Yamaha RX-A1070BL vs Onkyo TX-NR616 review

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Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha RX-A1070BL vs Onkyo TX-NR616, 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-A1070BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 110/8, while the TX-NR616 has a power of 160/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-A1070BL it is 0.06%, but for the TX-NR616 it is 0.08%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-A1070BL received the model ESS 192 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-NR616 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha RX-A1070BL and Onkyo TX-NR616 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. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Yamaha RX-A1070BL works with Deezer, TIDAL, Pandora, Napster, SiriusXM, but the Onkyo TX-NR616 works with Last.fm, AUPEO, Simfy, vTuner.

Video features

Support for the HDR function can only boast of the RX-A1070BL. 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-A1070BL and the TX-NR616. Each of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the RX-A1070BL.

Extensive connections

The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 8/2. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the RX-A1070BL and the TX-NR616. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-A1070BL and TX-NR616 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Yamaha RX-A1070BL.

Additional features

Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. There is an ECO mode in RX-A1070BL. The Yamaha RX-A1070BL can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the RX-A1070BL. Only in the RX-A1070BL realized a DTS:X surround technology.