To the untrained eye, an AV receiver may just look like a big black box that a bunch of TV and speaker wires run in and out of. Far more than a junction box for your go-to components like streaming devices, Blu-ray players, projectors, network music streamers, turntables, and more, an AV receiver is the beating heart of a home theater system. You’ll be hard-pressed to wire up any bookshelf speakers, floor-standing speakers, or subwoofers without one of these bad boys!
Shopping for an AV receiver can be quite the task. Not only do brands like Marantz have brand-new models to choose from, but you’ll usually be able to find older models for discounted prices, too. You also want to make sure your new receiver is compatible with all of your existing hardware, while future-proofing it against any AV tech you may grab down the line. To help everyone out, we’ve gone ahead and rounded up some of the best AV receivers you can buy.
Best overall AV receiver
Denon AVR-S770H
- Dedicated phono preamp
- Six HDMI 2.1 inputs and 8K/60Hz eARC output
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Hi-res playback up to 24-bit/192kHz
- No dedicated inputs for Zone 2
- Not as powerful as higher-priced receivers
Analog components are experiencing a big resurgence. If you’re the proud owner of a record player, but you also have a ton of digital components to wire up, the Denon AVR-S770H is a positively-reviewed AVR that checks a ton of boxes, with one of the most important being its sub-$1,000 price. With a 7.2 or 5.2.2 surround sound set up that pushes a substantial 75 watts-per-channel, the S770H includes a dedicated phono preamp for connecting a turntable. That’s on top of six HDMI 2.1 inputs, an eARC output (up to 8K/60Hz), Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, along with Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility.
When it comes to HDR and surround decoding, the S770H is one of the best options in its price range. Supported formats include Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, as well as HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision HDR. While Wi-Fi isn’t required, connecting the S770H to the internet will also give you access to several music streaming services, including Spotify, Tidal, Pandora, and SiriusXM. You’ll also be able to download the Denon HEOS app (for iOS and Android) to curate music, adjust receiver settings, and more.
If you’d like to add speakers to a second room of your home, the S770H can also be used as a dual-zone receiver. If you’re buying a receiver for Atmos or DTS:X, do keep in mind that the S770H uses either the Surround Back or height channels to power Zone 2. This means you won’t be able to run a full 7.1 configuration in Zone 1 (so no Atmos).
Last but not least, the S770H also supports hi-res music playback up to 24-bit/192kHz. While a higher-priced AV receiver will deliver even more ports and power, the Denon AVR-S770H offers a great combination of digital and analog connections for under $700.
Best high-end AV receiver
Marantz Cinema 30
- Up to 140 watts per channel of crisp, clear audio
- Supports larger Atmos and DTS:X configurations
- HDMI 2.1 across all seven inputs
- Excellent gaming optimizations
- Numerous music streaming options
- Very expensive
- Probably overkill for most homes
When one seeks a flagship AV receiver, one of the best brands to start with is Marantz, a tried-and-true staple of the AV world. And if you’ve never heard of the Marantz Cinema Series before, you will today, as there are two models on our list: the Cinema 70s below and the mighty Marantz Cinema 30, an 11.4 system that delivers up to 140 watts-per-channel and is tailor-made to enrich the biggest and loudest Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D surround configurations.
You’ll have your choice of seven HDMI 2.1 inputs and three outputs. All inputs support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz (as do two of the outputs), and all HDMI ports support 4K/60Hz. If you’re all about watching movies and shows (and playing video games) with the absolute best picture quality, you’ll be as pleased as we were to learn that the Cinema 30 supports all leading HDR formats, on top of VRR, ALLM, and QFT for lag-free gaming.
When setting up the receiver, the Marantz MultEQ XT32 setup and calibration tool fine-tunes your audio so your speakers will consistently deliver the best sound for the listening space they’re placed in. Once you’re connected to Wi-Fi, you’ll be able to stream music through services like Tidal, SiriusXM, Spotify, Pandora, and other web-connected services. There’s also a Bluetooth input, plus a USB connection that supports hi-res playback at 24-bit/192kHz (PCM).
This is also an excellent receiver for Zone 2 and Zone 3 expansions down the line or if you already have speakers in different rooms in your home. Both zones feature dedicated stereo outputs for hooking up additional AV components.
