How to choose an AV receiver for home theater?

Pioneer VSX-832

Five-channel semiconductor receiver. Works great with most home theater systems, although it has average power ratings. Equipped with a large number of decoders to improve image quality to 4K quality. Power - 130 W per channel. Low resistance (4–16 Ohms), which is responsible for sound purity. Designed to reproduce sound in a wide range - 10–100000 Hz (like most models in the rating). Low harmonic distortion (0.08%) indicates high sound quality and energy saving. There are many connectors: 2 composite, 4 HDMI, coaxial, optical, 2 linear outputs for a subwoofer, headphones, USB. There is Bluetooth, Wi-Fi. Remote control. Weighs 8.6 kg.

Advantages:

1. Excellent sound quality. Detailed, surround sound.
2. Audio decoders for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
3. Lots of manual settings.
4. Automatically turns on/off when you turn on or off the TV.
5. You can update the software.
6. Stable Wi-Fi connection.

Flaws:

1. Does not support dual zone audio.
2. With automatic settings, the sound quality through the microphone does not really satisfy the needs of buyers (you can achieve optimal sound through manual settings).
3. There is a single case of a remote control failure (the service center will replace it).

The price of Pioneer VSX-832 is 29,990 rubles. An inexpensive model with the functions of more expensive AV receivers. Buyers note high sound quality and ease of settings. The model is worthy and deserves the attention of those who do not want to pay more for additional functionality.

Best 7.2 AV Receivers

Thanks to the additional channels, the 7.2 circuit creates a very realistic and highly detailed sound that will amaze the buyer with its depth and completely immerse him in the atmosphere of the film. Also, if the user needs to get sound that is maximally adapted to the room, then the 7.2 receiver has more options for placing speakers. If we talk not only about audio, but also video quality, then here too the seven-channel receiver will delight the user, since the image it produces is realistic. A 7.2 receiver is suitable for large rooms that are difficult to fill with a lower power circuit. The only thing that may slightly upset the buyer is the price. 7.2 AV receivers are not cheap, but their cost is justified.

YAMAHA RX-V385

The receiver will perfectly cope with its purpose - it will provide high quality audio and video playback. Thanks to Yamaha CINEMA DSP technology, it will be able to recreate the most realistic sound and immerse the user in the world of the film that has been selected for viewing. In addition, the device analyzes the connected audio system and room acoustics, and then adjusts to these parameters to ensure high quality sound. However, some buyers note that they had to independently adjust the receiver’s operating parameters to suit their speaker system. As for the image, the receiver does an excellent job of adapting the image and increasing its resolution to 4K.

pros

• high build quality;
• great sound;
• support for modern standards;
• easy to connect and configure;
• 4K support.

Minuses

• large dimensions;
• Auto-tuning does not provide adequate sound and picture quality.

YAMAHA RX-V385

Onkyo TX-SR373

A multifunctional receiver that will be a real boon for your home theater. It supports not only the most common, but also the latest sound formats, which will have a positive effect on sound quality. It also allows you to connect any equipment using an HDMI cable - this will help get rid of a lot of wires and cables in the room. The receiver has useful additional features that can enhance compressed audio signals and eliminate standing waves for improved sound quality.

pros

• sound detail;
• powerful amplifier;
• easy to set up;
• the ability to connect any equipment;
• high build quality.

Minuses

• bulky;
• background noise in headphones.

Onkyo TX-SR373

Denon AVR-X250BT

This model will provide powerful, detailed sound, the depth of which will pleasantly surprise the buyer, and the receiver’s ability to increase resolution to Full HD and 4K will allow you to enjoy high-quality images. In addition, the device has the latest video section, which also has a positive effect on quality. The receiver is easy and pleasant to set up, so it will not be difficult for the user to adjust the device’s operating parameters to the stereo system. Additional functions, in addition to Bluetooth, include the ability to restore compressed audio signals, a sleep timer, and auto shutdown.

pros

• high build quality;
• great sound
• easy to set up;
• excellent image quality;
• iron front panel.

Minuses

• no USB connector;
• spring terminals for connecting acoustics.

