The 10 Best Dual Zone Receiver, Tested And Researched
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch AV Receiver
To deliver the ultimate surround sound experience, this unit features Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X. Read Review
2. Runner-Up: Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel AV Receiver
This receiver's built-in MusicCast speakers let you listen to your favorite music around the house, wirelessly and in high quality. Read Review
3. Best Powerful: Denon AVR-X2700HUltra HD 7.2 Channel AV Receiver
This high-power receiver meets the most demanding entertainment needs with the latest technology available. Read Review
4. Best For Chromecast: Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio AV Receiver
With Chromecast, this machine allows you to play, pause, and change volume from any of your Chromecast-enabled apps. Read Review
The dual-zone receiver is a specialized receiver that allows you to listen to two different audio programs at once. This means that, if you want to enjoy your favorite music in the backyard or watch some TV in the basement, you can do so without switching inputs or using separate speakers.
These receivers are capable of creating two different zones for audio, which provide independent volume control and pre-amp outputs for each zone. Moreover, most dual-zone receivers come with an HDMI input and output on both the main zone and secondary zone.
This article will guide you through some of the best dual-zone receivers on the market and help you choose one that fits your needs and budget. Our Sony STR-DN1080 7.2-ch AV Receiver is an incredible model that can offer the most profound cinematic experience for all of your content. If you're a music lover, our Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel AV Receiver supports popular streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and many more.
RELATED: We present top 10 best thx receivers in December 2024 with excellent quality at a reasonable price. Find the best for you here.
Our Top Picks
- 4K PASS THROUGH: 4K HDR compatible with HDCP 2.2 support for sharper source to screen image quality
- SPECS: 1155 Watts, 6 ohm, 1 kilo Hertz, THD 0.9% A/V receiver with 2nd zone and available 3rd zone connectivity
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL SYSTEM: Enjoy a multi channel stereo setup and preset channel FM / AM radio tuner
- ADVANCED AUDIO: DTS: X object based surrounds sound adapts to your speaker configuration in real time
- IN THE BOX: Receivers include a calibration microphone, FM wire antenna, remote control, batteries
- EASY LISTENING: The STRDN1080 has Chromecast and is AirPlay, Multi Room and Google Home compatible
- DYNAMIC SETUP: 6 in/2 out HDMI flexibility, front USB port and optical digital, analog AV connections
- PHANTOM SURROUND SETTING: Experience 7 channel surround sound with only a 5 channel speaker setup. Chrome cast built in is present
- CINEMATIC SOUND AT HOME: Enjoy your favorite TV shows & movies, stream your favorite music and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home
TOP Choice #2
![Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel AV Receiver]()
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplay 2, Spotify connect and music cast multi-room
- Music cast multi-room: Wirelessly expand your Audio to other rooms over time
- 4K Ultra HD, HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log-gamma and BT.2020 HDMI (5-in/2-out) with HDCP 2.3 and eARC
- Music cast surround-capable: Add 2 music cast 20 speakers to provide wireless surround sound for a 5.1-Channel or 5.1; 2-Channel setup
- Voice control using your Alexa device like echo or echo dot
- Unrivaled experiences; Boldly explores entertainment possibilities for an advanced home theater with the latest in video and Audio, including Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, Wireless streaming, dual HDMI outputs and more
- Spotify, Apple Music via airplay 2, Pandora, Sirius internet radio, Tidal, Deezer, Napster, Qobuz and more
TOP Choice #3
![Denon AVR-X2700HUltra HD 7.2 Channel AV Receiver]()
- 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
- 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)
- FULL VOICE CONTROL COMPATIBILITY WITH ALEXA, and other major voice agents like Siri, so you can adjust the volume, change tracks & switch inputs absolutely hands-free. Seamlessly integrates with popular home automation systems for remote monitoring
- Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
- 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
- GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR 4K TV – Enjoy the highest quality 3D audio and video knowing that the AVR-X2700H is 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier meets the most demanding entertainment needs with the latest technology available
- 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
- AWARD-WINNING 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
- DTS ATMOS. Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer provides an immersive listening experience, creating a virtual surround and height effect. Dolby Atmos and DTS formats provide advanced sound mapping so effects move from speaker to speaker. 5.2.2-ch Dolby Atmos.
