[willib]

I've been debating between the RX-V4600, the becoming cheaper RX-Z9 and waiting. I expect Yamaha will release an HDMI version in the RX-Z series within the next 10-24 months. I'm wondering what real improvements they can possibly add to the RX-Z9 besides this capability. Would it not be cheaper to just get an HDMI switch and an RX-Z9 then wait for an expensive RX-Z(x) replacement? The jump from the Z1 to the Z9 was substantial, but I just cant see what else I would really want or need (HD radio? XM radio? more power? analog upconversion to HDMI?).

The 4600 seems like a good compromise in some regards but I think the power and fancier DAC's make the Z9 worth an extra $1000.

Any musings to this extent would be appreciated...

 

[JohnHWman]

Yes Willib,


I'm also the owner of the top end Yamaha DSP-Z9 A/V amplifier for 2 years now (European version of the RX-Z9) and I would like to see what will be the new yamaha flagship A/V amplifier specifications...


For me, the main drawbacks of the Z9 are :


- No HDMI 1.2 or 1.3 input switcher that are managing the SACD/DVD-A multichanels together with digital video,


- No HDMI (HDCP) digital video output (to output the video scaler)


- The lack of 1080P support for its scaler for my Sony VPH-G90 projector ,


- The completely crazy CGMS/Macrovision protected material detection of the video scaler section that limit the use of the scaler to 480p/576p mode only (I must did the firmware patch of my Pioneer 747 DVD player to remove CGMS/MV generation ).


- The 7.1 PRE out that are placed after volume so you can't use external analog filtering / equalization for the front speakers.


Any rumours about the release of the the Z9 successor from Yamaha ?


John

 

[Jose_L]

What's the Z9 selling for nowadays ? (street price)


Regards,

Jose

 

[JohnHWman]

Around 3500 Euros including VAT in France