Denon AVR-X250BT

Pioneer VSX-832

Pioneer VSX-832 will make your home theater not only high-quality, but also multifunctional. For example, to play your favorite music, the user will not need to connect a signal source to the device, since the receiver has built-in streaming services Deezer, Tidal and Spotify. Also, thanks to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, the Pioneer VSX-832 will be able to play locally stored music. The device supports 4K format, which will provide high quality video and help you immerse yourself in the events of the film.

pros

• easy setup;
• high-quality sound;
• presence of automatic switching on and off;
• user-friendly interface;
• many modes for selecting sound layouts.

Minuses

• unreliable fastening of wires;
• Only one device can connect via Bluetooth.

Pioneer VSX-832

Denon AVR-X1500H

Seven-channel receiver (7.2) of higher power - 145 W. The receiver connects to most speakers. It features a dual-zone mode: you can connect, for example, a 5.1 AV system in one room, and a 2.1 in another. Supports all the latest formats, there is automatic sound calibration (Audyssey technology). The speakers are configured taking into account the characteristics of the room. Equipped with a large number of connectors, additional HDMI, Phono, and a second subwoofer output.

Advantages:

1. Good sound quality.
2. Auto calibration.
3. You can see which codecs are enabled when playing content.
4. Five HDMI outputs.
5. Modern audio codecs.

Flaws:

1. Some customers find the menu complex and confusing.
2. There are complaints about slow transitions through the menu.
3. There is no stereo mixer for surround.

Denon AVR-X1500H for 30,690 rubles is a good receiver, equipped with modern technologies and codecs, with high-quality sound. In a number of characteristics, the model is superior to the Pioneer VSX-832, but judging by the reviews, there is no need to use all the declared capabilities. It may not be worth paying more for them.

YAMAHA RX-V485

Receiver 5.1 with Cinema DSP 3D processor. The developer has simplified the functionality to the maximum to make an accessible model. But judging by testing data and user reviews, the receiver fully copes with its task. Equipped with the YPAO system for sound calibration taking into account the room configuration. It has a higher power – 165 W. When operating on two channels (80 W each), it provides a minimum level of distortion. It has fewer connectors than the Denon AVR-X1500H - only one subwoofer output, 4 HDMI, but three linear and composite. Weighs less - 7.8 kg.

Advantages:

1. Excellent sound quality.
2. Convenient application for control from a smartphone.
3. Simple settings, clear menu.
4. Compatible with MusicCast 20 and 50 wireless systems.

Flaws:

1. It clicks loudly when turning on/off.
2. Sometimes there may be a slight delay in audio transmission via Bluetooth.
3. You cannot listen to online radio stations from .pls files.

YAMAHA RX-V485 costs 32 thousand rubles. Reliable inexpensive technology. Suitable for users who want to upgrade from standard TV sound at a low price. Buyers are satisfied with the performance of the receiver and recommend it for purchase.

Best 5.1 AV Receivers

5.1 AV receivers have fewer channels, but that doesn't mean they have poor sound quality. The sound will only seem less voluminous and realistic. As for video, it will perfectly cope with the same functions as a seven-channel receiver: it will do scaling, increase the resolution to Full HD or 4K. In terms of video quality, they are almost equivalent; the user will not notice much of a difference. 5.1 AV receivers are suitable for small rooms and halls that do not need to try to fill with sound. The receiver's power is enough to create sufficiently voluminous and realistic acoustics in a small room. One of its advantages is cost. It is much cheaper than 7.2 circuits, but despite this, the audio and video quality remains quite high.

Pioneer VSX-934

This model will provide the buyer with high-quality video that can be upscaled to 4K resolution. The receiver reproduces the most realistic and deep sound - the key to complete immersion in the movie. Another advantage of this device is the ability to listen to online music and Internet radio. The services available to the user are Deezer, Spotify, Amazon Music and Tidal. The receiver is also equipped with DTS Play-Fi technology, which allows you to play music on synchronized devices.

pros

• high sound quality;
• 4K video support;
• user-friendly interface;
• detailed settings;
• network functions.

Minuses

• reduced USB functionality;
• The remote control is slightly overloaded with buttons.

