High-tech control room with hi-fi weaknesses

After my Yamaha Mini system should be replaced by something more high-quality, 2012 was the search going on for a suitable receiver. HK and Pioneer were quick out of the race, the highly acclaimed Denon 1912/2312 were no longer in the market and the new series 1713/2113 I liked at all with their non-cheap design as Onkyo has over recent years eased terms haptics and housing.

After reading some tests my choice then fell on the Yamaha 473rd

First of all, the positives: It handles pretty much everything, whether via HDMI, iPod / iPad, Airplay, SPDIF, Web radio and the tuner is sufficient. Nett is the ability to control the unit via an IOS or Android app. For the price you can not work miracles on the processing expect that no aluminum front and a lot of plastic but does the design no major demolition. However, the LS terminals are a bit rickety.

I run the receiver to two KEF and alternatively at two Canton Vento, ie pure stereo without 5.x or subwoofer. What struck me immediately is the disappointing flat sound, somehow I do not get into the game dynamics. Even with headphones to the same effect (Beyer Studio). Far away from the sound of my 15 year old Onkyo Class-A amplifier Boliden.

There followed weeks of adjustment, calibration, change sound parameters, etc. In short, really happy I was not what the quality of the output angeht- not even a second tested 473. But I knew quickly all menus and settings from memory.

(Note: Please comment on the subject of "correct calibration" in sight)

Conclusion: As a control center and a 5.x system very well, for polarized on HiFi stereo freaks without Home Video Sound ambitions no substitute for a real amp / tuner combination. On the next Amp Rotel, Marantz or NAD is available. Price matters, unfortunately.