I have the amplifier completely satisfied since just over a year and am. I think for the price there is no better! Whether the sound of an amplifier like, of course, is always a matter of taste. At the Yamaha amp I particularly appreciate the clear, natural, open sound. Another positive aspect is that the amplifier also from cheaper boxes (I had tried with older Magnat-standing speakers) rausholt a very decent sound. (I still remember well how dull they played at my old Denon.) To praise is also the host of facilities: enough input and choice (even the old tape monitoring is possible - the appropriate tape provided) and a phono preamp for MM -Tonabnehmer. Outstanding points include the Yamaha's proprietary Loudnessregler, raised with the not ups and downs, but the middle is to be lowered, so that the Loudnesseffekt be adjusted (boxing / source) on the individual configuration. However, I must confess that I'm doing it little use, since the two direct circuits (for CD and other inputs) Good sound - especially in terms of resolution and dynamics - bring only something to contribute.
One more comment about the here (by some) criticized workmanship: I can not understand, because the device looks very chic and high quality with the aluminum plate. In addition, the volume and the input selector of metal, the remaining plastic switches have a metallic coating. (But of course, with a sledgehammer you should not cut it because ;-)
Conclusion: I would recommend this amp to buy myself time and again (at this reasonable price)!