The 10 Best Multi Zone Av Receivers, Tested And Researched

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater AV Receive
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater AV Receive

It was designed to allow you to enjoy the cinema experience at your home. You can watch your favorite movies, tv shows, and even choose your music. All of this is done with theater-like sound. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver

The RX-V385 has a very good ability to maintain the overall sound balance at all volumes, and slightly higher volumes. All performances are excellent up to the middle range with dynamic highs or lows. Read Review

3. Best Performance: Denon AVR-S750H Receiver, 7.2 Channel

Denon is known for its unique sound and the AVR-S750H will suit you perfectly. You'll still find the musical warmth, but with a satisfyingly strong home theater performance. Read Review

4. Best With Dolby Atmos: Onkyo TX-SR393 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver

The Onkyo TXSR393 delivers great bass and vocal clarity. This device can handle smaller or mid-sized rooms and is a great alternative to traditional TV speakers. Read Review

Multi-zone audio is a useful feature for anyone who wants to use their AV receiver in more than one place. This could be simultaneously if you have different rooms, or at different times if you use the same room for different activities. Check out our list of the best multi zone av receivers on the market right now. These AV receivers all offer multi-room audio as standard. They will also support your other home entertainment devices such as CD players, Blu-ray players, and streaming services – so check compatibility before you buy.

To help you choose the best model, our team, including qualified experts in this area, conducted a survey and carried out it for a great amount of time on finding the right products for best multi zone av receivers, nearly 16 hours. 

As the result, we found some top trending models on the market that many customers tend to search for. In addition, we believe that the Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater AV Receive with many outstanding features such as  Phono input, 4 stereo RCA audio inputs is one of the best options available to you. We hope that you will select the suitable product for your family.

