Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha RX-V481BL vs Yamaha R-N602BL, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.
The number of channels for receivers is different - 5.1 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V481BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 80/6, while the R-N602BL has a power of 115/8, 105/4. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V481BL it is 0.09%, but for the R-N602BL it is 0.01%.
Competitive models use the same DAC. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-V481BL. Both Yamaha RX-V481BL and Yamaha R-N602BL 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 Yamaha R-N602BL works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, Qobuz.
Support for the HDR function can only boast of the RX-V481BL. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode can provide only the RX-V481BL. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Review participants do not have the Dolby Vision feature. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Yamaha RX-V481BL. HDMI eARC is not supported by the RX-V481BL and the R-N602BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Yamaha RX-V481BL has HDMI CEC. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Yamaha R-N602BL. 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 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
Generally no support for a Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format. A DTS:X surround technology is not supported by devices from our comparison.