- THX CERTIFIED SELECT. Take movie night to the next level. THX Certified Select guarantees the same reference volume level of a commercial theater in rooms where the viewing position is about 10–12 feet from the screen. 210 W/Ch THX Certified Select.
- GOOGLE CHROMECAST. Cue, play, and control music playback by voice with your Google Assistant smart speaker. Control playback with Chromecast-enabled apps from your iPhone, iPad, Android phone or tablet, Mac or Windows laptop or Chromebook.
- SMART AVR. This is the heart of your entertainment system. Stream from Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer and TuneIn to share sound as part of a multi-room system. Works with Sonos, Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, DTS Play-Fi and FlareConnect.
- SONOS COMPATIBLE. This Onkyo receiver can join your existing Sonos Home Sound System, or start a new one, by pairing with a Sonos Connect. The AVR ties into the Sonos ecosystem, waking, changing inputs and playing at the desired volume from the Sonos app.
- DOLBY ATMOS. Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer provides an immersive listening experience, creating a virtual surround and height effect without employing additional surround or height speakers. 5.1.2ch Dolby Atmos.
- PERSONAL PRESET. Press the personal preset button on the front panel for three seconds and your current settings such as volume level and listening mode. Up to three presets can be registered and called up from the front panel button or remote control.
- RANGE CONTROL. With this unique mid-range sound control feature, you can make independent volume adjustments to the range including dialogues in films, with the up/down key on the remote control.
- BLUETOOTH COMPATIBLE. Seamlessly connect your phone, tablet or PC and stream to the receiver with Bluetooth Wireless Technology. This smart receiver remembers your device and starts playback whenever it detects an incoming Bluetooth audio stream.
- DTS:X PLAYBACK. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X is the next-generation audio codec from DTS that leverages object-based audio to enable new immersive and interactive audio experiences.
- ENDLESS CONNECTION POSSIBILITIES - Features 6 HDMI In / 1 output for your favorite audio & video sources. Connect a turntable, subwoofer, speakers & a host of other devices like DVD & Blu-ray players, USB and more for comprehensive surround system
- STREAM MUSIC FROM YOUR FAVORITE SOURCES - Spotify, TuneIn, Deezer, Tidal, Netflix, Amazon Prime & others via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, or HEOS app. Plus, enjoy popular voice command services such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri
- ENJOY MOVIES AND LAG-FREE GAMING WITH THE LATEST CONNECTIVITY - Masterful 8K HDMI upscaling, advanced technologies like HDR10, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, Quick Media Switching (QMS) and ALLM. Upgrade your home theater and gaming experience
- A MUSICAL MASTERPIECE CRAFTED TO FIT IN A SLIM 4" TALL PROFILE - This powerful 7-channel discreet amplifier delivers identical power on all 7 channels (50W x 7). AUTO ECO MODE reduces power consumption without compromising on that superb Marantz sound
- EASY-TO-UNDERSTAND & USER-FRIENDLY SETUP ASSISTANT comes with an ADVANCED GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE that guides you through the step-by-step process and connects all your audio sources to the stereo amp
- WHOLE-HOME ENTERTAINMENT BOX - With built-in HEOS Wireless Multi-room Technology, play the same song in every room, or a different one in each room. Connect all your HEOS speakers to the app and get full control everywhere in your home.
