What Hi-Fi? Verdict
The Yamaha’s a seriously capable surround sound demon. Get it auditioned
Pros
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Attractive design
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full-bodied sound, awesome steering
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8 HDMI inputs
Cons
- -
Annoying remote control
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How many products do you own that have an HDMI output? A poll of staffers on the magazine revealed an average of three or four. We imagine that an HD set-top-box, Blu-ray player and one if not two games consoles are common in many homes.
Well, Yamaha's RX-V1067 will handle your four, and raise you another four. That's right: eight inputs, all of which can handle a 3D signal.
Not that we're complaining; the 'V1067 also has a brace of ARC-enabled HDMI outputs, an ethernet socket for internet radio and media streaming functionality.
Lovely looks, but fiddly remote
The back panel of the Yamaha looks pretty sorted, and the fascia doesn't look bad either. The minimalist slant is to be applauded – and you'll still find a smattering of buttons and USB and HDMI inputs behind the front panel.
Unfortunately the same can't be said for the remote control. It's packed with tiny buttons, which makes it difficult to see what you're pressing. Where remotes are concerned, we tend to find that less is most definitely more.
Yamaha's overlayed menus look good and keep you from missing any of the action, but in practice, they aren't as easy to negotiate as some rivals'.
The ‘RX-V1067 uses technology from the company's impressive DSP-Z7 and DSP-Z11 home cinema amps, which include using a symmetrical power amp layout, and rigid bottom frames. The amp also has new components including a heat sink designed to reduce vibration and reduce the effects of temperature change.
Michael Jackson's This Is It is a case in point. Even during the soundcheck before Beat It, you get the feeling that you're really there, listening to a chat between Michael and the director. When the tune kicks in you feel like you're experiencing the concert first hand.
If you want a fulfilling cinematic experience, the RX-V1067 won't disappoint: a fully justified five stars.
