Yamaha recently announced a new line of digital home theater receivers that feature 1080p-compatible HDMI switching, iPod and satellite radio compatibility, and a host of other technologies.

Model numbers, power specs, and pricing are as follows:

• RX-V863, 105Wx7, MSRP $1,000
• RX-V663, 95Wx7, MRSP $550
• RX-V563, 90Wx7, MSRP $550
• RX-V463, 105Wx5, MSRP $350
• RX-V363, 100Wx5, MSRP $230

With a focus on premium sound, the top-of-the-line RX-V863 and RX-V663 (both of which are 7.2 channel receivers with multi-zone control) support the latest in Blu-ray audio surround sound formats, including Dolby True HD, and DTS-HD Master Audio. The RX-V863 features a video processor that upconverts 480i or 480p to 1080p.

All models, except for the entry-level RX-V363, feature an updated version of the Yamaha Parametric Room Acoustic Optimizer (YPAO), which automatically applies speaker EQ to optimize system sound in real-world rooms.

The line also features Yamaha’s Compressed Music Enhancer technology for restoring the high and low frequency detail lost in compressed audio files, especially useful for those with an MP3 or iPod music library. Yamaha’s popular CINEMA DSP programs have been improved in order to bring the source and sound field into closer harmony. CINEMA DSP offers as many as 17 modes (on the V863 and V663), enabling users to customize surround sound fields to suit their tastes (or to fit their chosen program material). The V863 and V663 utilize Adaptive DSP Level technology, which delivers full surround sound effects at low volumes.

The RX-V863 also offers Pure Direct mode, allowing the audio signal to bypass all but the most basic audio circuitry to prevent extraneous noise interference.

Each new receiver offers the Silent Cinema option, which creates accurate surround sound effects when listeners play music or movie soundtracks through ordinary headphones.

Go to http://www.yamaha.com/yec/ for more information and more detailed specifications.