You may have the best home theater experience possible with the aid of the best AV receivers. A specialized AV receiver can receive up to nine distinct channels of sound when paired with a multi-channel speaker set. This allows for the most realistic and immersive experience possible when using the newest surround sound codecs, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS: X.
All of these AV receivers have been tested by our home theater expert in a domestic setting with a big-screen TV, such as one of the finest 75-inch TVs, much as you would experience them in your own house, even though we haven’t reviewed them individually. The Denon AVR-X4800H is the best all around, topping the list due to its superior build quality, compatibility with many audio formats, and calibration system. Despite the price, our reviewer stated that it gave a rich, layered sound that was a thrilling experience with movies.
1.Denon AVR-X4800H
As future-proof as a home theater amplifier available today is the Denon AVR-X4800H. It’s the multimedia center AV enthusiasts have been waiting for, supporting ample 8K and 4K 120Hz playback and working with all the immersive audio formats you’re likely to find in the wild.
The Denon X4800H comes in two versions. The AVR-X4800H has FM tuner for the American market, and the AVC-X4800H UK/EU version, which does not have one. They are identical in every other way.
Regardless of your preference for next-generation gaming or movies, the Denon models support all HDR flavors in addition to VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), QFT (Quick Frame Transport), and ALLM.
The Denon AVR-X4800H boasts a dual layer internal design, excellent craftsmanship, and a high degree of finish. Its striking design has a sizable, easily readable display that takes center stage on the front fascia, positioned between two rotating dials. A headphone jack and USB port on the front are hidden behind a trap door.
The premium design is built in Japan, and the massive offering hits the scales at 29 pounds (about 13.2kg).Two of its three HDMI outputs and all seven of the back HDMI inputs support 8K 60Hz/4K 120Hz, which is useful if you own an Xbox Series X/S or Sony PlayStation 5 console. This gives it a great deal of setup flexibility and can be a strong argument to replace your current AVR.
High Frame Rate Overwatch gameplay is snappy and responsive. The HDMI board of the amplifier has a 40Gbps throughput.
With the triple HDMI output, you may route a supplementary video feed to Zone 2 while simultaneously feeding a projector and display in the main viewing room. Toggling between the three HDMI outputs is a neat feature of the button-filled remote.
Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision are all supported by HDMI. Additionally, there is IMAX Enhanced certification.
The Monitor 1 output has eARC (improved Audio Return Channel), along with seven stereo analogue inputs, a component video input, pre-out for every channel, a phono input for record collectors, and no less than four subwoofer outputs.
Pros
Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, 360 Reality Audio compatible
8K/4K 120Hz HDMI ready
Cons
No front mounted HDMI input
2.Denon AVR-X2700H
In recent years, Denon has dominated the home theater receiver market. Now that Denon has successfully maintained its five-star reputation in the upper and intermediate segments of the market with its 2020 X-Series AVRs, it’s time to discuss the company’s entry-level AVR, the Denon AVR-X2700H.
The single 8K/60Hz HDMI 2.1 input, which can also send over 4K video at 120Hz, is a notable improvement over its predecessor on paper. This opens the door for the future demands of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
It would be incorrect, though, to write off the additions on this year’s model as being only for gamers. Every year, Denon’s developers modify the code controlling its AVR components in order to extract even more sonic class – and 2020 is no different.
In terms of appearance and feel, the Denon AVR-X2700H is similar to its predecessor, the AVR-X2600H. This is a heavy-duty gadget that requires a firm shelf with lots of air space. However, there are a few noteworthy structural modifications. Even though the X2700H claims to support 8K, it only has six HDMI inputs overall instead of eight, and it also does not have the easy access AUX1 that was located on the front face next to the powered USB 2.0 plug (which is still there) or the AUX2 that was located on the back.
There has been no change to the channel setup. Along with outputs for two subwoofers, there are seven power amplifier channels that may be arranged in any way up to 7.2 or 5.2.2 configurations. Each channel is still rated at a stated 150W.
The front “trap door,” which is included on Denon AVRs with higher specifications, is absent, and the number of readily accessible on-device settings is reduced. The hard buttons still work for switching between inputs, tuning the radio, and controlling a second listening zone, but for most setup and playback functions, you’ll need to utilize the fully functional remote.
The remaining five inputs have not been overlooked, even though there is only one HDMI 2.1-certified input. To meet the needs of next-generation content, they are all compatible with the lag-minimizing Quick Frame Transport (QFT), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technologies.
Additionally, they are capable of handling the entire set of HDR standards, which includes Dolby Vision, HLG, HDR10, and HDR10+. If you’re fortunate enough to have a TV and projector in your setup, you may send 4K@120Hz and 8K@60Hz signals to both of them using the 2.1-certified HDMI outputs. Additionally supported is eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel).
Pros
Superb spatial control
Excellent sense of rhythm
Cons
Nothing at this price
3.Onkyo TX-NR7100
Despite taking a few years off from the AV receiver market, Onkyo has made a bold comeback. With its powerful 9-channel home theater receiver and cutting-edge feature set, the Onkyo TX-NR7100 is sure to impress gamers and movie buffs alike.
The TX-NR7100 is a popular model for connecting rapid frame rate or ultra hi-res sources because of its robust connectivity; all 6 HDMI inputs support 8K and 4K 120Hz playback. With the ability to tune it for up to 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 Dolby Atmos loudspeakers, it features amplification of 100W per channel. In addition, there is THX post processing, IMAX Enhanced certification, and DTS:X compatibility. Curious? You ought to be.
I listened to the European and UK amplifier versions for my evaluation. Continue reading to find out how it fared and whether it qualifies as one of the top AV receivers available.The TX-NR7100 AV receiver features a state-of-the-art specification together with the same angular styling and unique huge green display as its predecessors.
