The 10 Good Av Receiver Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver

It’s got a 5.1 channel powerful surround sound, and the 4K Ultra HD compatibility lets you watch your favorite movies in the best possible picture quality. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Denon AVR-S750H Receiver

The Denon AVR-S750H is designed to be the heart of a whole-home entertainment system, delivering superior sound and video quality without complexity. Read Review

3. Best Sound Quality: Sony STRDH190 2-ch Home Receiver

Sony's STRDH190 is a 2-channel home stereo receiver with Bluetooth. Thanks to its FM/AM tuner, you can listen to the latest news and music from your favorite broadcasts. Read Review

4. Best Powerful: Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel

Go ahead and crank up the volume on your favourite movie or music track as this receiver delivers clarity, contrast and color without distortion. Read Review

Today, Good AV receivers are the beating heart of any home theater. They take all forms of input – SD, RGB, HDMI, and more – and combine them into one sleek box you can hide in a cabinet or stand out on your bookshelf. Most importantly, they offer a suite of features that will enhance the experience of watching TV or movies in your living room.

You can count on our team of experts who have spent hours conducting surveys through real customer reviews. Because of this, we came to the conclusion that the best-reviewed product is YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver. And Denon AVR-S750H Receiver is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.7
YAMAHA
  • 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)
  • 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)
  • 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
  • 5.1 channel powerful surround sound
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
TOP Choice #3 Sony STRDH190 2-ch Home Receiver
Our Score:
9.4
Sony
  • Built in Bluetooth lets you wirelessly stream your favorite music service, podcasts, and more from other Bluetooth devices.
  • FM Radio with 30 station presets;
  • Low profile design (5 ¼ Inch tall) fits easily into conventional AV cabinet
  • Phono input, 4 stereo RCA audio inputs, 3.5 millimeter input, stereo RCA output
  • Amplify and enjoy your home audio experience in the comfort of your home
  • Connect up to 4 speakers; A/B switching to play all at once, or in separate zones
  • In the box: Remote (RMT-AA400U), batteries, FM antenna
  • Full size (1/4 inch) headphone jack
  • 100 watts x 2 (8 ohms, 1 Kilo Hertz). Speaker impedance - 6–16 ohms
  • EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2 or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS like Denon Home series, without any extra hardware. Get Hi-Fi audio around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn and more
  • AWARD-WINNING ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT provides simple, clear instructions to connect your TV and Audyssey MultEQ XT32 (with 2 preset options) accurately calibrates all speakers in your home setup and tunes the AVR for an optimal listening experience
  • Enjoy high quality 3D audio and video knowing that AVR-X3700H IS 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier capable of 11.2 channel processing allows to build your choice of speaker configuration to meet your exclusive entertainment needs
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz pass-through
  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER AND TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND – USB, 10 HDMI ports (7 In/ 3 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input and Network support with a range of wireless connections
  • ENJOY THE MOST ADVANCED VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+. This 9.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast and color, and Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • NEXT GEN GAMING – Enjoy a smooth, lag-free gaming experience with spectacular imaging, reduced lag and frame tearing with 4K/120Hz pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • In the box: Receivers include a calibration microphone, FM wire antenna, remote control, batteries
  • Multi Function System: Enjoy a Multi Channel Stereo Setup, FM Radio Tuner and 1/4 Inches Headphone Jack
  • Dynamic Setup: 4 Stereo Rca Audio Inputs and 2 Digital Audio Outputs (1 Optical and 1 Coaxial)
  • Smart Connectivity: Stream music and use Bluetooth Standby turn on the receiver from your phone
  • NOTE: Scroll down the catalog to find installation Manual and User Guide for trouble shooting steps.
  • Virtual Front Surround: S Force PRO delivers virtual surround sound with only a 2 speaker setup
  • Cinematic Sound at Home: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home
  • NEXT GEN GAMING - Enjoy a smooth, lag-free gaming experience with spectacular imaging, reduced lag & frame tearing with 4K/120Hz* pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
  • AWARD-WINNING ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT provides simple, clear instructions to connect your TV, & Audyssey MultEQ XT (with 2 preset options) that accurately calibrates all speakers in your home setup & tunes the AVR for an optimal listening experience
  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER & TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND - USB, 8 HDMI ports (6 In/ 2 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input & Network support with a range of wireless connections
  • *Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR 4K TV - Enjoy the highest quality 3D audio and video knowing that the AVR-S960H is 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier meets the most demanding entertainment needs with the latest technology available
  • EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2 or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS like the Denon Home series, without any extra hardware. Get Hi-Fi audio around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn & more
