Features:
- Dolby Digital and DTS decoding
- 100 watts per channel x 5
- S-video switching
- 6 DSP (digital signal processing) modes
- AM/FM radio with 45 presets
Description:
Today's audio-video receivers incorporate more performance features than older receivers and they often do so at a better price. JVC's RX-6000VBK is an example of this trend. It decodes both Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1-channel surround, performs S-video switching, and delivers 100 watts across five channels--as well as offers six DSP modes for music and movies and a whopping 45 FM/AM station presets. The RX-6000VBK also has sophisticated control settings such as a variable crossover and a bass-management system, which will maximize the performance of any home-theater speaker system. The RX-6000VBK gets things off on the right foot with its intuitively arranged front panel. A larger-than-normal display window dominates the top half of the faceplate, while directly beneath it sit large, bar-shaped buttons for selecting sources, DSP (digital signal processing), and surround modes. Perhaps best of all, we like JVC's multifunction cursor, which controls bass and treble, subwoofer level, balance, speaker settings for surround, speaker delay settings, crossover frequency, dynamic range, and tuner presets. You also use it to assign digital inputs to the components of your choice. We're pleased that the RX-6000VBK offers S-video switching (DVD only, not for VHS) and coaxial as well as optical digital-audio inputs. We prefer coaxial and recommend you use this input for your DVD player, providing you have the output to match. On the downside, the RX-6000VBK lacks a front-panel video input, which is handy if you're a serious camcorder user. Another feature absent is 5.1-channel direct analog inputs--probably a tradeoff to maintain the low price. Since the receiver offers Dolby Digital and DTS decoding, this isn't a serious liability, but multichannel inputs offer the security of accommodating future surround formats. The RX-6000VBK's sound is clear, with a generally good balance, though it does veer slightly toward emphasizing the midrange and treble and has a tight if lean bass response. It successfully resolves instrumental textures and ambient cues. Through the RX-6000VBK, vocals sound precise and articulate, something we always welcome with music and something obviously important with DVD movies as well. Finally, JVC's Compu Link lets you control other JVC components with the RX-6000VBK's remote. All in all, this is a fine receiver. While it lacks 5.1-channel direct inputs, it does have top-of-the-line DTS decoding, S-video switching, and a coaxial digital input. At this price, it's a strong value. --Wayne Garcia Pros:
- Clean, open sound
- S-video switching
- Coaxial digital input
- Controls are easy to navigate
Cons:
- No 5.1-channel inputs
- No front-panel video inputs
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