Sony STR-ZA810ES vs Yamaha R-N602BL review

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Having had an opportunity to test Sony STR-ZA810ES vs Yamaha R-N602BL, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the STR-ZA810ES has such a ratio W/Ohm - 100/8, while the R-N602BL has a power of 115/8, 105/4. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR-ZA810ES it is 0.09%, but for the R-N602BL it is 0.01%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the STR-ZA810ES received the model 384 KHz/32-bit, but the R-N602BL is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Sony STR-ZA810ES. Both Sony STR-ZA810ES and Yamaha R-N602BL can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

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. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode can provide only the STR-ZA810ES. Video scaling is only possible with the STR-ZA810ES. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the STR-ZA810ES. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Sony STR-ZA810ES. HDMI eARC is only supported by the STR-ZA810ES. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Sony STR-ZA810ES has HDMI CEC. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Yamaha R-N602BL. There is an ECO mode in R-N602BL. The Sony STR-ZA810ES can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the STR-ZA810ES. Only in the STR-ZA810ES realized a DTS:X surround technology.