The Best AV Receivers for Amazing Home Theater Sound 2024

The Yamaha RX-V385BL 5.1 Channel AV Receiver is a standout entry-level choice for enhancing your home theater experience affordably. It packs built-in Bluetooth for wireless music streaming and supports 4K Ultra HD video with HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log-Gamma, ensuring top-notch visual quality. With HDCP 2.2 compatibility, it's future-ready for new content protections.

Audio is no less impressive, thanks to a discrete amplifier design and YPAO automatic room calibration, which adjusts audio settings to suit your space, guaranteeing optimal sound. Yamaha’s exclusive CINEMA DSP technology recreates the acoustics of famous venues worldwide, offering an immersive sound experience. Additionally, its high-performance 384 kHz/32-bit DACs ensure pristine audio from high-resolution sources.

The RX-V385BL also features a convenient Bluetooth output for private listening on Bluetooth headphones or speakers, making it versatile for any listening environment. Simple setup and calibration make this receiver a user-friendly option for those looking to get the most out of their home entertainment system without complexity. With these advanced features wrapped in an affordable package, the Yamaha RX-V385BL is an excellent choice for entry-level home theater aficionados.

At only $278, the STR-DH590from Sony covers all the essentials for building a 5.1 theater setup. The STR-DH590’s five independent channels can easily accommodate five speakers (left, right, center, and two rear), plus two subwoofers. And with multiple inputs, 4K HDR passthrough, and Dolby Vision support, the STR-DH590 has everything you need to enter into theater-level quality surround sound.

As for music, hi-res audio support offers better-than-CD sound, and built-in Bluetooth allows you to easily play all of your favorite songs from your smartphone or tablet.

What else?

• Digital Theater Auto Calibration — a way to make sure the STR-DH590 is perfectly calibrated for whatever room you put it in, by calculating the distance between listening positions and speakers, and adjusting sound pressure levels (and crossover positions) for optimal performance.
• Set up to 30 of your favorite FM stations with quick-access presets.

The Denon AVR-X2800 is ready for the present and the future. This 7.2-channel gem offers 95 watts/channel (8 ohms, two channels driven) with full support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and it can even simulate height channels with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X. And Denon is famous for its discrete amplification that can safely drive low-impedance speakers.

The AVR-X2800's video capabilities are no less impressive. One of the HDMI inputs accepts up to 8K/60 Hz video and passes it through to the HDMI outputs, and the receiver can even upscale lower resolutions to 8K. It also supports all HDR formats, including HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. And the gaming experience is greatly improved with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT).

If you're into wireless streaming, the AVR-X2800 has you covered in spades with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Denon's own HEOS multi-room streaming is joined by Apple AirPlay 2, and the receiver works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making you the master of your audio/video domain.

The Denon AVR-X6800H 11.4 Channel 8K Home Theater Receiver is a top-tier choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts aiming for the zenith of audio-visual performance. With its 140 watts per channel power, this receiver ensures a dynamic and precise entertainment experience, beautifully syncing 3D audio with high-definition video up to 8K. It stands out with its comprehensive support for Dolby Atmos®, DTS:X®, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D, elevating your audio experience to enveloping 3D soundscapes. The inclusion of HEOS® Built-in technology offers the convenience of streaming music wirelessly across rooms, integrating seamlessly with HEOS-enabled speakers for a multi-room audio setup. Its 8K Ultra HD capability across all seven HDMI inputs, coupled with advanced video technologies like HDR10+ and Dolby Vision™, promises unmatched video quality and compatibility. Additionally, the AVR-X6800H's flexibility in configuration and the Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room-correction technology tailor the sound to your unique space, ensuring optimal audio calibration. Manufactured in Japan, this AV receiver reflects Denon's century-long commitment to quality, innovation, and audio performance, making it an exemplary choice for those seeking the best 8K AV receiver on the market.

The newest model in Yamaha's flagship Aventage line is the RX-A2A, a 7.2-channel beauty that offers 100 watts per channel (8 ohms, two channels driven). It can accept and decode Dolby Atmos and DST:X immersive 3D audio signals, and it offers Yamaha's proprietary Cinema DSP 3D soundfield technology for an even more immersive experience. A future firmware update will add Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization as well.

On the video front, the RX-A2A provides 4K/120 and 8K/60 passthrough, and it fully supports Dolby Vision, HLG, HDR10, and HDR10+ (in a future firmware update). Gamers will appreciate Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Quick Media Switching (QMS), the last one coming in a future update.

When it comes to wireless connectivity, the RX-A2A offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi as well as AirPlay 2 and Spotify Connect, and you can stream directly from many different online providers. Yamaha's MusicCast system lets you easily set up a multi-room audio system and add wireless surround speakers. If you're a fan of voice control, you have Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri at your beck and call.

