The Yamaha RX-V385BL vs Yamaha RX-V581 comparison will be extremely helpful for people who want to get a great, powerful receiver with many functions.
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 RX-V581 has a power of 115/6. A common feature for devices is the same total harmonic distortion - 0.09%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V385BL received the model Burr-Brown 384 KHz/32-bit, but the RX-V581 is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Yamaha RX-V581. The model RX-V581 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.
Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with RX-V581. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The RX-V581 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-V385BL and the RX-V581. 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 RX-V581, 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 either AV receiver. The Yamaha RX-V581 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the RX-V581. Only in the RX-V581 realized a DTS:X surround technology.