Best AV receivers 2024: the top home cinema amplifiers weve tested What Hi-Fi? From Dolby Atmos to HDMI 2.1 get the surround sound system you deserve with our list of the top AV amplifiers weve tried and tested.

From Dolby Atmos to HDMI 2.1, get the surround sound system you deserve with our list of the top AV amplifiers we’ve tried and tested. By Lewis Empson last updated 11 September 2024

The very best home cinema surround sound

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Best overall

1. Sony TA-AN1000£899 at Amazon£899 at Sevenoaks£999 at Peter TysonThe best AV receiver overall

If you’re looking for an amp that’ll elevate every single movie experience and improve all your music, look no further than the Sony TA-AN1000.

Read more below

Best budget

2. Denon AVR-X2800H£529 at AV.com£599 at Amazon£869 at Peter TysonThe best budget AV receiver

Denon’s AVR-X2800H has one of the best feature sets of any AVR at this price point, with performance to match.

Read more below

Best mid-range

3. Arcam AVR5£1,499 at AV.com£1,899 at Electricshop£1,999 at Peter TysonThe best mid-range AV receiver

The Arcam AVR5 is a great step up for those looking to get serious about home cinema sound without blowing the budget

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Best premium

4. Denon AVC-X6800H£2,649.97 at Electricshop£2,799 at Sevenoaks£2,999 at Peter TysonThe best premium AV receiver

The Denon AVC-X6800H is a worthy step up model for those who value sonic superiority and a no-compromise feature set.

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Best high-end

5. Marantz Cinema 30 £3,999 at Peter Tyson£3,999 at Sevenoaks£3,999 at ElectricshopThe best high-end AV receiver

Marantz’s stylish AV amplifier is a feature-rich and excellent-sounding option for those with cash to spare.

Read more below

Recent updates11th September 2024: No new models this time, though we’ll soon find out if the new JBL MA series will be worthy of this list.

Lewis EmpsonStaff writerI’m both a staff writer here at What Hi-Fi? and a home cinema enthusiast, so AVRs are a natural area of interest for me. I’ve tested a host of different models from different companies, with everything from super premium models with more features than I can count on both hands, as well as entry level models that cover the basics while still delivering cinematic sound. There are a number of factors to consider when purchasing an AVR, and you’ll want one that compliments your speaker system – primarily you’ll want to match the number of amplification channels with your system. Other factors to consider are wireless streaming credentials and HDMI 2.1 connectivity, which will be important to console gamers on the latest generation hardware.

• 22 of the best Dolby Atmos movie scenes to test your home cinema sound
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Best overall AV receiver

Image 1 of 5(Image credit: Sony)(Image credit: Sony)(Image credit: Sony)(Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)(Image credit: Sony)

1. Sony TA-AN1000

Sony’s new home cinema amplifier is worth the waitOur expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Specifications

Channels: 7.1Audio formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, Sony 360 Reality AudioConnectivity: 2 x HDMI out (1 x eARC), 6 x HDMI in, optical, USB, wi-fi, ethernet, BluetoothStreaming: AirPlay 2, Spotify, Chromecast Built In, Works with Sonos, BluetoothDimensions: 16 x 43 x 33 cm (13" x 17" x 8")Weight: 10kg (22lbs)Today’s Best Deals£899 at Amazon£899 at Sevenoaks£999 at Peter Tyson

Reasons to buy

+Spacious presentation+Precise and detailed sound+Impressive dynamics

Reasons to avoid

-Some rivals are better equipped-Set up is more involved than someChannels: 7.1Audio formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, Sony 360 Reality AudioConnectivity: 2 x HDMI out (1 x eARC), 6 x HDMI in, optical, USB, wi-fi, ethernet, BluetoothStreaming: AirPlay 2, Spotify, Chromecast Built In, Works with Sonos, BluetoothDimensions: 16 x 43 x 33 cm (13" x 17" x 8")Weight: 10kg (22lbs)+Spacious presentation+Precise and detailed sound+Impressive dynamics-Some rivals are better equipped-Set up is more involved than someSony is finally back in the AV amp game with the TA-AN1000 home cinema amplifier. It’s been over five years since the Japanese tech giant graced us with its serial Award-winning STR-DN1080 AV receiver which took home Product of the Year in 2017 and 2018 (the year in which it also entered into our Hall of Fame), and it held a firm place on our Awards lists until 2020.

So surely a new AV amp from Sony is a cause for celebration? While this certainly is the case with the new TA-AN1000, we first find ourselves confronted with some awkward questions. Although it looks almost identical to the DN1080, why is it double the price?

Also, why does the US have an extensive AVR range consisting of five new models while the UK only gets this one model after we’ve waited so patiently for nearly six years? Finally, does the AN1000 live up to its lauded predecessor? While we can’t answer the first two questions, we can shed light on the third, and thankfully it’s good news.

Sony has caught lightning in a bottle once again, with the TA-AN1000 sparking the same magic as STR-DN1080 but at a higher price point. Its crisp, precise and punchy sound strikes a nearly perfect balance, and it elevates every movie and song we throw at it. This amplifier ticks all our boxes, with a sleek design, good feature set and outstanding performance, making it so easy to recommend. If you’re looking at buying an amp at this level, then the Sony TA-AN1000 is a no-brainer.

Read the full review: Sony TA-AN1000

Best budget AV receiver

Image 1 of 5The Denon AVR-X2800H is an affordable amp with excellent connectivity.(Image credit: Denon)(Image credit: Denon)(Image credit: Denon)(Image credit: Denon)(Image credit: Denon)

2. Denon AVR-X2800H

Denon’s entry-level model with new specs and a spacious new sound Our expert review:

Average Amazon review:☆☆☆☆☆

Specifications

Channels: 7.1Audio formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:XVideo support: 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDR (HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG)Connectivity: 2 x HDMI out (1 x eARC), 6 x HDMI in, optical, USB, wi-fi, ethernet, BluetoothStreaming: AirPlay 2, HEOS, Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Bluetooth, Roon TestedDimensions: 17 x 43 x 34 cm (9.3" x 13" x 17")Weight: 10kg (21lbs)Today’s Best Deals£529 at AV.com£599 at Amazon£869 at Peter Tyson

Reasons to buy

+Excellent connectivity+Authoritative but spacious sound+User-friendly full-screen interface

Reasons to avoid

-Appearance needs a refresh-Some might crave more bass weight-More expensive than previous modelChannels: 7.1Audio formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:XVideo support: 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDR (HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG)Connectivity: 2 x HDMI out (1 x eARC), 6 x HDMI in, optical, USB, wi-fi, ethernet, BluetoothStreaming: AirPlay 2, HEOS, Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Bluetooth, Roon TestedDimensions: 17 x 43 x 34 cm (9.3" x 13" x 17")Weight: 10kg (21lbs)+Excellent connectivity+Authoritative but spacious sound+User-friendly full-screen interface-Appearance needs a refresh-Some might crave more bass weight-More expensive than previous modelThe winner of the entry-level AVR price category in the 2022 What Hi-Fi? awards, the AVR-X2800H is one of the most affordable models in Denon’s premium X range, sporting seven channels of amplification and 7.1ch of processing. It can be configured to drive a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos or DTS:X system. But those without vertical channels can take advantage of its onboard DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization technologies.

Despite being an entry-level amp, the HDMI board on the AVR-X2800H has been upgraded from its predecessor to include three HDMI 2.1 ports capable of 8K@60Hz or 4K@120Hz video pass-through at up to 40Gbps. The three remaining HDMI 2.0 ports have a bandwidth of 18Gbps, but all inputs boast 4:4:4 chroma sub-sampling and compatibility with various HDR codecs, including HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG).

