Top 3 Best AV Receivers For Every Budget

If you’re interested in home cinema, you should know that there’s no better addition to your entertainment system than investing in a set of surround sound speakers driven by a well-paired, top-quality AV receiver.

There are many audio/video receivers on the market from different brands. So, how do you choose the suitable product for the job? No more scratching your head! I have tested dozens of the most popular models on the market to form a list of the best AV receivers.

Your task has been simplified, and all you need to do is read my reviews carefully and choose the one that works best for you.

YAMAHA RX-A6A AVENTAGE 9.2-Channel AV Receiver

Last update on 2024-04-19 | Details

The RX-A6A receiver is one of Yamaha’s best-value AVRs since it has a feature set that closely resembles the RX-A8A yet has fewer amplification channels and changes to internal circuitry.

The A6A can process for eleven channels and amplify nine, but people prefer to put together one 7.2.4 system that can add one stereo amp utilizing line-level outputs for the rear-height speakers or main-left-right pair.

This device supports the immersive format, including Auro-3D, Dolby Atmos, and DTS: X. It also features mixing technology like Neural:X and Dolby Surround. Meanwhile, it has options for users who do not own the speaker for an entire surround system, including Virtual Presence Speakers, Virtual Surround Back Speakers, and  Dolby Atmos height virtualizer. 

The A6A has three output and seven input ports. It also supports gaming features VRR and  ALLM, while QFT and QMS will be added through a firmware upgrade in the future. When it comes to the streaming option, there is the Yamaha MusicCast application, Bluetooth 4.2, AirPlay 2,  Alexa compatibility, Google Assistant for controlling voice, and the DAB+ and FM/AM tuner for decent measure.

This model is generally an impressively versatile and specced receiver. All that tech is supported by precise transients, a well-balanced, spacious soundstage, and crisp dialogue. It is the cleanest, most responsive, dynamic-sounding AV receiver we have tested at its price range.

Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver

Last update on 2024-04-19 | Details

This AV receiver is one of the latest entry-level receivers from Sony, one of the most famous Japanese electronics manufacturers. Although it ostensibly features a 7-channel design, two phantom rears are available to make one pseudo-seven-channel surround soundstage. In addition, this receiver can relocate the physical spot of the speakers to generate a better sound balance. Its build quality is fantastic for the price. It’s not heavyweight, its fascia looks overly fussy, and its hairline finish is a premium touch. 

Its connectivity is decent, with six HDMI inputs. This device also has 2 HDMI outputs for projector and combi TV use. You’ll also get two analog AV inputs, two digital audio inputs, and stereo phonos. The AV receiver connects through Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth with NFC for fast pairing. This AV receiver also boasts its Chromecast Built-in. 

The usability of this model is average. It depends significantly on the UI, which is quite pretty but sometimes frustrating.

Marantz NR1711 8K Slim 7.2 Channel Ultra HD AV Receiver

Last update on 2024-04-19 | Details

The Marantz NR1711 is 3.5 inches in height, approximately half that of a typical AV receiver. Marantz designed it with a competitive feature set for its price tag. Due to its half-sized housing, the amplifier size had to be scaled down, resulting in its output of only 50W for each channel.

If you are a gamer short on space, you will appreciate the “Slimline” form factor of the Marantz NR1711. You will also prefer its 8K support, which works well for the next generation of gaming consoles like the Xbox Series X and PS5. Home theater lovers will also appreciate the NR1711’s impressive list of surround formats, such as Dolby Speaker Virtualizer,  Dolby Atmos, Dolby Surround, and Dolby Digital Plus. 

You can calibrate and set up your system with built-in Dynamic EQ, Dynamic Volume processors, and Audyssey MultiEQ. Additional features include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth support, HEOS, AirPlay 2, and Alexa support.

What Features to Look For in an AV Receiver

Number of Channels

Whether you deal with an entire surround sound setup or a stereo speaker, finding a receiver with enough audio channels to support all of them is essential.

Connectivity

When choosing an AV receiver, HDMI inputs aren’t the only thing you need to consider. Various inputs are essential, but the number of outputs is important, especially if you plan to run a projector and a flatscreen in the same room.

4K Passthrough Is the Minimum

If you prefer to enjoy modern content in the highest definition that is readily available, you will want to invest in an AV receiver that can pass a 4K signal from the streaming device to your display.

If you believe you will adopt 8K content in one day, you can take things a step further and invest in a device that supports 8K video passthrough.

Wi-Fi is a must-have

Receivers, which have WiFi support, can accept software updates. It is key to helping your device stay running as smoothly as it possibly can.

So if you plan to buy a new AV receiver, ensure your chosen model has Wi-Fi.

Power

A receiver that can distribute more watts per channel can usually handle higher volumes more efficiently.

But you should know that power is not everything. Various receivers do not wield a fantastic amount of amplification but still sound incredible paired with the proper speakers.

FAQs

What Is an Av Receiver?

Besides powering your whole home theater system, an Audio/Video (AV) or Home Theater receiver is also the brain of the whole system.

The job of this device is to receive, interpret, and then process the TV audio signal coming into the house. Then send it to its ultimate destination: The speakers and TV.

What Brands Should I Consider?

There are various brands, but my favorites are Denon, Arcam, Yamaha, Marantz, Sony, and NAD. 

Do all A/V receivers support 4K And 8K?

All of the models available now support 4K and also support HDR formats as well. Nowadays, only old models do not support 4K.

But the same does not happen with 8K as it is still a new technology. However, it is still available in some receivers and will become more popular in the future.

Do A/V Receivers Need Ventilation?

Yes. Ventilation is essential to keep a receiver from overheating. 

Is It Okay to Leave an A/V Receiver on All the Time?

While you shouldn’t let it become a habit, it will not do much harm. A/V receivers are now built to go into standby modes and consume as little power as possible.

How Long Does an AV Receiver Last?

The average lifespan of an AV receiver is five years. However, if you choose a quality model and give it the proper care, you can expect your device to last 20 years or more.

Is an Av Receiver Worth It?

A good AV receiver is worth it if you prefer more than just a home stereo system. 

If you want to make a streaming music system, a gaming rig, a home theater, or all of them, the easiest method to accommodate connectivity requirements is investing in a suitable AV receiver.

How Much Should I Spend on the Av Receiver?

Cheaper devices will feature less powerful amplifiers and fewer surround channels, making them ideal for smaller rooms that do not have the space for many speakers and do not need huge reserves of amplifier power to hit acceptable volumes.

If you spend more, you get an AV receiver with more powerful amplifiers, and the cam connects more speakers to get the most out of DTS:X and Dolby Atmos soundtracks.

The Bottom Line

Having a great AV receiver is a fantastic way of experiencing music and movies in your room. But if you are new to the home theater field, you may not know where to start or what you should be looking out for.

Hopefully, my guide will help you find the best AV receiver in this year. Buy a decent one, and it will last many years. Thanks for your time!