Starting with the RX-A710 which I will be receiving tomorrow and testing over Labor Day weekend.
AVENTAGE AV Receivers: Designed to Deliver the Highest Levels of Audio Performance
The AVENTAGE line of high-performance AV receivers is based on the audio design concept of providing a massive, full-bodied sound for movie sound effects and the accurate reproduction of music sources. By expertly harmonizing traditional and advanced technologies, every factor that affects sound quality, from materials and parts to construction, layout, vibration damping (unique A.R.T. Wedge foot) and fine-tuning the sound, is handled with no other thought than to achieve the best possible audio quality. As a result, every AVENTAGE model has the ability to reproduce the most subtle details of high-definition sound, so that listeners can enjoy a truly high-class sound studio experience at home.
A.R.T. Wedge Helps to Ensure that Vibrations Do Not Affect Sound Quality
The A.R.T. (Anti-Resonance Technology) Wedge is a fifth foot in the center of the unit. It dampens vibrations from the power transformer, power transistors and heat sinks, as well as vibrations that might be caused by the sound from the speakers. This elimination or reduction of vibration provides an audible increase in sound quality throughout the AVENTAGE Series.
Aluminum Front Panel Offers Visual and Aural Benefits
All of the AVENTAGE components feature the same sleek, clean design, with an elegant aluminum front panel and silky touch volume/selector knobs. The aluminum front panel is used to effectively shield sensitive circuitry from external noise and electronic energy generated by dimmer switches, fluorescent lighting, video monitors and so on. This ensures optimum sonic performance in the widest range of installation environments.
HDMI with 3D and Audio Return Channel
3D means the receiver can handle 3D signal data. The Audio Return Channel function enables data to be sent and received via the same HDMI cable, so you can hear the sound from the TV via a single HDMI cable, with no need for an extra optical cable.
Analog and HDMI Video Upscaling to Full HD 1080p
This AV Receiver will upscale video signals up to 1080p. HDTVs capable of 720p, 1080i or 1080p resolution can provide more detailed picture.
High Quality Video Processing with Edge Adaptive Deinterlacing
In ordinary deinterlacing, pixels in areas of movement are interpolated by upper and lower ranges. This causes jaggies in diagonal lines. Edge adaptive deinterlacing detects the direction of the line and interpolates the pixels optimally.
Network Functions
This AV receiver provides a variety of network functions that enable you to access more sources and also enhance operation. You can connect the receiver to a PC to enjoy Internet Radio, Pandora, Rhapsody, Sirius XM and Napster, and use a Web Browser Control. The AV Controller app lets you control various functions from your iPhone or iPad, etc.
AV Controller App for Easy, Convenient Operation
The AVENTAGE AV Receivers let you use the Yamaha AV Controller app, a free download from the iTunes App Store to control power on/off and volume, select input and DSP modes and operate other functions from an iPhone, iPad and other devices. An Android app will be available in the coming months.
USB Digital Connection for iPod and iPhone on the Front Panel
A USB port on the front panel allows convenient connection of an iPod/iPhone, which also charges when connected. Because the digital signal from the iPod/iPhone is transmitted directly to the AV receiver, there is no signal loss or interference, so you enjoy the best possible sound quality. In addition, you can use the receiver's remote control unit to operate the iPod/iPhone music playback functions.
YPAO Automatically Sets the Best Sound for Any Room
Yamaha's YPAO system uses a small microphone and sophisticated equalization to automatically set the best sound for any room, no matter where the speakers are. First it checks the speaker connections and phase of each speaker. Then it sends out tones which are captured by the microphone to analyze the room acoustics and sets a variety of parameters, such as the speaker size, the distance of the speakers and even the sound pressure level, etc. Until it achieves the best sound conditions for your room and you don't have to do anything!
SCENE for One-Touch Start
The Four SCENE buttons make operating the receiver easier than ever. They are initially set to default settings for BD/DVD Viewing, CD Disc Listening, TV Viewing and Radio Listening. Pressing a SCENE button will automatically launch a number of operations that initiate play of the source controlled by that button. Other SCENE settings are also available, such as iPod Listening, SiriusXM Listening [model dependent], TV Sports Viewing and Action Game Playing. Browsing and selecting the settings is quickly accomplished by changing Input via the front panel and watching the on-screen display. The settings can be selected for one-time use, or they can replace the original default settings. The SCENE names can be changed also.