The best budget AV receiver
Sony STR-DH590
- Affordable without giving up important features
- Pure Direct audio enhancement mode
- HDR support
- 4K support
- Limited number of HDMI ports
When it comes to AV receivers, reducing your budget invariably means reducing the number of features. The key is to preserve as many of the features that most people value. The Sony STR-DH590 manages to do this in a stellar fashion by supporting all of the latest audio and video formats, including 4K and HDR (HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision). It also comes with its own acoustic calibration circuitry, which takes the guesswork out of setting up your speakers to the right levels.
For utmost audio fidelity, the DH590 is equipped with Sony's Pure Direct mode for the cleanest sound the receiver has to offer. It does so by disabling the DH590's front display panel, eliminating unnecessary component noise from escaping into the mix of whatever content you're consuming. Keep in mind that engaging Pure Direct also bypasses several of the receiver's internal equalizers. It's a great feature for listening to music through analog sources, but if you're a fan of big cinema sound, it's probably something we'd leave alone when watching a movie.
Although the DH590 has Bluetooth for direct music streaming from a compatible smartphone or tablet, the receiver isn't internet-connected, so you won't be able to stream music without a Bluetooth device. That being said, Sony's high-res audio support kicks in when you're beaming tunes to the receiver, which adds a little more belly and top-end to your sound.
In terms of main source connections, the Sony STR-DH590 only has four HDMI inputs. While you won't be powering any rock concerts, it's more than enough receiver for a very satisfying home theater experience.
Best mid-range AV receiver
JBL MA9100HP
- A 9.2 system that delivers 140 watts per channel
- Cool-looking design with two color options
- Great gaming optimizations
- EZ Set EQ mobile app for simple setup
- Has a moving magnet phono input
- Only three HDMI 2.1 ports
JBL may best be known for its iconic hi-fi speakers, headphones, and Bluetooth speakers, but the company also makes integrated amplifiers and, yes, AV receivers. This year, JBL made a splash unveiling its new lineup of affordable amps that it's dubbed MA (Modern Audio are aimed at the user that's perhaps ready to graduate from a more basic AV system like a soundbar in favor of much more dynamic and premium component sound without the associated price.
The flagship of the MA line (which starts at $400) is the $1,600 JBL MA9100HP. The 9.2-channel amplifier delivers a huge 140 watts per channel and supports leading audio codecs like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, giving you the keys to a kingdom of unbound home theater possibilities. Oh, and all nine of those speaker terminals are powered by low-noise Class D amplifiers, ensuring you get the best in distortion-free audio. And while we have yet to perform a full review of the MA9100HP, we were at the Los Angeles launch of the lineup and spent more than enough time listening to it at Harman's Northridge, California headquarters, so we can vouch for its big, clear sound in a variety of configurations, including two-channel music and full-on surround in Harman's on-site theater rooms. Paired with MA's accompanying Stage 2 speakers, the MA9100HP system just pumps, with excellent sound separation and immersive surround form its up-firing height speakers.
Speaking of immersive sound, with Atmos and DTS:X setups, the MA9100HP lets you choose from three configurations: 9.1, 7.1.2, and 5.1.4. As far as AV connections go, the MA9100P supports HDMI 2.1 across all three inputs, with 8K/60Hz passthrough or 4K/120Hz. Gaming fanatics will also be pleased to learn that the receiver supports variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM), ensuring you’ll get low input lag and fast response times for PlayStation and Xbox titles.
There’s even a moving magnet phono input if you’re up to connecting a record player. Listening to music with the MA9100HP is easy, thanks to native integrations for AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast, and Bluetooth aptX Adaptive. With the latter format, you’ll be able to listen to hi-res tracks at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Oh, and the icing on the cake is JBL’s phenomenal EZ Set EQ, which automatically calibrates audio to best match your listening environment.
Best receiver for format support
Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A
- Excellent format and file support
- Vibration dampening
- Seven HDMI ports, including support for HDMI 2.1
- 5.1 wireless surround sound support
- A bit more focused on audio than video
The 7.2-channel Aventage RX-A2A is more than capable as a powerhouse video system. Naturally, it has support for all of the latest AV technologies: 4K, HDR (HDR10, HLG, HDR10+, etc.), Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and HDCP 2.3. It's also ready for HDMI-eARC and is compatible with hi-res audio files up to 32-bit/192 kHz.
HDMI 2.1 is also supported if you like to stay on the cutting edge of AV support for your entertainment system, and future updates will add support for things like 8K and the latest formats. Inside, you'll find features like a high slew rate amplifier for more accurate audio response and low distortion, as well as advanced modes for movie optimization. Outside, the design includes an A.R.T. (Anti-Resonance Technology) wedge to help dampen nearby vibration and improve audio quality further. MusicCast features wireless 5.1 surround sound support also help if you like to play music on the system as well.
