Yamaha RX-V385BL vs Onkyo TX-SR494 – that is a question.
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-V385BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 70/8, 145/6, while the TX-SR494 has a power of 135/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V385BL it is 0.09%, but for the TX-SR494 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V385BL received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the TX-SR494 is equipped with AKM 384 KHz/32-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Onkyo TX-SR494. The model TX-SR494 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless connection to the Internet via WIFI can not be performed on these receivers. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Support for Apple Music Services not implemented. Spotify is not available for these receivers.
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-V385BL and the TX-SR494. Video scaling is only possible with the RX-V385BL. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the RX-V385BL.
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-V385BL. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. The RX-V385BL has support for the standard HDCP 2.3, compared to the TX-SR494, which supports 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-V385BL. The Onkyo TX-SR494 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the TX-SR494. Only in the TX-SR494 realized a DTS:X surround technology.