The Best Multiroom Receiver For 2024

Tim Powers By, Tim Powers
Updated
Denon S650H AV Receiver, 5.2 Channel
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Denon S650H AV Receiver, 5.2 Channel

The Denon S650H AV Receiver is the perfect solution for your home theater needs. The receiver also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, delivering immersive sound that matches the onscreen action. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio Smart Audio

The TX-NR696 is a harmonious blend of technology and tradition. It adapts to entertainment and finds the emotion in all sound sources, including 3D film scores and vinyl records. Read Review

3. Best Performance: Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel AV Receiver

Create a home theater with the Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel system for added convenience. Furthermore, with a clean, clutter-free setup, you get stunningly realistic sound. Read Review

4. Best Versatile: Denon AVR-S540BT Receiver

You can play eight different music sources from your Bluetooth-enabled device and also create an integrated multi-room audio system using Denon HEOS LINK. Wireless music streaming via Spotify, TIDAL and Pandora. Read Review

It’s easy to think of multiroom audio as a luxury feature, something for wealthy home owners with more money than sense. But the ability to hear music in any room you like is actually a game-changing convenience. It means you can listen to music anywhere you choose, rather than being stuck in one room because that’s the only place with speakers. Whether it’s kids listening to their own music in their bedrooms or adults chilling out in the spa with wireless headphones, being able to move your audio around the house with you makes life so much easier.

A quality multiroom speaker system is a great way to get started with this kind of setup. They make it simple and affordable to have multiple speakers dotted around your house playing different songs at the same time. This article covers everything you need know about buying the best  multiroom receiver for your home.

