Yamaha Aventage AVR firmware update unlocks 4k 120fps HDMI

Yamaha has finally rolled out the long-promised firmware update for its current Aventage AVR line up, and it’s mostly good news for gamers.

The 11-channel RX-A8A (pictured top), nine channel RX-A6A and seven channel RX-A4A, have had their HDMI 2.1 specification unlocked, with high frame rate support and wider HDR compatibility.

Firmware version 1.65 supports 8K60/4K120fps video playback and HDR10+, as favoured by Primne Video, as well as Dolby Vision. The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X are both HFR capable, as are PCs with high-spec graphics cards, although it’s unlikely PC gamers will partner their rigs with home theatre AVRs of this calibre.

Updates can be made over a network or from USB.

First announced in May 2021, the RX-A8A is a 150-watt design; the RX-A6A a 150-watt model, and the £1,299 RX-A4A a 110-watt receiver.

The trio feature a new simplified cosmetic design with a central volume knob, high-resolution LCD display, rotary jog dial and touch-sensitive buttons.They also sport a new version of the brand’s signature ‘fifth foot’, an Anti-Resonance Technology wedge which promises more efficient dispersion of chassis vibration.

Codec support covers Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, with Height Virtualization, delivered by a new Qualcomm QCS407 smart audio platform. The top two models also offer Auro-3D.