Creating a home theater can be a wonderful experience that completely changes the way you watch movies, play video games or watch reruns of Jeopardy. Adding an AV receiver will be the backbone of any home theater experience as a soundbar can only do so much as far as room-filling sound. Combined with a home theater receiver, you can surround an entire room with speakers and create a movie theater-like experience with today’s modern televisions.
With so many home theater receivers on the market, it’s easy to get lost when you are trying to decide not only what you should spend, but what features you need now or will you need in the future. To help make things easy, I have narrowed down the 7 absolute best home theater receivers you should buy today based on extensive research and hands-on testing.
What is a Home Theater Receiver?
A home theater receiver, also called an AV receiver or surround sound receiver, is the heart of a home theater system. It processes audio and video signals and amplifies them to drive all the speakers and subwoofers in your home theater.
The receiver connects to source components like Blu-ray players, gaming consoles and streaming devices via inputs like HDMI. It then decodes surround sound audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X and outputs the sound to different speakers placed around the room. This creates an immersive, cinematic experience right in your living room.
Along with multi-channel audio, modern receivers also handle video signals. They can upscale lower resolution video to 4K or even 8K, process high dynamic range formats like HDR10 and Dolby Vision for better picture quality, and reduce lag for gaming. Many receivers today also have built-in streaming platforms and smart assistants.
Key Features of Home Theater Receivers
Here are some of the most important features and specifications to consider when choosing an AV receiver:
Audio Channels: This determines the number of speakers the receiver can drive. Most range from 5.1 channels to 7.1 or even 11.1 channels. The first digit is regular surround channels, while the second denotes subwoofer channels.
Amplifier Power: Measured in watts per channel, this determines how loud the receiver can play and drive all connected speakers without distortion. Look for at least 80-100 watts per channel.
4K/8K Video Passthrough: Allows receiver to transmit ultra high resolution signal without compromising quality, for best picture. Also check HDMI 2.1, HDR, Dolby Vision support.
Gaming Features: Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Quick Frame Transport (QFT) reduce lag for smooth gaming.
Wireless Connectivity: Built-in Bluetooth and WiFi allows wireless music streaming from smartphone/tablets and connects to home network.
Multi-room Audio: Stream music to different rooms or zones simultaneously via additional built-in amplifiers.
Voice Control: With Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri integration, operate receiver via voice commands.
Setup and Ease of Use: Intuitive menus, room correction software, companion app for control via smartphone.
The 7 Best AV Receivers
Based on extensive testing and research, here are my picks for the best home theater receivers you can buy today:
1. Yamaha RX-V6A – Best Overall
YAMAHA RX-V6A 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
In a highly competitive category, the Yamaha RX-V6A takes the prize of the best overall home theater receiver. Right away, it grabs attention with its outstanding, room-filling sound that literally transports you inside the movie.
The addition of Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization is a game-changer – it uses your existing speakers to simulate the effect of having in-ceiling speakers, which is truly remarkable for the price. Combined with music streaming, multi-room audio, voice control and 7 channel 95W amplification, the RX-V6A checks all boxes as a future-ready AV receiver.
Key Features:
- 140W per Channel into 8 Ohms
- 7.2 Channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- Dolby Atmos® Height Virtualization
- HDMI eARC, 4K/8K/60Hz pass-through
- Built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2
2. Sony STR-DH590 – Best Budget AV Receiver
Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver
For its very reasonable price, the STR-DH590 delivers a premium home theater experience that puts many expensive models to shame. It fills the room with clear 5.2 channel surround sound and has convenient features like front panel USB input.
The receiver upscales lower resolution video to 4K and handles HDR content beautifully. It also has an FM tuner if you still enjoy good old radio. Lack of WiFi may be a dealbreaker for some, but overall this Sony receiver gives fantastic bang for buck.
Key Features:
- 155W Per Channel @ 6 ohms
- 4 HDMI In / 1 Out
- 4K HDR Video Pass-through
- Easy Initial Setup with Onscreen Guidance
- Bluetooth Connectivity
3. Denon AVR-X2700H – Best Wireless AV Receiver
Denon AVR-X2700H Wireless 8K AV Receiver
The Denon AVR-X2700H is one of the earliest 8K wireless receivers, and a fantastic choice overall with rave reviews from owners. Right away Denon stands out thanks to built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, Apple AirPlay 2, Alexa and HEOS streaming for any smartphone or tablet.
With 7 channels, 105W per channel amplification plus Dolby Atmos/DTS:X support, the sound performance is spectacular. It handles 8K video pass-through smoothly and reduces gaming lag with ALLM/VRR technology. At this price point, the X2700H packs an incredible array of features.
Key Features:
- 105 Watts Per Channel
- 8K 60Hz and 4K 120Hz Video Pass-through
- Built-in WiFi, Bluetooth, Airplay 2
- Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
- Gaming Features ALLM, VRR
4. Marantz NR1711 Slim – Best Compact AV Receiver
Marantz NR1711 8K Slim 7.2 Channel Network AV Receiver
If you have limited cabinet space, the marvelously compact Marantz NR1711 ensures you still get high quality sound without compromising on features.
It packs an impressive array of connectivity and media options including HEOS multi-room streaming into its slim body. The receiver drives up to 7 channels with 50W per channel, decodes object-based audio like Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, and has 8K video passthrough.