Our Top Picks

  • MULTIFUNCTIONAL SYSTEM: Enjoy a multi channel stereo setup and preset channel FM / AM radio tuner
  • PHANTOM SURROUND SETTING: Experience 7 channel surround sound with only a 5 channel speaker setup. Chrome cast built in is present
  • CINEMATIC SOUND AT HOME: Enjoy your favorite TV shows & movies, stream your favorite music and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home
  • EASY LISTENING: The STRDN1080 has Chromecast and is AirPlay, Multi Room and Google Home compatible
  • SPECS: 1155 Watts, 6 ohm, 1 kilo Hertz, THD 0.9% A/V receiver with 2nd zone and available 3rd zone connectivity
  • DYNAMIC SETUP: 6 in/2 out HDMI flexibility, front USB port and optical digital, analog AV connections
  • 4K PASS THROUGH: 4K HDR compatible with HDCP 2.2 support for sharper source to screen image quality
  • IN THE BOX: Receivers include a calibration microphone, FM wire antenna, remote control, batteries
  • ADVANCED AUDIO: DTS: X object based surrounds sound adapts to your speaker configuration in real time
TOP Choice #2 YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.5
YAMAHA
  • YPAO auto calibration technology for ideal sound, Exclusive Yamaha Cinema DSP technology supports playback of HD Audio (Dolby TrueHD, DTS HD Master Audio, etc.), providing natural and expansive sound imaging
  • 4K Ultra HD support, HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log gamma and BT.2020
  • HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.2 (4 in/1 out)
  • 5.1 channel powerful surround sound
  • Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Rated Output Power (1kHz, 1ch driven) 100W (8 ohms, 0.9% THD); Rated Output Power (20Hz 20kHz, 2ch driven) 70W (8 ohms, 0.09% THD); Maximum Effective Output Power (1kHz, 1ch driven) (Jeita) 145W (6 ohms, 10% THD)
  • Providing complete compatibility with the latest HDMI standards, this AV receiver delivers transmission of 4K video at 60 frames/second pass through; It also supports HDR (High Dynamic Range) Video including Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log Gamma which provides incredible contrast, smooth tone and rich, bright colors
TOP Choice #3 Denon AVR-S750H Receiver, 7.2 Channel
Our Score:
9.3
Denon
  • All HDMI ports (6 In, 1 out) follow the LATEST REVISION TO HIGH-BANDWIDTH DIGITAL CONTENT PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS (HDCP 2.3) and are backward compatible with the earlier versions. Don't fret if your devices have HDCP 2.2 - they'll work perfectly well
  • EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS. No Command Center or extra hardware required. Get Hi-Fi sound around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, Deezer and more
  • AWARD-WINNING ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT walks you through clear simple instructions to connect your TV, specific EQ settings and helps you optimize your surround sound. Denon's legacy and Japanese precision technology makes it a must-have for your home
  • UNPRECEDENTED REALISM AND NEW FEATURES – eARC and heightened sound effects with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology. Be it the sound of a helicopter or torrential rains, it’ll sound so real, you'll think it's happening right above you
  • SMOOTH, SOOTHING, CLEAR SOUND EVERY SINGLE TIME – During setup, the Audyssey Suite – an EQ calibration system – measures & dynamically optimizes all speakers in your home theater for all listening levels. No sudden blasts or muffled dialogues anymore
  • FULL VOICE CONTROL COMPATIBILITY WITH AMAZON ALEXA lets you sit back and enjoy music without having to reach out for the remote. Adjust the volume, change the track or switch the inputs absolutely hands-free
  • MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR NEW 4K ULTRA HD TV with this 7.2 Ch stereo receiver. Featuring HLG, HDR10, BT.2020, Wide Color Gamut & 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, it DELIVERS EXCEPTIONAL BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST and COLOR enriching your movie and gaming experience
4 Onkyo TX-SR393 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver
Our Score:
9.2
Onkyo
  • Accueq with subwoofer EQ and accureflex
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS: x playback
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, hlg, Dolby vision, BT.2020)
  • Dolby Atmos height virtualizer* and DTS virtual: x
  • 155 watts per Channel
5 Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.0
Yamaha Audio
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplay 2, Spotify connect and music cast multi-room
  • Spotify, Apple Music via airplay 2, Pandora, Sirius internet radio, Tidal, Deezer, Napster, Qobuz and more
  • 4K Ultra HD, HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log-gamma and BT.2020 HDMI (5-in/2-out) with HDCP 2.3 and eARC
  • Voice control using your Alexa device like echo or echo dot
  • Music cast multi-room: Wirelessly expand your Audio to other rooms over time
  • Unrivaled experiences; Boldly explores entertainment possibilities for an advanced home theater with the latest in video and Audio, including Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, Wireless streaming, dual HDMI outputs and more
  • Music cast surround-capable: Add 2 music cast 20 speakers to provide wireless surround sound for a 5.1-Channel or 5.1; 2-Channel setup
  • Just press the personal preset button on the front panel for three seconds, and your current settings such as volume level and listening mode can be saved. Up to three presets can be registered and easily called up from the front panel button or the remote control.
