The Best Budget 4k Receiver For 2024

William Shatner By, William Shatner
Updated
Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel AV Receiver
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel AV Receiver

The Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 channel AV receiver 2020 model is an excellent choice for your home theater system. Built with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS Virtual:X and crisp picture with advanced video processing, this receiver provides unparalleled sound quality and video experience. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver

The RX-V385 takes everything you love about Yamaha sound and packs it into an AV receiver that’s the perfect combination of power, performance, style and value. The RX-V385 is rated at 100W with 8 ohm speakers. With Bluetooth for wireless connectivity, the RX-V385 offers a diverse range of content options. And with HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.2 (4 in/1 out), you can enjoy 4K Ultra HD video, 3D Read Review

3. Best Performance: Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surround

Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Home Theater System with DVD Player, Blu-Ray Disc Player, and Dolby Digital Plus is the ultimate home theater experience. With a 2-speaker virtual surround sound, this system delivers cinematic sound at home. You will enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows or any other entertainment in true theater like quality. Read Review

4. Best Sound Quality: Denon AVR-S540BT Receiver

The Denon AVR-S540BT receiver delivers exceptional brightness and contrast, and supports HLG, HDR, BT.2020, Wide Color Gamut and 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling for a realistic display and immersive sound. With built-in Bluetooth, you can play music from eight different devices* or create an integrated multi-room audio system with the HEOS LINK*, so you can enjoy your favorite music from Spotify, TIDAL and Pandora*. *Requires Read Review

5. Best Realiable: Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver

The Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver has been built for the most demanding audio enthusiasts to enjoy cinematic sound at home. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X deliver multi-dimensional and object-based surround sound with precision, while 4K HDR pass through with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, and Hybrid Log Gamma gives you greater brightness, clarity and contrast. Read Review

If you’re building a home theater around an affordable 4K TV, assembling the right combination of devices to get the most out of it can be challenging. After all, there aren’t many affordable 4K-ready AV receivers or preamplifiers on the market right now. Even if you can find something that fits your budget, it probably won’t support some essential features like HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) or HDR (High Dynamic Range).

Depending on your other components and media sources, this means you may have to compromise on some important capabilities. Fortunately, though, there are some affordable options for adding a receiver to your setup without breaking the bank. Let’s take a look at some of your best choices for finding the perfect AV receiver for your 4K TV.

After spending 14 hours researching and assessing, our specialists have identified the models that would best meet your needs, particularly Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel AV Receiver and YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver. We've put up a buying guide as well as additional good alternatives to help you find the perfect one.