Gamers are well looked after, with VRR, QFT, ALLM and FRL (Frame Rate Link) on board for a smoother playing experience. Elsewhere there’s also 8K upscaling offered on all inputs and eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) to supply uncompressed audio via a single HDMI cable.

Released in 2022, the AVR-X2800H has had a sonic retune and offers users a more responsive, coherent and spacious sound than some of the brand’s older models. It retains Denon’s signature authoritative weight but refines and balances it with a bolder top end that can do better justice to both music and movies. Its onboard room calibration software and modernised full-screen interface make it relatively easy to use and well-equipped.

While the Denon AVR-X2800H is an excellent choice, especially at its more reasonable price point compared to other entries on this list, it’s worth pointing out that the performance gains offered by the Sony TA-AN1000 are worth forking out that little bit extra for if you can afford it.

Read the full review: Denon AVR-X2800H

Best mid-range AV receiver

Image 1 of 6(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)

3. Arcam AVR5

Arcam’s entry-level AVR prioritises sound over featuresOur expert review:

Specifications

HDMI inputs: 7HDMI outputs: 2 (including eARC)HDMI 2.1: noProcessing: 7.1.4 channelsAmplification: 7 channels @ 60 WattsPower: 86W (per channel) with two channels drivenHDR formats: HDR10, HLG, Dolby VisionAudio formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Digital, DD+, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Surround, Dolby Virtual Height, DTS Neural:X, DTS Virtual:XConnectivity: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2, ChromecastToday’s Best Deals£1,499 at AV.com£1,899 at Electricshop£1,999 at Peter Tyson

Reasons to buy

+Agile and rhythmic+Full, clear delivery+Dynamically authoritative

Reasons to avoid

-Lacks inbuilt calibration-HDMI 2.1 costs extra-Only seven channels of amplificationHDMI inputs: 7HDMI outputs: 2 (including eARC)HDMI 2.1: noProcessing: 7.1.4 channelsAmplification: 7 channels @ 60 WattsPower: 86W (per channel) with two channels drivenHDR formats: HDR10, HLG, Dolby VisionAudio formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Digital, DD+, Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Surround, Dolby Virtual Height, DTS Neural:X, DTS Virtual:XConnectivity: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2, Chromecast+Agile and rhythmic+Full, clear delivery+Dynamically authoritative-Lacks inbuilt calibration-HDMI 2.1 costs extra-Only seven channels of amplificationArcam’s entry-level AVR takes the best mid-range spot on our list, and while that may sound like a contradictory statement, it makes perfect sense in the context of the wider market. It’s a step up in terms of price compared to the Sony and Denon offerings that proceed it on this list, but it’s also a step up where sound is concerned.

The AVR5 lacks a few features – namely HDMI 2.1 (sorry gamers) and a built-in calibration system – but it’s got the basics nailed down. The 7 HDMI inputs support 4K 60Hz passthrough signals with HDR10, Dolby Vision and HLG support on top (HDR10+ is unfortunately absent).

It features seven channels of amplification which supports up to a 5.1.2 or 7.1 system, although the AVR5 can natively decode up to 12 channels of Dolby Atmos audio. If your system is any larger you’ll need to pair this AVR with the Arcam PA410 power amplifier, which comes at an extra cost.

Those shortcomings can be overlooked though, as this Arcam excels when it comes to delivering a sensational movie and music sound performance. This makes the AVR5 an ideal step up for those who want a more nuanced and refined amplifier, or those who value authenticity when it comes to cinematic sound. Its agility and pinpoint accuracy make for an engaging performance which means the Arcam outperforms AVRs that well exceed it in the price department.

Read the full review: Arcam AVR5

Best premium AV receiver

Image 1 of 5(Image credit: Denon)(Image credit: Denon)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)(Image credit: Future)

4. Denon AVC-X6800H

Denon delivers yet another feature-rich and powerful-sounding flagship AVROur expert review:

Specifications

HDMI inputs: x 7HDMI outputs: x 3ARC/eARC: eARCHDMI 2.1 features: 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz, VRR, ALLM, QMS on all rear HDMI inputsAmplification: 11 channelsHDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby VisionAudio formats: Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X, Neural:X, Auro-3DStreaming: HEOS, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Amazon Music HD, Tidal, TuneIn, Roon Tested, BluetoothVoice assistant: Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, SiriToday’s Best Deals£2,649.97 at Electricshop£2,799 at Sevenoaks£2,999 at Peter Tyson

Reasons to buy

+Easy going and engaging sound, capable of huge scale+Fully featured+Intuitive set-up and operation

Reasons to avoid

-Some rivals offer a more direct presentationHDMI inputs: x 7HDMI outputs: x 3ARC/eARC: eARCHDMI 2.1 features: 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz, VRR, ALLM, QMS on all rear HDMI inputsAmplification: 11 channelsHDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby VisionAudio formats: Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X, Neural:X, Auro-3DStreaming: HEOS, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Amazon Music HD, Tidal, TuneIn, Roon Tested, BluetoothVoice assistant: Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri+Easy going and engaging sound, capable of huge scale+Fully featured+Intuitive set-up and operation-Some rivals offer a more direct presentationDenon has spent an uncharacteristically long time away from our AV testing room, as we’d become accustomed to new launches annually from the esteemed home cinema and hi-fi brand. Thankfully, it made a sensational comeback with the AVC-X6800H this year, which has earned it a second spot on this list.

Outshining an Award-winning AVR is no easy task, and yet Denon has improved upon the AVC-X6700H in every area that counts; that’s to say it’s an upgrade in both the features and sound department.

Starting with features, Denon has upgraded from one HDMI 2.1 socket on the previous model to a full suite of seven on this latest iteration. This comes with all the expected benefits – 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM – as well as lesser-seen features such as Quick Media Switching.

Alongside this is a comprehensive set of streaming features, including Denon’s own HEOS system, Spotify Connect and Amazon Music HD. Furthermore, Denon has introduced a new high definition on-screen user interface, which makes setting up and operating the Denon a dream.

The AVC-X6800H features 11 channels of amplification, with processing for up to 13. That means you can connect a full 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos surround sound system to this AV amplifier without the need for an external power amplifier. This makes it a convenient one box solution for clutter-conscious AV enthusiasts.

Onto the most important factor – sound quality – and the good news is that the Denon is equally talented. It delivers a rich, full-bodied sound with plenty of dynamic punch, while also remaining controlled and well-balanced. Surround effects also travel cohesively between the channels with a convincing spatial effect and no noticeable gaps, while the Dolby Atmos height channels provide a pleasing overhead audio experience.

While we could make a case for the Denon not producing the most natural or revealing sound – sometimes it rounds off effects in favour of warmth and richness, for example – it does inject a lot of fun into your home cinema viewing experience.

