Yamaha RX-V385 Review: The Ultimate 5.1-Channel AV Receiver
Key Takeaways
- Powerful 5.1 channel surround sound with Bluetooth connectivity.
- 4 HDMI ports with 4K/60 Ultra HD support for stunning visuals.
- Automatic room calibration technology for optimized audio performance.
- High-quality audio formats supported, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD.
- Customer rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 2900 reviews.
The YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver is a powerhouse designed to elevate your home theater experience. With its advanced technology and powerful sound output, it ensures that every movie, show, and music session is nothing short of spectacular.
Equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, this receiver seamlessly integrates with your devices, allowing for a wireless and hassle-free listening experience. Whether you're streaming from your tablet, iPhone, or Android device, the RX-V385 delivers rich and immersive sound quality that will captivate any audience.
About Yamaha RX-V385
The Yamaha RX-V385 is a 5.1-channel 4K Ultra HD AV receiver that brings a cinematic experience right to your living room. Engineered with a solid build quality and sleek design, this receiver not only looks good but also promises durability and long-lasting performance. Its aesthetic appeal fits perfectly in any home theater setup, making it a great addition to your entertainment system.

Key Features and Performance
This receiver is loaded with features that enhance its overall performance:
- 5.1 Channel Surround Sound: Experience powerful sound with a rated output power of 100W per channel (1kHz, 1ch driven) and 70W (20Hz-20kHz, 2ch driven).
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Stream music wirelessly from your devices with built-in Bluetooth technology.
- 4 HDMI Ports: Equipped with 4 HDMI inputs and 1 output, supporting 4K/60 Ultra HD for stunning visuals.
- YPAO Automatic Calibration: This technology optimizes sound based on your room's acoustics, ensuring the best audio experience.
- High-Quality Audio Formats: Supports audio encoding formats such as Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital +, and DTS HD for immersive sound.
Ease of Use
The Yamaha RX-V385 is designed for user-friendly operation:
- Simple Setup: The installation process is straightforward, making it accessible for beginners.
- User Interface: The intuitive remote control and on-screen menus simplify navigation and settings adjustments.
- Comprehensive User Manual: The included manual provides clear instructions for setup and troubleshooting, enhancing user experience.

Ideal Use Cases
The RX-V385 is perfect for a variety of scenarios:
- Home Theater Enthusiasts: Ideal for movie lovers who crave a rich audio experience with surround sound.
- Music Streaming: Perfect for users who enjoy streaming music from their smartphones or tablets.
- Gaming: Enhances the gaming experience with its immersive sound capabilities, making it a great choice for gamers.
Special Features
The RX-V385 excels with its advanced features:
- HDR10 and Dolby Vision: Enjoy incredible contrast and vibrant colors while watching your favorite movies.
- Exclusive Yamaha Cinema DSP: Provides natural and expansive sound imaging for a truly immersive audio experience.

Why the Yamaha RX-V385 Stands Out
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality with 5.1 channel surround sound, creating an immersive audio experience.
- Built-in Bluetooth for easy wireless streaming from various devices, enhancing versatility.
- Four HDMI ports supporting 4K/60 Ultra HD, ensuring high-quality video output.
- User-friendly setup and operation, making it accessible for beginners and casual users.
- Automatic calibration technology that adjusts sound settings for optimal performance based on room acoustics.
Cons
- The YPAO calibration may require manual adjustment for optimal sound quality.
- The included manual lacks translation in some languages, which may hinder setup for non-English speakers.
- Limited advanced features compared to higher-end models, which may not satisfy audiophiles.
Overall, the Yamaha RX-V385 delivers a fantastic balance of performance and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their home audio experience. While there are a few minor drawbacks, the advantages far outweigh them, ensuring a great value for your entertainment setup.
Final thoughts on the Yamaha RX-V385
As you consider upgrading your home theater setup, the Yamaha RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver is a strong contender. Here are some tips for buyers:
Tips for Buyers
- Look for receivers with multiple HDMI ports if you have several devices.
- Ensure Bluetooth connectivity is a feature if you plan to stream music wirelessly.
- Consider automatic calibration features like YPAO for optimal sound quality.
- Check the supported audio formats to ensure compatibility with your speaker system.
- Avoid receivers that lack user-friendly interfaces if you are not tech-savvy.
The Yamaha RX-V385 offers remarkable benefits, including:
- Exceptional sound quality with immersive 5.1 surround sound.
- Wireless streaming capabilities via Bluetooth.
- 4K/60 Ultra HD support for breathtaking visuals.
- Automatic room calibration for tailored audio performance.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge some drawbacks, such as the need for manual adjustments after calibration and limited advanced features for audiophiles.
In conclusion, if you are looking for an entry-level AV receiver that combines quality, ease of use, and a plethora of features, the Yamaha RX-V385 is an excellent choice. With its outstanding performance and user-friendly nature, it can help transform your home entertainment experience into a captivating journey.
Check Current PriceYour Questions Answered: Yamaha RX-V385 Insights
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Q: Can I connect my devices via Bluetooth?
A: Yes, the RX-V385 features built-in Bluetooth, allowing you to connect your tablet, iPhone, or Android devices easily for streaming music.
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Q: How does the automatic calibration work?
A: The YPAO technology optimizes sound settings based on your room's acoustics, but some users suggest manual adjustments may be necessary for better sound quality.
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Q: Are there enough HDMI ports for my setup?
A: The RX-V385 comes with 4 HDMI ports, making it suitable for connecting multiple devices, including gaming consoles and Blu-ray players.
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Q: Does it support 4K video?
A: Yes, this receiver supports 4K/60 Ultra HD output, ensuring high-quality visuals for your movie-watching experience.
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Q: What audio formats does it support?
A: The RX-V385 supports various audio formats, including Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital +, and DTS HD, providing an immersive sound experience.