AvController
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Yamaha RX-V573 and RX-V473 receivers include AirPlay integration, 4K passthrough
We don't spend a whole lot of time focusing on home theater receivers 'round these parts, but we do like AirPlay, and we're especially fond of audio devices that boast compatibility with the iOS wireless streaming tool out of the box. Yamaha's RX-V573 and RX-V473 are two of the latest mid-range audio mixers to ship with AirPlay integration -- a feature lacking from the company's past offerings -- along with compatibility with the AV Controller app, available for iOS, Android and the Kindle Fire. There's also a nifty 4K video pass-through feature, which won't do you much good at present, but may go a long way to future-proofing both devices. There's not much differentiating the models, save for a $100 gap in price ($450 for the V473, $550 for the V573), and 7.1 channel audio in the pricier model (you'll find 5.1 channels in the bargain offering). Both flavors include front-panel USB ports (also with iOS compatibility), four HDMI inputs and digital audio inputs, and 115 watts per channel. You can pick up either model now, and there's a more detailed list of specifications awaiting your gander in the PR after the break.
Yamaha updates AV Controller Android app for its networked devices
Yamaha is now ready to shout about its updated AV Controller app for Android, which it quietly launched on the Market a couple of weeks back. It lets you power up and control networked AV receivers from your phone or tablet, including switching inputs and selecting media from iPods and other devices connected to the receiver via USB. It also provides limited play, stop and forward control over compatible Blu-ray players. Some users report problems but most seem content, so it's worth a spin if you have one the devices listed in the PR after the break.
McIntosh intros Blu-ray ready MX150 AV Controller
Don't let the analog meters and Olde English lettering fool you, McIntosh gear is keeping up with the times while staying upscale. While not always the first out of the gate with the latest features, the ultra-high end brand of D&M Holdings has shown a commitment to keeping its customers' equipment racks glowing that familiar blue and green. Unveiled at CES this year was the MX 150 A/V Control Center, with five HDMI 1.3 inputs, support for the Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD MA codecs (naturally), RoomPerfect auto-equalization, support for multiple subwoofers and video upscaling (unspecified, but the D&M line has some good choices to borrow from). Set for release in March for a price around $12000, we won't blame you if you decide to wait for a McIntosh Blu-ray deck before jumping in.[Read - press release] [Read - pricing info]
