Yamaha RX-V473

Performance

Accurate 5.1-channel audio. The Yamaha RX-V473 delivers clear, accurately placed audio, reviewers report. The low end satisfies, but it isn't window-rattling. Video is a wash; while the receiver can pass up to 4K resolution video, it doesn't do any video processing or upscaling to improve the look of movies. The DLNA streaming feature is generally solid, but sometimes stutters with supported file types for inexplicable reasons.

Features

A networked receiver, first and foremost. The Yamaha RX-V473 packs traditional features like support for the lossless Dolby and DTS Blu-ray audio formats, 3D video capabilities and an automatic speaker calibration function, but the bulk of its features lean on receiving music and movies from streaming network sources. There's both AirPlay and wired iOS device support, DLNA streaming from other computers on the network, and a bevy of Internet radio stations and streaming music services available. Sometimes the iOS and DLNA playback will refuse to play a file for unexplained reasons, however, though users don't indicate that it's a frequent issue.

With all those network streaming options, it's worth noting that the receiver includes only hardwired Ethernet out of the box, though an optional dongle can add Wi-Fi functionality.

Design

Solidly uninspiring. As with the other available Yamaha receivers, reviewers say the RX-V473 is attractive enough for a simple black box. The abundance of ports makes people happy, though there are only four HDMI inputs; many receivers in this price range sport six or more.

Ease of use

Easy, yet inelegant. Users and professional reviewers alike find the Yamaha RX-V473's interface to be easy enough to navigate, though far from aesthetically pleasing. The remote is stacked with buttons, but there are no complaints of it being overly cluttered.

Value

A solid home theater value. If you don't need video processing, the Yamaha RX-V473 is a solid home theater receiver for a reasonable price.

The Bottom Line

The Yamaha RX-V473 sits in a sort of middle ground; receivers like the Sony STR-DN1030 (*Est. $500) and the Onkyo TX-NR515 (*Est. $500) cost a little more and offer 7.2-channel audio augmented by video processing capabilities. But if you don't need those features, the Yamaha solidly outperforms budget receivers like the step-down Yamaha RX-V373 (*Est. $250) and delivers solid 5.1-audio, impressive (yet occasionally buggy) networking features and a lot of connectivity options.