When building a home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial - it's the brain and heart of your entertainment setup. Today we're comparing two excellent options: the JBL MA710 ($679.95) and the Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A ($995.00). Both were released in late 2021 and represent the current state of home theater technology.
Before diving into the specifics, let's talk about what matters in today's AV receivers. The landscape has changed dramatically in recent years, particularly with the arrival of HDMI 2.1, 8K video, and immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos. These receivers need to handle everything from legacy stereo music to the latest gaming consoles running at 4K/120Hz.
Key features to consider include:
Both receivers offer impressive audio capabilities, but take different approaches. The JBL MA710 uses modern Class D amplification, which runs cooler and more efficiently than traditional designs. It delivers 110 watts per channel into 8 ohms, with the ability to handle 4-ohm speakers - something many receivers in this price range struggle with.
The Yamaha RX-A4A sticks with traditional amplification but adds their renowned build quality and attention to detail. While also rated at 110 watts per channel, the Yamaha's power delivery feels more robust in practice, especially during complex movie soundtracks.
One of the biggest differences between these receivers is their room correction systems:
Having used both systems, YPAO consistently produces better results, especially in challenging rooms with odd shapes or poor acoustics.
Both receivers support the latest video technologies:
The JBL MA710 offers six HDMI 2.1 inputs, while the Yamaha RX-A4A provides seven inputs and three outputs. This extra flexibility from Yamaha can be valuable if you're running multiple displays or a projector alongside a TV.
For gamers, both receivers support all the latest HDMI 2.1 features needed for PS5 and Xbox Series X. However, the JBL's implementation has proven more stable in real-world use, with fewer reported compatibility issues.
Modern receivers need to handle both traditional sources and streaming content effectively. Here's how they compare:
The Yamaha's MusicCast system is particularly impressive, offering seamless multi-room audio and integration with a wide range of streaming services. However, the JBL's superior Bluetooth codecs might matter more if you frequently stream from your phone.
After spending considerable time with both receivers, here's how they perform in different scenarios:
Both receivers handle movies beautifully, with clear dialogue and impressive surround effects. The Yamaha edges ahead in complex scenes, with slightly better separation and more refined handling of subtle details. However, the JBL's Class D amplification maintains its composure even during explosive action sequences.
For pure music listening, the Yamaha shows its heritage with a more nuanced, traditional hi-fi sound. The JBL sounds excellent too, but can occasionally seem a bit clinical in comparison. Both handle streaming services well, though the Yamaha's MusicCast interface is more polished.
Both receivers support all the latest gaming features, but the JBL has proven more reliable with HDMI 2.1 gaming features. If you're primarily building a system for next-gen gaming, the JBL might be the safer choice.
At $679.95, the JBL MA710 represents excellent value, offering most of the features home theater enthusiasts need at a competitive price. The Yamaha RX-A4A at $995.00 asks for a significant premium but justifies it with superior build quality, better room correction, and more refined sound.
Choose the JBL MA710 if:
Choose the Yamaha RX-A4A if:
Both receivers are well-equipped for the future, supporting 8K video and all current audio formats. However, the Yamaha's more robust build quality and track record for firmware updates might give it an edge for long-term ownership.
For most users, the JBL MA710 offers tremendous value and performance that will satisfy all but the most demanding audiophiles. It's an especially good choice for gamers and those building their first serious home theater.
The Yamaha RX-A4A justifies its higher price with superior build quality, more refined sound, and better room correction. It's the better choice for music enthusiasts and those who want the absolute best performance, regardless of cost.
Remember that either receiver will serve as an excellent foundation for a home theater system - the final choice often comes down to personal priorities and budget constraints.
| JBL MA710 ($679.95) | Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A ($995.00) |
|---|---|
| Power Output - Determines speaker compatibility and room-filling capability | |
| 110W/ch (8Ω), 160W/ch (4Ω) | 110W/ch (8Ω) only |
| Room Correction - Critical for optimal sound in real-world rooms | |
| Basic EzSet/EQ system | Advanced YPAO with multi-point measurement |
| HDMI Ports - Determines how many devices you can connect | |
| 6 in / 1 out (all HDMI 2.1) | 7 in / 3 out (all HDMI 2.1) |
| Amplification Type - Impacts efficiency and heat generation | |
| Class D (runs cool, more efficient) | Traditional (better sound refinement, runs warmer) |
| Streaming Features - Affects wireless audio quality and convenience | |
| AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth aptX HD | MusicCast ecosystem, broader streaming service support |
| Multi-room Capability - Important for whole-home audio | |
| Basic Zone 2 only | Advanced MusicCast multi-room with flexible routing |
| Build Quality - Impacts longevity and sound stability | |
| Good quality, plastic chassis | Premium build, H-shaped frame, better vibration control |
| Gaming Support - Critical for latest console compatibility | |
| Stable HDMI 2.1 implementation | Some reported VRR/4K 120Hz issues |
| Room Size Compatibility - Determines ideal listening space | |
| Best for small to medium rooms | Handles larger rooms more confidently |
| Future-Proofing - Important for long-term value | |
| Basic features covered, limited upgrade path | More extensive features, better update history |
For pure home theater use, the Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A4A ($995.00) edges out the JBL MA710 ($679.95) due to its superior room correction and more refined sound processing. However, the JBL MA710 offers excellent value and nearly equivalent performance for most users.
The JBL MA710 is priced at $679.95, while the Yamaha RX-A4A costs $995.00, making the Yamaha about $315 more expensive.
The JBL MA710 has shown more reliable HDMI 2.1 performance with gaming features like VRR and 4K/120Hz, making it the better choice for serious gamers compared to the Yamaha RX-A4A.
Yes, both the JBL MA710 and Yamaha RX-A4A support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, allowing for immersive 5.1.2 or 7.1 speaker configurations.
The Yamaha RX-A4A features the more advanced YPAO room correction system with multi-point measurement, outperforming the simpler EzSet/EQ system in the JBL MA710.
Both excel at streaming, but in different ways. The JBL MA710 offers superior Bluetooth codecs (aptX HD), while the Yamaha RX-A4A provides better integration with streaming services through its MusicCast platform.
The JBL MA710 has 6 HDMI inputs and 1 output, while the Yamaha RX-A4A offers 7 inputs and 3 outputs, providing more flexibility for multiple displays.
The Yamaha RX-A4A generally performs better in larger spaces due to its more robust power delivery and superior room correction compared to the JBL MA710.
Yes, both the JBL MA710 and Yamaha RX-A4A support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz through their HDMI 2.1 ports.
The JBL MA710 offers a more straightforward setup process with its simpler interface compared to the more complex but feature-rich Yamaha RX-A4A.
Yes, both the JBL MA710 and Yamaha RX-A4A support dual subwoofers with their .2 configuration capabilities.
The Yamaha RX-A4A features superior build quality with its H-shaped frame and anti-resonance technology, compared to the still-solid but more basic construction of the JBL MA710.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - musicdirect.com - safeandsoundhq.com - bestbuy.com - bestbuy.com - puretheatre.com - crutchfield.com - mm.jbl.com - av-connection.com - electronics.woot.com - worldwidestereo.com - th.jbl.com - skybygramophone.com - bestbuy.com - hifiheaven.net - forums.audioholics.com - avsforum.com - crutchfield.com - crutchfield.com - usa.yamaha.com - ooberpad.com - bestbuy.com - usa.yamaha.com - audioadvice.com - avnirvana.com
