% (1)	I plan on getting the 5960 once (hopefully) my warranty replacement goes through at BB.

10-10-06, 10:57 AM	#11 \| Link
anonymouse99 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Posts: 464	I was not aware that the Yamaha RX-V659 won the 2006/2007 EISA (European Imaging and Sound Association) award for the best HT receiver !! (scroll down towards the middle of the page link) The European model I believe is rated @ 150 Watts/channel. Quote: "In terms of sound quality and features, the Yamaha RX-V659 offers everything you would demand from a one-box AV receiver in this price range – plus a lot more. It boasts a full 7.1-channel architecture, with decoders for both DTS 96/24 and DTS-ES Discrete 6.1, as well as Dolby Digital EX and Pro Logic IIx. Internal video conversion allows the flexibility the modern home theatre enthusiast needs, while YPAO Automatic System Calibration makes accurate speaker set-up a straightforward operation. Yamaha’s Compressed Music Enhancer gives the user even more opportunities, and useful iPod compatibility is provided via the optional YDS-10 docking station." Also, I see that Yamaha offers this unit in gold finish in Japan. Here are some details on their Japanese site. Last edited by anonymouse99; 10-10-06 at 11:06 AM..

10-11-06, 11:21 AM	#21 \| Link
Daryl L AVS Special Member Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: North Carolina Posts: 2,380	Looks like the V659 uses Burr Brown DAC's. I doubt the 5960 uses Burr Brown DAC's. __________________ My Home Theater Page

10-08-06, 02:23 PM	#2 \| Link
Catt99 Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2006 Posts: 204	I've been planning on getting the 5960 but have some concerns about physical dimensions given my cabinet requirements. The specs are listed with a depth of 16 9/16". Could someone who owns this unit please check their precise measurements for me? Is the depth truly 16 9/16" including the projection of the binding posts, etc.? I have a cabinet that is 17" depth and worry about it fitting with connections attached. To that end, would also appreciate knowing how far back from the leading edge the support "feet" are -- it won't be a problem if the feet come right to the edge of my shelf and the leading edge of the front panel overhangs a bit. Also, I've heard these units can run pretty hot. I have 9.5" of vertical clearance which, if the 6.75" H measurement is accurate, would leave 2.75" clearance above the top of the cabinet. Any owners think this could be problematic? Thx.

10-08-06, 03:06 PM	#3 \| Link
eightninesuited Picard was a fool! Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Toronto, Republic of Canuckistan Posts: 4,675	I don't have a tape measure (using a 6inch ruler) but Yamaha's measurements seem pretty accurate. Mine doesn't run all that hot. But then again, I keep mine at -18, so I'm not pushing it to reference levels. Even still it's pretty loud. At 2.75inch clearance, you're certainly limiting air. I'd find a way to attach a fan or put it on top of the cabinet. From what I read so far, reliability on these have been excellent! So I really wouldn't worry too much.

10-09-06, 01:03 PM	#8 \| Link
Impala1ss Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2001 Location: East Central Florida Posts: 347	Just got the 659 and love it. Great sound plus bells and whistles if you want to use them. The On Screen Display is worth a lot to me also. The best bang for the buck affordable receiver.

10-10-06, 10:59 AM	#12 \| Link
Stryker412 AVS Special Member AVS CLUB MEMBER Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Ocean County, NJ Posts: 3,886 Classified Rating: 100% (1)	Is there any real big differences between the 659 and the 5960? BB doesn't offer the 659, and I want to know if I'm missing out on anything by not getting a 659.

10-10-06, 12:24 PM	#17 \| Link
msh1285 New Member Join Date: Jan 2005 Posts: 8	Just bought my V659, should be here soon to go with my PSB T45's and NAD C320BEE, can't wait!

10-11-06, 12:17 PM	#24 \| Link
anonymouse99 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Posts: 464	I also meant to ask, my 659 unit is being shipped as we speak. I am a little concerned about the 2-channel stereo audio quality for various reasons. I have never owned a Yamaha before - I hear folks saying that the audio response of Yamaha series in general is on the bright side. Secondly, how does the audio compare to the expensive units i.e. the 1600's and 2600's - are they compareable or do the more expensive Yamaha receivers have a significantly higher audio response quality?

10-11-06, 12:40 PM	#27 \| Link
spybreaka New Member Join Date: Apr 2006 Posts: 3	Can anyone tell me if the rx-v659 is adequate for powering Wharfedale 9.6 Diamond speakers? The speakers are rated at 40-200 watts @ 6ohms. The reason I'm asking is that I've currently got a pair hooked up to the amp, running through a HTPC. I'm finding that the volume level is a bit low - if I really want to make it loud I need to adjust the receiver volume to higher than -10db, which seems quite high to me. Does this actually put the receiver under great load, or is it okay as long as there is no audible hiss? I don't want to destroy my brand new receiver. Is there anything else I can do to increase the output volume? Thanks in advance! Full speaker specs: Nominal Impedance 6ohm Sensitivity 90dB Frequency 28-24k @ -6dB Crossover 150Hz, 1.0kHz, 6.0kHz Frequency Fb 30Hz

10-11-06, 12:40 PM	#28 \| Link
Glidedon Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Shasta Lake, CA Posts: 46	I've got a 5960 and it's not bright! I also run Klipsch speakers and the combo is not bright. I was hesitant buying a Yamaha to pair up with these Klipsch speakers after reading all this bright stuff but it's not true, a least not with the 5960. The Yamaha HTR-5960 says right on the front panel "Natural Sound Receiver" and that's the way it sounds to me. YMMV Don

10-11-06, 12:42 PM	#29 \| Link
Vexeus Member Join Date: Sep 2006 Posts: 34	I got my RX-V659 about a week ago, and was wondering if there is a problem in running a 4 ohm center channel while every other channel is 8 ohms? Anyone know?

10-11-06, 12:46 PM	#30 \| Link	<a href='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adclick.php?n=a591f81a' target='_blank'><img src='http://rev.avsforum.com/phpAdsNew/adview.php?what=zone:36&n=a591f81a' border='0' alt=''></a>
anonymouse99 Senior Member Join Date: Sep 2005 Posts: 464	One thing I forgot to mention, in the review on Audioholics, it was found that the power rating on the 659 unit was measured 20% higher than advertized. Strangely enough, the Japanese, and European 659 models have a power rated from 140 - 150W per channel! http://www.yamaha.co.jp/english/prod...ht/rxv659.html Update ... never mind, I confused max with rms. My bad