Read the full review: Denon AVC-X6800H

Best high-end AV receiver

Image 1 of 5(Image credit: Marantz)(Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)(Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)(Image credit: What Hi-Fi?)(Image credit: Masimo Consumer Australia)

5. Marantz Cinema 30

Marantz delivers a premium AVR of rare abilityOur expert review:

Specifications

HDMI inputs: x 7HDMI outputs: x 3ARC/eARC: eARCHDMI 2.1 features: 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz, VRR, ALLM, QMS on all rear HDMI inputs and two outputsAmplification: 11 channelsPower: 140W per channelProcessing: 13 channelsHDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby VisionAudio formats: Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X, Neural:X, Auro-3DStreaming: HEOS, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Amazon Music HD, Tidal, TuneIn, Roon Tested, BluetoothVoice assistant: Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, SiriToday’s Best Deals£3,999 at Peter Tyson£3,999 at Sevenoaks£3,999 at Electricshop

Reasons to buy

+Smooth, refined and always in control+Huge scale, punch and spatial precision+Plenty of HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs

Reasons to avoid

-40Gbps HDMI limit might be a small issue in the futureHDMI inputs: x 7HDMI outputs: x 3ARC/eARC: eARCHDMI 2.1 features: 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz, VRR, ALLM, QMS on all rear HDMI inputs and two outputsAmplification: 11 channelsPower: 140W per channelProcessing: 13 channelsHDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby VisionAudio formats: Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X, Neural:X, Auro-3DStreaming: HEOS, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Amazon Music HD, Tidal, TuneIn, Roon Tested, BluetoothVoice assistant: Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri+Smooth, refined and always in control+Huge scale, punch and spatial precision+Plenty of HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs-40Gbps HDMI limit might be a small issue in the futureMarantz hits a home cinema hat trick with the Cinema 30, earning full marks in the sound, build and feature departments. Much like its sister brand, Denon, it’s been a long time since we reviewed a Marantz home cinema receiver, so we were pleased to see a new model grace our home cinema testing room; it helps that it’s also an exceptional AVR.

Much like the above Denon, this AVR outshines a previous Award winner, with a shared agreement across the What Hi-Fi? AV team said that we would rather have the Cinema 30 than the AVR31.

Features-wise, the Cinema 30 has seven HDMI 2.1 inputs that support up to 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz signals with VRR, ALLM and QMS supported across the board. It’s worth noting that these ports aren’t the full 48Gbps bandwidth options, but slightly lower 40Gbps sockets, although that’s more of a future-proofing issue than anything. This AVR also supports HDR with both the Dolby Vision and HDR10+ dynamic formats included.

Wireless connectivity is also stellar, with Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Amazon Music HD, Spotify Connect, Tidal and Roon all supported. HEOS, Denon and Marantz’s in-house developed streaming platform, is also included, alongside an on-screen system that guides you through the setup of this amplifier.

The Cinema 30 supports 11 channels of amplification which can be configured in up to a 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos system without the need for an additional power amplifier. Marantz quotes 140W of power per channel, however, that figure relates to two channels driven; not the full 11.

Sound is, of course, the most important and the Marantz delivers here in droves. We commended its smooth, refined and controlled sound that packs a punch when required. It can deliver a seriously large-scale and spacious sound too, without sacrificing precision.

It’s pricey, but if you want a high-performing and feature-rich AV amplifier, then the Marantz Cinema 30 is easily one of the best on the market.

Read the full review: Marantz Cinema 30

Also consider

• Arcam AVR31:Our current Award-winning AVR has been knocked off its podium position by the Marantz, but that still makes it a great option for those looking for a high-end AVR. It produces a clean and balanced sound that is more authentic than the Marantz, but it is harder to set up and at times prioritises authenticity over engagement at times.
• JBL Syntheis SDR-38:This five-star AVR misses out for being considerably more expensive than both the Arcam AVR31 and Marantz Cinema 30. It delivers a wonderfully revealing and detailed sound and its upgraded selection of HDMI 2.1 sockets makes it a tempting choice if your budget allows it.
• Yamaha RX-A6A:This Yamaha brings spacious sound and rhythmic precision to your home cinema, alongside a bountiful feature set including seven HDMI 2.1 inputs. All of the expected HDMI 2.1 features are here too, meaning gamers should feel right at home.
• Pioneer VSA-LX805:The Pioneer VSA-LX805 is an excellent choice for those who want an AVR that can do it all in one convenient package. It has 11 channels of amplification, seven HDMI 2.1 sockets on the rear, and a simple setup procedure. It may lack some sonic subtlety, but it delivers some serious muscle to compensate.

How to choose the best AV receiver for you

AV receivers have many different monikers: AVR, surround sound amp, home theater receiver, Dolby Atmos receiver – but all these names refer to a multichannel amplifier that can decode surround sound information while also acting as a video and streaming hub for AV input sources and output devices.

The home cinema amplifier is essentially the brains and power of any home theater system, and a high-quality model will ensure that your TV shows and films sound emphatic, detailed and dynamic and genuinely give you that immersive experience.

The most crucial thing to consider when buying an AVR is matching it to the size of your surround system and deciding whether to allow for expansion in the future. Plenty of AV receivers now include Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for adding even more sound channels through the addition of height channel speakers. Sometimes, these channels can also be deployed as a second zone.

The number of HDMI inputs you need is another important factor. Most AVRs come with several HDMI inputs that can pass through 4K (and even 8K) and HDR video. Still, it’s worth thinking about whether you’ll benefit from the next-gen gaming specs of HDMI 2.1 or if you’ll be using your home cinema primarily for film and TV, in which case, cheaper HDMI 2.0 ports will suffice.

With so much to consider, setting up an AVR yourself can be daunting, but many companies include a microphone and automatic calibration system that only involves a 15-minute, step-by-step process. Others go even further and can be enhanced by third-party calibration software for more in-depth tweaking. Whether you’re getting your AVR installed by a professional or going it alone, make sure that you’re comfortable with the interface’s user-friendliness.

Modern AVRs have become real home entertainment hubs and can bring a host of features such as Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay, multi-room streaming and DAB to your system, making it truly versatile and multi-functional. But most of all, the best AV receivers deliver brilliant, room-filling sound.

FAQs

How much should I spend on a home theater receiver?

The size of the speaker system you have (or hope to expand to) will typically dictate the price point of the AV receiver that you consider, as brands will tend to decrease the number of channels with each step-down model. More expensive AVRs will have more power and be able to drive more speakers for larger Dolby Atmos and DTS:X set-ups or speakers in additional zones.

There is no hard and fast rule as to how much you should spend on each component in your surround sound system, but you’ll be doing your speakers a disservice if they cost 20 times the amount of your amplifier and vice versa. Usually, we’ll put a few pairing suggestions in our reviews, so that’s as good a place as any to get a broad idea of what will work, but as a rough rule of thumb, you should budget to spend around half as much on your amplifier as the cost of your speaker package.

The size of the speaker system you have (or hope to expand to) will typically dictate the price point of the AV receiver that you consider, as brands will tend to decrease the number of channels with each step-down model. More expensive AVRs will have more power and be able to drive more speakers for larger Dolby Atmos and DTS:X set-ups or speakers in additional zones.

There is no hard and fast rule as to how much you should spend on each component in your surround sound system, but you’ll be doing your speakers a disservice if they cost 20 times the amount of your amplifier and vice versa. Usually, we’ll put a few pairing suggestions in our reviews, so that’s as good a place as any to get a broad idea of what will work, but as a rough rule of thumb, you should budget to spend around half as much on your amplifier as the cost of your speaker package.

How many channels do I need?

Is Dolby Atmos/DTS:X worth it?

Most entry-level AVRs from the past two years offer at least seven channels of amplification which means they can handle a traditional 7.1 configuration compromising full range left, centre, right, side left, side right, rear left and rear right speakers as well as a subwoofer (the .1 represents processing for dedicated active subwoofer). Or, if a receiver supports Dolby Atmos (which most do), those seven channels can be rearranged into a 5.1.2 layout with the rear speakers swapped to be front height channels.