The Marantz Cinema 40 stands as the pinnacle of an all-around AV receiver workhorse, melding high-power performance with a luxurious design suitable for both multi-use rooms and dedicated home theaters. This state-of-the-art device boasts an impressive 9x125 watts of Marantz's legendary amplification and supports a 9.4 channel output, enabling a wide array of speaker layouts. It's equipped with seven HDMI inputs, all compatible with 8K UHD, ensuring the highest resolution video. With HEOS Built-in streaming, it seamlessly integrates into your home audio network, allowing for music to flow in any room. The Cinema 40 also features advanced room correction with Audyssey MultEQ XT32, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro 3D for an immersive listening experience. The device is meticulously tuned by Marantz's Sound Masters to deliver a warm, rich, and detailed sound signature that's instantly recognizable. Furthermore, its high-resolution audio support, compatibility with numerous streaming services, and effortless control via voice assistants or the Marantz AVR Remote app underscore its status as a versatile centerpiece in any home entertainment setup. Whether you're upgrading your home cinema or configuring a new one, the Marantz Cinema 40 promises to elevate your viewing and listening experience, making it a superb choice for those seeking excellence in home entertainment.

The Integra DRX-8.4 11.4 Channel Network Home Theater A/V Receiver stands as the pinnacle of custom integration AV receivers, embodying best-in-class features for the modern audiophile and home theater enthusiast. This powerhouse delivers a robust 150 Watts across 11 amplifier channels, ensuring every detail of sound is captured with precision. At its core, the Integra DRX-8.4 features an all-new symmetric class AB amplifier design and 11.4 channel preouts, including 2 independent sub-outs, to accommodate complex home theater setups. The inclusion of Dirac Live® Room Correction Full Bandwidth, with an optional upgrade for Dirac Live Bass Control, offers unparalleled audio calibration for any room, ensuring optimal sound quality.

High-performance ESS Sabre DACs and XLR connectivity underline its commitment to superior audio performance, while its THX® Certified Select designation guarantees cinema-quality sound. It supports a range of audio formats including Dolby Atmos®, DTS:X®, and IMAX enhanced, with future-proofing via firmware updates for Auro-3D. Its full suite of custom integration software tools, including IP control and web setup, make it an ideal choice for both premium lifestyle consumers and professional installers. With exhaustive testing and a design that integrates seamlessly into smart homes and multi-zone audio systems, the Integra DRX-8.4 is not just an AV receiver; it's a central hub for an immersive, high-fidelity home entertainment ecosystem.

You’ve reached the top of the mountain with the STR-AZ7000. This top-of-the-line receiver has the ability to decode AND power 13 channels of audio AND it does 8K!!!

The AZ7000 also has dedicated analog pre-outs so if you want to upgrade a power amplifier for your front speakers for an even cleaner sound at lower volumes, you have no limits. In fact, you could decide to not use a single amplification channel from the AZ7000 (although I don’t know why you would) you can do that.

The AZ7000 is built to be a showstopper. Sony upgraded the power supplies, heatsinks, new large-capacity power transformers, you know - all the things that take your experience to the next level.

The AZ7000 is the only A/V receiver in the new Sony ES release to have Dual Center capability. What is a dual center? Well, the label doesn’t lie; the AZ7000 has the ability to do a pair of center speakers for when you have a large screen (imagine a 100” flat panel with a center speaker above and below). If you want to read more about the entire Sony ES line, check out Brian's full review here.

Sony also developed a new capacitor for high power by creating a new block capacitor based on their extensive experience with developing sound quality capacitors with a focus on making sure the materials they used were of the highest quality but also created the highest quality sound.

They even went as far as to offset the position of the screw in the feet of the receiver. Sony did this to increase rigidity and improve resonance control. When you’re focusing on something as small as the foot of a receiver to make sure it’s not the entry point for unwanted vibration on “just a A/V receiver” you know that you’ve made the right decision in your purchase. In fact, Sony made all the right decisions for you already. You just get to sit back and enjoy it. That’s even better, right?

Yamaha is often at the top of the list for recommended home theater receivers, and the RX-V6 is no exception. This receiver offers 100 watts per channel (8 ohms, two channels driven), and decodes Dolby Atmos and DTS:X 3D sound (Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization will be added in a future firmware update).

Video-wise, the RX-V6 supports up to 4K/120 and 8K/60 (with a future firmware update) with HDCP 2.3 and eARC. Other advanced video features that especially benefit gamers include Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Quick Media Switching (QMS).

Wireless streaming is fully implemented with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which supports Apple's AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and voice control as well as Yamaha's own MusicCast multi-room audio system. Many streaming services are available, including Pandora, Amazon Music, Sirius XM, Tidal, Deezer, Napster, and more.