Our Top Picks

  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER AND TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND – USB, 10 HDMI ports (7 In/ 3 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input and Network support with a range of wireless connections
  • NEXT GEN GAMING – Enjoy a smooth, lag-free gaming experience with spectacular imaging, reduced lag and frame tearing with 4K/120Hz pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
  • ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT provides simple, clear instructions to connect your TV and Audyssey MultEQ XT32 (with 2 preset options) accurately calibrates all speakers in your home setup and tunes the AVR for an optimal listening experience
  • EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2 or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS like Denon Home series, without any extra hardware. Get Hi-Fi audio around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn and more
  • ENJOY THE MOST ADVANCED VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+. This 9.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast and color, and Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz pass-through
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • Enjoy high quality 3D audio and video knowing that AVR-X3700H IS 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier capable of 11.2 channel processing allows to build your choice of speaker configuration to meet your exclusive entertainment needs
TOP Choice #2 YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.7
YAMAHA
  • Bluetooth for wireless connectivity. Rated Output Power (1kHz, 1ch driven) 100W (8 ohms, 0.9% THD); Rated Output Power (20Hz 20kHz, 2ch driven) 70W (8 ohms, 0.09% THD); Maximum Effective Output Power (1kHz, 1ch driven) (Jeita) 145W (6 ohms, 10% THD)
  • 5.1 channel powerful surround sound
  • YPAO auto calibration technology for ideal sound, Exclusive Yamaha Cinema DSP technology supports playback of HD Audio (Dolby TrueHD, DTS HD Master Audio, etc.), providing natural and expansive sound imaging
  • Providing complete compatibility with the latest HDMI standards, this AV receiver delivers transmission of 4K video at 60 frames/second pass through; It also supports HDR (High Dynamic Range) Video including Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log Gamma which provides incredible contrast, smooth tone and rich, bright colors
  • 4K Ultra HD support, HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log gamma and BT.2020
  • HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.2 (4 in/1 out)
TOP Choice #3 Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surround
Our Score:
9.6
Sony
  • Smart Connectivity: Stream music and use Bluetooth Standby turn on the receiver from your phone
  • Cinematic Sound at Home: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home
  • NOTE: Scroll down the catalog to find installation Manual and User Guide for trouble shooting steps.
  • Dynamic Setup: 4 Stereo Rca Audio Inputs and 2 Digital Audio Outputs (1 Optical and 1 Coaxial)
  • Multi Function System: Enjoy a Multi Channel Stereo Setup, FM Radio Tuner and 1/4 Inches Headphone Jack
  • In the box: Receivers include a calibration microphone, FM wire antenna, remote control, batteries
  • Virtual Front Surround: S Force PRO delivers virtual surround sound with only a 2 speaker setup
4 Denon AVR-S540BT Receiver
Our Score:
9.5
Denon
  • FOUR QUICK SELECT BUTTONS ON THE FRONT PANEL help you store your preferred audio settings for television, Blu-Ray, and more, and allows you to switch between them quickly
  • MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR 4K UHD TV – At 140W per channel, the Denon AVR-S540BT receiver delivers exceptional brightness and contrast, and supports HLG, HDR, BT.2020, Wide Color Gamut and 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling for realistic display and immersive sound
  • YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC AT YOUR FINGERTIPS - With built-in Bluetooth, play music from eight different devices, and create an integrated multi-room audio system with Denon HEOS LINK. Allows wireless music streaming from Spotify, TIDAL, Pandora and more
  • OUR EASY ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT walks you through clear simple instructions to connect your TV, specific EQ settings and helps you optimize your surround sound
  • CONVENIENT CONTROL - Connect the AVR with your Smart TV Remote and access all your speaker sources and surround mode selections using just one remote, or download the Denon 500 Series Remote App for iOS and Android and control the AVR through your phone
  • With its 100-year legacy and Japanese precision technology, Denon AV Receiver S540BT DELIVERS MULTI-DIMENSIONAL SURROUND SOUND with 5.2 channel compatibility and SUPPORTS 4K ULTRA HD PICTURE QUALITY, perfect for your home theater and entertainment system
5 Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.4
Sony
  • LOW PROFILE DESIGN: STRDH790 Bluetooth receiver measures 5 1/4" tall to fit into most AV cabinets
  • GET CONNECTED: 4 in/1 out HDMI each and 1 optical / 1 coaxial digital and analog audio connections
  • STUNNING 4K QUALITY: 4K HDR pass through with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, and Hybrid Log Gamma provides greater and clearer color, contrast, and brightness
  • AUTO CALIBRATION: Advanced D.C.A.C. analyzes and adjusts the audio for optimal sound in every room
  • SMARTER CONNECTIVITY: Stream music and use Bluetooth Standby turn on the receiver from your phone
  • PURE DIRECT FUNCTION: Suppresses front panel noise to provide higher-fidelity sound from all inputs
  • IN THE BOX: AV receivers include a calibration microphone, FM antenna, remote control and batteries
  • CINEMATIC SOUND AT HOME: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home
  • BREATHTAKING AUDIO: Dolby Atmos and DTS:X deliver multi-dimensional and object-based surround sound
  • AccuEQ with subwoofer EQ and AccuReflex
  • Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer* and DTS Virtual:X
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, BT.2020)
  • 160 watts per channel
  • 5.2.2-ch Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback
  • ENJOY THE MOST ADVANCED VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+. This 7.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast & color, & Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER & TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND - USB, 8 HDMI ports (6 In/ 2 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input & Network support with a range of wireless connections
  • GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR 4K TV - Enjoy the highest quality 3D audio and video knowing that the AVR-S960H is 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier meets the most demanding entertainment needs with the latest technology available
  • NEXT GEN GAMING - Enjoy a smooth, lag-free gaming experience with spectacular imaging, reduced lag & frame tearing with 4K/120Hz pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
  • ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT provides simple, clear instructions to connect your TV, & Audyssey MultEQ XT (with 2 preset options) that accurately calibrates all speakers in your home setup & tunes the AVR for an optimal listening experience
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz pass-through
  • EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2 or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS like the Denon Home series, without any extra hardware. Get Hi-Fi audio around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn & more
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos with Height Virtualization (via future update) and DTS: X
  • MusicCast multi-room audio and MusicCast Surround capable with MusicCast 20 or MusicCast 50 wireless surround speakers
  • HDMI with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (7 in / 1 out)
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Voice Control and MusicCast multi-room
  • Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant devices or Siri via AirPlay 2
  • 4K/60, 4K/120AB, 8K/60B, HDMI 2.1 (via future update)
  • Dolby Vision, Hybrid-Log Gamma and BT.2020
  • YPAO - R.S.C. and multipoint
  • Pandora, Spotify, Napster, SiriusXM, TIDAL, Deezer, Qobuz, Amazon Music
  • Dolby Atmos height virtualizer* and DTS virtual: x
  • Accueq with subwoofer EQ and accureflex
  • 155 watts per Channel
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS: x playback
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, hlg, Dolby vision, BT.2020)
  • 250 watts Channel
  • 5.2.2-Ch Dolby Atmos and DTS: x playback
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, hlg, Dolby vision, BT.2020)
  • Dolby Atmos height virtualize* and DTS virtual: x
  • Accueq with subwoofer EQ and accureflex
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best budget 4k receiver?

