Practically a do-almost-everything piece of equipment, the RX-V390 is rather hard to fault. However, from a purist point of view, the amplifier section is only so-so. Highs are not very well defined and the low end lacks depth and control. Those more serious about good audio performance should definitely look elsewhere. On the other hand, DSP modes and Pro-Logic decoding are very decent for the amount of dough, reflecting Yamaha's excellent reputation in home-theatre equipment. Power is more than sufficient for moderately sized rooms and should have no problem driving reasonably efficient speakers. If you're not too fussy about pure audio reproduction and are a budding home theatre enthusiast with a modest budget, this unit is certainly worth an audition.

This receiver is by no means a high impact unit. In fact it's Yamaha's entry level piece in the "Natural Sound" Home Theater line up. It does not however, claim to be any more than what it is: a quality component, fairly priced according to it's merits. Anyone with restrictive budgets or looking for a second Pro-Logic amp for the bedroom should audition the 390. The hookups are well laid out and simple, the speaker terminals successfully accommodate a 12 gauge equivalent from Audio Stream. The remote is strait forward if not unpretentious . With our home theater measuring just 12x20, the 60watts per channel up front provides sufficient impact, especially when accompanied by a powered sub. I take one mark off for not including the famous "Pro-Logic Enhanced" DSP that Yamaha is so proud of, and another mark for a rather high THD figure on the rear channel (0.7%). I do however give it a bonus mark for a truly excellent Digital Pro Logic decoder, having a level of clarity and separation I must compare to units costing twice as much from other sources.
In summary: and excellent choice for a budding home theater enthusiast, persons on a highly restrictive budget, or apartments with thin walls.