Japanese manufacturer Yamaha is rolling out an extensive update to its Yamaha Aventage A/V receiver lineup. The update includes the addition of VRR and ALLM technologies to optimize the gaming experience with the latest consoles or a computer. These features complement the recently added support for 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz and make these Yamaha receivers a true reference for gaming.
Compatible Yamaha receivers
The new VRR and ALLM features are available directly after updating compatible Yamaha Aventage A/V receivers. It can be accessed in the reciever’s settings or via the MusicCast app, which was also recently updated. If your Yamaha receiver is not connected to the network, you can download the firmware from the manufacturer’s website. The following A/V receivers are concerned by this new update:
- Yamaha Aventage RX-V4A
- Yamaha Aventage RX-V6A
- Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A
- Yamaha Aventage RX-A4A
- Yamaha Aventage RX-A6A
- Yamaha Aventage RX-A8A
The benefits of VRR
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) is a technology that dynamically adjusts the display frequency of a television according to the number of images actually sent by the source, such as a games console or computer. Rather than remaining fixed at a standard frequency (60 Hz, 120 Hz, etc.), the picture precisely follows the rendering rate of the graphics processor. This eliminates certain visual defects, such as tearing or judder caused by mismatched transmission and display rates.
For gaming, VRR significantly improves visual comfort, especially in games where the number of frames per second can vary depending on the scene or GPU load. By synchronising the display frame by frame with actual performance, this technology contributes to more consistent fluidity, without manual intervention. On compatible Yamaha receivers, the video signal passes through with VRR enabled, provided it is used with a TV and source that are also HDMI 2.1 compatible. PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2 support this protocol.
The benefits of ALLM
ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) is a feature introduced with the HDMI 2.1 standard that allows a video source such as a games console or PC to automatically inform the TV that a game is in progress. The TV then automatically switches to low latency mode, often referred to as ‘game mode’, to deactivate image processing that can add delay between the player’s action and its display on screen.
This mode is particularly useful for games that require immediate responsiveness, such as FPS or racing games. By reducing input lag to a minimum, ALLM ensures a smoother, more accurate experience. When used with a compatible Yamaha receiver, the HDMI signal retains this instruction, ensuring proper activation of gaming mode on a TV that supports this feature. This feature is also supported by next-generation consoles.
How to enjoy VRR and ALLM?
To take advantage of VRR and ALLM functions, it is essential to have HDMI 2.1 compatible equipment throughout the chain: console or PC, AV receiver and TV. Recent consoles support these technologies, as do some computers equipped with modern graphics cards.
It is also advisable to use HDMI 2.1 cables to ensure adequate bandwidth. Make sure that you connect your devices to VRR and ALLM-compatible HDMI ports, as not all connectors are compatible, particularly on televisions. Once these connections are in place, the TV reacts automatically to the source: it activates its game mode via ALLM and dynamically adjusts its display frequency using VRR.
Finally, although some features are available on televisions with HDMI 2.0, only an HDMI 2.1 input allows you to take full advantage of VRR combined with 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz. For the best possible experience, the ideal solution is to connect the AV receiver to a recent TV that supports the full range of HDMI 2.1 functions. This guarantees maximum responsiveness and a smooth picture regardless of the type of game.
With ALLM and VRR compatibility, as well as HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs, Yamaha Aventage A/V receivers are becoming increasingly powerful and meet the needs of the most discerning gamers.
