Even though a video processor may be able detect the difference between video and film-based sources, such as shown in the previous photo, can it detect both of them at the same time? The reason this is important is that often, video titles (moving at 30 frames per second) are laid over film (which is moving at 24 frames per second). This can cause problems as the combination of both these elements can result in artifacts that make the titles look jagged or broken.

However, in this case, if the RX-V863's video processor can detect the differences between the titles and the rest of the image, the titles should appear smooth.

In this photo you can see examples, in the upper left hand corner, of what both a good and poor result might look like. As you can see in the real world example in the larger image, the letters are smooth (the blurriness is due to the camera's shutter) and compares inbetween the example of how they should look and the example of how they should not look. This is more apparent if you click on the View Full Size icon.

Final Note

As the photos in this gallery have shown, the video processor of the Yamaha RX-V863 does only an average job, at best, in factors such 480i to 480p conversion and 1080p video upscaling. In other words, if you are basing your decision to purchase the Yamaha RX-V863 based on video upscaling needs, such as from a non-upscaling DVD player, VHS VCR, or other standard definition source component, this may not be the receiver for you.

On the other hand, if you already own good upscaling DVD player, and native 1080p HD-sources using HDMI connectivity, such as a Blu-ray or HD-DVD player, or HD-Cable or HD-Satellite Box, the RX-V863 can pass those signals undisturbed as not de-interlacing or scaling is required to be performed by the RX-V863.

Of course, keep in mind that primary purpose of a Home Theater Receiver is to deliver great audio, and the Yamaha RX-V863 offers very good-to-excellent performance in that area. For more details on this, plus a close-up photo look at the RX-V863, check out my Short and Full Reviews of the Yamaha RX-V863 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver, as well as a close-up physical look via my Yamaha RX-V863 Photo Gallery Report.