We think Denon S650H AV Receiver, 5.2 Channel is the best of the best among the top models. If you were dissatisfied with the preceding item, you have the option of selecting Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio Smart Audio as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Denon S650H AV Receiver, 5.2 Channel
Our Score:
9.8
Denon
  • AWARD-WINNING ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT walks you through clear simple instructions to connect your TV, specific EQ settings & helps you optimize your surround sound. Denon's legacy & Japanese precision technology makes it a must-have for your home
  • 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 & more
  • MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR NEW 4K ULTRA HD TV – Featuring HLG, HDR10, BT.2020, Wide Color Gamut & 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, the AVR-S650H delivers exceptional brightness, contrast & color, thus enriching your movie and gaming experience
  • 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
  • NEW FEATURES – In additional to the standard specifications, this advanced 5.2 channel stereo receiver features eARC - THE HIGHEST QUALITY SOUND FROM YOUR TV and the LATEST REVISION TO HIGH-BANDWIDTH DIGITAL CONTENT PROTECTION with HDCP 2.3
  • The BACK-PANEL CONNECTIONS ARE EASILY UNDERSTOOD and horizontally arranged in a color-coded scheme that lets you organize and connect speaker wires painlessly
  • 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
TOP Choice #2 Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio Smart Audio
Our Score:
9.7
Onkyo
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
TOP Choice #3 Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.5
Yamaha Audio
  • Music cast multi-room: Wirelessly expand your Audio to other rooms over time
  • Spotify, Apple Music via airplay 2, Pandora, Sirius internet radio, Tidal, Deezer, Napster, Qobuz and more
  • Voice control using your Alexa device like echo or echo dot
  • 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
  • 4K Ultra HD, HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log-gamma and BT.2020 HDMI (5-in/2-out) with HDCP 2.3 and eARC
  • 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
  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, airplay 2, Spotify connect and music cast multi-room
4 Denon AVR-S540BT Receiver
Our Score:
9.3
Denon
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
5 Marantz NR1200 AV Receiver (2019 Model)
Our Score:
9.2
Marantz
  • MULTI-ROOM AUDIO TECHNOLOGY WITH HEOS BUILT-IN – 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
  • POWER TO SUIT YOUR AUDIO PREFERENCES – The high-current discrete power amplifier with separate L/R Power Amp circuit and power transformer. With 75W of power per channel, enjoy your high-resolution musical collection with refined Marantz sound
  • THE MOST MUSICAL SOUND – Extensively tuned by Marantz sound masters at the most state-of-the-art facilities to deliver an exquisite sonic signature. Envelope yourself with the most musical sound, from any source. Compatible with Remote APP for Smart Phones-Marantz 2016 AVR Remote
  • A MODERN, SLIM STEREO RECEIVER – Indulge in high-resolution sonic perfection with the Marantz NR1200 network receiver - the consummate choice for Hi-Fi experience. It delivers superior audio quality and higher power to your choice of loudspeakers
  • HANDS-FREE OPERATIONS – Command your favorite voice control agent – Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri - to STREAM UNLIMITED MUSIC using popular services like Spotify, TuneIn, Netflix and more via Built-in HEOS, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 or Wi-Fi
  • FULL COMPATIBILITY WITH LATEST HDMI CONNECTIVITY – 60Hz video, 4:4:4 pure color sub-sampling, BT.2020, HDR10, HLG, ARC & 3D delivers an IMPACTFUL HOME THEATER EXPERIENCE on your 4K Ultra HD TV with EXCEPTIONAL PICTURE QUALITY & A THRILLING SURROUND SOUND
  • EASY-TO-UNDERSTAND & USER-FRIENDLY SETUP ASSISTANT comes with a GRAPHICAL ON-SCREEN DIRECTIONS that guides you through the step-by-step process and connects all your audio sources to the stereo amplifier receiver
  • Dynamic Setup: 4 Stereo Rca Audio Inputs and 2 Digital Audio Outputs (1 Optical and 1 Coaxial)
  • Virtual Front Surround: S Force PRO delivers virtual surround sound with only a 2 speaker setup
  • Multi Function System: Enjoy a Multi Channel Stereo Setup, FM Radio Tuner and 1/4 Inches Headphone Jack
  • Cinematic Sound at Home: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home
  • In the box: Receivers include a calibration microphone, FM wire antenna, remote control, batteries
  • NOTE: Scroll down the catalog to find installation Manual and User Guide for trouble shooting steps.
  • Smart Connectivity: Stream music and use Bluetooth Standby turn on the receiver from your phone
  • 【Stream Your Audio Wirelessly】:Add wireless/network streaming capability to your current speakers, home amplifiers ,home stereo or receiver. Add A50 Amplifier to your current home stereo system and Wifi network then stream your favorite audio without any compression over wifi and Airplay.
  • 【POWERFUL HQ SOUND】: A50 class d digital amplifier is capable of delivering 50W per channel at 24V with 4 ohms and 35W at 24V with 8 ohms. It is paired with an internal DAC that supports up to 24bit/192kHz decoding to provide high quality sound quality to your speakers.
  • 【Application & Multiroom Control】: Advanced circuit design with built-in speaker protection circuitry, best suited for your home bookshelf/celiing/desktop/speakers; recommended for home TV audio, computer audio system games, tower speakers and garden speakers. Enables multiroom and multizone streaming through multiple devices connected on the same network and control with your phone.You can enjoy high quality music everywhere!
  • 【Easily Control Via App & Web】:Choose your music source and control playback, set EQ, control multiroom/independent playback, select preset content, control alarm clock, WiFi settings, update firmware and more... All the useful features you need in our free 4STREAM App for iOS & Android.What's more, you can Control each unit directly via web browser. Just enter the device IP in the browser.