Overall, the layout is simple and practical. This variant only has a huge volume dial to the right and a bar of function buttons beneath the main display—there is no pull-down panel. Fortunately, there are front panel connections, such as an HDMI port, headphone jack, and audio mini-jack. At 22.9 pounds (10.4 kg), it is a rather light receiver.
The largest rift with tradition is the supplied compact remote control. It feels a bit of a budget design and doesn’t offer any backlighting of keys, which means you could be fumbling in the dark when trying to access functionality come movie night.
However, connectivity is abundant and will be a major selling point. With six back HDMI inputs and two HDMI outputs (main and second zone) that support HDMI 2.1 4K120 and 8K60, you won’t likely run out of room to connect ultra high-definition or fast frame rate sources anytime soon. This monitor’s primary output has eARC enabled.
Additionally, the HDMI board complies with acronyms that are sure to quicken the pulse of any gamer: VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), and QFT (Quick Frame Transport).
Additional inputs consist of six analog stereo pairs, one component input (appealing to owners of outdated game consoles? ), coaxial and digital optical audio, an MM phono stage input for a turntable, USB, and Ethernet, to support bi-directional Bluetooth aptX and Wi-Fi. A pair of screw-on Wi-Fi/Bluetooth aerials are joined by an FM/AM/DAB radio aerial.
Pros
Dolby Atmos, DTS:X compatible
Full 8K/4K 120Hz HDMI support
Cons
Remote control lack backlit buttons
4.Marantz Cinema 50
With 110W (into 8 Ohms) per channel available, the Marantz Cinema 50 is a nine-channel design that works with almost all home theater sound formats. It may be set up as a 7.1.2 system or as a 5.1.4 system, which means that you and I will have five surround channels, one subwoofer channel, and four Dolby Atmos channels.
While Dolby Atmos is a certainty, it also supports MPEG H and Sony’s 360 Reality Audio standards, and is capable of DTS:X and Auro 3D. Additionally, it has IMAX Enhanced certification, which may be useful when Disney+ begins to stream IMAX audio mixes.
Additionally, this state-of-the-art receiver rejects Marantz’s classic style in favor of a clean, contemporary look.The available connectivity is quite impressive. There are six 4K 120Hz /8K compliant HDMI inputs (labelled Sat, Media Player, Blu-ray, Game, Aux 1 and 2), and three outputs: one for the primary display with eARC/ARC, one for a second monitor output for a projector, and a third for running a video feed to Zone 2.
In addition, there are four digital audio inputs (two each for coaxial and optical), a plethora of analogue connections, and a phono (MM) input stage for connecting a record player or turntable.
Although most people should be satisfied, there is always the option to upgrade later on with a 11.4 bank of preouts that includes a stereo Zone 2 output.Through two screw-on aerials, wireless connectivity is provided for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2. Additionally, there’s built-in HEOS, which makes connecting to compatible HEOS speakers and components and streaming music across the house really simple.
There is a 12v trigger and an RS-232c connector for system builders who would desire some degree of cooperative automation.Even the most ardent movie buffs will concede that configuring a home theater receiver can be a little challenging. Connecting your sources and fine-tuning the system for your listening environment are still necessary after you’ve managed to fit all the physical speakers needed for immersive sound.
Fortunately, this Marantz features an excellent user interface (UI) with lots of informative images and step-by-step instructions to assist lessen the discomfort.
Pros
Cool design
Powerhouse performance
Cons
No front-mounted HDMI input
5.Sony STR-AN1000
The 7.2ch AV receiver STR-AN1000 features 360 Spatial Sound Mapping in addition to native 360 Reality Audio support and Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatibility.
The latter is especially intriguing since it can be used to virtually expand the soundstage when superimposed on native immersive audio codecs like Dolby Atmos, or it may be used to stereo sources to produce a remarkably convincing multichannel illusion.
Along with 4K 120Hz and 8K HDMI passthrough, this new Sony also enables DSD (Direct Stream Digital) native audio playback. However, there are certain limitations, so please read on.
The STR-DN1080 AVR from 2017 is mostly carried over into the design and construction of the Sony TA-AN1000. The front fascia has lightweight input and volume knobs to the right, and a line of tactile buttons below its status panel, which allows quick selection of modes including Music, Movie, two channel/multichannel, and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping.
It’s relatively light for an AVR, at 9.4kg.
Connectivity is inexpensive in this range of prices. Only two of the six HDMI ports are capable of 4k 120Hz and 8k, which is necessary if you’re connecting an Xbox console or Sony PlayStation 5. The remaining six HDMI ports are for audio sources only.
Support for Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) is at least advantageous to gamers. Regarding passing via Auto HDR Tone Mapping and Auto Genre Picture Mode from a PS5 to a compatible Sony Bravia TV, the amplifier is likewise safe. In a similar vein, HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision pass.
Three stereo phono inputs and legacy analog video ports provide further connectivity. There are only two types of digital inputs: one coaxial and one optical.
Apart from Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, it supports Apple Airplay, Google Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and works with Sonos.
Pros
Flexible 360 Spatial Sound Mapping wizardry
Impressive sound
Cons
Only two HDMI inputs support 4K 120Hz
FAQs
How many Watts per channel do I need?
Similar to impedance, manufacturers will advise an amplifier power rating range in the speaker’s specs. It’s a good idea to confirm that this matches the average, or RMS, power output of an AVR. Since it’s a higher (and more impressive) number, this figure is sometimes only mentioned in relation to when only two channels are driven. The important thing to remember here is to make sure that the two numbers are comparable; otherwise, your speakers may be underpowered and unable to produce a loud enough volume or overdriven, which could result in distortion and damage to the 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.