Pioneer VSX-934

Marantz SR5013

The device has systems that allow you to calibrate audio devices to the acoustic parameters of the room, which will improve the sound quality - making it more natural, but at the same time powerful. It also has a connection to Deezer, Spotify and Tidal services, which offer the user the opportunity to enjoy their favorite music without connecting third-party devices to the receiver. Another feature of the device is the presence of a Phono input, used to connect a vinyl record player. As for the image, the device allows you to upscale it up to 4K.

pros

• powerful, high-quality sound;
• does not freeze or slow down;
• high build quality;
• great picture;
• There is 8-point sound calibration.

Minuses

• calibration takes a few minutes;
• softens sounds that are too loud.

Marantz SR5013

Denon AVR-X3500H

This model supports the latest audio file formats, which provides surround sound when watching movies. The buyer will also be pleasantly surprised by the reproduction of old analog and digital sources in ultra-high quality. Thanks to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, the user can easily enjoy access to a wireless network, as well as control the multiroom system using a mobile application.

pros

• detailed powerful sound;
• slight heating during operation;
• availability of a mobile application;
• circuit breakers;
• easy to set up.

Minuses

• no motorized volume control;
• The connectors are made of cheap plastic.

Denon AVR-X3500H

YAMAHA RX-V685

The receiver will provide complete immersion in sound thanks to the CINEMA DSP 3D system, which, to improve quality, analyzes the acoustics of the room and adjusts its parameters to it. Based on data collected around the world, the system reproduces the acoustics of a club or concert hall on home equipment. The user will be pleased with the MusicCast technology, which can be used to play music on speakers and audio systems located in other rooms. Speaking of image quality, it is worth noting that the device has the ability to scale resolution up to 4K, so there will be no problems with detail.

pros

• Excellent value for money and quality;
• presence of an input for connecting a vinyl player;
• Internet radio available;
• high build quality;
• high quality sound.

Minuses

• plastic front panel;
• weak speaker terminals.

YAMAHA RX-V685

Onkyo TX-NR686

Seven-channel receiver with a power of 165 W. Delivers 80 watts per channel for 8 ohm speakers, which is enough for most mid-range speakers. In terms of power consumption in standby mode, it has the minimum parameter among the described competitors. Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats, making the sound deeper and more measured. The difference between the receiver is the huge number of connectors: 6 HDMI, 2 each composite, component and optical, 6 linear, coaxial, Phono, headphone output, two for a subwoofer.

Advantages:

1. Great sound.
2. High power.
3. It's easy to understand the settings.
4. Manual adjustment by channels.
5. Application for smartphone.
6. Remembers modes for different inputs and settings when switching: for example, from music to film it automatically changes the mode.

Flaws:

1. Based on a single response, incorrect operation with ARC was noticed.
2. There is a slight delay when operating from the remote control.
3. There are difficulties connecting via Bluetooth.

The price of Onkyo TX-NR686 is 38,900 rubles. It features a reliable assembly, the front panel is made of aluminum. Despite the claimed high power, some buyers note that it sounds even quieter than the earlier model from this manufacturer. The receiver is worthy of attention. Most buyers are satisfied with the sound quality and functionality.

How to choose the right receiver? Criterias of choice

The operational parameters of the devices depend on performance and the ability to decipher signals from satellites. Some receivers can improve sound and picture quality. For TVs released before 2013, choosing a DTV T2 receiver would be a good option. For modern models, improved functional devices are suitable

If you want great sound, an AV receiver will be a good option. A multi-channel amplifier, even in an entry-level kit, will significantly raise the sound level. Especially if the TV will serve as a device for listening to music.

Choosing a digital or audio signal amplifier can be a difficult task, since each individual model differs in functionality and proprietary technology. It is difficult to understand the parameters of receivers without knowledge. However, most of the functions may not be useful; it is worth paying attention to only a few basic characteristics.

HDMI inputs

HDMI connections provide simultaneous transmission of high-quality audio and video. Modern receivers have this interface; the number of connectors is an important feature of the device. There is no clear answer to how many inputs are needed. If the user has a lot of other equipment, 6-7 connectors will be enough, when using one TV or PC - 2-3. Experts recommend purchasing a receiver that has one more connector than is currently required. In the future, the user may buy a device that will require an additional port.