We're sure you've purchased something and afterward regretted it. We are all concerned about the items we purchase. The easiest method to prevent these concerns is to conduct a thorough study before purchasing the best budget 4k receiver.

That is also why we decided to introduce this post in order to provide you with advice on how to avoid buying errors when selecting the best budget 4k receiver.

Power

Power is not simply another term for volume, it's also measured in Watts. This also affects the receiver's ability deliver dynamic and detailed sound. A high-wattage receiver produces better sound quality, regardless of the volume.

Network Connectivity

Some receivers come with both wired or wireless network support. You can either connect them to your router using an Ethernet cable, or Wi-Fi. You can stream media from any device connected to the same network, such as laptops and smartphones. AirPlay will only work with Apple devices. It is not compatible with other AV receivers. If you live in a house where everyone uses Apple devices, make sure that the model supports AirPlay.

Inputs And Outputs

This is because the device has more outputs and inputs than it can handle. A receiver might accept audio signals from a television via the input, and then send them via an out to speakers. There should be enough outputs and inputs for all your equipment. You can also have a few more in case of expansion.

Total Harmonic Distortion

THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) is the measurement of how much distortion the sound produces. THD can be measured as a percentage. It is the amount of deviation from the original signal. THD is a measure of distortion. The higher the THD the more beneficial. THD is a norm in most receiver amplifiers, and it should be below 0.1%.

Calibration

Audio-video beginners will find it difficult to set up an entertainment system in their home.
Automatic speaker calibration is an option on many receivers that makes it easier to calibrate the speakers. The receiver sends test sounds to each speaker and subwoofer, and monitors the sound with a microphone. This allows it to determine the size of the speaker, to measure distance between the speaker and the listener, and to check that the connections are correct. This technology is compatible with surround sound as well as traditional 2-channel home entertainment systems.

