The Bottom Line
Pros
- Sound quality excellent in both stereo and surround modes.
- Analog to HDMI Video signal conversion and 1080p Video Upscaling.
- Incorporation of Internet Radio and iPod Control.
- Extensive speaker setup and adjustment options.
- Networking capability built-in, Bluetooth capability via accessory
Cons
- Heavy - Use caution when lifting or moving.
- No front mounted HDMI inputs.
- No front mounted Component Video Inputs.
- Speaker connections too close together.
- Pricey - not for the bargain hunter.
Description
- 7.1 channel AV receiver delivering 140 Watts into each of 7 channels. Subwoofer line output.
- Audio Decoding: Dolby Digital Plus and TrueHD, DTS-HD, Dolby Digital 5.1/EX/Prologic IIx, DTS 5.1/ES, 96/24, Neo:6, SRS CSII.
- 8 additional input jacks for discrete multi-channel input. Can be used for accessing SACD, DVD-Audio, or external decoder.
- YPAO automatic speaker setup function. Provisions for 7.1, 5.1, 2nd Zone, Bi-amping, or Front Presence configurations.
- 8 Channel Preamp Outputs. Second zone preamp outputs. Silent Cinema headphone output.
- Audio inputs: 6 Stereo Analog, 5 Digital Optical, 3 Digital Coaxial. 2 Digital Audio outputs.
- Video Inputs: 4 HDMI (2 HDMI outputs), 3 Component, Six S-video, 6 Composite.
- Analog to HDMI video conversion (480i to 480p) and upscaling from 480p to 1080p via HDMI. HDMI pass-through of 1080p signals.
- XM/Sirius Satellite and Internet Radio Connectivity. XM Neural and XM-HD Surround decoding. AM/FM Tuner with HD Radio access.
- 2 Wireless remote controls. iPod and Bluetooth connectivity via optional docking stations.
Guide Review - Yamaha RX-V3900 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver
Using both analog and digital audio sources, the audio quality of the RX-V3900, in both 5.1, and 7.1 channel configurations, delivered an excellent surround image.
Several innovative features of the RX-V3900 that also worked well are the inclusion XM and Sirius Satellite Radio connectivity (paid subscription required), built-in networking and internet radio access (including Rhapsody), and both speaker connections or preamp outputs (your choice) provided for second and/or third zone operation. Bi-amp and Presence speaker options are also included.
A high quality receiver should have the ability to perform well in both stereo and surround modes. I found the audio quality of the RX-V3900 in both stereo and surround modes to be excellent, making it great for extensive music listening and home theater use. There was no sign of amplifier or listening fatigue.
I also found the analog to digital video conversion and upscaling functions to be excellent for a home theater receiver. Check out some video performance test results. Also, providing analog to HDMI conversion and upscaling simplifies connection of older components to today's HDMI-equipped HDTVs.
The RX-V3900 packs in a lot of features and delivers great performance. If you are looking for a high-end home theater receiver for your home theater system, consider the RX-V3900 as a possible choice. I give it 4.5 Stars out of 5.
For an additional look at the features, connections, and performance of the RX-V3900, check out my Full Review, Photo Gallery and Video Performance Test Results.