  • 【Multiple Music Sources & Protocols】: Supports Spotify, Tune in, iHeartRadio, XIMALAYA, QQ Music, TIDAL, Napaster, Qobuz, QQFM, Deezer etc. And airplay1, Qplay, DLNA, UPnP protocols. Also Other audio sources for local music, USB flash drive, NAS and line inputs.
  • 【Multiple Music Sources & Protocols】: Supports Spotify, Tune in, iHeartRadio, XIMALAYA, QQ Music, TIDAL, Napaster, Qobuz, QQFM, Deezer etc. And airplay1, Qplay, DLNA, UPnP protocols. Also Other audio sources for local music, USB flash drive, NAS and line inputs.
  • 【Application】: Advanced circuit design with built-in speaker protection circuitry, best suited for your home bookshelf/ceiling/desktop/speakers; recommended for home TV audio, computer audio system games, tower speakers and garden speakers.You can enjoy high quality music everywhere!
  • 【Easily Control Via App & Web】:Choose your music source and control playback, set EQ, control multiroom/independent playback, select preset content, control alarm clock, WiFi settings, update firmware and more... All the useful features you need in our free 4STREAM App for iOS & Android.What's more, you can Control each unit directly via web browser. Just enter the device IP in the browser.
  • 【WIRELESS STEREO&Multiroom Control】:Add wireless/network streaming capability to your current speakers, home amplifiers ,home stereo or receiver.Set multiple Arylic devices connected on the same network, then you can start to stream your audio by a smart phone or a tablet. Through our 4stream app you can control to play the different audio or same sound simultaneously on each devices.
  • 【STABLE STREAMING AND HIGH SOUND QUALITY】: Supports playback of lossless music files-MP3, APE, FLAC, WAV with Hi-Res audio.When streaming wirelessly, Bluetooth can reach up to 30 meters. With stream music over the network, Wifi can reach anywhere the signal covers. And free iOS and Android app: 4stream
  • Bluetooth 5.0: Ensure the stability of the connection, No pop, no audible noise during the connection and up to 50ft range with low latency, even in broad place, reach 12M.
  • Simple operation: Equipped infrared remote control can remotely control the volume. (Note: cannot control the volume of external equipment, only control the volume of this amplifierbe and cannot select songs in the AUX state)
  • Multifunctional: Unique earphone monitoring function, connect your bluetooth earphone, you can enjoy the charm of music alone.With bass/treble adjustment design help to create HiFi sound quality.
  • Safety and stability: Optimized circuit design delays product life and stability, and can protect matching speakers. Best for bookshelves/computers/desktops/speakers in your home.Drive 4ohm-16ohm speakers (only for passive speakers, not support active speakers.)
  • Small and powerful: 2.0 CH, 200watt. Compact design make it portable like a mini tablet, bur have enough power to amplify the music. Upgraded chip improves the sound quality by 40% compared with the most amps using TPA3116 and 3118 chips on the market, sure HIfi sound quality for you.
  • [Connect Multiple Headphones] With the Audiplex 2403s, you and your family can enjoy an outdoor movie party or a silent concert without disturbing the neighbors; the 2403s wireless kit lets you have multiple headphones connected to one audio source, and even though it only comes with three receivers, it is scalable. You can purchase additional receivers and connect up to 100 of them to the same transmitter.
  • [Independent Volume Control] We all hear differently, and the volume level that works for one person does not always work for another. The Avantree 2403s Wireless Audio System solves this issue by allowing each receiver dongle to adjust the connected headphone/speaker’s volume independently, letting the user personalize his/her volume level without affecting the other users (dongles).
  • [All In-Sync, No Audio Lag] The Audiplex wireless kit uses 2.4Ghz technology (NOT Bluetooth) for broadcasting audio; it reduces the audio lag down to ~ 7ms, significantly less than the 220ms of Standard Bluetooth and the 40ms of aptX Low Latency. You will experience NO lip-sync delay no matter how many receivers you connect, making it your go-to choice for watching movies with family & friends.
  • [ Extended yet Stable Range] The 2.4Ghz wireless technology in the Avantree Audiplex set provides stable & reliable connection of up to 100 ft/30 m indoors and outdoors (tested with 20 receiver dongles). Feel free to move around, the connection will remain, and you won’t miss a thing. However, please note that physical obstacles may negatively affect the actual range..
  • [Universally Compatible] The transmitter dongle of the 2403s can transmit audio from any audio device that outputs audio through an AUX or Optical jack – TV, Projector, Stereo Receiver (via 6.35mm adapter), Blu-ray Player and even some electric musical instruments. The receiver dongles can be used with any audio “receiving” device that supports AUX or Optical, for instance, headphones or speakers.
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best multiroom receiver?

You may know that best multiroom receiver is a kind of product many customers are hesitant to pay for. It is not due to its quality but the fact that there are many factors you must consider. Nevertheless, all your worry is not a problem for us. Our knowledgeable staff will help you with the right decision.

Tech-evaluated and high-rated products are available in our list of eligible items. Here are some indispensable things you shouldn’t ignore:

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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About Tim Powers

Tim Powers

Tim Powers is an audio equipment & home theater gadget reviewer and the editor of TheAudioInsights.com. He has been involved in the home theater hobby since the late 1990s when he purchased his first AV receiver. Tim is also a writer, with articles appearing in various online and print publications.