Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha RX-V385 vs Yamaha RX-S602, 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 RX-V385 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/6, while the RX-S602 has a power of 80/8, 125/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V385 it is 0.09%, but for the RX-S602 it is 0.08%.
Competitive models use the same DAC. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-S602. Both Yamaha RX-V385 and Yamaha RX-S602 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The contenders have differences in the supported services from Apple - AirPlay versus AirPlay, AirPlay 2 respectively. The RX-S602 has access to the Spotify service.
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-V385 and the RX-S602. Video scaling is only possible with the RX-V385. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the RX-V385.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 4/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is only supported by the RX-V385. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The RX-V385 has support for the standard HDCP 2.2, compared to the RX-S602, which supports the standard HDCP 2.3. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. There is an ECO mode in either AV receiver. The Yamaha RX-S602 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.