Of course, a switch can serve as a way out of the situation. However, this will not be a very elegant solution. Considering that the receiver will be in use for 4-5 years, it is worth purchasing a device with spare HDMI interfaces.

AirPlay, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Modern devices have built-in protocols that support wireless connections. Wireless interface support is a useful feature. AirPlay is used to stream and display content from Apple devices to Apple TV or a compatible Smart TV. Streams video recordings. Bluetooth wireless personal area network allows you to download applications to control the receiver. Technologies are convenient if the user’s preferences are related to music or videos that are downloaded to mobile devices.

The two types of wireless communications are similar in many ways, but have a few important differences. Almost every mobile device within a radius of up to 12 m is paired with Bluetooth, but the image and sound quality deteriorates slightly. AirPlay only works with Apple gadgets, but it has decent image and sound quality and does not require connecting the receiver to your home network.

The Wi-Fi module will simplify connecting the amplifier to your home network, and wired pairing via Ethernet will not be needed. This will allow you to control the amplifier from your phone or tablet, update programs, and have access to built-in streaming services. Built-in Wi-Fi also makes AirPlay easy to use.

Image and sound speed

The process of converting information from an encoded form to its original form requires time and hardware resources. Some receivers decode the signal quickly and easily, while others freeze for a few seconds. When choosing a device, you should pay attention to the one that will create the least problems.

As a rule, in high-quality devices within the multiplex, switching to another channel takes up to 3 seconds. At the same time, the sound and image remain stable. If the receiver does not have good speed, braking may occur for 5-6 seconds or more.

Sony STR-DN1080

The 7.2 AV receiver supports all audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, Dolby Pro Logic II and DTS Neo: 6. They provide deep detail and surround. It has high power ratings: 165 W at 6 Ohms and 130 at 8 Ohms. According to these characteristics, the model is suitable for any speakers. The receiver provides almost the same number of outputs with the exception of Phono. Like the Onkyo TX-NR686, it supports 4K.

Advantages:

1. Excellent sound quality.
2. Intuitive settings.
3. Pairing with a smartphone.
4. The picture via HDMI is excellent, the colors are rich and contrasting.

Flaws:

1. There is no HDMI port on the front panel.
2. Some customers notice a squeaking sound during standby mode.
3. Non-Russian menu.

The price of Sony STR-DN1080 is 40 thousand rubles. Users agree that this is an excellent receiver that fully justifies its price. It provides sound even better than in a movie theater. But there are some shortcomings in the software, some of which can be solved by updating the firmware.

Top 6 AV receivers

The best stereo receivers

Receiver Onkyo TX-L20D

A modern digital AV receiver with rich multimedia and network capabilities. The device is made in stereo format and has a power of 1000 watts per channel, so its capabilities are sufficient even for a large room. Connecting to the Internet is possible via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, and the Deezer service and TuneIn network radio are supported - you just need to synchronize the receiver with your account. You can control the device either using the remote control or through a proprietary smartphone application (Bluetooth is used for connection). Finally, the device just looks great.

A powerful and versatile AV receiver will cost you about 55,000 rubles, but it definitely gets its money’s worth.

Price: RUB 54,990

Receiver YAMAHA R-N602

Semiconductor stereo receiver from the famous Japanese audio equipment manufacturer. The capabilities of the device are quite enough to fill a room of 20-25 square meters with first-class sound. At the same time, the R-N602 can do everything that a modern device should be able to do, from working with Internet radio to playing any music formats from flash drives. But the most important thing in any AV receiver is, after all, the sound. And he's just great here.

Among the shortcomings, we can only note that there are problems with the Cyrillic alphabet and not the most successful control panel included (the last minus is offset by the fact that the device can be controlled via a smartphone). In general, at a price of around 45,000 rubles, this is a very interesting purchase.

Price: RUB 43,990

Receiver YAMAHA R-N402

This AV receiver can be called the younger brother of the previous device. The “four hundred and two” differs from the R-N602 in its more affordable price (35,000 rubles versus 45,000), slightly less power, slightly fewer connectors and generally slightly reduced functionality. But in general, the manufacturer did not cut anything particularly important from the model, so the excellent sound, network capabilities, and first-class build quality remained in place. Yamaha is Yamaha.

