• Electronics
  • Home Audio
  • Home Receivers
  • Best AV Receiver

Best AV Receiver

Tweet
Article Contents
  • Best Midrange AV Receiver
  • Best High End AV Receiver
  • Best Budget AV Receiver
  • Best 5.1 Receiver
A/V receivers act as an electronic gateway or organizer for your home entertainment system, and consolidate the function of multiple devices into a single box. Modern A/V receivers offer HDMI input/output, with higher-end units featuring advanced video processing as well. Better A/V receivers offer superior sound quality, which can immerse viewers in the "atmosphere" that movie directors intended.

Best Midrange AV Receiver:

With multiple HDMI inputs and support for all the latest HD audio soundtracks including Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio, these mid-range receivers are ideal for watching Blu-ray movies and other HD material. Audio quality and video processing are top priority, with all of our selections delivering performance that will satisfy the needs of all but the most demanding buyers. Our picks also need to be easy to set up and use, while offering a good balance of features such as internet streaming and overall value for money.
Add to MyBests

Sony STR-DN1050 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver

The outstanding STR-DN1050 from Sony delivers an excellent blend of features, performance, and price. It might not be the cheapest receiver available, but this model is an improvement in every way over last year's already-superb STR-DN1040, and is well worth the investment. Read Full Review

See it at:
    spacer
    Add to MyBests

    Onkyo TX-NR636 7.2-Channel Network Receiver

    The excellent sound output of the Onkyo TX-NR626 could alone justify its price, but the inclusion of multiple features usually seen in higher-end models builds even more on the value of this receiver. Beyond being just about your only choice in this price range if you want a phono input, the TX-NR626 offers HDMI 2.0 and a laundry list of other modern features. Read Full Review

    See it at:
      spacer
      Add to MyBests

      Denon AVR-S900W 7.2-Channel Network Receiver

      This user-friendly receiver has taken the excellent basic performance of last year's model and improved features many felt were previously lacking. Denon's AVR-S900W combines an impressive eight HDMI 2.0 inputs, powerful output, and ease-of-use. At around $600 this unit isn't cheap, but its performance easily justifies the price. Read Full Review

      See it at:
        spacer
        Add to MyBests

        Pioneer VSX-1124-K 7.2-Channel Network AV Receiver

        The upper-midrange VSX-1124-K is an overall excellent receiver, but also includes one upgrade that is sure to please those who have been hoping Pioneer would finally answer their wishes: the inclusion of a new subwoofer EQ. Combined with plenty of future-proof connectivity, power, and features, the VSX-1124-K offers a solid bump in performance over its predecessor. Read Full Review

        See it at:
          spacer
          Add to MyBests

          Marantz NR1605 7.1 Slim Line 4K Ultra HD Receiver

          The Marantz NR1605 is the most expensive A/V Receiver we’ve included. While it certainly delivers top-notch performance and features, the primary reason (other than personal preference) people pay more for is its design; the NR1605 is slim and stylish when compared to its typically bulky, boxy peers. Read Full Review

          See it at:
            spacer
            Compare All Items Side-by-Side

            Best High End AV Receiver:

            If you're an audio/videophile seeking first-rate performance, the latest surround sound technologies, and a ton of useful features, stepping up to one of these high-end AV receivers is one way to go. Not all of our selections will have all the modern features such as WiFi, because the primary focus has been placed on making the core performance as outstanding as possible.

            Rather than carrying consumer-grade features, these best high end receivers are equipped with top-of-the-line video processors such as Marvell's Qdeo. The reference-grade sound quality is backed by certifications from well-respected institutes like THX or AIR Studios; manufacturers have gone to great lengths to isolate signal noise and unwanted interference. Flexible connectivity is also a high-end... Read More calling card and these AV receivers offer plenty of support for digital and analog standards. The receivers on this list vary in price and range from 7.1-channel models to 9.2-channel options, so be sure to choose one best suited to your needs and home theater configuration. Minimize
            Add to MyBests

            Pioneer Elite SC-77 9.2-Channel Multi-Zone, Networked, Class D3 AV Receiver

            Although some buyers may be turned off by turned off by this Class-D amplifier, the Pioneer Elite SC-77 is an excellent showcase of how far the technology has come. With both THX Ultra2 Plus and AIR Studios Monitor Certification, there is no doubt the performance and quality is there. A well-rounded package of features make this receiver an excellent overall choice. Read Full Review

            See it at:
              spacer
              Add to MyBests

              Onkyo TX-NR5010 9.2-Channel THX Certified Network A/V Receiver

              This well-rounded receiver offers a compelling blend of features, quality, and performance. Although the Onkyo TX-NR5010 is not cheap, it offers a tremendous amount of value for the price. Read Full Review