More premium amps can handle power up to 11 channels for 7.1.4 layouts, but if that’s beyond the scope of your current set-up, remember that the number of channels an AVR can process, even with budget models, is usually greater than the number of amplified channels they provide. This means that if down the line you do want to add that extra pair of height speakers, you will have the option of adding a stereo amplifier to your existing system.

We’re big fans of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and if it’s within your budget, we’d certainly say it justifies the extra channels and speakers. However, if you’re limited to 5.1 by space or budget, that’s no bad thing, and there are some great options that can help you achieve a top-quality immersive system.

Is Dolby Atmos/DTS:X worth it?

Most entry-level AVRs from the past two years offer at least seven channels of amplification which means they can handle a traditional 7.1 configuration compromising full range left, centre, right, side left, side right, rear left and rear right speakers as well as a subwoofer (the .1 represents processing for dedicated active subwoofer). Or, if a receiver supports Dolby Atmos (which most do), those seven channels can be rearranged into a 5.1.2 layout with the rear speakers swapped to be front height channels.

More premium amps can handle power up to 11 channels for 7.1.4 layouts, but if that’s beyond the scope of your current set-up, remember that the number of channels an AVR can process, even with budget models, is usually greater than the number of amplified channels they provide. This means that if down the line you do want to add that extra pair of height speakers, you will have the option of adding a stereo amplifier to your existing system.

We’re big fans of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and if it’s within your budget, we’d certainly say it justifies the extra channels and speakers. However, if you’re limited to 5.1 by space or budget, that’s no bad thing, and there are some great options that can help you achieve a top-quality immersive system.

How many HDMI inputs do I need?

Is it worth paying more for HDMI 2.1?

Typically, home theater receivers sport at least seven HDMI inputs, which should cover the majority of a user’s streaming sticks, consoles and Blu-ray players. If not though, more expensive models will sometimes offer one or two more, and if you’d like to hook up both a TV and a projector, make sure that there are at least two HDMI outputs.

HDMI 2.1 is the latest standard for HDMI connectivity, with a bandwidth of up to 48Gbps. It supports gaming features that PCs, PS5 and Xbox Series X consoles can take advantage of, such as 4K@120Hz gameplay, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) , ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) QFT (Quick Frame Transport) and QMS (Quick Media Switching).

While most home cinema receivers from the past two years will have at least one HDMI 2.1 output with eARC, some entry-level models only offer HDMI 2.0 input ports. But, unless you are a gamer, for most people, HDMI 2.0 will meet all their film-watching needs as it supports 4K signals at up to 60 frames per second, which no movie source currently goes beyond.

Is it worth paying more for HDMI 2.1?

Typically, home theater receivers sport at least seven HDMI inputs, which should cover the majority of a user’s streaming sticks, consoles and Blu-ray players. If not though, more expensive models will sometimes offer one or two more, and if you’d like to hook up both a TV and a projector, make sure that there are at least two HDMI outputs.

HDMI 2.1 is the latest standard for HDMI connectivity, with a bandwidth of up to 48Gbps. It supports gaming features that PCs, PS5 and Xbox Series X consoles can take advantage of, such as 4K@120Hz gameplay, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) , ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) QFT (Quick Frame Transport) and QMS (Quick Media Switching).

While most home cinema receivers from the past two years will have at least one HDMI 2.1 output with eARC, some entry-level models only offer HDMI 2.0 input ports. But, unless you are a gamer, for most people, HDMI 2.0 will meet all their film-watching needs as it supports 4K signals at up to 60 frames per second, which no movie source currently goes beyond.

How many Watts per channel do I need?

Manufacturers will recommend an amplifier power rating range in a speaker’s specifications, and as with impedance, it’s a good idea to check that this lines up with the average, or RMS power output, of an AVR. Sometimes this figure will only be given in relation to when only 2 channels are driven as its a higher (and more impressive) number, but the key here is to make sure that they are comparable, else your speakers may be underpowered and struggle to provide sufficient, impactful volume, or overdriven which may cause distortion and damage to speakers at high levels.

Manufacturers will recommend an amplifier power rating range in a speaker’s specifications, and as with impedance, it’s a good idea to check that this lines up with the average, or RMS power output, of an AVR. Sometimes this figure will only be given in relation to when only 2 channels are driven as its a higher (and more impressive) number, but the key here is to make sure that they are comparable, else your speakers may be underpowered and struggle to provide sufficient, impactful volume, or overdriven which may cause distortion and damage to speakers at high levels.

Do I need to impendence match my speakers to an AVR?

It’s unlikely that you’ll come across a AVR that won’t be up to the task of driving a domestic speaker system or that will cause damage through incompatibility but it’s still a good idea to check the specifications to try and get a good match.

Most home cinema speakers will have an average impedance of 4 -8 Ohms which will be listed by the manufacturer in its specifications under ’nominal impendence’. This figure should ideally sit within the impendence range that an amplifier supports, because if a speaker has a particularly low impedance that an AVR is not designed to handle, it could potentially overload the power supply and cause damage.

It’s unlikely that you’ll come across a AVR that won’t be up to the task of driving a domestic speaker system or that will cause damage through incompatibility but it’s still a good idea to check the specifications to try and get a good match.

Most home cinema speakers will have an average impedance of 4 -8 Ohms which will be listed by the manufacturer in its specifications under ’nominal impendence’. This figure should ideally sit within the impendence range that an amplifier supports, because if a speaker has a particularly low impedance that an AVR is not designed to handle, it could potentially overload the power supply and cause damage.

Do I need room calibration software?

Some brands, such as Yamaha and Denon, include a step-by-step room calibration set-up and microphone with all their AVRs that will measure the response of your speakers with your room and apply an appropriate EQ that flattens any anomalies.

Other brands, such as JBL and Arcam, offer third-party software Dirac with premium models, or as an optional upgrade for budget models.

If you purchase an AVR from a dealer that offers installation, calibration will likely be included. However, if you’re someone who likes fine-tuning or you’re likely to make changes to your set-up, it’s important to bear in mind that you won’t be able to make further adjustments.

However, optimization software is by no means essential, and you can still calibrate a system manually using a Sound Pressure Level (SPL) meter (there are now decent SPL apps that work fine if you’ve also got a good phone with a decent microphone, though a dedicated meter is still the way to go if possible) and a tape measure. Even budget AVRs include an internal test tone and options to assign speaker distances and levels. Those installing a home cinema in an unusually shaped space will benefit more from calibration software, but for typical usage, it’s not vital.

For more advice, check out our guide on how to set up your home cinema speaker system.

Some brands, such as Yamaha and Denon, include a step-by-step room calibration set-up and microphone with all their AVRs that will measure the response of your speakers with your room and apply an appropriate EQ that flattens any anomalies.

Other brands, such as JBL and Arcam, offer third-party software Dirac with premium models, or as an optional upgrade for budget models.

If you purchase an AVR from a dealer that offers installation, calibration will likely be included. However, if you’re someone who likes fine-tuning or you’re likely to make changes to your set-up, it’s important to bear in mind that you won’t be able to make further adjustments.

However, optimization software is by no means essential, and you can still calibrate a system manually using a Sound Pressure Level (SPL) meter (there are now decent SPL apps that work fine if you’ve also got a good phone with a decent microphone, though a dedicated meter is still the way to go if possible) and a tape measure. Even budget AVRs include an internal test tone and options to assign speaker distances and levels. Those installing a home cinema in an unusually shaped space will benefit more from calibration software, but for typical usage, it’s not vital.

For more advice, check out our guide on how to set up your home cinema speaker system.

What is the HDMI 2.1 bug and which AVRs are affected?

