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The best AV receivers is essential if you want to replicate the authentic movie theater experience at home as much as possible. Built-in TV speakers can be replaced with soundbars, but an AV receiver offers you much more flexibility in terms of how to configure, operate, and improve your home theater system.
You ought to give its selection your whole attention, and to help you with this, I’ve written a piece on the top AV receivers. To make it easier for you to explore the reviews based on your budget, I have categorized them by price rank for your convenience.
Expensive receivers don’t always have to be good ones, however the latter has more alternatives. You will be able to quickly orient yourself on what factors to consider when purchasing an AVR and whether your equipment will be compatible with it after reading this thorough evaluation.
After testing, I have included just the most deserving models in each price range. You will undoubtedly discover one among them that will satisfy you with enduring movie-watching memories for many years to come.
Quick List of Best AV Receivers
The best AV receivers for 2024 in terms of price/quality ratio may be found in this category. Nearly all of the latest features and capabilities that are currently accessible may be found on mid-range devices.
Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Marantz SR8015 BEST OVERALL
- Marantz SR8015 - 11.2ch 8K AV receiver with 3D Audio, HEOSBuilt-in and Voice Control
Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- It delivers fantastic high-power clarity
- Boosted to 13.2 channels
- Lots of connections for old and new gear
- Built-in wireless and streaming services
- Audio divides into three zones
Cons
- Only one HDMI input supports 8K video
- Update the user interface menu system
Specifications
| Number of channels: | 11.2 |
| Power output: | 140W/8 Ohm (20 Hz–20 Khz, 0.08% 2ch drive) 175W/6 Ohm (1 kHz, 0.7% 2ch drive) |
| HDMI inputs/outputs: | 8/3 |
| HDMI pass-through: | 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz |
| HDMI ARC/eARC/CEC: | Yes/Yes/Yes |
| HDR support: | HDR 10+, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR, HLG |
| HDMI upconversion: | Yes (analog to HDMI) |
| HDMI upscaling: | Yes (up to 8K) |
| Wi-Fi: | Yes |
| Bluetooth: | Yes |
| Ethernet: | Yes |
| AirPlay: | Yes (AirPlay2) |
| Streaming services: | Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music HD, TIDAL, Deezer, and others |
| Assistant support: | Google Assistant, Alexa, Apple HomePod |
| Dolby Atmos/DTS:X: | Yes/Yes |
| Dolby: | Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, Dolby Atmos Music, Dolby Surround |
| DTS: | DTS HD Master, DTS Neural:X, DTS Virtual:X, DTS:X Pro |
MARANTZ SR8015 – Overview
Like the second member of this premium segment Denon AVR-X6700H, although I’ll tell you about it a little later, the 11.2 channel Marantz SR8015 requires a large room, so if you’re interested in top-rated AV receivers, you must have a large home. The model with the hinged front cover, which conceals the control for basic functions—was released in 2020. It has a modern appearance, but the real “beauty” is on the rear panel.
In the first place, it’s important to note that the system can be expanded to 13 channels by attaching an extra stereo receiver. Therefore, you may create a 5.2.6 or 7.2.4 system for Dolby Atmos and take advantage of all the benefits of surround sound by using overhead speakers. further transmit audio to three zones. Having a scandal-free evening is no longer a problem if your family is huge and has a variety of tastes.
Even while SR8015 appears modest, subdued, and even plain, its chicness is unmistakable. The quality is outstanding despite the fact that it is obvious that you may (and should) expect something extraordinary for the price. The metal is handled as though it were a handcrafted jewelry cabinet. The receiver’s weight of 38.4 pounds suggests this as well. It will serve you, your kids, and your grandkids and is indestructible. and in the same high quality as during the first usage week.
This device has some pricey parts, and gold-plated RCA connectors are another component that degrades the quality of the signal sent. For those who have proper technique, all the buttons are perfectly sensitive, no pressure, no clicking, just pure joy. The 2020 model appears opulent and has a hinged front cover that conceals the primary function controls. I’m not too bothered by its small circular screen because a full-size LCD is concealed beneath the cover. However, the back panel has the most “beauty.”
