What is better - Yamaha RX-V481BL vs Denon AVR-S720W?
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V481BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/6, while the AVR-S720W has a power of 75/8, 110/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V481BL it is 0.09%, but for the AVR-S720W it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V481BL received the model Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit, but the AVR-S720W is equipped with 192 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-V481BL. Both Yamaha RX-V481BL and Denon AVR-S720W can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet access via WIFI is possible on both units. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Yamaha RX-V481BL works with Pandora, Qobuz, JUKE, but the Denon AVR-S720W works with Pandora, SiriusXM.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of each of the AV receivers. The quality of 4K/60Hz signal remains unchanged when transmitting from a source to a TV or projector via HDMI for both receivers. Signaling over HDMI in standby mode can provide the RX-V481BL and the AVR-S720W. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Review participants do not have the Dolby Vision feature.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the RX-V481BL has 4/1, and the AVR-S720W has 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the RX-V481BL and the AVR-S720W. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-V481BL and AVR-S720W support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Yamaha RX-V481BL and the Denon AVR-S720W can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the AVR-S720W. Only in the AVR-S720W realized a DTS:X surround technology.