Having had an opportunity to test Denon AVR-X4000 vs Yamaha RX-A850, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
AV receivers under review have the same number of channels. In terms of power, there are differences, the AVR-X4000 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 125/8, 165/6, while the RX-A850 has a power of 110/8. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the AVR-X4000 it is 0.05%, but for the RX-A850 it is 0.06%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the AVR-X4000 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the RX-A850 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Denon AVR-X4000 and Yamaha RX-A850 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 Denon AVR-X4000 works with Pandora, Sirius XM, but the Yamaha RX-A850 works with Pandora, Sirius XM, Napster, JUKE, Rhapsody.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of the RX-A850. 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 AVR-X4000 and the RX-A850. Each 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 AVR-X4000 has 7/3, and the RX-A850 has 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the AVR-X4000 and the RX-A850. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. AVR-X4000 and RX-A850 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Like most receivers, our models have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player.
Unlike the AVR-X4000 where 3 Multi zones is provided, the RX-A850 works with 2 Multi zones. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in RX-A850. The Denon AVR-X4000 and the Yamaha RX-A850 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the RX-A850. A DTS:X surround technology is not supported by devices from our comparison.