Yamaha RX-A2A Dolby Atmos AV receiver adopts fresh design, offers 4k 120 fps support

Yamaha has unveiled a mid-range Aventage AV receiver, the RX-A2A. With seven channels of 100W amplification, the AVR newcomer adopts a new cosmetic design, with a high-resolution LCD display and a jog dial with touch-sensitive buttons, and advanced connectivity.

Features include Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support, three of the seven HDMI inputs are v2.1 4k 120Hz capable. We asked Yamaha for clarification about these inputs, following revelations that the HDMI v2.1 chipsets in use by Yamaha suffer a black-out bug with some 4k 120fps game consoles.

The company replied: "The RX-A2A uses the same HDMI board as the RX-V6A, so the HDMI chipset bug will be solved using the same method as previously stated concerning RX-V4A & RX-V6A models. HDMI 2.1 functions will be enabled on the RX-V4A, RX-V6A & RX-A2A via a future update next year. Please rest assured that when we enable HDMI 2.1 operation, we will also provide our customers with a permanent solution as needed. ETA and method of update to be confirmed."

Auto low latency (ALLM), variable refresh rates (VRR), quick frame transport (QFT) and quick media switching (QMS) are all provided. There’s also eARC support.

To support the use of powered HDMI cables for longer wiring needs, Yamaha has boosted the power supply from HDMI outputs to 300mA.

Yamaha MusicCast capabilities and app control are on-board. In addition to Wi-Fi, there’s AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, built-in music streaming services, multi-room audio and voice control via Alexa, Google and Siri.

In addition to DTS-X and Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization is available, simulating the overhead sound experience for an immersive, 360-degree sound field from stereo, 5.1 or 7.1 speaker configurations.

MusicCast Surround allows optional wireless MusicCast speakers to be paired and used as surround speakers in a 5.1.2 channel set up. Room calibration comes via multi-point YPAO R.S.C.

The RX-A2A ships in January, priced at £849.