As stated in the above description, the Marantz SR8015 offers an incredible amount of connections: five composite inputs and two outputs, three component inputs and one output, seven analog inputs, two optical and coaxial digital inputs, a phono (MM) input, and two subwoofer outputs. Comparing this to the Marantz Cinema 60, there is a noticeable gain. As a result, none of your equipment new or old will be kept in containers or the attic; instead, it will all have a specific place in your home system.
Moreover, the quantity of HDMIs is astounding. For sophisticated gaming (ALLM Pass-through, VRR, etc.) and HDR, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, and HLG video viewing at 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz, the receiver features 8 HDMI inputs (Scaling up to 8K/60Hz, 3D Signal Pass-Through) and 3 HDMI outputs (CEC, eARC). However, 8K is limited to one input.
It offers exceptional acoustic qualities as well. The Marantz SR8015 decodes Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, IMAX Enhanced, Auro 3D, DTS HD Master, DTS:X Pro, DTS Neural:X, and DTS Virtual:X. AirPlay2, TuneIn Internet Radio, HEOS Multi-room and Streaming system, high definition audio streaming, voice assistants (Alexa, Google Voice Assistant, Apple HomePod), and speech assistants (Spotify Connect, Pandora, SiriusXM) are all built-in capabilities. I wasn’t concerned about it as it had Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and an AM/FM tuner. Surprised? I’m not. I was ecstatic to see that the Marantz SR8015 was as inexpensive as it was.
It should come as no surprise that this model has incredible power capabilities—after all, we are talking about a big space. I am pleased with the THD (far better than Marantz Cinema 60), and the manufacturer wilts 140 W (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 0.05% 2ch Drive) or 175 W (6 ohms, 1 kHz, 0.7% 2ch Drive). That level of clarity at high power will not be obtained from a cheap receiver.
I concluded that you need to watch dynamic movies to test such a receiver, so I watched Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings of Marvel. The sound effects in the film, such as the flying dragons, the clang of metal, and the sounds of breathtaking scenery, give you the impression that you are there in the action. It’s an amazing encounter. Clear and detailed audio is audible throughout quiet scenes and speech. I tried playing a Muse record and Deezer wirelessly, and the receiver proved to be incredibly powerful in stereo, making every vein in my body dance.
Marantz Cinema 60 ALSO GREAT
- TRANSFORM YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM - With masterful 8K connectivity and 3D surround sound, the...
- EXPERIENCE YOUR MOVIES & GAMES IN 8K - Enjoy the ultimate cinematic experience with 8K/60Hz or...
- UPGRADE YOUR SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM - Get immersive 3D surround sound with Dolby Atmos and...
Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Excellent sounf quality in any format
- Unlike the Yamaha RX-A2A, it upscales to 8K
- Superior grade construction details
- Supports current audio and video formats
- Marantz’s tech boosts audio
Cons
- Audyssey MultEQ Editor isn’t free
- Poor quality when upscaling to 8K
- Only three HDMI inputs support 8K
Specifications
| Number of channels: | 7.2 |
| Power output: | 100W/8 Ohm (20 Hz–20 Khz, 0.08% 2ch drive) 140W/6 Ohm (1 kHz, 0.7% 2ch drive) |
| HDMI inputs/outputs: | 6/2 |
| HDMI pass-through: | 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz |
| HDMI ARC/eARC/CEC: | Yes/Yes/Yes |
| HDR support: | HDR 10+, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR, HLG |
| HDMI upconversion: | Yes (analog to HDMI) |
| HDMI upscaling: | Yes (up to 8K) |
| Wi-Fi: | Yes |
| Bluetooth: | Yes |
| Ethernet: | Yes |
| AirPlay: | Yes (AirPlay2) |
| Streaming services: | Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music HD, TIDAL, Deezer, and others |
| Assistant support: | Google Assistant, Alexa, Apple HomePod |
| Dolby Atmos/DTS:X: | Yes/Yes |
| Dolby: | Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, Dolby Surround |
| DTS: | DTS HD Master, DTS Neural:X, DTS Virtual:X |
MARANTZ CINEMA 60 – Overview
The next item on my list is the Marantz Cinema 60, a superb 7.2-channel mid-range receiver that was introduced in 2022. Prestigious design, superb data, and Marantz’s unparalleled craftsmanship combine to make this home theater receiver which is comparable to the Yamaha RX-A2A but less costly than the Denon AVR-X3800H into one of the best on the market.
