When comparing Sony STR-DN850 vs Yamaha RX-V481BL, the Slant community recommends Yamaha RX-V481BL for most people. In the question“What are the best A/V receivers under $400?” Yamaha RX-V481BL is ranked 2nd while Sony STR-DN850 is ranked 4th. The most important reason people chose Yamaha RX-V481BL is:
All five speaker inputs employ binding posts instead of spring clips which makes it easier to set up speakers. Binding posts provide better contact between the wire and the receiver than spring clips making it a safer choice. In addition, banana plugs can be used with binding posts to allow for very quick swapping of speaker wires.
Specs
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Pros
Pro An increased depth of sound
Its seven speakers add more depth and detail to the sound when compared to a standard five speaker system. In addition, dual sub-woofers offer more optimal listening positions and has increased headroom. Together, the 7.2 channel configuration creates a more immersive and fuller sound for your system.
Pro Good interface
It has a simple and easy to understand interface that shows all the necessary information while still making it pleasant to look at. This can be applied to the remote as well. It isn’t cluttered with buttons but still offers the same functionality.
Pro Access to multiple streaming services
Can access some of the regularly used streaming services through its Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections. These streaming services are Spotify, TuneIn and Apple’s Airplay.
Pro An extra option for control
The application SongPal is being used as an another controller to manipulate the receiver. It provides the very basic options, such as, source selection, playback of music, volume settings but even includes adding different types of effects to the audio.
Pro Additional music playback
Has a USB port at the front and Bluetooth connectivity with NFC support to give you additional music playback choices.
Pro Supports 4K resolution
For its 5 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output it has 4K pass-through and can even upscale video to a 4K resolution.
Pro Easy speaker setup
All five speaker inputs employ binding posts instead of spring clips which makes it easier to set up speakers. Binding posts provide better contact between the wire and the receiver than spring clips making it a safer choice. In addition, banana plugs can be used with binding posts to allow for very quick swapping of speaker wires.
Pro Remarkable picture fidelity
It has higher picture accuracy than other receivers at this price range. To achieve this, it uses the High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology for a higher range of contrast and colors. In addition, the BT.2020 option is employed which expands the range of colors. Together, they create a much more natural and more pronounced picture.
Pro Fantastic sound for the price
This Yamaha receiver has better sound than most of the receivers in this price range. The bass is definite and the depth of the sound is quite noteworthy. The sound as a whole has good clarity.
Pro Extensive music playback options
There are extensive music playback options through Bluetooth, USB and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Pro Offers control from your phone
It is possible to control the receiver through your mobile application. The MusicCast application is simple, visually pleasing, and even has several options to customize its look.
Cons
Con Not future-proof
None of the HDMI ports have HDCP 2.2 support which will prevent the user from experiencing copyrighted 4K quality content. Additionally, it doesn’t employ Dolby Atmos technology which is used to create an extra immersive sound. Currently these technologies are not widespread but will probably become more prevalent as time goes on.
Con Unreliable sound setup
The sound calibration can be a hit or miss. It will either perform accurately and set up your system to a good standard or widely misrepresent the sound. Not suited for people who don’t like to rely on their ears for sound modification.
Con Looks cluttered
The main box is filled with buttons. While they all have a purpose, the options might seem overwhelming. To help with this, scene shortcuts are available to make switching scenes as easy as possible.