  • Stream songs from compatible devices with the built-in Bluetooth Wireless Technology (ver. 4. 2 + LE). The VSX-834 features A2DP/AVRCP profiles, with support for SBC/AAC codecs. By pressing the Bluetooth button on the front panel, you can directly start up the BT function, even when the unit is in standby.
  • The VSX-834 supports pass-through for HDR10, hlg (hybrid log-gamma), and Dolby vision signals. By connecting a compatible source device, you can enjoy these latest video standards on a compatible display. What’s more, All HDMI terminals support 4K (60p/4: 4: 4/24-bit), wide color gamut (BT. 2020), and HDCP 2. 2, so you will have no problem when upgrading to new devices, and can also enjoy premium content such as 4K videos with digital copy protection.
  • Create the optimum acoustic environment with pioneer’s MCACC (multi-channel acoustic calibration system), developed with the expertise of professional recording studios. With the custom microphone, The system automatically compensates for differences in speaker size, level and distance, and equalizes response.
  • The VSX-834 is equipped with zone B Audio output terminals for expanding the main zone sound by connecting your wireless headphone Dock. You can listen to the sound playing in the living room via wireless headphones.
  • Dolby Vision, Hybrid-Log Gamma and BT.2020
  • MusicCast multi-room audio and MusicCast Surround capable with MusicCast 20 or MusicCast 50 wireless surround speakers
  • Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz/5 GHz, AirPlay 2, MusicPlay (iOS and Android) and Spotify Connect
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS: X
  • 4K/60, 4K/120AB, 8K/60B, HDMI 2.1 (via future update)
  • YPAO room calibration
  • HDMI with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (4 in / 1 out)
  • Pandora, Spotify, Napster, SiriusXM, TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz, Amazon Music
  • Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant devices or Siri via AirPlay 2
8 Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio Smart AV Receiver
Our Score:
8.4
PIONEER
  • DTS:X PLAYBACK. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X is the next-generation audio codec from DTS that leverages object-based audio to enable new immersive and interactive audio experiences.
  • PERSONAL PRESET. Press the personal preset button on the front panel for three seconds and your current settings such as volume level and listening mode. Up to three presets can be registered and called up from the front panel button or remote control.
  • RANGE CONTROL. With this unique mid-range sound control feature, you can make independent volume adjustments to the range including dialogues in films, with the up/down key on the remote control.
  • BLUETOOTH COMPATIBLE. Seamlessly connect your phone, tablet or PC and stream to the receiver with Bluetooth Wireless Technology. This smart receiver remembers your device and starts playback whenever it detects an incoming Bluetooth audio stream.
  • DOLBY ATMOS. Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer provides an immersive listening experience, creating a virtual surround and height effect without employing additional surround or height speakers. 5.1.2ch Dolby Atmos.
  • VOICE CONTROL COMPATIBILITY WITH ALL MAJOR VOICE AGENTS – Change audio tracks, control volume, switch inputs, and play & pause music with your voice. Just command Alexa, Siri, and other leading voice agents or any smart home automation systems
  • ADVANCED HDMI VIDEO SECTION FOR A STUNNING CINEMATIC EXPERIENCE – Features full 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub sampling, HDR10, HLG, and BT.2020 pass-through. Watch your favorite movies & shows with exceptional color, clarity and contrast.
  • ENJOY MULTI-ROOM STREAMING – Built-in HEOS technology allows you to playback music through any popular streaming service such as Pandora, Spotify, Amazon Prime Music and others via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or AirPlay 2 in one room and more simultaneously
  • EXPERT SOUND ENGINEERING – Denon’s experience in designing award-winning amplifiers and their use of Hi-Fi parts, custom resistors, audio grade capacitors, a double differential DAC circuit and analog preamp circuits deliver a superior sound experience
  • HIGH-PERFORMANCE DISCRETE 2-CHANNEL AMP – Feel the power & hear every audio detail with this ultra-stylish & powerful receiver (100W per channel at 8 ohms) that offers greater stability with a wide range of speakers & delivers balanced sound each time.
  • With its 100-year legacy & Japanese precision technology, Denon BRINGS PURITY OF SOUND AND JOY TO YOUR LIVES. Immerse yourself in multi-dimensional audio & sensational surround sound with this amplifier for an unmatched home theater & entertainment system
  • HI-RES AUDIO PLAYBACK – Listen to your favorite tracks stored on a memory device via the USB port on the front panel, or through network sources. Also, connect your turntable to the speakers or amp via the integrated phono input and MM equalizer
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, BT.2020)
  • AccuEQ with subwoofer EQ and AccuReflex
  • 160 watts per channel
  • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer* and DTS Virtual:X
  • 5.2.2-ch Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best multi zone av receivers?

