When setting up a home theater system, the AV receiver serves as the command center – it's the device that processes all your audio and video signals and powers your speakers. Today, we'll compare two popular options: the newer Sony STR-AN1000 ($598) and the established Yamaha RX-V385 ($299). Both are solid choices, but they target different users and budgets.
AV receivers have evolved significantly in recent years. The biggest changes involve support for higher resolution video (like 8K), faster refresh rates for gaming (120Hz), and more immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos, which adds height channels to create a more three-dimensional sound experience.
When shopping for a receiver, you'll want to consider:
The Sony STR-AN1000 supports 7.2 channels, which means you can connect seven main speakers and two subwoofers. This setup allows for either a traditional 7.1 surround system or a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos configuration (where the ".2" refers to two height speakers). Sony's 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology can even create virtual speakers, making the sound seem to come from more locations than your physical speakers.
The Yamaha RX-V385 offers a more traditional 5.1-channel setup – five main speakers and one subwoofer. While this doesn't support Dolby Atmos, it's still plenty for most rooms and content. Many movies and TV shows are still mixed in 5.1, and this configuration delivers excellent surround sound.
Here's where we see the biggest technological leap between these models. The Sony, released in 2023, includes HDMI 2.1 ports supporting:
The Yamaha, from 2019, handles:
For most current content, the Yamaha's video capabilities are completely adequate. However, if you're a serious gamer with a PS5 or Xbox Series X, or you're planning to upgrade to an 8K TV in the next few years, the Sony's additional features become more valuable.
Both receivers include automatic room calibration systems, but they differ significantly in sophistication. Sony's Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX (D.C.A.C. IX) measures speaker distance, angle, and frequency response in three dimensions. It can even compensate for less-than-ideal speaker placement.
Yamaha's YPAO (Yamaha Parametric room Acoustic Optimizer) is simpler but effective, measuring speaker distance and levels to optimize sound for your room. While it lacks some advanced features, it typically produces excellent results for traditional surround setups.
The Sony offers modern conveniences like:
The Yamaha provides:
In practical use, both receivers excel at their intended purposes. The Sony can create a more immersive soundstage and handles complex Atmos soundtracks beautifully. Its additional power (165W vs 100W per channel) is noticeable in larger rooms.
The Yamaha delivers clean, accurate sound with excellent stereo imaging and convincing surround effects. While it can't match the Sony's advanced features, it actually provides better value for users who don't need Atmos or 8K support.
Choose the Sony STR-AN1000 if:
Choose the Yamaha RX-V385 if:
Both receivers are solid choices in their respective price brackets. The Sony offers more features and future-proofing but costs twice as much. The Yamaha provides everything most users need for traditional home theater at a more accessible price point.
Remember, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider how you'll actually use the receiver rather than focusing solely on specifications. Many users will be perfectly happy with the Yamaha's capabilities, while others will find the Sony's additional features worth the premium.
| Sony STR-AN1000 ($598) | Yamaha RX-V385 ($299) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines speaker setup options and Atmos support | |
| 7.2 channels (supports Atmos/DTS:X) | 5.1 channels (traditional surround only) |
| Video Resolution - Important for future-proofing and gaming | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz (HDMI 2.1) | 4K/60Hz (HDMI 2.0b) |
| Power Output - Affects volume capability and sound clarity | |
| 165W per channel (6 ohms, 1ch driven) | 100W per channel (6 ohms, 1ch driven) |
| Room Calibration - Critical for optimal sound in your space | |
| Advanced D.C.A.C. IX with 360 Spatial Sound | Basic YPAO (single-point measurement) |
| Streaming Features - Affects ease of playing music | |
| Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2, Chromecast | Bluetooth only |
| HDR Support - Important for picture quality with modern TVs | |
| HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG with HDCP 2.3 | HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG with HDCP 2.2 |
| HDMI Ports - Determines how many devices you can connect | |
| 6 in / 2 out (2 ports support 4K/120Hz) | 4 in / 1 out |
| Special Features - Extra capabilities that might matter | |
| 360 Spatial Sound, gaming features, virtual speakers | Virtual CINEMA FRONT, compressed music enhancer |
The Sony STR-AN1000 supports Dolby Atmos with its 7.2 channels, while the Yamaha RX-V385 doesn't support Atmos. If you want overhead sound effects, the Sony is your only choice between these two.
The Sony STR-AN1000 costs $598, while the Yamaha RX-V385 is $299. The price difference reflects the Sony's additional features and channels.
The Sony STR-AN1000 is significantly better for gaming, with HDMI 2.1 support, 4K/120Hz capability, and Variable Refresh Rate. The Yamaha supports basic 4K/60Hz gaming.
Yes, both support 4K video, but the Sony STR-AN1000 offers 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz, while the Yamaha RX-V385 handles 4K/60Hz.
The Yamaha RX-V385 is ideal for smaller rooms, offering plenty of power and features at a lower price. The Sony's additional channels might be unnecessary in compact spaces.
The Sony STR-AN1000 offers comprehensive streaming with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2, and Chromecast. The Yamaha RX-V385 only offers Bluetooth streaming.
The Sony STR-AN1000 features more advanced calibration with D.C.A.C. IX and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping. The Yamaha RX-V385 uses basic YPAO calibration.
The Sony STR-AN1000 has 6 inputs and 2 outputs, while the Yamaha RX-V385 has 4 inputs and 1 output.
The Sony STR-AN1000 is more future-proof with 8K support, HDMI 2.1, and Atmos capability. The Yamaha RX-V385 covers current needs but lacks next-gen features.
Both receivers work with most home theater speakers. The Sony STR-AN1000 supports up to 7 speakers plus 2 subwoofers, while the Yamaha RX-V385 handles 5 speakers plus 1 subwoofer.
The Yamaha RX-V385 is simpler to set up due to fewer features and channels. The Sony STR-AN1000 offers more options but requires more configuration.
You only need 7.2 channels (like the Sony STR-AN1000) if you plan to use Dolby Atmos or want surround back speakers. For most users, the 5.1 channels of the Yamaha RX-V385 are sufficient.
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: tomsguide.com - electronics.sony.com - klarna.com - crutchfield.com - cnet.com - skybygramophone.com - bestbuy.com - sony.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - youtube.com - us.community.sony.com - sony-asia.com - usa.yamaha.com - usa.yamaha.com - avsforum.com - crutchfield.com - hifiheaven.net - europe.yamaha.com - my.yamaha.com - hifiengine.com - abt.com - abcwarehouse.com
