Recently, we discussed three new AVR models that launched from Denon, each providing a lot of today’s features at a solid price. However, a Yamaha model also recently fell in price (temporarily?), providing some of the same and more for only $299. This is the Yamaha RX-A660BL 7.2 channel receiver.
It sports just about everything the average Joe would be looking for, as well as any enthusiast not looking to spend top-dollar on their AVR solution.
Yamaha includes support for the latest formats in sound, including DTS:X and Dolby Atmos. This gives you a 5.1.2 channel setup using the height speakers (ceiling) or up to a 7.2 channel, using your typical footprint of speakers running around the room (front, sides and rear).
It offers full 4K (60fps) passthrough, with HDR, BT.2020 and HDCP 2.2 for your sources, as well as built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet for connectivity to the network. Bluetooth, Wireless Direct and so much more are included. You even have your typical sources of streaming built in, including AirPlay, Pandora, Spotify, and Internet Radio. Yamaha wasn’t holding much back when they released this one.
The only catch, is that it only offers 80 watts per channel. This is a fraction of some of their larger Aventage models, which can offer as high as 165 watts per channel. Of course, this is also a fraction of the price, being that the larger models range on average from $999 to $2199.
So the RX-A660BL is quite the beast. A little beast, but still a beast–especially for the price.