Network Connectivity

Some receivers come with both wired or wireless network support. You can either connect them to your router using an Ethernet cable, or Wi-Fi. You can stream media from any device connected to the same network, such as laptops and smartphones. AirPlay will only work with Apple devices. It is not compatible with other AV receivers. If you live in a house where everyone uses Apple devices, make sure that the model supports AirPlay.

Total Harmonic Distortion

THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) is the measurement of how much distortion the sound produces. THD can be measured as a percentage. It is the amount of deviation from the original signal. THD is a measure of distortion. The higher the THD the more beneficial. THD is a norm in most receiver amplifiers, and it should be below 0.1%.

Calibration

Audio-video beginners will find it difficult to set up an entertainment system in their home.
Automatic speaker calibration is an option on many receivers that makes it easier to calibrate the speakers. The receiver sends test sounds to each speaker and subwoofer, and monitors the sound with a microphone. This allows it to determine the size of the speaker, to measure distance between the speaker and the listener, and to check that the connections are correct. This technology is compatible with surround sound as well as traditional 2-channel home entertainment systems.

Power

Power is not simply another term for volume, it's also measured in Watts. This also affects the receiver's ability deliver dynamic and detailed sound. A high-wattage receiver produces better sound quality, regardless of the volume.

Inputs And Outputs

This is because the device has more outputs and inputs than it can handle. A receiver might accept audio signals from a television via the input, and then send them via an out to speakers. There should be enough outputs and inputs for all your equipment. You can also have a few more in case of expansion.

Multi-zone Audio Feature

Some models of amplifier-receivers support the ability to use one or more speakers in a different room. Some receivers can support multiple zones while others allow you to play different sources simultaneously in two rooms. One person may enjoy surround sound in their living room while another can listen to music through the speakers connected to the receiver. If you want to enjoy a great audio experience in your bedroom and living room, but don't have the budget to purchase two speakers systems or amplifiers to achieve it, this feature will be a huge help.

Interface

If you don't know how to use your high-tech receiver, it is useless. A well-designed receiver panel that is easy to navigate can make the difference between having high quality sound and picture quality or having your costly system go stale because it's difficult to get on. It's important that you use the receiver display panel to navigate and learn all functions. A graphical interface is the screen that allows users to set up the receiver and operate it. The viewer must display song information and album art when AirPlay is used.

FAQs

Does An AV Receiver Improve Video Quality?

Advanced video processing abilities can be found in some AV receivers that improve image quality. The best performance is only possible with high-end, expensive models.
Even if your receiver is not high-end, modern televisions are equipped with excellent video processing algorithms, which will produce a stunning picture, regardless of source.

What Is The Difference Between 5.2 And 7.2 Receivers?

Five surround sound speakers can be connected to a 5.2 receiver, as well as two subwoofers. For the surround sound speakers, there are five options: front left, front right and center.
Seven channels are available for surround sound speakers, and two subwoofer channels. A 7.2 receiver can handle both. The 7.2 speaker arrangement is identical to a standard 5.1 setup, with two additional surround sound speakers at the back and one more in the back.

What Is Upconverting In An AV Receiver?

You connect the player to the receiver with one type of connection and expect that the receiver will output the video using another type.
You might, for example, connect an analog DVD player to the receiver and ask it to transmit this via HDMI.
Only the most expensive receivers are capable of upconverting different video inputs to HDMI output. You will need to transmit the component video signal through a component attached to the receiver if the receiver is unable to upconvert.

Which A/V Receivers Are Better For Music Or Movies?

No. Music can reveal more about sound quality and character than movies soundtracks. Those who listen to music may prefer one brand over another.

Is An A/V Receiver Good For Gaming?

You might find it possible, particularly if surround sound is important for immersive gaming. Before you purchase, make sure it supports the most recent standards, such as Dolby Atmos (one of the newer HDMI standards), and HDR compatibility. You can also find features like Auto Low Latency Mode and Variable Refresh rate support on the Denon AVRX4700H. While an A/V receiver doesn't need to be used for gaming, it is a great addition if surround sound is important.

What Is The Difference Between A Stereo Receiver And A Surround Sound Receiver?

Stereo receivers have two channels, and can be used to play stereo audio. Surround sound receivers have five channels or more and can connect to surround sound speakers.
To get surround sound, most people desire surround sound speakers. Stereo amplifiers can be used to enhance the sound quality in your home.

What Is The Difference Between An AV Receiver And An Amplifier?

An integrated amplifier that includes a preamplifier as well as a power amp in one box is called an AV receiver. It is also known as a receiver. It could be called an amplifier.
A receiver can be described as an integrated amplifier and a tuner that receives AM/FM radio signal. Technically speaking, an AV amplifier should not be used if it doesn't include a tuner. An AV receiver can be used, but it is still a common term.

It's time to start buying when you've determined the best types of best multi zone av receivers and the characteristics you want. It's important to remember that you needn't rush out to a certain store or browse internet discounts just soon. You may quickly discover your pal thanks technological advancements, particularly the proliferation of selling sites.

Try to keep an eye on our site's regular to guarantee the latest deals best multi zone av receivers passes our standards. As a result, you'll be able to close the gap with them. Could you kindly provide us with feedback so that we can satisfy you guys, our customers? Wish you a great shopping experience!


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.