Yamaha R-2000A and NS-2000A: Premium HiFi bundle on the way

Yamaha has unveiled two new technology highlights. In addition to the new R-2000A network receiver, the Japanese company also wants to immediately launch the set of matching floor-standing speakers in the form of the NS-2000A. The complete system is said to offer high sound quality with state-of-the-art network functions including streaming features.

HiFi bundle for nostalgia fans

At first glance, the bundle is reminiscent of classic HiFi technology like you got back in the 90s and 2000s. But a look inside makes it clear that appearances are deceptive here. Here, the positive sound characteristics of iconic Yamaha products from the 3000 and 5000 series are to be combined with modern streaming features. According to the manufacturer, they want to use the best analog components, such as a large transformer.

In combination to best amplifier characteristics Yamaha promises a neutral and powerful sound image with many details. The analog technology meets features like WLAN, AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth 4.2. The design is also appealing. Here, Yamaha also relies on a combination of the old and the modern. On the one hand, there is the timeless VU meter, which is reminiscent of amplifiers from the old days. In contrast, there is a chic OLED panel that should not be distracting even in the dark thanks to the high-contrast panel technology.

Many inputs and customized sound

Away from the wireless streaming options, the Yamaha R-2000A also offers classic connectivity options. These include 2x analog inputs, 1x CD input, 1x phono preamp (for turntables). Digital sources can be fed in via 2x optical inputs, 1x coaxial input, 1x USB input. Thanks to HDMI-ARC, the receiver offers practical features such as use with only one remote control in interaction with other source or target devices. Of course, a subwoofer input should not be missing, which provides the necessary boom in sophisticated home theater systems.

Modern hi-fi technology tries to get the best sound experience out of every room. Yamaha relies on a special measurement technology called YPAOTM for its R-2000A. Here, the receiver measures the acoustics in the room to optimally adjust the output of the speakers. According to Yamaha, all you have to do to carry out the process is place the included microphone in the relevant area. Now sounds are played on the basis of which the receiver can make itself a sound picture of the room. The frequencies that the speakers output are then adjusted accordingly. If you still want to fine-tune, you can do so via the detailed settings of the “MusicCast App”.

Stereo speakers with a living room feel

If there’s one thing you can credit the Yamaha NS-2000A with, it’s the chic design they come in. This is so restrained that it should probably fit well in any living room. But Yamaha promises here besides a pretty appearance also a great HiFi technology. In particular, the sound characteristics should be able to convince even audiophile buyer groups here. However, you have to be aware that dusting will become a regular duty with regard to the piano lacquer-look speaker bodies. On top of that, you should take care that there are no scratches. Even though the surface might be susceptible, it at least seems to have been embellished in a high-quality process. Yamaha states that the speakers are finished in the same way as their in-house concert grand pianos.

But of course, the inner values and thus also the sound properties of the Yamaha NS-2000A are what matter most. And here, too, the manufacturer seems to score. When describing the stereo speakers, they particularly emphasize the special membrane material that is used here. This is supposed to provide full sound in combination with the powerful drivers. The speakers rely on a classic three-way system, which is composed of two 6.5-inch woofers and a midrange and tweeter dome. In order to make the sound as clear as possible, the manufacturer has, according to its own statements, done everything to keep the vibrations as low as possible. This is achieved, among other things, by minimizing cabinet resonances.

Prices and availability

Both receiver and speakers definitely sound like premium segment. How much the Yamaha R-2000A and the Yamaha NS-2000A are expected to cost, however, is as yet unknown. We do know, however, that the HiFi highlights are to be launched at the end of the year.