Of course, it’s evident from the outside that Cinema 60 is a member of the upper class. I would suggest it as a tranquilizer for people with frayed nerves because of its fragrant side panels, lovely small circular screen in the center, and the way the buttons are pressed, so softly and plainly. Since you can’t see anything on it, I will be honest and say that I don’t enjoy this LCD from the revised Marantz lineup.
There are no Composite or Component inputs on the Cinema 60. Nevertheless, it does contain one USB on the front panel, four digital inputs (two optical and two coaxial), phono (MM) input, two subwoofer outputs, and two MM inputs, which combine to make it a 7.2-channel receiver. Furthermore offered are Wi-Fi with Bluetooth, AM/FM tuner, and HEOS Multi-Room Integrated. The receiver is compatible with voice assistance (Alexa, Google Voice Assistant, Apple HomePod) and streaming services (AirPlay Audio Streaming, AirPlay 2, Spotify, Pandora, and others), just like the other two in this category.
Upscaling 1080P/4K to 8K resolution, 6 HDMI inputs enabling 8K/60Hz (although only 3 HDMI inputs support 8K video), 4K/120Hz, and 2 HDMI outputs (HDCP2.3, ARC, eARC) are features of the Marantz Cinema 60. Compatible with video material in HDR, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dynamic HDR formats. For DTS HD Master, DTS:X, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, and its configurations, audio format decoding is possible. The Yamaha RX-A2A can only upscale video quality to 4K, although the receiver offers fairly high-quality upscaling to 8K. In this regard, the receiver is more comparable to its predecessor, the AVR-X3800H. The Cinema 60 is not as adept at this feature, though. There were small but visible pixelation or delays in almost every video.
Marantz has a devoted following thanks to its distinct sound. As you can see, this model’s power capabilities (100W/8 ohms, 20Hz – 20kHz, 0.08% 2ch Drive) are comparable to those of its predecessors, as is its low THD. It did well in testing, showing excellent realistic surround sound (this time by the brilliant comedy Red Notice with an excellent music).
Since the testing studio for the 7-channel system was smaller (about 200 square feet), I felt like I was in the middle of the action and even jumped in my chair a few times. The power of the AVR was sufficient for me. However, I was not at that surprised. One should anticipate a receiver designed just for watching movies when the most esteemed brand includes the word “cinema” in the model name.
Denon AVR-X1800H BEST WIRELESS
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE AV RECEIVER - Enjoy 8K video and 3D audio with Denon AVR-X1800H AV Receiver....
- ADVANCED 8K HDMI VIDEO SECTION - With 3 dedicated 8K inputs & 1 output (8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz...
- MULTI-DIMENSIONAL AUDIO - In addition to Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X, the Denon...
Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- User-friendly setup process
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatibility
- Three HDMI 2.1 inputs for gaming
- Wireless music streaming options
Cons
- Limited HDMI inputs
- Extra cost for advances room correction
Specifications
| Number of channels: | 7.2 or 5.1.2 |
| Connectivity Technology: | Bluetooth |
| Controller Type: | Android |
| Special Feature: | Spotify |
| Compatible Devices: | Speaker |
| Connector Type: | USB |
| Audio Output Mode: | Surround |
DENON AVR-X1800H – Overview
Editor’s Choice
The Denon AVR-X1800H is an amazing receiver with great sound quality, exceptional value, and setup assistance. It includes seven amplifier channels, which can power two speakers and a standard surround-sound system in a home theater setup with DTS:X or Dolby Atmos.
It boasts six HDMI inputs, three of which support HDMI 2.1 and the sophisticated gaming features of the Sony PlayStation 5 and Microsoft Xbox Series X gaming consoles. It supports wireless music streaming using Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, and the Heos wireless streaming platform, which is a rival to the Sonos platform.
Additionally, it has Audyssey’s excellent MultEQ XT room correction, which lets you adjust the performance of your speaker system to fit your space. Our testing constantly demonstrate that the room-correction system’s effectiveness is what sets apart AV receivers in this price range in terms of sound quality. However, you should download the MultEQ software (available for iOS and Android) if you want the greatest results.