HDMI CEC for Easy Operation
Another benefit of HDMI is the availability of CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) functionality. When the unit is connected to a CEC compatible TV, it will turn on and off together with the TV, and you can use the TV remote to control the volume. CEC also provides advanced functionality with other components. For example, you can use the receiver's remote unit to control player functions like Skip and Stop.
*All connected devices must be HDMI CEC compatible. Some CEC compatible TVs/players may not work.
Input Selection in HDMI Standby Through Mode
When the AV receiver is in HDMI Standby Through mode, the input source (Blu-ray Disc player, game console, etc.) for viewing on the monitor can be changed via the remote control. There's no need to turn on the AV receiver in order to switch sources.
HDMI Front Panel Input
In addition to the large number of HDMI inputs on the rear panel, there is also one on the front panel. This gives you a convenient way to quickly plug in a digital camera or camcorder for highest quality pictures.
Advanced On-Screen GUI
Yamaha's latest Graphical User Interface (GUI) has a high resolution display with clear, easy-to-use menus and also includes a selectable Status Bar that shows input source, volume level, DSP mode and audio format. The GUI provides a choice of six languages: English, French, German, Japanese, Russian and Spanish, and can be displayed over both normal and 3D pictures.
Intelligent Amp Assign
Intelligent Amp Assign automatically assigns amplifier channels to certain speakers, depending on what functions are selected. For example, in a 7.1-channel system, when Zone 2 is off, all 7.1 channels will be used in the Main Zone. However, when Zone 2 is on, power to the two Surround Back channels will be directed to the two speakers in Zone 2, and the Main Zone will receive 5.1 channels of power. Similarly, when CINEMA DSP 3D is on, the two Front Presence speakers will be powered and not the two Surround Back speakers. When CINEMA DSP 3D is off, this situation is reversed. Thanks to Intelligent Amp Assign, there's no need to switch the speaker cables on the rear of the receiverone more way Yamaha makes your life a little easier.
HD Audio with CINEMA DSP 3D and Virtual Presence Speaker
CINEMA DSP 3D provides a wide, high and dense sound field. HD Audio format decoding lets you enjoy HD Audio sources. Virtual Presence Speaker delivers 3-dimensional sound without actual use of presence speakers. The actually measured sound field data contain the information of the height of the sound images. CINEMA DSP 3D mode achieves the reproduction of the accurate height of the sound images so that it creates the accurate and intensive stereoscopic sound fields in a listening room.
Compressed Music Enhancer
When music is encoded into a digitally compressed format like MP3, the frequency response suffers. Yamaha's Compressed Music Enhancer employs sophisticated digital signal processing using exclusive algorithms to restore what was lost, so the music always sounds the way it should.
Adaptive DRC (Dynamic Range Control)
Adaptive DRC automatically adjusts the dynamic range of the sound according to the volume level. This ensures that you hear clear dialogue and vocals, and all sound effects at comfortable levels. There is no need to adjust the volume level as you listen; everything from whispers to big explosions will be heard clearly and comfortably at the same volume setting. It also tones down loud TV commercials, and is ideal for low-volume, late-night listening, when you do not want to disturb others.
Versatile Zone Control
Zone 2 on/off and control on front panel
Zone sleep and system sleep
Remote input/output
Programmable +12V trigger output
Low Standby Power Consumption
Yamaha makes its receivers eco-friendly with a low standby power consumption of 0.1W (2W in HDMI Standby Through mode).
Eco-Friendly Design with Selectable Auto Power Down
Auto Power Down lets you save energy by selecting to turn off the power after 4, 8 or 12 hours.