In 2020 several newly released gaming-friendly AV receivers were hit by a significant HDMI 2.1 bug that caused a black screen for users with next-gen consoles trying to play 4K games at 120Hz via an Xbox series X and Nvidia card. This problem may have only been an issue for a select group of users, but it was a significant blow for those who had eagerly purchased one of the latest and greatest AVRs for gaming set-up.

The glitch affects 2020-launched AV receivers from Denon, Marantz and Yamaha. We’ve listed the models below, but they all have one thing in common: the same HDMI 2.1 chip.

The impacted AV receivers include: Marantz’s SR range (SR5015, SR6015, SR7015 and SR8015), Denon’s X-series range (AVR-X2700H, AVC-X3700H, AVC-X4700H, AVC-X6700H) and Yamaha’s RX-V4A, RX-V6A, RX-A2A, TSR-400 and TSR-700.

Sound United, the parent company for Denon and Marantz, “worked tirelessly” to address this long-running HDMI issue. Since it was identified, all Denon and Marantz flagship receivers manufactured after May 2021 are officially glitch-free. This is because the latest units are fitted with a new HDMI 2.1 chip that doesn’t suffer the same flaws.

But how do you ensure you get one of the newer, glitch-free home cinema amplifiers? Denon has tweaked the serial number of the new models: numbers that end with serial numbers from 70001 onwards should be bug-free, as they will have been manufactured after May 2021 and boast the upgraded HDMI 2.1 chip.

If you have bought or are considering buying one of the earlier affected models, it’s not all doom and gloom. You can get hold of Sound United’s external HDMI adaptor, which contains the new chip and corrects the bug. Simply fill out the form on the Denon or Marantz website to get one for free.

Meanwhile, Yamaha’s more recent flagship AVRs (RX-A4A, RX-A6A and RX-A8A) are unaffected by the HDMI 2.1 glitch and have received a number of firmware upgrades to enable additional HDMI 2.1 features.

Regarding its older, affected models, Yamaha began a hardware upgrade programme, beginning in Autumn 2021, to update the HDMI board on select 2020 AV receivers to allow 4K/120Hz signal transmission for Xbox Series X and NVIDIA RTX30 GPU-based devices.

Yamaha advises owners of the RX-V4A, RX-V6A, RX-A2A, TSR-400 and TSR-700 AV receivers to register their devices with Yamaha to ensure that they receive direct communications on the programme and a 24-month complimentary upgrade offer.

At the time of the upgrade programme launch, Yamaha stressed that the update should only be used by those who are intending on using their AVR with high frame rate streams for gaming through the Xbox and Nvidia cards as the amps can still pass through 4K/60Hz signals with compatible HDR formats such as HDR10 and Dolby Vision, meaning that they are more than capable of handling film and TV formats.

In 2020 several newly released gaming-friendly AV receivers were hit by a significant HDMI 2.1 bug that caused a black screen for users with next-gen consoles trying to play 4K games at 120Hz via an Xbox series X and Nvidia card. This problem may have only been an issue for a select group of users, but it was a significant blow for those who had eagerly purchased one of the latest and greatest AVRs for gaming set-up.

The glitch affects 2020-launched AV receivers from Denon, Marantz and Yamaha. We’ve listed the models below, but they all have one thing in common: the same HDMI 2.1 chip.

The impacted AV receivers include: Marantz’s SR range (SR5015, SR6015, SR7015 and SR8015), Denon’s X-series range (AVR-X2700H, AVC-X3700H, AVC-X4700H, AVC-X6700H) and Yamaha’s RX-V4A, RX-V6A, RX-A2A, TSR-400 and TSR-700.

Sound United, the parent company for Denon and Marantz, “worked tirelessly” to address this long-running HDMI issue. Since it was identified, all Denon and Marantz flagship receivers manufactured after May 2021 are officially glitch-free. This is because the latest units are fitted with a new HDMI 2.1 chip that doesn’t suffer the same flaws.

But how do you ensure you get one of the newer, glitch-free home cinema amplifiers? Denon has tweaked the serial number of the new models: numbers that end with serial numbers from 70001 onwards should be bug-free, as they will have been manufactured after May 2021 and boast the upgraded HDMI 2.1 chip.

If you have bought or are considering buying one of the earlier affected models, it’s not all doom and gloom. You can get hold of Sound United’s external HDMI adaptor, which contains the new chip and corrects the bug. Simply fill out the form on the Denon or Marantz website to get one for free.

Meanwhile, Yamaha’s more recent flagship AVRs (RX-A4A, RX-A6A and RX-A8A) are unaffected by the HDMI 2.1 glitch and have received a number of firmware upgrades to enable additional HDMI 2.1 features.

Regarding its older, affected models, Yamaha began a hardware upgrade programme, beginning in Autumn 2021, to update the HDMI board on select 2020 AV receivers to allow 4K/120Hz signal transmission for Xbox Series X and NVIDIA RTX30 GPU-based devices.

Yamaha advises owners of the RX-V4A, RX-V6A, RX-A2A, TSR-400 and TSR-700 AV receivers to register their devices with Yamaha to ensure that they receive direct communications on the programme and a 24-month complimentary upgrade offer.

At the time of the upgrade programme launch, Yamaha stressed that the update should only be used by those who are intending on using their AVR with high frame rate streams for gaming through the Xbox and Nvidia cards as the amps can still pass through 4K/60Hz signals with compatible HDR formats such as HDR10 and Dolby Vision, meaning that they are more than capable of handling film and TV formats.

How we test AV receivers

We have state-of-the-art testing facilities in London, Reading and Bath, where our team of experienced, in-house reviewers test the majority of hi-fi and AV kit that passes through our door.

Each AVR we test is paired with a reference level speaker package and is directly compared to the best in its price and features class – whether that’s the current What Hi-Fi? award winner or a few of the latest models we’ve been impressed by in recent reviews. What Hi-Fi? is all about comparative testing, and we keep class-leading products in our stockrooms so we can easily compare new products to ones we know and love.

We are always impartial and do our best to make sure we’re hearing every product at its very best, so we’ll try plenty of different styles of films, and TV shows that show what each AVR is capable of with both advanced and standard audio formats. We’ll check all the features on board, including music playback with a variety of genres and allow for plenty of listening time as well as running them in before we begin reviewing.

All review verdicts are agreed upon by the team rather than an individual reviewer to eliminate any personal preference and to make sure we’re being as thorough as possible, too. There’s no input from PR companies or our sales team when it comes to the verdict with What Hi-Fi? proud of having delivered honest, unbiased reviews for decades.

Recent updates

• April 2024: The Denon AVC-X6800H makes the cut thanks to its stellar feature set and rich, powerful sound. For the money, we think it’s a great middle ground option between the Arcam AVR5 and AVR31.

• The best speaker packages to pair with your new AV amplifier

• How to set up your AV receiver and get the best sound

• Home cinema and AV deals round-up

Round up of today’s best dealsSony TA-AN1000£899ViewSee all pricesDenon AVR-X2800H£649£599ViewSee all pricesLow StockArcam AVR5£1,999ViewSee all pricesLow StockDenon AVC-X6800H£2,999ViewSee all pricesLow StockMarantz Cinema 30£3,999ViewSee all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricespowered by

Marantz™ AV Receivers Experience High Quality Home Audio Marantz

Marantz 8K Ultra HDTurntable ConnectivityDolby AtmosVoice ControlHand Tuned ComponentsWireless Streaming

Best AV Receiver for 2024 Check out our picks for the best AV receivers from Onkyo Sony Yamaha Denon and Marantz.

