AvReceivers
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New Denon AV receivers support Apple AirPlay
Now here are some Apple accessories I'd love to review: Denon has added some new networked AV receivers to its INCOMMAND line, all of which support Apple's AirPlay wireless standard. With that AirPlay support, owners of any Apple iOS device or Mac running a current or recent version of the appropriate operating system can stream lossless music to the receivers from their devices. The pricing for the receivers begins at a very reasonable US$449 for the AVR-X1000, which includes support for 5.1 surround sound and supplies 80 watts of output per channel. Next up is the AVR-X2000 at $649, providing 7.1 surround support, support for the 4K Ultra HD standard and 95 watts of power per channel. The AVR-X3000 ($899) supports 7.1 channels and 105 watt per channel (it also supports the 4K Ultra HD standard). But it's the Ferrari of the line -- the AVR-X4000 ($1299) -- that you'll really drool over: 7.2 channels, seven discrete output stages and each channel is rated at 125 watts. Do you need HDMI inputs and outputs? It comes with seven inputs and three outputs. Sound processing includes Audyssey DSX, Dolby Pro Logic IIz and a DTS Neo:X decoder. With the AVR-X4000, your SD video content can be converted to HD, while 1080p video can be upscaled to 4K Ultra HD.
Yamaha outs RX-V773WA, RX-V673 receivers: AirPlay and 4K / 3D passthrough on board
In case those RX receivers we saw last month weren't powerful enough for you, Yamaha's unleashing a couple of new beasts that may just meet all of your home entertainment demands. Similar to its V573 and V473 siblings, the RX-V773WA and RX-V673 are AirPlay-friendly and pack a 4K passthrough feature -- though, these also carry some PT action in 3D. Save for the YWA-10 WiFi adapter and an aluminum front panel on the V773WA, both newcomers are sporting identical traits. Among these are 7.2 channel audio, an enhanced YPAO calibration system, seven "intelligent" assignable amplifiers, six HDMI ports on each unit and an ECO mode to help reduce power usage. As far as pricing, you'll have to shell out $849.95 for the higher-end RX-V773WA and $649.95 for the RX-V673 when they hit shelves in June and later this month, respectively.
Onkyo intros a new pair of TX-NR AV receivers, prices start at $999
Shortly after introducing its entry-level TX-NR515 and TX-NR616 receivers, Onkyo is taking the wraps off of a fresh pair of souped-up, pricier AV boxes. Both part of the TX-NR family, the TX-NR717 ($999) and TX-NR818 ($1,119) are carrying on the 7.2-channel audio tradition seen on their lower-priced siblings, while a Qdeo processor handles all video upscaling duties -- yes, 4K included. The 3D-ready couple is also packing THX Select 2 Plus certification, a whopping eight HDMI ports on each box, DTS-HD Master Audio / Dolby TrueHD decoding and a revamped 1080p GUI. Onkyo's also said iOS and Kindle Fire variants of its Android Remote App are in the works, though mum's the word on when they'll be up for grabs. Either of these good enough for your home setup? They won't hit shelves until May, which may (baller status) or may not (Average Joe) be enough time to save up.