Optional Accessories for Added Convenience
Yamaha optional docks make it easy to enjoy your favorite music from your iPod or iPhone, with or without cables. Select from of the following models:
yAired Wireless Dock System YID-W10
Universal Dock for iPod/iPhone YDS-12
Bluetooth® Wireless Audio Receiver YBA-10
Notable Audio Features
7-channel powerful surround sound
- 90W per Channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.09 % THD, 2 ch driven)
- 105W per Channel (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.9 % THD, 2 ch driven)
HD Audio format decoding: Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio; Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
Discrete amp configuration
Selected high quality parts to achieve optimum audio performance
Pure Direct for HD Audio and video enjoyment
Low jitter PLL circuitry helps optimize sound imaging
Detachable Power Cable for easier installation (also allows cable upgrade)
Assignable amplifiers for bi-amp connection
Intelligent assignable amplifiers for Surround Back - Front Presence or Zone 2
Notable Video Features
1080p-compatible HDMI: 8 inputs (1 on front) and 2 outputs
Supports Deep Color (30/36 bit), x.v.Color, 24Hz Refresh Rate and Auto Lip-Sync compensation
Multi-cadence (incl. 3-2 pull-down) detection
HDMI with 3D and Audio Return Channel
Notable Advanced Features
DLNA 1.5 certified SIRIUS Satellite Radio ready
Audio input assign capability for HDMI and component video input
iPod/iPhone compatibility with optional YDS-12 Universal Dock
Wireless connection for iPod/iPhone with optional YID-W10
Bluetooth (A2DP) compatibility with optional Yamaha Bluetooth® Wireless Audio Receiver YBA-10
iPod/iPhone song titles displayed in English and Western European languages on the front panel and on-screen display
Dialogue Lift
Audio Delay for adjusting Lip-Sync (0-250ms)
Preset remote unit
Background video feature (for tuner, Net, USB and SIRIUS Satellite Radio)
Notable Surround Realism Features
Virtual Presence Speaker function for CINEMA DSP 3D surround without Front Presence Speakers
Adaptive DSP Level
SILENT CINEMA and Virtual CINEMA DSP
Note: The basic format of this thread was taken from the RX-V671 thread, but I felt like the AVENTAGE features were not being discussed there and wanted to split them out. I am hoping owners of this line of receivers will submit their $0.02 and find the information they are looking for easier. I know that personally I had a difficult time finding good reviews on this line of AVRs.
AVENTAGE AV Receivers: Designed to Deliver the Highest Levels of Audio Performance
The AVENTAGE line of high-performance AV receivers is based on the audio design concept of providing a massive, full-bodied sound for movie sound effects and the accurate reproduction of music sources. By expertly harmonizing traditional and advanced technologies, every factor that affects sound quality, from materials and parts to construction, layout, vibration damping (unique A.R.T. Wedge foot) and fine-tuning the sound, is handled with no other thought than to achieve the best possible audio quality. As a result, every AVENTAGE model has the ability to reproduce the most subtle details of high-definition sound, so that listeners can enjoy a truly high-class sound studio experience at home.
A.R.T. Wedge Helps to Ensure that Vibrations Do Not Affect Sound Quality
The A.R.T. (Anti-Resonance Technology) Wedge is a fifth foot in the center of the unit. It dampens vibrations from the power transformer, power transistors and heat sinks, as well as vibrations that might be caused by the sound from the speakers. This elimination or reduction of vibration provides an audible increase in sound quality throughout the AVENTAGE Series.
Aluminum Front Panel Offers Visual and Aural Benefits
All of the AVENTAGE components feature the same sleek, clean design, with an elegant aluminum front panel and silky touch volume/selector knobs. The aluminum front panel is used to effectively shield sensitive circuitry from external noise and electronic energy generated by dimmer switches, fluorescent lighting, video monitors and so on. This ensures optimum sonic performance in the widest range of installation environments.
HDMI with 3D and Audio Return Channel
3D means the receiver can handle 3D signal data. The Audio Return Channel function enables data to be sent and received via the same HDMI cable, so you can hear the sound from the TV via a single HDMI cable, with no need for an extra optical cable.
Analog and HDMI Video Upscaling to Full HD 1080p
This AV Receiver will upscale video signals up to 1080p. HDTVs capable of 720p, 1080i or 1080p resolution can provide more detailed picture.