Check out our picks for the best AV receivers from Onkyo, Sony, Yamaha, Denon and Marantz. Written by Ty Pendlebury Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement Ty PendleburyEditorTy Pendlebury has worked at CNET since 2006. He lives in New York City where he writes about streaming and home audio.ExpertiseTy has worked for radio, print, and online publications, and has been writing about home entertainment since 2004. He is an avid record collector and streaming music enthusiast.Credentials

• Ty was nominated for Best New Journalist at the Australian IT Journalism awards, but he has only ever won one thing. As a youth, he was awarded a free session for the photography studio at a local supermarket.

See full bio Which is the best AV receiver for you? I’ve tested the most popular models between $500 and $2,000 to help you find the best AV receivers 2024 has to offer. If you’re on a tight budget, with Prime Day Deals now underway, many of the below picks are seeing significant savings.

If you divide your time between watching TV and listening to music, there are several models that can do both well, including two excellent Onkyo receivers in the TX-NR6100 and TX-RZ50. The recently reviewed Sony STR-AN1000 is also a strong performer under $1,000, although it isn’t quite as well specified as its competitors.

Best AV receivers of 2024

Hide our expert take $799 at Best Buy 8.3 /10 SCORE

8.3 Pros- One of the best music streaming suites

• Excellent home theater performance
• Fun to use
• Compatible with Xbox Series X/4K 120Hz signals

Cons- Not as dynamic with music

Number of Channels 7Power in Stereo 100 wattsNumber of HDMI Inputs 6HDMI Version 2.1Full Review Read full review $799 at Best Buy

Best AV receiver overall

Onkyo TX-NR6100

$799 at Best Buy The TX-NR6100 is the follow-up to my favorite receiver of the past few years, the Onkyo TX-NR696. Like its predecessor, the NR6100 offers great sound and a wealth of connectivity (including 4K/120Hz support for gaming consoles). Streaming options include Chromecast built-in, DTS Play-Fi, Spotify Connect, Sonos, AirPlay and Bluetooth. With a bit more power than the Sony STR-AN1000 and a keener price than any competitor, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 is the best receiver value under $1,000.

Photo Gallery1/1 Hide our expert take

Onkyo TX-NR6100

$898 at Amazon $700 at Best Buy 8.2 /10 SCORE

8.2 Pros- Plenty of streaming connectivity including Sonos

• Excellent sound
• 8K and 4K/120Hz support

Cons- Slightly higher retail price than competitors

• Lower power rating
• Poorly designed remote control

Number of Channels 7Power in Stereo 100 wattsNumber of HDMI Inputs 6HDMI Version 2.1Full Review Read full review $898 at Amazon

Best receiver for gaming

Sony STR-AN1000

$898 at Amazon $700 at Best Buy Sony went away for a couple of years but came back better than ever with the STR-AN1000. This model offers all of the latest features including HDMI 2.1 (4K/120Hz) support. It includes “works with Sonos” certification, but the reason to buy it is that it’s a solid performer, especially with video games. It also has one of the most sophisticated setup routines yet, so dialing in great sound is even easier.

Photo Gallery1/1 Show our expert take

Sony STR-AN1000

$999 at Crutchfield $999 at Amazon Pros- Dirac Live calibration for excellent sound

• Best streaming suite offered in a receiver
• Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa connectivity

Cons- Difficult setup

Number of Channels 7Power in Stereo 120 wattsNumber of HDMI Inputs 7HDMI Version 2.1Full Review Read full review $999 at Crutchfield

Best receiver under $1,600

Onkyo TX-RZ50

$999 at Crutchfield $999 at Amazon Onkyo’s TX-RZ50 is a perfect step-up model for those looking to upgrade their home theater systems for a set of better-quality speakers or to add a turntable. Like its budget-oriented label mate, the TX-NR6100, it’s stacked with features including the audiophile-level calibration called Dirac Live, as well as the best streaming suite offered in an AV receiver. On that point, being able to request songs directly from Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa is a real boon.

What improvements does the $1,599 TX-RZ50 offer over the $679 TX-NR6100? Firstly, it offers double the number of 8K compatible inputs (six versus three) plus it boasts more power (120 watts versus 100 watts). It also has two-way Bluetooth for streaming as well as listening on wireless headphones.

The TX-RZ50’s performance was excellent whether listening to streamed music or watching a movie: I hadn’t heard Dolby Atmos sound this convincing in a long time. The addition of Dirac Live adds its own complexities in setup – please, only use the Onkyo Controller mobile app in combination with the supplied microphone – but doing so rewards with a highly involving performance.

Be aware that the Onkyo is often out of stock, but as an alternative, the Yamaha RX-A4 is even better with movies if you’re looking specifically for a home theater receiver.

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Onkyo TX-RZ50

$995 at Walmart $1,100 at Amazon $1,300 at Best Buy Pros- Excellent build quality

• Booming cinematic sound
• Built-in phono preamp

Cons- Doesn’t sound great with music streaming

Number of Channels 7Power in Stereo 110 wattsNumber of HDMI Inputs 7HDMI Version 2.1Full Review Read full review $995 at Walmart

Best receiver for movies

Yamaha RX-A4A

$995 at Walmart $1,100 at Amazon $1,300 at Best Buy I’m a big fan of the Yamaha RX-V6A, so I was curious to see what the step-up RX-A4A brings to the table. As it turns out, this Yamaha offers even better build quality and a huge, cinematic sound.

Look through the fancy top grille and you’ll see neatly packed components and a distinguished, stamped transformer. The system is capable of a beefy 110 watts per channel (stereo) and has seven HDMI ports for your connectivity needs.

I tested the Yamaha A4A against the Onkyo RZ50 and the Denon X3700. The Yamaha’s sound quality tended toward the cinematic rather than the musical, and it offered a big, roomy sound perfect for blockbusters or conspiracy thriller TV shows. What was surprising is that the onboard phono preamp was even better than the one on the rival Onkyo RZ50, so I can recommend the Yamaha for people who don’t want a separate preamp for their turntable.

The Yamaha is great as a home theater receiver but doesn’t sound as good with music streaming. Still, as the Onkyo offers balanced performance across both, it’s my current favorite.

Photo Gallery1/1 Show our expert take

Yamaha RX-A4A

Which receiver should you buy?

The Onkyo TX-NR6100 is the best receiver for most needs

Ty Pendlebury/CNETIf you’re spending under $1,000, there are four main receivers to choose from – the Sony STR-AN1000, the Yamaha RX-V6A, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 and the Denon AVR-970H. All offer excellent performance, so the short answer about which to buy is whichever is available for the lowest price. At the moment, that is either the Denon or the Onkyo, which are both on sale for under $600 as I type this. I especially recommend the Onkyo TX-NR6100 for its combination of excellent performance and connectivity. The Onkyo offers easy setup, excellent usability, solid looks and useful features, including the best streaming suite alongside Sony. As an added plus, the Onkyo was never prone to the 4K issue that plagued early versions of the Yamaha RX-V6A.

Meanwhile, the step-up Onkyo TX-RZ50 is an excellent receiver if you’re looking for the next level of features and a performance bump over sub-$1,000 models. It offers an excellent, if slightly scary, calibration routine from Dirac Live and the best number of streaming features on the market. It sounds great with music and movies alike.

Lastly, if it’s home theater thrills you’re after, the Yamaha RX-A4A offers crisp, dynamic sound and fantastic build quality for $1,300.