Multi-zone Audio Feature

Some models of amplifier-receivers support the ability to use one or more speakers in a different room. Some receivers can support multiple zones while others allow you to play different sources simultaneously in two rooms. One person may enjoy surround sound in their living room while another can listen to music through the speakers connected to the receiver. If you want to enjoy a great audio experience in your bedroom and living room, but don't have the budget to purchase two speakers systems or amplifiers to achieve it, this feature will be a huge help.

Interface

If you don't know how to use your high-tech receiver, it is useless. A well-designed receiver panel that is easy to navigate can make the difference between having high quality sound and picture quality or having your costly system go stale because it's difficult to get on. It's important that you use the receiver display panel to navigate and learn all functions. A graphical interface is the screen that allows users to set up the receiver and operate it. The viewer must display song information and album art when AirPlay is used.

FAQs

Does An AV Receiver Improve Video Quality?

Advanced video processing abilities can be found in some AV receivers that improve image quality. The best performance is only possible with high-end, expensive models.
Even if your receiver is not high-end, modern televisions are equipped with excellent video processing algorithms, which will produce a stunning picture, regardless of source.

What Is Upconverting In An AV Receiver?

You connect the player to the receiver with one type of connection and expect that the receiver will output the video using another type.
You might, for example, connect an analog DVD player to the receiver and ask it to transmit this via HDMI.
Only the most expensive receivers are capable of upconverting different video inputs to HDMI output. You will need to transmit the component video signal through a component attached to the receiver if the receiver is unable to upconvert.

What Is The Difference Between An AV Receiver And An Amplifier?

An integrated amplifier that includes a preamplifier as well as a power amp in one box is called an AV receiver. It is also known as a receiver. It could be called an amplifier.
A receiver can be described as an integrated amplifier and a tuner that receives AM/FM radio signal. Technically speaking, an AV amplifier should not be used if it doesn't include a tuner. An AV receiver can be used, but it is still a common term.

Which A/V Receivers Are Better For Music Or Movies?

No. Music can reveal more about sound quality and character than movies soundtracks. Those who listen to music may prefer one brand over another.

Is An A/V Receiver Good For Gaming?

You might find it possible, particularly if surround sound is important for immersive gaming. Before you purchase, make sure it supports the most recent standards, such as Dolby Atmos (one of the newer HDMI standards), and HDR compatibility. You can also find features like Auto Low Latency Mode and Variable Refresh rate support on the Denon AVRX4700H. While an A/V receiver doesn't need to be used for gaming, it is a great addition if surround sound is important.

What Is The Difference Between A Stereo Receiver And A Surround Sound Receiver?

Stereo receivers have two channels, and can be used to play stereo audio. Surround sound receivers have five channels or more and can connect to surround sound speakers.
To get surround sound, most people desire surround sound speakers. Stereo amplifiers can be used to enhance the sound quality in your home.

What Is The Difference Between 5.2 And 7.2 Receivers?

Five surround sound speakers can be connected to a 5.2 receiver, as well as two subwoofers. For the surround sound speakers, there are five options: front left, front right and center.
Seven channels are available for surround sound speakers, and two subwoofer channels. A 7.2 receiver can handle both. The 7.2 speaker arrangement is identical to a standard 5.1 setup, with two additional surround sound speakers at the back and one more in the back.

Conclusion

Finally, the best budget 4k receiver may be readily used and offers a range of options to meet your needs. When looking for another kind of best budget 4k receiver, which we recommend  Onkyo TX-NR6050+ 7.2 Channel Network Home Theater, all of these characteristics are significant. 

We've combed through all of this data in order to assist you in making the best decision possible. Let us know if there's anything else we can do to help you discover the best budget 4k receiver in the comments section below!


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About William Shatner

William Shatner

William Shatner is a writer and editor who has worked in the audio equipment, computer, and projector industries. He also enjoys repairing and modifying audio equipment, and he has a particular interest in projectors. William is a critical thinker and problem solver, and he takes great pride in his work. He currently serves as the freelance editor of The Audio Insights.