The Most Powerful Receivers For 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch AV Receiver
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch AV Receiver

This unit features Chromecast, AirPlay, Multi-Room, and Google Home compatibility to offer a simple way to listen to your favorite music. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Denon AVR-X2700HUltra HD 7.2 Channel AV Receiver

This 7.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast, and color and Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay. Read Review

3. Budget Pick: Onkyo TX-8140 Stereo Receiver

With compatibility for universal hi-res formats, this receiver is engineered for ease of use and depth of sound. Read Review

4. Best Audio Quality: Denon AVR-X6700H 8K

This high-power receiver provides 13.2 channels of power and the latest surround sound formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro 3D. Read Review

Do you wish to create a terrific audio system setup for your home? Then a receiver is a must-have. This unit is considered the sound system's hub, transferring a variety of audio formats, sending data, and amplifying all speakers.

Overall, you could say a receiver is the brains and power behind any home theater system, ensuring that your TV shows, movies, games, and music sound vibrant, authentic, and dynamic.

If you're an audiophile and looking for a brilliant receiver to deliver a top-notch audio experience, you have come to the right place. To help our readers, we have come up with a list of the most powerful receivers available. After testing, we picked the Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch AV Receiver to be our winner as it is not too pricey while being capable of delivering an amazing surround sound experience and compatible with most hi-res content.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.7
Sony
  • PHANTOM SURROUND SETTING: Experience 7 channel surround sound with only a 5 channel speaker setup. Chrome cast built in is present
  • DYNAMIC SETUP: 6 in/2 out HDMI flexibility, front USB port and optical digital, analog AV connections
  • 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
  • MULTIFUNCTIONAL SYSTEM: Enjoy a multi channel stereo setup and preset channel FM / AM radio tuner
  • IN THE BOX: Receivers include a calibration microphone, FM wire antenna, remote control, batteries
  • 4K PASS THROUGH: 4K HDR compatible with HDCP 2.2 support for sharper source to screen image quality
  • 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
  • ADVANCED AUDIO: DTS: X object based surrounds sound adapts to your speaker configuration in real time
TOP Choice #2 Denon AVR-X2700HUltra HD 7.2 Channel AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.6
Denon
  • 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
  • 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)
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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-X2700H is 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier meets the most demanding entertainment needs with the latest technology available
  • 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
TOP Choice #3 Onkyo TX-8140 Stereo Receiver
Our Score:
9.5
Onkyo
  • CONTROL ANYWHERE. No need to get up when you're enjoying the music. This receiver supports the Onkyo Remote App with Apple products and Android-powered devices.
  • 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.
  • LISTEN YOUR WAY. This receiver features built-in Pandora, Spotify, Sirius XM, tune in and Slacker so you can listen to your favorite music. Faceplate preset buttons store four FM/AM and internet radio stations-just push one to start listening right away.
  • FEATURES. Dynamic Audio Amplification (DAA) features a custom High-Current Low-Noise Power Transformer, customized capacitors and discrete amp output. Plays compressed, lossless and Hi-Res Audio via local network.
  • HI-RES AUDIO. Engineered for universal hi-res compatibility and ease of use. Enjoy albums on your phone or laptop that have been mastered in high-resolution. Also handles 11.2 MHz DSD, 192/24 PCM and Dolby TrueHD formats for ultimate depth and clarity.
4 Denon AVR-X6700H 8K
Our Score:
9.4
Denon
  • AWARD-WINNING ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT provides simple, clear instructions to connect your TV, & Audyssey MultEQ XT32 (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 AMAZON ALEXA; so you can adjust the volume, change tracks & switch inputs absolutely hands-free; also works with Google Assistant, Apple Siri & integrates with home-automation systems like Josh.ai & Control4 SDPP
  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER & TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND – USB, 11 HDMI ports (8 In/ 3 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input & Network support with a range of wireless connections
  • ENJOY THE MOST ADVANCED VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+; This 11.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast & color, & Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • 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
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Auro-3D, IMAX Enhanced, DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Atmos and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz pass-through
  • 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)
  • Enjoy high quality 3D audio & video knowing that AVR-X6700H IS 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE; This high-power amplifier capable of 13.2 channel processing allows to build your choice of speaker configuration; TO MEET YOUR EXCLUSIVE ENTERTAINMENT NEEDS
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
5 Marantz NR1711 8K Slim 7.2 Channel
Our Score:
9.2
Denon
  • IMMERSIVE SURROUND SOUND WITH HEIGHTENED REALISM - Supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS:X & DTS Virtual:X. Enjoy virtual sound effects without installing in-ceiling or upward firing speakers in a humble 2.1, 5.1 or 7.1 speaker setup
  • EASY-TO-UNDERSTAND & USER-FRIENDLY SETUP ASSISTANT comes with an ADVANCED GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE that guides you through the step-by-step process and connects all your audio sources to the stereo amp