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Factors to consider when buying an AV receiver

AV receivers are notoriously complex, with reams of features and confusing technical specifications. (For example, what’s 4K/120Hz anyway?) Yet, what are the things that really matter when buying a new model? I’m going to sum up the most important ones right here.

HDMI inputs

With most TVs and set-top boxes supporting HDMI, you should buy a receiver that has as many of these HDMI input ports and outputs as possible. Front-mounted HDMI ports are kind of like an appendix – unneeded because most users don’t hot-plug HDMI devices – making the number of rear inputs what’s most important. (How else are you going to connect your Roku, Blu-ray player, Nintendo Switch and all your other devices?) The Onkyo TX-NR6100 and Denon AVR-S970H have six rear-mounted HDMI inputs, while the Yamaha RX-V6A goes one better with seven. If you want to connect two different displays – a TV and a projector, for example – all but the Yamaha offer a second HDMI output. You should also be sure you have an extra HDMI cable or two on hand – these things are like the second sock of a pair as you can never find them when you need them.

Dolby Atmos capability

Most receivers in the $500-and-above price range include Dolby Atmos capability and DTS:X, but the effect they have on your home theater movie-watching can be subtle, or in most movies, nonexistent. In other words, don’t worry about missing out on these formats by not installing a taller speaker or two. Mounting your rear surround speakers high on the wall will get you halfway there in terms of quality, immersive sound.

WiFi music streaming

Most midrange receivers have onboard Wi-Fi network connectivity for wireless music streaming via your speaker system. There are plenty of standards for wireless streaming services, but the most universal are Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay and Google Chromecast built-in/Google Cast. If you’re looking to build a multiroom system with a variety of AV systems and speakers with wireless connectivity, these are the three flavors to aim for. Onkyo and Sony are the only devices to support all three. The Denon receiver model lacks wireless streaming via Google but ups the ante to AirPlay 2 and the proprietary HEOS system. Meanwhile, Yamaha has its own MusicCast system.

Show more With most TVs and set-top boxes supporting HDMI, you should buy a receiver that has as many of these HDMI input ports and outputs as possible. Front-mounted HDMI ports are kind of like an appendix – unneeded because most users don’t hot-plug HDMI devices – making the number of rear inputs what’s most important. (How else are you going to connect your Roku, Blu-ray player, Nintendo Switch and all your other devices?) The Onkyo TX-NR6100 and Denon AVR-S970H have six rear-mounted HDMI inputs, while the Yamaha RX-V6A goes one better with seven. If you want to connect two different displays – a TV and a projector, for example – all but the Yamaha offer a second HDMI output. You should also be sure you have an extra HDMI cable or two on hand – these things are like the second sock of a pair as you can never find them when you need them.

Dolby Atmos capability

Most receivers in the $500-and-above price range include Dolby Atmos capability and DTS:X, but the effect they have on your home theater movie-watching can be subtle, or in most movies, nonexistent. In other words, don’t worry about missing out on these formats by not installing a taller speaker or two. Mounting your rear surround speakers high on the wall will get you halfway there in terms of quality, immersive sound.

WiFi music streaming

Most midrange receivers have onboard Wi-Fi network connectivity for wireless music streaming via your speaker system. There are plenty of standards for wireless streaming services, but the most universal are Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay and Google Chromecast built-in/Google Cast. If you’re looking to build a multiroom system with a variety of AV systems and speakers with wireless connectivity, these are the three flavors to aim for. Onkyo and Sony are the only devices to support all three. The Denon receiver model lacks wireless streaming via Google but ups the ante to AirPlay 2 and the proprietary HEOS system. Meanwhile, Yamaha has its own MusicCast system.

How CNET tests AV receivers

At CNET, I test audio equipment from compact soundbars to surround sound systems, but regardless of the device, my methodology is essentially the same. I always compare products against one or more reference devices that offer the best performance at a similar price.

When it comes to receivers I want to see how well a system performs with music and movies, as most people will want to do both. I watch some test scenes from 4K Blu-ray or streamed from a 4K streaming service (Vudu, for example) and evaluate aspects such as Dolby Atmos surround sound performance and dialog clarity. I also use several test music tracks and evaluate streaming features such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Systems that can perform well with both types of entertainment inevitably score the highest.

Check out CNET’s receiver buying guide for more about the features and things you should consider when looking for a new system.

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Other AV receivers I tested

Yamaha RX-V6A

Ty Pendlebury/CNETYamaha RX-V6A ($600, save $150): This Yamaha RX-V6A offers a fresh look at AV receiver design, with its futuristic edges and simple controls, while maximizing sound quality. The Yamaha might even make you forget about visiting a cinema ever again, and it’s no slouch with music, either. It offers plenty of connectivity with Wi-Fi bringing AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth and Yamaha’s MusicCast system for streaming from your devices. Notably, the TSR-700 is identical – it’s an exclusive model for some outlets – and you can find refurbished for $400 here at Amazon. Find out more in CNET’s Yamaha RX-V6A review.

Marantz SR6015 ($1,499, save $1,000): The Marantz SR6015 does everything you’d expect – Dolby Atmos, music streaming, 4K/120Hz throughput – and with a good deal of aplomb. It sounds great, but it’s not as flexible as the best receivers here – for instance, you can’t watch a video source while listening to music, like the Onkyos can, and neither can you ask a Google Nest to play a song on it. The Marantz SR6015 has been replaced by the Cinema 500, but the original is currently selling out for $1,000 less than its retail price.

Denon AVR-X3800 ($1,572, save $127) Denon has long been one of the top AV receiver brands due to a reputation for quality sound and powerful amplification, and the AVR-X3800 will be able to power most systems with ease. In terms of features, the Denon has everything you need in a modern receiver including Dolby Atmos and six 8K HDMI inputs. Based on my head-to-head testing, I found that the Denon was even-handed with movies and music, but not as good as the Marantz SR6015 with music (above) or as good at home theater as my current pick, the Onkyo RZ50. Read CNET’s first take on the Denon AVR-X3800.

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AV receiver FAQs

What is the difference between a stereo receiver and an AV receiver?

A stereo receiver is an audio-only, two-channel amplifier that includes source switching and an AM/FM tuner – if it lacks a tuner it’s called an integrated amp. Meanwhile, an AV receiver is typically a surround sound system amplifier that enables HDMI switching and playback of audio and video. Most also include tuners onboard as well. An AV receiver is more versatile than a two-channel model because it can be used for both stereo and surround sound. You can add as many speakers to them as you have, starting at just two – so they’re pretty flexible to build out your surround sound system.

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Should I buy an 8K receiver?

Standards change all the time, but the bare minimum right now is support for HDR and Dolby Vision, and at least HDMI version 2.0 or better. All of the models above support not only 4K and HDR video but 8K support as well, even if 8K content is hard to find.

Be aware that all 2020 8K-compatible receivers were prone to a bug preventing them from displaying variable refresh rate video, and from the Xbox Series X in particular. Denon, Marantz and Yamaha announced fixes for existing models, while compliant models from Yamaha RX-V6A began shipping in the summer of 2021. Denon and Marantz receivers sold after April 2021 should be 4K/120Hz compatible. Yamaha users can check for 4K compatibility here while Denon and Marantz users should check with their dealer.

The TX-NR6100 is the first receiver I tested that I found to both pass 4K/120Hz and which I would also recommend to new buyers.

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How do I connect my TV to my AV receiver?

