Yamaha RX-A880 vs Denon AVR-X2500H review

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Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha RX-A880 vs Denon AVR-X2500H, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-A880 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, 160/4, while the AVR-X2500H has a power of 95/8, 125/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-A880 it is 0.06%, but for the AVR-X2500H it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-A880 received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the AVR-X2500H is equipped with AK4490 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha RX-A880 and Denon AVR-X2500H can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay, AirPlay 2. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Yamaha RX-A880 works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz, but the Denon AVR-X2500H works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, TuneIn Radio, iHeart Radio, Sound Cloud.

Video features

The HDR10 function is present in each of the rivals. 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-A880 and the AVR-X2500H. Video scaling is only possible with the RX-A880. Each of the participants of the comparison has a Dolby Vision.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the RX-A880 has 7/2, and the AVR-X2500H has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-A880. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-A880 and AVR-X2500H support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.

Additional features

Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. For voice control in the RX-A880 is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, but in the AVR-X2500H is used Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.AI. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Yamaha RX-A880 and the Denon AVR-X2500H can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. A DTS:X surround technology is supported by devices from our comparison.