Having had an opportunity to test Yamaha RX-V683BL vs Onkyo TX-NR545, 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-V683BL has such a ratio W/Ohm - 90/8, 150/4, while the TX-NR545 has a power of 100/6. The value of total harmonic distortion is also different, and for the RX-V683BL it is 0.06%, but for the TX-NR545 it is 0.08%.
The manufacturer installed different DACs, the RX-V683BL received the model Burr-Brown 192 KHz/24-bit, but the TX-NR545 is equipped with Hi-Grade 384 KHz/32-bit. Each of the compared opponents supports Bi-amping. Both Yamaha RX-V683BL and Onkyo TX-NR545 can transmit an audio signal directly to the amplifier and bypasses any DSP processing. Each of the receivers has a Bluetooth connector. Both devices can work with such Apple Music services: AirPlay. Access to the Spotify service is on each of the competitors. The number of available streaming services varies for receivers, the Yamaha RX-V683BL works with Pandora, Sirius XM, Napster, JUKE, Qobuz, but the Onkyo TX-NR545 works with Tunein Radio. 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-V683BL and the TX-NR545. Video scaling is only possible with the RX-V683BL. Operation with the Dolby Vision is only possible with the RX-V683BL.
The number of HDMI inputs/outputs is the same - 6/1. HDMI Audio Return Channel is implemented in both devices. HDMI eARC is not supported by the RX-V683BL and the TX-NR545. When comparing receivers, it becomes clear that each of the rivals can work with HDMI CEC. RX-V683BL and TX-NR545 support the standard HDCP 2.2. In the presence of a built-in phono stage for connecting a vinyl player only at Yamaha RX-V683BL.
Ability to create 2 Multi zones inherent in both AV receivers. Voice control of the basic functions of the receiver is not realized in both models. There is an ECO mode in RX-V683BL. The Yamaha RX-V683BL and the Onkyo TX-NR545 can be properly configured using the setup assistant.
A Dolby Atmos multichannel audio format is available both models. Only in the RX-V683BL realized a DTS:X surround technology.