Don't worry about a lack of connections, either. The Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A includes seven HDMI input options to handle any devices you may want to set up. There's even compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant when you can't find the remote.
Best compact AV receiver
Marantz Cinema 70s
- Slim design
- Excellent HDR and surround codec support
- Six HDMI 2.1 inputs and 8K/60Hz eARC output
- Not as powerful as other models
- Pricey
Another member of the Cinema Series has joined the party. Enter the Marantz Cinema 70s, one of the company’s famous slimline models that delivers a fantastic AV experience using half the chassis. This 7.2-channel AV receiver brings 50 watts per channel to the table, along with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for 5.1.2 configurations.
Over on the AV end of things, the Cinema 70s delivers 8K/60Hz across three of its six HDMI ports, plus an 8K output. You’ll also get 4K/120Hz across all inputs. Movies, shows, and video games encoded in HDR are a treat to watch and play through the Cinema 70s, as it supports all class-leading HDR formats, including HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. Expect a bright picture with bold colors. Gamers will also love the fact that VRR, ALLM, and QFT technology is standard on all HDMI ports.
As for music, once connected to Wi-Fi, you’ll be able to stream wirelessly via Marantz’ HEOS platform, which gives you access to services like Spotify, Tidal, and SiriusXM, plus a number of free internet radio stations. You can even play music from a PC connected to the same network.
And much like the flagship Cinema 30 we mentioned earlier, the Cinema 70s includes an MM phono input for wiring up a record player. What you won’t get on this model is a Zone 3 for additional speakers and amplifiers, though it does feature a Zone 2. Do keep in mind that if you decide to use the second zone for more speakers, you’ll be borrowing against the amplification in the main zone, which means you won’t be able to connect a full surround system.
Another solid budget AV receiver
Onkyo TX-NR5100
- Great support for current standards and voice assistants
- Gamer-friendly optimization
- Good features for mid-range price
- No 8K support
- Wattage is low compared to high-end picks
Those who want support for the latest features and standards while still staying at mid-range prices will find a lot to love about this Onkyo model, which is also a great pick for gamers or those looking for an upgrade to their movie experience.
This seven-channel receiver offers 80 watts per channel into 8 ohms at 0.08% THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) with two channels driven. Connections include four HDMI 2.1 ports in and two out (with HDCP 2.3 support), optical, coaxial, stereo RCA ports, USB ports, and dual subwoofer RCA ports, plus a headphone jack when gaming sessions need to stay quiet.
When we dig into more supported standards, this Onkyo model gets even more impressive: It's compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X processing, Sonos Port, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Chromecast, Alexa, and Google Assistant. There's built-in Wi-Fi and compatibility with ARC/eARC, too. HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) are also all supported, making this receiver very well-rounded for all kinds of optimization.
Like some of our other picks, the Onkyo TX-NR5100 also has a few features dedicated to gamers, including Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT), which can help improve frame rate performance and cut down on issues relating to lag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most receivers do very well for movies as well as music, with performance scaling up in tandem as you move into premium models. However, music can be more revealing of sound quality and character than movie soundtracks, and those who value music listening may find one brand more sonically satisfying than another.
Additionally, if music is is your main focus, you may want to consider just getting a stereo receiver or integrated amplifier instead.
All of the models we highlight support 4K and most also support HDR formats as well. These days, only particularly old receivers will lack 4K support.
While 8K is available in some form or another today, the technology is still new and rarely seen outside of some specialized broadcasts. However, as it becomes more common, we are seeing 8K support show up in more places, including several of our top receiver picks. Consider it a future-proofing option as 8K continues to appear more frequently.
As long as it has a phono input, yes. If not, you’ll need a phono preamp to boost the usually-low signal from the turntable. Preamps can be quite affordable for entry-level models.
It’s helpful to think about this in terms of inputs and outputs. What devices do you want to input audio and video, and what components do you want that audio and video delivered to? The second question is answered automatically with an AV receiver: You’ll be outputting audio to speakers (which often come with many receiver packages) and video to a TV or similar display.
For inputs, that largely depends on what you have and what you want. You can connect consoles, Blu-ray players, laptops or PCs, set-top boxes, and a variety of other devices to a receiver. You will want to pay close attention to the ports on your devices and make sure your receiver supports the most effective way to receive AV data, such as eARC. There’s a lot more to discuss about the different types of setups an AV receiver can support, but this will help you get started.