If you have a relatively new TV you should be able to use a single cable – an HDMI cable, to be exact – to connect your receiver to your television. If you have an HDMI port labeled ARC/eARC on the TV you can connect that to the main HDMI ARC output of the receiver. Doing so enables you to hear onboard Netflix from your TV when you set the receiver on the “TV” input, while also enabling video to be transmitted from your other AV sources.

If you have an older TV without an ARC-compliant port you will need to connect both an HDMI cable and an optical cable to the back of your TV. However, if you have a CRT or rear-projection TV which has composite or component inputs you will need a $1,000-plus receiver such as the Marantz SR6015 or Onkyo TX-RZ50. Many receivers no longer offer switching for these legacy connections.

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Is 4K/120Hz support a big deal?

The short answer is: Yes, but only if you own an Xbox Series X and a brand-new TV. As I write this, there is a growing number of Xbox Series X games that support this optional mode – including Halo Infinite and Fortnite, to name a couple – but the advantages of 4K/120Hz over 60Hz are minimal as far as I’ve seen at this point. Future games and even video sources may make the differences clearer, and that’s why you may want a receiver that’s fully compatible.

If you do buy an older receiver, you don’t care about the Xbox Series X, you can always hook a fancy new console directly to the TV, then use eARC to get audio to the receiver.

Show more The rear panel of the TX-NR6100 offers 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs

Ty Pendlebury/CNET TVs Streaming & TV Accessories Speakers Projectors Other Home Entertainment

The 3 Best AV Receivers for Most People of 2024 Reviews by Wirecutter The Denon AVR-X1800H is an easy-to-use AV receiver that sounds great and has the necessary features to meet most people’s movie music and video-gaming needs.

The Denon AVR-X1800H is an easy-to-use AV receiver that sounds great and has the necessary features to meet most people’s movie, music, and video-gaming needs. Updated May 17, 2024 Save

Denon AVR-X1800H

The best all-purpose AV receiver

This is a great-sounding, easy-to-use, 7.1-channel receiver that has all the needed features to satisfy movie fans, music lovers, and gamers alike.

Buying Options

$635 from Amazon$639 from Best Buy$749 from Walmart

The best all-purpose AV receiver

$635 from Amazon$639 from Best Buy$749 from Walmart

Denon AVR-X3800H

For the movie lover who wants to add more speakers

With better room correction and more amplified channels, this receiver is a great pick for the home cinema enthusiast who wants a step-up option—but it’s also a big step up in price.

Buying Options

$969 from Amazon$1,700 from Best Buy

For the movie lover who wants to add more speakers

$969 from Amazon$1,700 from Best Buy

Denon AVR-S570BT

A good, no-frills budget receiver

Simple to set up and use but lacking in features, this receiver is a solid choice if you just want to put together a good 5.1-channel speaker system.

Buying Options

$399 from Amazon$400 from Best Buy

A good, no-frills budget receiver

$399 from Amazon$400 from Best Buy- Number of speakersAV receivers are classified based on how many speakers they can power. The more amp channels and power, the higher the price.

• Room correctionRoom correction adjusts your speakers’ performance to suit your room. The quality of a receiver’s room correction hugely impacts the sound.
• HDMI 2.1Do you own an 8K TV? Are you a hardcore gamer who wants support for the newest gaming features? Look for full HDMI 2.1 compatibility.
• Price limitMost people don’t need to spend more than $1,700 for an AV receiver, as you reach a point of diminishing performance returns.

Read more

Denon AVR-X1800H

The best all-purpose AV receiver

This is a great-sounding, easy-to-use, 7.1-channel receiver that has all the needed features to satisfy movie fans, music lovers, and gamers alike.

Buying Options

$635 from Amazon$639 from Best Buy$749 from Walmart

The best all-purpose AV receiver

$635 from Amazon$639 from Best Buy$749 from Walmart

Denon AVR-X3800H

For the movie lover who wants to add more speakers

With better room correction and more amplified channels, this receiver is a great pick for the home cinema enthusiast who wants a step-up option—but it’s also a big step up in price.

Buying Options

$969 from Amazon$1,700 from Best Buy

For the movie lover who wants to add more speakers

$969 from Amazon$1,700 from Best Buy

Denon AVR-S570BT

A good, no-frills budget receiver

Simple to set up and use but lacking in features, this receiver is a solid choice if you just want to put together a good 5.1-channel speaker system.

Buying Options

$399 from Amazon$400 from Best Buy

A good, no-frills budget receiver

$399 from Amazon$400 from Best Buy-

How to Connect Your New Turntable to Any Audio System

No matter what kind of turntable and audio gear you have, it is possible to get them working together. Here’s how.

No matter what kind of turntable and audio gear you have, it is possible to get them working together. Here’s how.

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How Automatic Room Correction Can Help (and Hurt) Your Sound System

AV receivers’ built-in room-correction systems automatically adjust audio to suit your room, but the results aren’t always pleasing.

AV receivers’ built-in room-correction systems automatically adjust audio to suit your room, but the results aren’t always pleasing.

Denon AVR-X1800H

The best all-purpose AV receiver

This is a great-sounding, easy-to-use, 7.1-channel receiver that has all the needed features to satisfy movie fans, music lovers, and gamers alike.

Buying Options

$635 from Amazon$639 from Best Buy$749 from Walmart

The best all-purpose AV receiver

$635 from Amazon$639 from Best Buy$749 from Walmart

Denon AVR-X3800H

For the movie lover who wants to add more speakers

With better room correction and more amplified channels, this receiver is a great pick for the home cinema enthusiast who wants a step-up option—but it’s also a big step up in price.

Buying Options

$969 from Amazon$1,700 from Best Buy

For the movie lover who wants to add more speakers

$969 from Amazon$1,700 from Best Buy

Denon AVR-S570BT

A good, no-frills budget receiver

Simple to set up and use but lacking in features, this receiver is a solid choice if you just want to put together a good 5.1-channel speaker system.

Buying Options

$399 from Amazon$400 from Best Buy

A good, no-frills budget receiver

$399 from Amazon$400 from Best BuyDennis Burger

Adrienne Maxwell

What I CoverI oversee all of Wirecutter’s coverage of AV gear, including headphones, TVs, speakers, and more. I also write all of Wirecutter’s projector guides, and I test peripheral AV equipment such as screens, remotes, and HDMI transmitters.

• 

The Best Gear for a Home Theater System

by Grant Clauser and Kathryn Rath

We researched and tested to find the best-looking and best-sounding home theater equipment that will take your personal setup from functional to fantastic.

• 

The Best Soundbar

by Brent Butterworth

The Polk MagniFi Mini AX is the all-around best soundbar because of its big, immersive sound, small footprint, affordable cost, and easy operation.

• 

How to Build the Best Multiroom Wireless Speaker System for You

by Dennis Burger

There are myriad ways to build a multiroom audio system. We help you find the path that’s best for you.

• 

Trouble Hearing TV Dialogue? The Right Soundbar Can Help.

by Brent Butterworth

Many soundbars offer voice-enhancement modes to improve dialogue clarity, but do they really work? We asked six hard of hearing people to give them a try.

by Grant Clauser and Kathryn Rath

We researched and tested to find the best-looking and best-sounding home theater equipment that will take your personal setup from functional to fantastic.

by Brent Butterworth

The Polk MagniFi Mini AX is the all-around best soundbar because of its big, immersive sound, small footprint, affordable cost, and easy operation.

by Dennis Burger

There are myriad ways to build a multiroom audio system. We help you find the path that’s best for you.

by Brent Butterworth

Many soundbars offer voice-enhancement modes to improve dialogue clarity, but do they really work? We asked six hard of hearing people to give them a try.