Receiver

Some manufacturers of audio/video receivers offer two different lines. There’s a value-oriented line for the consumer who wants as many features per dollar as possible. And then there’s a higher-end line for the consumer who also wants a full feature set but is willing to pay more for better build quality and higher performance. Yamaha goes a step further, dividing its 13 receivers into three lines. •The HTR line delivers a decent portion of Yamaha’s feature set, with three models and prices ranging from $250 to $500. These models have limited distribution, mostly as part of HTIBs, although Yamaha’s Website lists them separately. •The middle-of-the-road RX line offers a few more features and, at the top end, a little more power with five models at $250 to $900. This is Yamaha’s mainstream line; most Yamaha dealers carry these models. •Finally, the higher-end Aventage line offers the full feature set, Control4 certification, and a lot more power, plus enhanced build quality at the top end, with five models at $650 to $2,000. It’s sold through higher-end retail channels and custom installers. This RX-V871 is the top model in the middle line. The RX-V871’s front panel has a step-down shape that divides it horizontally into two parts. Only the white display and a few miscellaneous buttons occupy the top. The bottom has the usual two large knobs for input and volume. Four Scene buttons—which unite specific inputs with specific listening modes—have pride of place at the center. You can also use the two Program buttons to cycle through listening modes, but these are smaller and less emphasized than the Scene buttons. There’s no navigation ring among the other miscellaneous controls. And nothing is hidden behind a panel. Yamaha leaves everything it thinks you’ll need in plain sight, including the front-mounted USB and HDMI jacks, and has eliminated the rest.