Simply put, a receiver component can receive and process an audio signal, while an amplifier component optimizes the audio signal and sends it on to the speakers. AV receivers include both, so that’s not something you generally need to worry about. Some types of speakers do have their own amplifiers included but will need a receiver device to work.
That’s a complicated question, depending on a myriad of factors like format support, connection standards, hardware components, processing technology, and a lot more.
For some time, the rate at which features were being added made buying any AV receiver a risky proposition if you didn’t want to be stuck with something that quickly went out of date. With 4K, HDR, HDMI, and HDCP seemingly having everything worked out for the 4K era, it’s much safer to buy a receiver now without worrying that you’ll quickly see the future pass you by. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X seem entrenched as the two major leaders in object-based surround sound
If you really want to dive in, one of the best places to start is our guide to everything you should know when buying an AV receiver.
It can be, especially if you like gaming with surround sound for immersion. Look for support for all the latest standards before you buy, including Dolby Atmos, one of the newer HDMI standards like 2.0 or 2.1, and HDR compatibility. There are also features, like on our Denon AVR-X4700H pick, that add more benefits for gamers, like Variable Refresh Rate support and Auto Low Latency Mode. An AV receiver isn’t required for gaming, but it’s an important addition if you want true surround sound.
It's not the best habit, but it won't do much harm. Today's AV receivers are built to go into standby modes and use as little power as possible.
Ventilation is important to keep the receiver from overheating. For example, Denon recommends that you give its receivers at least five inches of space on the top and two inches on the sides. If the amp inside overheats, it may automatically shut off to protect itself.
Since receivers can last a long time, it's a good idea to get as many channels as you can so you have the option to upgrade to more surround sound in the future. We recommend at least a 7.1-channel system, even if you don't currently use that many speakers.
Glossary
4K: Higher resolution than HD (3840 X 2160). The latest standard for TVs and AV receiver models, although some are even going up to 8K these days.
Dolby Atmos: One of the two most popular object-based surround formats, Atmos adds height information so sound can seem to come from above and all around you.
DSD: Direct-Stream Digital. A hi-res audio file format alternative to .WAV, .AIFF, and others that aims to reduce distortion.
DTS:X: The other most popular object-based audio format, DTS:X can be more flexible than Dolby Atmos when it comes to where speakers are placed and how many of them there are.
HDCP 2.2: A form of copy protection, this version is required in order to play 4K content.
HDMI 2.1a: While it isn’t the newest version of HDMI, this version is the first that allows HDR signals and 4K content at up to 60 frames per second.
HDMI 2.1: HDMI 2.1 supports higher frame rates and up to 8K resolution, among other improvements, and is the latest standard for AV connections.
HDMI eARC: eARC — or "enhanced audio return channel" — is an upgrade to the standard HDMI ARC interface. The tech was designed to allow one-cable transmission of audio and information to and from the TV to simplify home theater setups, but the eARC upgrade also adds full support for hi-res surround sound formats.
HDR: High Dynamic Range, offers better contrast and more color volume than standard dynamic range. Considered by some a bigger visual improvement than 4K resolution. Even if you want a stereo receiver, HDR is still an important perk for your image quality.
VRR: Variable Refresh Rate. This technology can adjust the refresh rate of a display so it matches the output of a gaming console like an Xbox or PlayStation. If you have a newer console in your home theater, VRR on both your TV and receiver will help eliminate tearing and other problems.
THD: Total Harmonic Distortion. This measurement is typically expressed as a percentage, such as 0.008%. It shows how much harmonic distortion is created by devices like receivers. Lower THD is better for audio accuracy, and high-quality receivers will have low THD numbers.
Denon HEOS: Denon Home Entertainment Operating System. This was originally a wireless standard offered by Denon to support wireless audio connections between speakers in different rooms. It has developed into a platform now known as “Denon Home” but HEOS devices are still compatible with it and Denon Home still works with the HEOS app.
HLG: Hybrid Log Gamma. This is a signal used by some broadcasters to enable HDR optimization more efficiently. It combines HDR and SDR coding into a signal that can be sent to any TV without worrying as much about compatibility.
QFT: Quick Frame Transport. This technology increases the frame rate to help cut down on display latency, or those small delays between visual data being generated in a device and actually being displayed on your TV. It’s another technology that gamers will appreciate in a TV and accompanying receiver.
ALLM: Auto Low Latency Mode. This mode detects when you are using a connected gaming device, and switches to a separate game mode to help optimize visual data and cut down on latency.
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