What Hi-Fi? Verdict
A fine feature-packed machine, but lacks the spark of the class leaders at this price point
Pros
- +
Great features
- +
superb steering of surround effects
- +
sounds weighty and authoritative
Cons
- -
Entry-level looks
- -
slight edge to high frequencies
- -
doesn’t sound as detailed as key rivals
Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.
Unbox the RX-V2065 and you may wonder where all your cash has been spent.
As far as looks are concerned, there isn't much to differentiate this home cinema amp from Yamaha's budget models costing half as much.
Yet, take a look at the comprehensive list of features and you'll see clearly how this machine distances itself from Yamaha's cheaper models.
Well equipped for the money
The RX-V2065 has dual HDMI outputs, a front-mounted HDMI input, network and internet radio connectivity, as well as Zone 2 and 3 functionality.
These are all supplementary to standard features you'd expect at this price point, such as 1080p upscaling, automatic speaker calibration, HDMI passthrough while in standby, and a set of multichannel inputs and pre-outs.
The YPAO speaker calibration system takes accurate readings, although we did have to lower the level for the subwoofer in our reference speaker package.
The menu system is modern and attractive, although navigating can be a little frustrating at times.
Effects spread far and wide
Spin Terminator Salvation, and the Yamaha produces a dramatic, authoritative sound. Yamaha amps are renowned for their steering capabilities and the '2065 is no exception.
As the Resistance's A-10 aircraft try to evade Skynet, the planes soar between channels, enveloping the listener.
When all the commotion dies down, the Yamaha proves it can also handle subtle dynamic shifts, although rivals have the edge in terms of outright resolution.
Dialogue sounds clear and natural, but there is a hint of hardness in the highest frequencies, which extends to two-channel performance, too.
Such was the ability of its predecessor, the RX-V1900, perhaps we were expecting a bit more from Yamaha, but there's no doubt the '2065 is a gifted amp.
See all our home cinema amp Best Buys
Follow whathifi.com on Twitter
