Yamaha MCX-A10 MusicCast client review

Because the MCX-A10 streams audio exclusively from the MCX-1000, the two devices support exactly the same file formats. The MCX-A10 is capable of playing any MP3 or noncompressed PCM file located on the MCX-1000's hard drive. Files can be added to the MCX-1000's hard drive either by ripping CDs or by recording into the MCX-1000's inputs in real time. The MCX-1000 can encode MP3 files at three bit rates: 160Kbps, 256Kbps, and 320Kbps. It's worth noting that only MP3 files can be streamed when multiple MCX-A10 clients are in use.

We tested the MCX-A10 with the optional MCX-SP10 speakers and with old Boston Acoustics A-70s, midsize two-way speakers. We tested both setups with and without an NHT Pro S-00 powered subwoofer in the mix. The MCX-A10 drove the A-70s very loud without noticeably straining. Yamaha's MCX-SP10 speakers were also capable of playing surprisingly loudly. When we fired up Macy Gray's track, "Relating to a Psychopath," the MCX-SP10s' sound was a bit boxy and didn't have much depth. Because the speakers are only $119, they're still worth picking up if you want to install the MCX-A10 in the garage, kitchen, or anywhere else you probably wouldn't have a set of more serious speakers at hand. It almost goes without saying that adding the sub improved the overall performance with both sets of speakers.

The MCX-A10 does suffer from occasional wireless playback dropouts, but that's not a strike against it because all wireless digital media receivers have the same problem. In our setup, the MCX-A10 was about 35 feet away from the MCX-1000, and the two were separated by a couple of walls. Your wireless mileage may vary depending on a variety of factors, ranging from atmospheric conditions to the construction materials used in your house.

In the final analysis, the MCX-A10 is a solid digital media receiver that effectively plays second fiddle to the MCX-1000 audio server. It's priced a few hundred dollars too high in comparison to roughly comparable digital media receivers. But that's a moot point for MCX-1000 owners since only the MCX-A10 client can be used with that device.