Sony STR-DH790 vs Yamaha R-N602BL review

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Having had an opportunity to test Sony STR-DH790 vs Yamaha R-N602BL, I’d like to share my impression here to facilitate your choice of a new AV receiver.

Amplifier

The number of channels for receivers is different - 7.2 versus 2.0, respectively, for devices. In terms of power, there are differences, the STR-DH790 has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/6, while the R-N602BL has a power of 115/8, 105/4. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the STR-DH790 it is 0.09%, but for the R-N602BL it is 0.01%.

Audio features

The manufacturer installed different DACs, the STR-DH790 received the model 192 KHz/24-bit, but the R-N602BL is equipped with Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit. The Bi-amping function is implemented only in the Sony STR-DH790. Both Sony STR-DH790 and Yamaha R-N602BL can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing.

Connectivity

Wireless Internet connection via WIFI is only possible with R-N602BL. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. The R-N602BL has access to the Spotify service. HDMI signal transmission in standby mode can provide only the STR-DH790. None of the devices can increase the resolution of the incoming video signal. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the STR-DH790. HDMI Audio Return Channel is only available on Sony STR-DH790. HDMI eARC is only supported by the STR-DH790. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that only the Sony STR-DH790 has HDMI CEC. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Yamaha R-N602BL. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in R-N602BL. The Sony STR-DH790 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.

Multichannel surround

A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available only in the STR-DH790. Only in the STR-DH790 realized a DTS:X surround technology.