Yamaha RX-V6A BEST YAMAHA
- HDMI with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (7 in / 1 out)
- 4K60, 4K120AB and 8K60B HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (Three 8k + 4 (7) in/1 out)
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Voice Control and MusicCast multi-room
Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2
- Yamaha’s MusicCast multiroom technology
- Flexible channel configuration
Cons
- Limited power for larger rooms
- Fewer channels compared to higher-end models
Specifications
| Scheme: | 5.2 |
| Power: | 5 x 80 W |
| Format support: | Dolby Atmos/DTS:X | Video – 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDR (HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG) |
| Weight: | 8.8 kg |
YAMAHA RX-V6A – Overview
Yamaha’s latest range of AV receivers has generated buzz, with the RX-V4A entry-level model emerging as a surprising standout. This gadget is powerful even for its modest price, with five channels and a constant 80W power output per channel. Customers are assured of amazing spatial imaging and immersive audio because to this.
The Yamaha RX-V4A has many connectivity choices thanks to its integrated Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay 2, and Yamaha’s exclusive MusicCast multiroom technology. Customers can take advantage of a flexible, integrated audio experience across their home by easily streaming music from a variety of devices.
Customers can also redirect power to a second zone or enable bi-amping for the front speakers thanks to the receiver’s flexible channel configuration. The RX-V4A becomes an even more alluring choice for anyone searching for premium performance at a reasonable cost because of its increased adaptability.
Sony STR-AN1000 BEST QUALITY
- 7.2-channel A/V Receiver (165 W 6 ohms, 1 kHz, 1ch THD 0.9%).Power Requirement : 120V 60Hz....
- 8K & 4K/120 HDMI Connectivity with HDMI 2.1 support (6-in/2-out)
- Supports Dolby Atmos & DTS:X object-based sound decoding
Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Lots of streaming connectivity, including Sonos
- Excellent sound quality
- Supports 8K and 4K/120Hz
Cons
- Retail price is slightly higher than competition
- Reduced power rating
- Remote is poorly designed
Specifications
| Number of channels: | 7 |
| Power in stereo (6ohm): | 100 watts |
| Number of HDMI Inputs: | 6 |
| HDMI Version: | 2.1 |
SONY STR-AN1000 – Overview
After a few years gone, Sony returned with the Sony STR-AN1000, a more powerful model than before. With compatibility for HDMI 2.1 (4K/120Hz), this model comes equipped with all the newest capabilities. Not only does it have the “works with Sonos” certification, but its strong performance is the main reason to purchase it. It also boasts one of the most advanced setup processes to date, making it even simpler to achieve excellent sound quality.
In comparison to its well-known rivals, this receiver may appear unassuming due to its very modest appearance and weight of 9.4 kg. You’ll be astounded by its flawless soundstage and superb localization, which let you practically “reach out and touch” the audio images, once you see it performed. It has a 360 Spatial Sound Mapping system that efficiently constructs virtual ceiling sound channels and supports the 360 Reality Audio format, providing an incredibly immersive listening experience.
Factors to Consider when Buying an AV Receiver
How We Test the Best AV Recievers
FAQs: Best AV Reciever
- What distinguishes an AV receiver from a stereo receiver?
A stereo receiver is a two-channel, audio-only amplifier with source switching and an AM/FM tuner; if the tuner is absent, the device is referred to as an integrated amplifier. Generally speaking, an AV receiver is a surround sound amplifier that supports HDMI switching and audio and video playback. The majority also have tuners on board. On the other hand, an AV receiver can be used for more speakers if you so like, or it can be used just for stereo playback. - Must I purchase an 8K receiver?
Though standards are always changing, at the very least, HDMI version 2.0 or higher, Dolby Vision and HDR capabilities are now required. Even though 8K content is difficult to come by, all of these models support 8K video in addition to 4K and HDR video. - Is support for 4K/120Hz important?
The quick answer is that it’s only possible if you own an Xbox Series X and a brand-new TV. Many Xbox Series X titles, including Fortnite and Halo Infinite, offer this additional setting as of this writing; nevertheless, based on my observations thus far, there aren’t many advantages to 4K/120Hz over 60Hz. In the future, games and maybe media sources might highlight the differences more, thus you might want a completely compatible receiver.
Round Up of Today’s Best Deals
Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Why Trust Factic
Berry Alex has been evaluating, testing, and reviewing tech, Household and travel items for several decades. He compiled all of the testers’ input, conducted extra research to assess each phone mount’s essential features and overall functioning, and reviewed professional profiles and verified customer reviews for each product.