Yes, you can find fault with the brutal design or Bluetooth outdated revision 2.1. But at such a price and such capabilities, these shortcomings remain just nitpicking.

Price: RUB 33,990

The best multi-channel receivers

AV receiver Marantz NR1608

A very compact AV receiver, which is distinguished by a height of only ten centimeters: the device can be placed even on the lowest shelf. Fortunately, the compact size does not affect the functionality in any way: the NR1608 supports multi-channel 7.2 format audio, the 32-bit DAC-AK-4458 from Asahi Kasei produces clear and richly detailed sound, all possible audio formats are reproduced without problems and surround sound of Dolby Atmos standards is decoded and DTS.

Of course, the desire to fit great capabilities into a small body forced the manufacturer to place the connectors extremely tightly. But with this exception, the receiver priced at 62,000 rubles does not have any serious shortcomings.

Price: ₽ 61,500

AV receiver Sony STR-DN1080

The AV receiver is still quite rare in 7.2 format. It seems to support all current standards for both wired and wireless connections. Including USB, which the next model lacks, and even NFC for quick and easy pairing with a smartphone with one touch. Surround sound is automatically adjusted using the included microphone. Some people, however, do not have enough HDMI on the front panel - but this, honestly, is nothing more than nitpicking.

The price of the device is almost 50,000 rubles. And the STR-DN1080 justifies this price to the last penny.

Price: RUB 50,990

AV receiver Pioneer VSX-832

Semiconductor AV receiver in 5.1 format. With a power of 130 watts per channel, it can easily pump a room of 20-30 square meters. It seems to support all versions of Dolby and DTS standards. It is distinguished by a very pleasant soft sound, which can easily outperform most competitors by ear - especially in the price range of “about 40,000 rubles”.

A full range of network capabilities, integration with a smartphone, an affordable price - you probably won’t find any serious flaws in the VSX-832. The only exception is the inability to play files directly from USB drives, but any modern TV can do this, so it’s completely unnecessary to pay attention to this little detail.

Price: RUB 38,990

Arcam FMJ AVR390

The manufacturer has developed this model for true connoisseurs of realistic sound. This is a solid, high-quality 7.1 receiver with a respectable weight of 15.7 kg. Purity and sound quality are guaranteed by a low harmonic distortion coefficient (0.02%). The indicator is maintained throughout the entire frequency range. The power of the front channels is 80 W, the central and rear channels are 60 W each. Equipped with 7 connectors and 3 HDMI outputs. There are 7 screw terminals for connecting acoustics. Dirac Live technology is used to adapt to the room configuration. It analyzes sound systems itself and creates a profile for each channel.

Advantages:

1. Good sound quality.
2. Automatic setup of multi-channel sound.
3. Supports all audio formats.
4. Very high video quality.
5. Convenient control via the application.

Flaws:

1. No phono stage.
2. The screen is not very informative.

The receiver shows amazing results. It can correct even the most linear acoustics. Suitable for both home cinema and listening to music. It has the best sound tuning system today (Dirac). The only negative for connoisseurs is the lack of a background corrector for vinyl playback.

Denon AVC-X8500H

The 13.2 receiver is equipped with HEOS technology, which provides wireless audio playback. Each amplifier can deliver up to 150 watts of power per channel. The peak power of the front channels reaches 280 W. Sound quality is provided by AKM AK4490EQ chips. Equipped with a large number of connectors. In addition to those available on Arcam FMJ AVR390, there are additional 2 triggers, Phono. It weighs even more - 23.3 kg.

Advantages:

1. Top model for true connoisseurs.
2. Amazing sound with any speaker system.
3. Virtually no distortion.
4. Easy to connect any sources (thanks to a special diagnostic program).
5. Available in black and silver colors.

Flaws:

1. Some experts note a slight excess of high frequencies.
2. No manual adjustment (only automatic).

Denon AVC-X8500H for 265 thousand rubles is the first 13-channel receiver released in 2021. Experts agree that this model is the leader of 2021 in terms of functionality and equipment.