The current Yamaha two-channel equipment may appear outdated to some, but we prefer to view it as appealingly vintage. Of course, everything comes down to personal preference.
We’ve always been suckers for huge controls, so the RN803 is totally up our alley. If you want to keep things simple, this Yamaha will have a tough time convincing you. There’s no getting past the fact that it’s a purposeful-looking device.
If you are interested in this model, keep reading our Yamaha RN803 review for more information below.
Yamaha RN803
Description: When it comes to less physical inputs, the Yamaha is similarly well equipped. It includes streaming services from Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Qobuz, Juke!, and Napster.
About: The 803 has a level of automation that is uncommon in stereo equipment. Yamaha has equipped it with Yamaha Parametric Acoustic Optimiser (YPAO) – this device comes with its fair share of acronyms.
Pros
- A vibrant and precise sound signature
- Simple to install
- Room adjusting software
- Built-in input choices
Cons
- Aesthetic simplicity
Overall Features
Devices like Yamaha’s R-N803 make us unconvinced that the huge black box on the living room shelf will ever completely disappear.
With a plethora of analog and digital inputs, high-resolution streaming, 145 watts per channel, and built-in room correction software, the R-N803 is more like the predator hunting older, less competent amplifiers down a cliff.
If you’re serious about your sound, want 21st-century listening convenience, and don’t want to dip into your vacation budget to acquire it, this is one of the few gadgets that will work for you.
Build
Even if you want to keep switches and buttons to a minimum, the rich specification of this Yamaha will entice you. We’ve rarely seen a network streamer/amplifier with so much capability – especially at this low price according to our Yamaha RN803 review.
From ancient to modern, the R-N803 covers all communication bases. There are four analog RCA line-level inputs and two equivalent pairs of outputs on the back panel, as well as RCA phono-stage inputs (and a grounding post) for a turntable.
There are two optical inputs, two coaxial sockets, and an ethernet connector for hard-wired network throughput. There includes a DAB/FM radio aerial connector, a pre-out for a powered subwoofer, and terminals for two pairs of speakers.
Out of the Box
The Yamaha R-overall N803’s style is one area where it looks back rather than ahead according to our Yamaha RN803 review.
At first sight, the massive black device appears to be fairly similar to many other receivers, however several of us like Yamaha’s throwback design touches — the compact tone knobs and even Yamaha’s typography recall back to the company’s ’70s-era receivers.
On the front of the device, a small digital screen is accompanied by two round selection dials, a volume slider, four-tone settings, and many little buttons that control anything from the screen’s brightness to radio settings.
A USB input, headphone output, and 3.5 mm mic input for the constructed room adjustment software are also located on the front according to our Yamaha RN803 review.
Setup
It’s as simple as putting in the amplifier, attaching your speakers and source devices, and connecting the system to your network through Ethernet or Wi-Fi. The MusicCast app then takes over as your streaming connection with the amp (unless you are using Spotify Connect, Airplay, or Bluetooth).
Performance
It’s as simple as putting in the amplifier, attaching your speakers and source devices, and connecting the system to your network through Ethernet or Wi-Fi. The MusicCast app then takes over as your streaming connection with the amp (unless you are using Spotify Connect, Airplay, or Bluetooth).
How long will it strive?
Yamaha has a reputation for producing high-quality, long-lasting goods, and the R-overall N803’s build quality reflects this. This amplifier should endure for many years if properly cared for according to our Yamaha RN803 review.
Should you purchase it?
Yes. The Yamaha R-N803 is a standout because of its numerous inputs, network connection, and outstanding sound character. Those searching for audiophile-grade sound at a modest cost should consider this sleeper hit before investing much more money on a possibly prettier — but not necessarily better-sounding — competition.
Equipment
First, consider its primary function as an amplifier. It’s rated at 2 x 145W at the AV electrical standard of 1kHz into 8 ohms with up to 10% THD, but it still gets 2 x 100W with the higher hi-fi requirement of 0.019% THD from 20Hz to 20kHz into 8 ohms.
Yamaha’s ToP-ART (Total Purity Audio Reproduction Technology) design idea employs rigorously balanced and short signal lines, and the chassis has a unique ‘An Base’ resin frame to absorb vibration. Four bipolar power semiconductors per channel provide the final output according to our Yamaha RN803 review.
Conclusion: Yamaha RN803 [2022 Review]
The Yamaha R-N803 is a versatile amplifier that can accept audio from practically any source, power all but the largest speakers on the market, and sound fantastic while doing so. We hope you liked our Yamaha RN803 review and it was helpful.