              See it at:
                spacer
                Add to MyBests

                Anthem MRX 710 7-channel 120 Watt A/V receiver

                The Anthem MRX 710 will not be the right choice for you if modern features like WiFi are of paramount importance. Anthem has chosen to focus on making the MRX 710 do its primary functions extremely well, resulting in a receiver producing what is likely some of the best audio performance available. Read Full Review

                spacer
                Add to MyBests

                Marantz SR7008 9.2-Channel 1080P and 4K Ultra HD Home Theater Receiver

                Marantz once again showcases their ability to balance performance and features at an easy-to-swallow price with the SR7008. Although this receiver isn't cheap, it delivers reference-quality performance and an excellent list of features that make the price tag around $2000 seem like a downright bargain. Read Full Review

                See it at:
                  spacer
                  Add to MyBests

                  Denon IN-Command AVR-4520CI 3D A/V 9.2 Channel Receiver

                  The outstanding performance of the AVR-4520CI is further enhanced by its numerous features and excellent connectivity, which both make this receiver an easy fit for even more substantial home theater setups. It doesn’t offer built-in WiFi so if your network necessitates WiFi for connectivity, the Denon AVR-4520CI might not be your best choice. Read Full Review

                  See it at:
                    spacer
                    Compare All Items Side-by-Side

                    Best Budget AV Receiver:

                    These best entry-level, budget AV receivers perform extremely well for their price, and pack impressive features often found on higher-priced competitors. Sacrifices are usually seen the most in terms of connectivity, with more affordable models lacking the versatility that comes from multiple in/outputs. However, our selections all offer enough basic connectivity to function well for a typical living room home theater arrangement. While these picks will likely not offer enough features or connectivity for audio and videophiles, most typical consumers should be more than satisfied with the mix of features offered by the receivers below.
                    Add to MyBests

                    Sony STR-DN850 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver

                    Although around $500 might seem a bit steep for a "budget-friendly" model, Sony's STR-DN850 will be worth the extra money for many. This is thanks to its ability to deliver a compelling combination of features and performance, creating a receiver that is both easy and satisfying to use. Read Full Review

                    See it at:
                      spacer
                      Add to MyBests

                      Onkyo TX-NR535 5.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver

                      Proving affordability doesn't have to mean being behind on technology, the Onkyo TX-NR535 includes HDMI 2.0 inputs, just like many more expensive new receivers this year. At around $400, this receiver is excellent value, offering a 5.2-channel configuration and solid wireless connectivity. Read Full Review

                      See it at:
                        spacer
                        Add to MyBests

                        Denon AVR-S700W 7.2-Channel Network Receiver

                        The Denon AVR-S700W is perhaps pushing the definition of "budget-friendly" a bit but its excellent performance paired with features and ease-of-use makes it an outstanding overall value. Denon has beefed up the included features when compared to previous models, now including built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay support. This should be a top pick for those seeking a feature-rich 7.2-channel receiver that won't break the bank. Read Full Review

                        See it at:
                          spacer
                          Add to MyBests

                          Sony STR-DH550 5.2 Channel 725 Watt 4K AV Receiver

                          This stout 5.2-channel receiver makes up for what it lacks in connectivity with plenty of performance and a sub-$300 price tag. If you're looking for honest performance without the added cost of an endless list of features, the Sony STR-DH550 is a solid choice. Read Full Review

                          See it at:
                            spacer
                            Add to MyBests

                            Pioneer VSX-824 5.2-Channel Network Receiver

                            For those seeking superb performance at a reasonable price, the Pioneer VSX-824-K should be at the top of the list. This 5.2-channel receiver offers six HDMI 2.0 inputs, lots of power, and plenty of wireless connectivity and features that more than justify its price. Read Full Review

                            See it at:
                              spacer
                              Compare All Items Side-by-Side

                              Best 5.1 Receiver:

                              Most receivers that were previously a 5.1-channel configuration,  have now been updated to 5.2 channels providing the ability to add a second subwoofer thus expanding options for bass output. While 5-channel receivers tend to be more affordable (but with less included features), it’s important to ensure any model you're considering has enough connectivity options to meet your needs. Overall, AV receivers in this category offer a good way to pick up a receiver without more channels than you need while delivering excellent sound output, a decent amount of extra features and connectivity, as well as being relatively budget-friendly.
                              Add to MyBests

                              Onkyo TX-NR535 5.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver

                              The network-capable TX-NR535 is Onkyo's top-spec five channel receiver. The 5.2-channel configuration means the ability to add a second subwoofer while plentiful features and the addition of HDMI 2.0 make this receiver an extremely well-rounded option for the price. Read Full Review

                              See it at:
                                spacer
                                Add to MyBests

                                Sony STR-DH550 5.2 Channel 725 Watt 4K AV Receiver

                                With an asking price of under $300, the Sony STR-DH550 is an affordable way to get a solid 5-channel receiver. Although connectivity is not this receiver's strong point, it should be adequate to meet the needs of most living room setups, while offering plenty of performance. Read Full Review

                                See it at:
                                  spacer
                                  Add to MyBests
                                  gipoco.com is neither affiliated with the authors of this page nor responsible for its contents. This is a safe-cache copy of the original web site.