Yamaha RX-Z11 11.2 Surround Sound Receiver Rules Your Home Entertainment System

When it comes to top shelf stereo receivers, Yamaha�s new RX-Z11 sets a high bar for feature rich high definition amplifiers. Sure, it�s got your XM-HD, HD Radio, Dolby True HD, and neural surround. Yeah it�s Made for iPod, XM Ready, and it�s got network connectivity for getting your Windows Media Player on. But those are all just table stakes for modern HD-capable receivers, and the RX-Z11 is a high roller.

It�s got support for HDMI 1.3a, and it can upscale video all the way to 1080p, or drop the res down to 480. It�s also the first receiver on the market to use THX Loudness Plus a back end audio feature designed to let you play movies at low volumes without sacrificing any surround sound details.

(Typically, movies are optimized for theater level volumes not living room.) Although we were initially skeptical, this worked quite well, letting us pick up intricate spatial details of our favorite flicks without blowing out our eardrums or making enemies of the new neighbors.

But when you are ready to pump the volume, the RX-Z11 can handle just about any speaker configuration you want to throw at it. The rig supports up to 11 total speakers : six surround, center channel, and two presence speakers in both the front and rear. And that little .2 designation? It means you can pump your bass across dual stereo subwoofers. Best yet, the manual has clear diagrams on how to set up everything from a full 11.2 party mover to a puzzling given the price tag 2.1 bare bones setup.

The only issue we had with this system was the initial setup, but that�s to be expected with anything of this complexity. It�s certainly a system for AV nerds; the back side has more hookups than Craigslist. But hey, big spender, if you can swing the $5,500 price tag for this, you can afford pay somebody to come hook up your fancy new system anyway.

WIRED More channels than a basic cable package. Plenty of HDMI inputs (five) for all your gear. Pumps out rich sound with detailed separation at low, medium, and traumatic brain injury inducing volumes. Attractive backlit remote with LCD screen. Easy auto calibration.