High Quality Video Processing with Edge Adaptive Deinterlacing
In ordinary deinterlacing, pixels in areas of movement are interpolated by upper and lower ranges. This causes jaggies in diagonal lines. Edge adaptive deinterlacing detects the direction of the line and interpolates the pixels optimally.
Network Functions
This AV receiver provides a variety of network functions that enable you to access more sources and also enhance operation. You can connect the receiver to a PC to enjoy Internet Radio, Pandora, Rhapsody, Sirius XM and Napster, and use a Web Browser Control. The AV Controller app lets you control various functions from your iPhone or iPad, etc.
AV Controller App for Easy, Convenient Operation
The AVENTAGE AV Receivers let you use the Yamaha AV Controller app, a free download from the iTunes App Store to control power on/off and volume, select input and DSP modes and operate other functions from an iPhone, iPad and other devices. An Android app will be available in the coming months.
USB Digital Connection for iPod and iPhone on the Front Panel
A USB port on the front panel allows convenient connection of an iPod/iPhone, which also charges when connected. Because the digital signal from the iPod/iPhone is transmitted directly to the AV receiver, there is no signal loss or interference, so you enjoy the best possible sound quality. In addition, you can use the receiver's remote control unit to operate the iPod/iPhone music playback functions.
YPAO Automatically Sets the Best Sound for Any Room
Yamaha's YPAO system uses a small microphone and sophisticated equalization to automatically set the best sound for any room, no matter where the speakers are. First it checks the speaker connections and phase of each speaker. Then it sends out tones which are captured by the microphone to analyze the room acoustics and sets a variety of parameters, such as the speaker size, the distance of the speakers and even the sound pressure level, etc. Until it achieves the best sound conditions for your room and you don't have to do anything!
SCENE for One-Touch Start
The Four SCENE buttons make operating the receiver easier than ever. They are initially set to default settings for BD/DVD Viewing, CD Disc Listening, TV Viewing and Radio Listening. Pressing a SCENE button will automatically launch a number of operations that initiate play of the source controlled by that button. Other SCENE settings are also available, such as iPod Listening, SiriusXM Listening [model dependent], TV Sports Viewing and Action Game Playing. Browsing and selecting the settings is quickly accomplished by changing Input via the front panel and watching the on-screen display. The settings can be selected for one-time use, or they can replace the original default settings. The SCENE names can be changed also.
HDMI CEC for Easy Operation
Another benefit of HDMI is the availability of CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) functionality. When the unit is connected to a CEC compatible TV, it will turn on and off together with the TV, and you can use the TV remote to control the volume. CEC also provides advanced functionality with other components. For example, you can use the receiver's remote unit to control player functions like Skip and Stop.
*All connected devices must be HDMI CEC compatible. Some CEC compatible TVs/players may not work.
Input Selection in HDMI Standby Through Mode
When the AV receiver is in HDMI Standby Through mode, the input source (Blu-ray Disc player, game console, etc.) for viewing on the monitor can be changed via the remote control. There's no need to turn on the AV receiver in order to switch sources.
HDMI Front Panel Input
In addition to the large number of HDMI inputs on the rear panel, there is also one on the front panel. This gives you a convenient way to quickly plug in a digital camera or camcorder for highest quality pictures.
Advanced On-Screen GUI
Yamaha's latest Graphical User Interface (GUI) has a high resolution display with clear, easy-to-use menus and also includes a selectable Status Bar that shows input source, volume level, DSP mode and audio format. The GUI provides a choice of six languages: English, French, German, Japanese, Russian and Spanish, and can be displayed over both normal and 3D pictures.
Intelligent Amp Assign
Intelligent Amp Assign automatically assigns amplifier channels to certain speakers, depending on what functions are selected. For example, in a 7.1-channel system, when Zone 2 is off, all 7.1 channels will be used in the Main Zone. However, when Zone 2 is on, power to the two Surround Back channels will be directed to the two speakers in Zone 2, and the Main Zone will receive 5.1 channels of power. Similarly, when CINEMA DSP 3D is on, the two Front Presence speakers will be powered and not the two Surround Back speakers. When CINEMA DSP 3D is off, this situation is reversed. Thanks to Intelligent Amp Assign, there's no need to switch the speaker cables on the rear of the receiverone more way Yamaha makes your life a little easier.
