With an extremely low asking price, the Yamaha RX-V463 is good choice for those who want to take advantage of some of the latest AV features without busting the bank.

This year marked an almost unbelievable trickle-down in terms of features from the higher-priced AV receivers to the entry-level models. For the first time ever, receivers under $350 now include basic HDMI functionality, and that's great news for consumers everywhere. The RX-V463 is a quality receiver, even if the price seems to suggest otherwise. In fact, we'd go so far as to say the new RX-V463 is a slayer in the budget receiver market.

On the audio processing side, the RX-V463 is no pansy. Boasting an impressive feature set that includes 192kHz/24-bit DACs for all channels, 6-channel external decoder input, iPod and Bluetooth compatibility (via optional Yamaha YDS-10 YBA-10 docking modules) and YPAO for automatically optimizing the sound in your room, the RX-V463 takes on its much higher-priced competition head-on. And it's not finished: tack on 3 HDTV compatible component video inputs, 8 DSP programs, a compressed music (MP3) enhancer, and the ability to view iPod song titles displayed on the front panel and OSD, and this receiver has stuff once found on units costing twice the price. Along with Dolby Digital and DTS processing, the receiver is also XM- and XM HD-ready. These are some impressive features for such a low-priced receiver.

With a rated power of 105 watts in five channels, the RX-V463 is no lightweight in the power department, either. There is more than enough power here for most any 5.1 speaker system made today. And with Yamaha's track record, one can rest assured that you are getting an honest power rating. In addition to the amazing dual HDMI switching inputs, there are three component inputs, three S-video inputs, and three composite video inputs--each with one output as well. For audio, the receiver includes five analog stereo inputs, 6.1 analog inputs, two TOSlink inputs and one coaxial digital input. Also welcome is the use of real binding posts instead of spring clip terminals that so often adorn units at this price.

As with all of the newest Yamaha receivers, setup is a breeze thanks to the on-screen Setup menu. This is a notable feature for a receiver in this class. While it's not as flexible or advanced as the system found on more expensive Yamaha receivers, it is accurate and easy to use. Also offered is a new feature called SCENE buttons. SCENE buttons are like macros that are preprogrammed to launch a variety of commands. Build quality is also very good and the unit weighs a decent 18.7 lbs. This is an amazingly great budget receiver.

Pros: Excellent power for the money, real binding posts
Cons: Absolutely none at this price

Warranty
2 years