  • ENJOY THE MOST ADVANCED VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+. This 7.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast & color, & Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization & DTS Virtual:X and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz* pass-through
  • 155 watts per Channel
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, hlg, Dolby vision, BT.2020)
  • Accueq with subwoofer EQ and accureflex
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS: x playback
  • Dolby Atmos height virtualizer* and DTS virtual: x
8 Onkyo TX-SR494 AV Receiver
Our Score:
8.4
Onkyo
  • 5.2.2-ch Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback
  • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer* and DTS Virtual:X
  • AccuEQ with subwoofer EQ and AccuReflex
  • 160 watts per channel
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, BT.2020)
  • MULTI-DIMENSIONAL AUDIO WITH HEIGHTENED REALISM – Supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS:X & DTS Virtual:X that delivers a premium, life-like cinematic experience in a 2.1, 5.1 or 7.1 speaker set up, even without in-ceiling speakers
  • THE MOST MUSICAL SOUND – Extensively tuned by Marantz sound masters at the most state-of-the-art facilities to deliver an exquisite sonic signature. No component leaves the hands of the Marantz sound masters until it passes rigorous testing
  • STREAM MUSIC FROM YOUR FAVORITE SOURCES – Spotify, TuneIn, Deezer, Tidal, Netflix, Amazon Prime & others via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, or HEOS app across one room, or multiple rooms with built-in WIRELESS HEOS MULTI-ROOM AUDIO TECHNOLOGY
  • ADVANCED 8K HDMI CONNECTIVITY – 6 HDMI In / 2 Out (HDCP 2.3 compliant), dedicated 8K input, USB port, phono & Aux inputs, with analog & digital inputs for audio sources like DVD & Blu-ray player, subwoofer & speakers for a cohesive surround sound system
  • SUPERIOR LAG-FREE GAMING with 4K/120Hz* pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which reduces or eliminates lag and frame tearing for a smoother, lag-free gaming experience
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • ELEVATED HOME CINEMA – Enjoy all your entertainment in the highest quality formatting. Screen movies in 8K with 8K/60Hz pass-through or upscaling with HDMI technologies like Dynamic HDR and Quick Media Switching (QMS) to eliminate video delay
  • BUILT-IN DUAL SPEAKER PRESET MEMORY – In addition to the Audyssey MultEQ XT32, SR6015 lets you customize your listening experience by storing two Audyssey settings for your preferred content type or mood, so you can switch between them on the fly
  • SUPPORTS ALL YOUR FAVORITE VOICE ASSISTANTS – Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri or any Smart Home Automation system – use your voice to play, pause and stop music, and adjust volumes, as well as to control the thermostat, lights, and home appliances
  • UPGRADED 7.2 CHANNEL DISCRETE HIGH-CURRENT POWER AMPLIFIERS ON ALL CHANNELS – Refine your home theater experience with the new Marantz SR5015 stereo receiver (100 W x 7) with ADVANCED 8K HDMI UPSCALLING for extraordinary visuals and superb sound quality
  • ENJOY THE MOST ADVANCED VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+. This 7.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast & color, & Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • AWARD-WINNING ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT provides simple, clear instructions to connect your TV, & Audyssey MultEQ XT (with 2 preset options) that accurately calibrates all speakers in your home setup & tunes the AVR for an optimal listening experience
  • FULL VOICE CONTROL COMPATIBILITY WITH ALEXA, and other major voice agents like Siri, so you can adjust the volume, change tracks & switch inputs absolutely hands-free. Seamlessly integrates with popular home automation systems for remote monitoring
  • GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR 4K TV – Enjoy the highest quality 3D audio and video knowing that the AVR-X2700H is 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier meets the most demanding entertainment needs with the latest technology available
  • NEXT GEN GAMING – Enjoy a smooth, lag-free gaming experience with spectacular imaging, reduced lag & frame tearing with 4K/120Hz pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz pass-through
  • EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2 or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS like the Denon Home series, without any extra hardware. Get Hi-Fi audio around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn & more
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER & TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND – USB, 8 HDMI ports (6 In/ 2 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input & Network support with a range of wireless connections
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What Are the Most Critical Aspects of good av receiver That You Should Concentrate on?

You must know the good av receiver to make a substantial purchase. There's a slew of additional issues which have to be looked at and assessed. Each commodity has its own set of difficulties. As a result, you can rely on us to give you comprehensive counsel and support.

You might quickly become overwhelmed in your quest for the good av receiver because there are so many models and features. Avoid being suffocated by an expensive item that only serves to take up room in your cupboard by following our advice.

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.

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.

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%.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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2 ratings

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.