HD Audio with CINEMA DSP 3D and Virtual Presence Speaker
CINEMA DSP 3D provides a wide, high and dense sound field. HD Audio format decoding lets you enjoy HD Audio sources. Virtual Presence Speaker delivers 3-dimensional sound without actual use of presence speakers. The actually measured sound field data contain the information of the height of the sound images. CINEMA DSP 3D mode achieves the reproduction of the accurate height of the sound images so that it creates the accurate and intensive stereoscopic sound fields in a listening room.
Compressed Music Enhancer
When music is encoded into a digitally compressed format like MP3, the frequency response suffers. Yamaha's Compressed Music Enhancer employs sophisticated digital signal processing using exclusive algorithms to restore what was lost, so the music always sounds the way it should.
Adaptive DRC (Dynamic Range Control)
Adaptive DRC automatically adjusts the dynamic range of the sound according to the volume level. This ensures that you hear clear dialogue and vocals, and all sound effects at comfortable levels. There is no need to adjust the volume level as you listen; everything from whispers to big explosions will be heard clearly and comfortably at the same volume setting. It also tones down loud TV commercials, and is ideal for low-volume, late-night listening, when you do not want to disturb others.
Versatile Zone Control
Zone 2 on/off and control on front panel
Zone sleep and system sleep
Remote input/output
Programmable +12V trigger output
Low Standby Power Consumption
Yamaha makes its receivers eco-friendly with a low standby power consumption of 0.1W (2W in HDMI Standby Through mode).
Eco-Friendly Design with Selectable Auto Power Down
Auto Power Down lets you save energy by selecting to turn off the power after 4, 8 or 12 hours.
Optional Accessories for Added Convenience
Yamaha optional docks make it easy to enjoy your favorite music from your iPod or iPhone, with or without cables. Select from of the following models:
yAired Wireless Dock System YID-W10
Universal Dock for iPod/iPhone YDS-12
Bluetooth® Wireless Audio Receiver YBA-10
Notable Audio Features
7-channel powerful surround sound
- 90W per Channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.09 % THD, 2 ch driven)
- 105W per Channel (8 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.9 % THD, 2 ch driven)
HD Audio format decoding: Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio; Dolby Digital Plus and DTS-HD High Resolution Audio
Discrete amp configuration
Selected high quality parts to achieve optimum audio performance
Pure Direct for HD Audio and video enjoyment
Low jitter PLL circuitry helps optimize sound imaging
Detachable Power Cable for easier installation (also allows cable upgrade)
Assignable amplifiers for bi-amp connection
Intelligent assignable amplifiers for Surround Back - Front Presence or Zone 2
Notable Video Features
1080p-compatible HDMI: 8 inputs (1 on front) and 2 outputs
Supports Deep Color (30/36 bit), x.v.Color, 24Hz Refresh Rate and Auto Lip-Sync compensation
Multi-cadence (incl. 3-2 pull-down) detection
HDMI with 3D and Audio Return Channel
Notable Advanced Features
DLNA 1.5 certified SIRIUS Satellite Radio ready
Audio input assign capability for HDMI and component video input
iPod/iPhone compatibility with optional YDS-12 Universal Dock
Wireless connection for iPod/iPhone with optional YID-W10
Bluetooth (A2DP) compatibility with optional Yamaha Bluetooth® Wireless Audio Receiver YBA-10
iPod/iPhone song titles displayed in English and Western European languages on the front panel and on-screen display
Dialogue Lift
Audio Delay for adjusting Lip-Sync (0-250ms)
Preset remote unit
Background video feature (for tuner, Net, USB and SIRIUS Satellite Radio)
Notable Surround Realism Features
Virtual Presence Speaker function for CINEMA DSP 3D surround without Front Presence Speakers
Adaptive DSP Level
SILENT CINEMA and Virtual CINEMA DSP
Note: The basic format of this thread was taken from the RX-V671 thread, but I felt like the AVENTAGE features were not being discussed there and wanted to split them out. I am hoping owners of this line of receivers will submit their $0.02 and find the information they are looking for easier. I know that personally I had a difficult time finding good reviews on this line of AVRs.