Take a look at the front panel of this home theater receiver. All you see is one big knob in the center. One. Yes, it’s the volume control. What could be simpler? The RX-A4A can simplify many other aspects of your home theater setup. Longing for a simpler surround sound speaker setup without wires running across your living room? Use Yamaha MusicCast speakers for your rear pair, and the RX-A4A can connect to them wirelessly. Intimidated by what it might take to get your Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 setup calibrated? Yamaha’s YRAO optimization technology will take care of it for you. Need a home theater you can talk to rather than having to remember where you left the remote? The RX-A4A’s dual-band WiFi and Bluetooth will have you telling Alexa or Google Assistant what you want to watch in no time.

Just because it’s easy to set up doesn’t mean the RX-A4A’s feature set is limited. The only functional differences between it and its larger sibling, the RX-A6A, are that it has 7 processing channels, as opposed to 9, and 110W of output power, compared to 150W on the RX-A6A. Seven HDMI 2.1 inputs that can handle 8k content? Check. AI processing for killer sound effects and music? Check. Full-on Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 support? Check. Gaming mode with no-lag optimization? Check. Reinforced chassis that dampens vibration that can affect video and audio performance? Check. Forward-facing processing technology that can take on the next advances in video and audio technology and future-proof your home theater investment? Check.

This receiver ticks all the boxes on our home theater receiver checklist. It has what you need to set up a full 9.2 Dolby Atmos system. With six HDMI 2.1 inputs, you'll be able to enjoy 8K content from a variety of cutting-edge sources, such as a 4K Blu-ray player or Apple TV. Support for ARC and eARC means you'll be surrounded by uncompressed, full-range audio on every channel. Each channel is supported with enough power that your height and surround channels will sound as stunning as the dialog and music in your front channels.

Thanks to the included DIRAC automatic room EQ calibration system, tailoring your whole range of home theater equipment and optimizing for your specific room is effortless. Analog inputs allow you to add turntables without an extra preamp, and preamp outputs for each channel let you extend your surround sound system with separate amplifiers and surround processors. This means you're covered as your processing systems evolve in the future!

Connectivity is never a problem, as the DRX-3.4 is equipped with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, Chromecast, and DTS Play-Fi. High-quality digital-to-analog converters let you rock out to full bandwidth, high-resolution audio from your own audio files (wired or wirelessly connected), or streaming services such as TIDAL or Amazon Music HD. This receiver is ready to be part of your home network, too! Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa capabilities, as well as output for multi-room audio systems, and — an unusual feature in such an affordable receiver — it works with IP-based automation control systems.

If you’re dreaming of a fairly extensive 3D audio system or a multi-room media system, this is one heck of an impressive candidate to be your AV receiver, at a very reasonable price. With 125 watts per channel (into two channels), the AVR-X4800H has enough power to fill a good-sized home theater with 7 channels, including floor-standing mains and a couple of subs. It’s ready to rock with any video source, with 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz support and compatibility with HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG for extended picture contrast and brightness with compatible TVs and HDR-encoded content. It’s also loaded with gaming-optimized video processing technologies for lag-free game experiences. Able to devote all nine channels to an extensive Dolby Atmos or DTS:X system, and with ultra-high-resolution audio playback and enhanced ARC, the AVR-X4800H has some serious audio delivery flexibility.

Configuring your rig is simple with the included Audyssey speaker calibration and system optimization tools. Alexa and Google Assistant are on-board to help you enjoy your music and video just the way you want, too. Any way you look at it, the AVR-X4800H’s feature set is remarkably comprehensive.

Remember the first rule of home theater? Future-proof your system! At least, that’s what our experts advise our clients. Even at this highly affordable price, the Denon AVR-S970H can help you achieve that, as it’s fully compatible with all current and upcoming content delivery options and formats, as of spring 2021. You’ve probably got the list memorized already, and you’ll find them all on the AVR-S970H’s spec sheet. Full support for ultra-high-definition video and audio, immersive surround systems such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, high-definition music streaming, multi-room speaker systems, smooth game performance, and more — this AV receiver actually delivers.

The sweet spot for this unit is a home setup that covers one or two rooms. Maybe you’re dreaming of a 5.1 Atmos system, with a couple channels dedicated to your bedroom. You might have your sights set on a nice 7.1 surround system in a living room that doesn’t cover two time zones. At 90W per channel with two channels firing, this AV receiver is ideal for the kind of living spaces that most of us spend our time in. That might sound a bit on the modest side, but in reality, you can measure this receiver’s impact by how it’ll enable you to enjoy the coming flood of ultra-high-definition content for the foreseeable future.