Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha RX-V385 vs Onkyo TX-NR616, 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 7.2, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the RX-V385 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/6, while the TX-NR616 has a power of 160/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V385 it is 0.09%, but for the TX-NR616 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V385 received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the TX-NR616 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Onkyo TX-NR616. Both Yamaha RX-V385 and Onkyo TX-NR616 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with TX-NR616. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The TX-NR616 has access to the Spotify service. 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 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-V385.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs varies depending on the receiver, the RX-V385 has 4/1, and the TX-NR616 has 8/2. 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. RX-V385 and TX-NR616 support the standard HDCP 2.2. Unlike most receivers, our models do not have a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in RX-V385. None of these units 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.