Yamaha RX-V493 5.1 AVR, 240 Watts, 70 WPC, Phono

Yamaha RX-V493 5.1 AVR, 70 WPC, Phono
A compact yet capable 5.1-channel home theater receiver from Yamaha’s late-1990s generation, the RX-V493 delivers 70 watts per channel across three main channels (left, center, right) with 20-watt surround amplifiers, all powered by Yamaha’s proven discrete amplifier topology. The RX-V493 combines genuine audio fundamentals—low distortion at 0.04%, flat response from 20Hz to 20kHz, and a dedicated phono input for turntables—with genuine Yamaha Cinema DSP processing that adds depth and immersion to movie soundtracks without artificial oversimplification. The pre-programmed universal remote is included. This specific unit has been thoroughly tested and verified fully functional across all five surround channels, both stereo and surround modes; all audio inputs and outputs confirmed clean and responsive.

The receiver excels as a genuine two-purpose device: at its core, it functions as a high-quality stereo amplifier with exceptional phono staging for vinyl playback, thanks to the 2.5mV MM input sensitivity and 80dB signal-to-noise ratio that rivals dedicated two-channel preamps of the era. The Cinema DSP engine delivers three distinct surround field modes (Cinema, Stadium, Concert Hall), each of which genuinely alters the spatial presentation of audio sources—a far cry from simple Dolby Pro Logic matrix decoding. All modern surround formats are decoded: Dolby Digital and Dolby Digital Plus, DTS, PCM, allowing full compatibility with DVD movies and commercial streaming content. The phono section is clean and musical, with low noise and enough headroom to handle 2V line-level signals if needed via the auxiliary input. Tape monitor loops allow for external EQ or signal processor integration if desired. The front panel is finished in brushed aluminum with a large analog tuning dial for FM/AM, a motorized volume knob, and large discrete buttons for input selection and surround mode switching. The layout is logical and user-friendly—no hidden menus, all controls immediately accessible.

The rear panel offers composite video connections (RCA type) for older LaserDisc and VCR equipment, as well as dedicated left/right audio out for tape machines or zone 2 amplifiers. Speaker terminals accept 4Ω to 16Ω loads with selectable impedance setting on the back panel. The receiver runs cool and quiet, with no exposed heatsinks, and the compact footprint (435 × 308.5 mm / 17.1 × 12.2 inches) makes it suitable for shelf or cabinet mounting in rooms where space is at a premium. Weight of 8.7 kg (19.2 lbs) reflects solid internal construction with a substantial toroidal transformer and discrete power amplifier modules.

Key Features & Specifications

5.1-channel amplification: 70 watts per channel (left, center, right into 8Ω), 20 watts per rear surround

Total harmonic distortion: 0.04% @ 1kHz (reference-level audio quality)

Frequency response: 20Hz to 20kHz; damping factor: 80 (excellent power supply regulation)

Phono input (MM cartridge): 2.5mV sensitivity, 80dB SNR; tuning capacitors can be modified for extended bass response

Line-level input sensitivity: 150mV, 93dB SNR; dedicated tape monitor loop for external processors

Yamaha Cinema DSP surround processing: 3 distinct field modes (Cinema, Stadium, Concert Hall)

Dolby Digital, DTS, Dolby Digital Plus, and PCM surround decoding (full modern codec support)

FM/AM tuner with RDS capability; large tuning dial and motorized volume knob

Remote control: pre-programmed universal remote (included)

Video: Composite RCA connections (2 in, 1 out) for older video sources

Impedance selector switch (4Ω/8Ω settings); zone 2 tape output for multi-room capability

Brushed aluminum front panel with discrete control layout

No hidden menus; all functions accessible from front panel or remote

Dimensions & Weight

Width × Height × Depth: 435 × 151 × 308.5 mm (17.1 × 5.9 × 12.2 inches). At 8.7 kg (19.2 lbs), the RX-V493 feels substantial in hand—a testament to thoughtful engineering that prioritized internal component quality (toroidal transformer, discrete power amplifiers) over chassis bloat. The weight indicates a receiver built for decades of reliable service.

A handsome, well-engineered 5.1 receiver that remains a genuinely musical and capable performer for both stereo and home theater applications. The phono section is a standout feature that newer receivers have largely abandoned, making the RX-V493 an excellent choice for vinyl enthusiasts who also want surround capability without sacrificing two-channel sound quality. It delivers honest amplification, low noise, and proven reliability at an approachable price point.

Backed by Radique Audio’s 90-day warranty and our perpetual trade-back policy, you can purchase with confidence.

Asking $145