  • A MUSICAL MASTERPIECE CRAFTED TO FIT IN A SLIM 4" TALL PROFILE - This powerful 7-channel discreet amplifier delivers identical power on all 7 channels (50W x 7). AUTO ECO MODE reduces power consumption without compromising on that superb Marantz sound
  • ENJOY MOVIES AND LAG-FREE GAMING WITH THE LATEST CONNECTIVITY - Masterful 8K HDMI upscaling, advanced technologies like HDR10, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, Quick Media Switching (QMS) and ALLM. Upgrade your home theater and gaming experience
  • WHOLE-HOME ENTERTAINMENT BOX - With built-in HEOS Wireless Multi-room Technology, play the same song in every room, or a different one in each room. Connect all your HEOS speakers to the app and get full control everywhere in your home.
  • STREAM MUSIC FROM YOUR FAVORITE SOURCES - Spotify, TuneIn, Deezer, Tidal, Netflix, Amazon Prime & others via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, or HEOS app. Plus, enjoy popular voice command services such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri
  • ENDLESS CONNECTION POSSIBILITIES - Features 6 HDMI In / 1 output for your favorite audio & video sources. Connect a turntable, subwoofer, speakers & a host of other devices like DVD & Blu-ray players, USB and more for comprehensive surround system
6 Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel
Our Score:
9.1
Onkyo
  • 220 W/Ch THX Certified Select DAA system
  • HDMI Sub/Zone 2 Out for media transmission to a second display
  • Works with Hey Google or Alexa
  • 5.2.4-ch/7.2.2-ch Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback
  • Dirac Live Room Correction HDMI 2.1 Ultimate 4K Gaming Experience Imax Enhanced Discrete HDMI Zone 2 Switching 100 Watts per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, THD 0.08 %, 2-channel driven ) Subwoofer 2 Pre Out Bi-directional Bluetooth with aptX HD Built-in music streaming including Spotify and Tidal Works with Sonos Certified Immersive sound from your TV apps Advanced MCACC Roon Tested DTS Play-Fi
  • Premium power performing amplification
  • 8K upscaling is available on all eight HDMI ports.
  • Dolby Atmos Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology
  • ENDLESS CONNECTION OPTIONS - Features 8 HDMI In / 3 Out, 2 Digital, 6 Analog, 2 Coaxial, and 1 Phono Input for connecting various audio sources like CD Players, Blu-Ray, Turntables and more. Features 2 Pre-Outs to connect subwoofers for additional bass
  • POWERFUL 13.2 CH AVR WITH THE LATEST HOME CINEMA TECHNOLOGY - With an advanced power amplifier design, the Denon AVR-X8500HA (150W X 13) delivers immersive 3D audio with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS Virtual:X, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, & Auro-3D
  • ADVANCED HDMI VIDEO SECTION WITH 8K UPSCALING - Features a dedicated 8K input that supports 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz video pass-through. All HDMI inputs support 4:4:4 Pure Color Sub Sampling, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision & HLG for exceptional color and clarity
  • SMOOTH, SOOTHING & CLEAR SOUND - Features Audyssey MultEQ XT32 that dynamically optimizes all speakers to your listening levels, while Audyssey Dynamic EQ & Audyssey LFC provides full-range clarity and impactful bass for an extraordinary audio experience
  • OPTIMUM DIGITAL AUDIO PROCESSING - Denon's proprietary AL32 Processing Technology provides multi-channel, ultra-hi-res digital audio filtering on all audio channels and delivers a natural soundstage with enhanced sound imaging for all your entertainment
  • DENON'S 100-YEAR LEGACY - With Japanese precision technology, Denon brings purity of sound and joy to your lives. Immerse yourself in multi-dimensional, 3D audio and enjoy 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 surround sound for an unmatched home theater & entertainment system
  • UNLIMITED WIRELESS STREAMING - Enjoy the same song in all rooms or a different song in each room with built-in HEOS multi-room streaming. Stream music from popular services like Spotify, Pandora, Amazon Music HD, and more via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2 or Bluetooth
  • 4K60, 4K120, 8K60, HDR10+ and HDMI 2.1
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect
  • HDMI with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (7 in / 3 out)
  • Voice control with Amazon Alexa, Siri (via AirPlay 2) and Google Assistant
  • MusicCast multi-room audio and MusicCast Surround capable with MusicCast 20 or MusicCast 50 wireless surround speakers
  • Surround:AI and AURO-3D
  • 3rd-party control driver-capable, easy IP set-up and remote IP control
  • Pandora, Spotify, Napster, SiriusXM, TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz, Amazon Music HD
  • Dolby Atmos with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS:X with CINEMA DSP HD3
  • Phono input
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What To Know About The most powerful receivers Before Purchasing It

There are numerous factors to consider buying a product. In the section below, we will give you some key points to pay attention to prior to buying a most powerful receivers. Of course, It’s indispensable for buyers to do some research before making a purchase so that they won’t end up with something that can’t meet their expectations.

In this post, with our useful and available tips for shopping, we will make it easier for you to select and make the best decisions when tending to own the most powerful receivers. Here is your area! Give it your attention and make it your assistant.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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%.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Conclusion

Hopefully, our sharing above will take you much closer with your most powerful receivers. The model we suggested for you is equipped with all things you may need. Nevertheless, suppose you have a fancy for another one, we highly recommend Integra DRX-3.4 9.2 Channel Network 8K AV Receiver. To conclude, we wish you a pleasant shopping time. And if there is any problem related to this article that you wonder about, please contact us soon for timely answers. It's our pleasure to serve you!


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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.