For its size and price, the NR1711 gives you elite-class Marantz musicality that instantly elevates movies, games and music. It’s the perfect choice for smaller home theater setups.
Key Features:
- 8K Video Upscaling
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Support
- Apple Airplay 2, Bluetooth, WiFi
- HEOS Multiroom Streaming
- 7 x 50W Amplification
5. Yamaha RX-A2A – Best AV Receiver for Gaming
YAMAHA RX-A2A AVENTAGE 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
Serious gamers need an AV receiver designed for lag-free, immersive gameplay. That’s where the RX-A2A comes in – Yamaha has packed it with every bleeding edge gaming technology like 4K/120Hz passthrough, VRR, ALLM and QFT.
Combined with Atmos and 145W x 7 amplification, gaming is a truly mindblowing experience. It also has Yamaha’s stellar room correction for dialed-in surround sound. With HDMI 2.1 and 8K support, the RX-A2A guarantees an awesome experience today and future-proofs your setup.
Key Features:
- HDMI 2.1, 8K/60fps passthrough
- Gaming Features – VRR, ALLM, QFT
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- 145W x 7 high current amps
- Zone B line-out for extra room
6. Anthem MRX 540 – Best High-End AV Receiver
Anthem MRX 540 5 Channel ARC Genesis AV Receiver
If you want cutting-edge home theater without cutting any corners, my top premium pick is the Anthem MRX 540. The audio and video prowess of this receiver has to be heard and seen to be believed.
With Anthem Room Correction (ARC), it provides reference-level surround sound quality so you feel part of the movie. Stunning 4K HDR visuals, universal playback of high bitrate audio codecs, customizable video processing and smart home control round up this stellar package.
Yes, the price tag is steep. But for well-heeled home theater nuts seeking ultimate performance, the MRX 540 is entirely worth it.
Key Features:
- 140W x 5 Channels into 8 ohms
- Anthem Room Correction (ARC)
- Dolby Atmos, Auro-3D, DTS:X Pro
- 4K HDR and HDMI 2.1
- Customizable video processing
7. NAD T758 V3 – Best Mid-Range AV Receiver
NAD T758 V3 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver
For those seeking superb audio quality without luxury pricing, the NAD T758 V3 is a wonderful choice. Part of NAD’s acclaimed Modular Design Construction series, it delivers exceptional surround sound and music playback.
This receiver punches way above its weight with technology like Dirac Live room correction for bass precision unattainable at this price point. Other praiseworthy traits are preamps for all channels, tamper-proof memory for ARC microphone, and IP control capability.
Simply put, you get high-end AV performance without the fat price tag. For discerning home theater buffs, the T758 V3 is a hidden gem.
Key Features:
- 100W x 7 channels
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- Dirac Live Room Correction
- Modular Design Construction
- Made in 2 Versions – With and Without Amplifiers
How to Choose the Best AV Receiver
Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a home theater receiver:
Room Size: Pick appropriate wattage and number of channels based on room dimensions, seating arrangements etc. A large room needs more power.
Speakers: Match power output to speaker sensitivity ratings. Also see how many speakers receiver can drive to match needs.
Usage: If mostly movies, prioritize Dolby Atmos. For music, see hi-res audio format support. Gamers need latest HDMI and gaming tech.
Budget: Prices range widely from $200 to $3000+. Set range based on features needed vs. willingness to spend.
Connections: Have enough inputs/outputs for all source devices planned. Add some spare ports too.
Upgrades: Invest in modern HDMI 2.1 and 8K capability for future-proofing as new tech arrives.
Carefully weighing your usage, room considerations and budget will help narrow down the ideal home theater receiver for your needs and maximize enjoyment.
Setting Up Your New AV Receiver
Once you’ve brought your shiny new receiver home, here are some tips for setting it up:
1. Placement: Keep receiver accessible while allowing air circulation on all sides. Don‘t cram it into small enclosed cabinets.
2. Connect Speakers: Refer manual and stick to recommended impedances. Run test tones to optimize levels, distances etc.
3. Source Connections: Use premium HDMI cables for best signal transfer. Connect all video/audio sources through receiver.
4. Network Setup: For smart features and multi-room use, connect receiver to home WiFi network using settings menu.
5. Streaming Apps: Download receiver’s remote control app on your phone or tablet to manage streaming music services.
6. Calibration: Run auto speaker calibration and room correction software for balanced, optimized surround sound.
Follow those steps and your snazzy new AV receiver will be up and running in no time, ready to blow your socks off!
FAQs about Home Theater Receivers
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about buying and using AV receivers:
Do you need a receiver for a home theater?
You don’t absolutely need one, but a receiver gives far better sound than basic TV speakers. It lets you setup elaborate surround systems and unlocks latest audio/video formats.
How do you connect a home theater receiver?
Use HDMI cables to plug components like Blu-ray player and gaming console into receiver inputs. Then connect TV via HDMI output. Wire left, right and surround speakers to corresponding receiver outputs.
What AV receiver do I need for Dolby Atmos?
Look for a Dolby Atmos compatible receiver with height/ceiling channels so sound can be bounced off those speakers for immersive object-based sound.
Can I use AV receiver for music?
Yes absolutely! Good receivers like ones above sound incredible with music too. Look for hi-res audio codec support, streaming features and audio-centric room correction.
I hope this guide for picking out the perfect AV receiver for your home theater setup helps steer your buying decision. Let me know if you have any other questions in the comments!