- IMMERSIVE SURROUND SOUND WITH HEIGHTENED REALISM - Supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS:X & DTS Virtual:X. Enjoy virtual sound effects without installing in-ceiling or upward firing speakers in a humble 2.1, 5.1 or 7.1 speaker setup
- SMOOTH, SOOTHING, CLEAR SOUND EVERY SINGLE TIME – During setup, the Audyssey Suite – an EQ calibration system – measures & dynamically optimizes all speakers in your home theater for all listening levels. No sudden blasts or muffled dialogues anymore
- EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS. No Command Center or extra hardware required. Get Hi-Fi sound around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn, Deezer and more
- MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR NEW 4K ULTRA HD TV with this 7.2 Ch stereo receiver. Featuring HLG, HDR10, BT.2020, Wide Color Gamut & 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, it DELIVERS EXCEPTIONAL BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST and COLOR enriching your movie and gaming experience
- UNPRECEDENTED REALISM AND NEW FEATURES – eARC and heightened sound effects with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology. Be it the sound of a helicopter or torrential rains, it’ll sound so real, you'll think it's happening right above you
- FULL VOICE CONTROL COMPATIBILITY WITH AMAZON ALEXA lets you sit back and enjoy music without having to reach out for the remote. Adjust the volume, change the track or switch the inputs absolutely hands-free
- AWARD-WINNING ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT walks you through clear simple instructions to connect your TV, specific EQ settings and helps you optimize your surround sound. Denon's legacy and Japanese precision technology makes it a must-have for your home
- All HDMI ports (6 In, 1 out) follow the LATEST REVISION TO HIGH-BANDWIDTH DIGITAL CONTENT PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS (HDCP 2.3) and are backward compatible with the earlier versions. Don't fret if your devices have HDCP 2.2 - they'll work perfectly well
- This unique Yamaha proprietary sound field creation technology was created by combining measured sound field data with digital signal processing
- Enhanced media and gaming features ensure an added level of smooth and seamless motion and transitions for gaming, movies and video.
- 7.1-channel 100 Watt surround sound with Zone 2
- DTS:X immersive audio formatting places sound where it would naturally occur in space, creating life-like, multi-dimensional audio. The included spatial remapping engine of DTS Neural:X offers improved immersion and heightened realism in all your favorite movies
- Feel every dimension in Dolby Atmos. Enjoy a 5.1 surround speaker system and two additional overhead speakers or two Dolby Atmos elevation speakers, delivering dramatic overhead effects for truly enveloping audio.
9
![Onkyo TX-SR393 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver]()
- 155 watts per Channel
- Accueq with subwoofer EQ and accureflex
- Dolby Atmos and DTS: x playback
- Dolby Atmos height virtualizer* and DTS virtual: x
- Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, hlg, Dolby vision, BT.2020)
10
![Pioneer VSX-834 7.2-Channel AV Receiver]()
- Just press the personal preset button on the front panel for three seconds, and your current settings such as volume level and listening mode can be saved. Up to three presets can be registered and easily called up from the front panel button or the remote control.
- The VSX-834 supports pass-through for HDR10, hlg (hybrid log-gamma), and Dolby vision signals. By connecting a compatible source device, you can enjoy these latest video standards on a compatible display. What’s more, All HDMI terminals support 4K (60p/4: 4: 4/24-bit), wide color gamut (BT. 2020), and HDCP 2. 2, so you will have no problem when upgrading to new devices, and can also enjoy premium content such as 4K videos with digital copy protection.
- The VSX-834 is equipped with zone B Audio output terminals for expanding the main zone sound by connecting your wireless headphone Dock. You can listen to the sound playing in the living room via wireless headphones.
- Stream songs from compatible devices with the built-in Bluetooth Wireless Technology (ver. 4. 2 + LE). The VSX-834 features A2DP/AVRCP profiles, with support for SBC/AAC codecs. By pressing the Bluetooth button on the front panel, you can directly start up the BT function, even when the unit is in standby.
- Create the optimum acoustic environment with pioneer’s MCACC (multi-channel acoustic calibration system), developed with the expertise of professional recording studios. With the custom microphone, The system automatically compensates for differences in speaker size, level and distance, and equalizes response.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look For in a best dual zone receiver?
You may think purchasing seems simple, and it sometimes does the opposite! Studying the outcome of best dual zone receiver will take a considerable amount of time. Also, there are multiple sides of best dual zone receiver you need to check. That’s the reason why we’re all ready to assist you with best dual zone receiver issue.
You should pay more attention to the following criteria of best dual zone receiver in 2024:
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.
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.
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%.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
READ NEXT: The 10 Best Av Amp Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
About Dan Simmons
