The Best Network Receiver For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver
The Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver has an enhanced soundstage for the ultimate in surround sound and cinema audio. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X deliver multi-dimensional and object-based surround sound from all sources, including built-in music streaming services. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: YAMAHA R-N303BL Stereo Receiver with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth & Phono
The Yamaha R-N303BL stereo receiver is a hi-fi component with a 3D soundstage that perfectly matches your living room. With Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, it's easy to stream music from any compatible device. Read Review
3. Best Efficient: Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio Smart AV Receiver
Designed to provide the ultimate home theater experience, Pioneer's VSX-534 Home Audio Smart AV Receiver delivers unparalleled audio performance with a new level of intelligence. Built with advanced technologies, this receiver supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback for true 3D surround sound. Read Review
4. Best Quality: Denon DRA-800H 2-Channel Stereo Network Receiver
The Denon DRA-800H is a high-performance 2-channel amp that offers greater stability and a wide range of speakers to deliver stable sound. It features high-resolution audio playback from a USB port on the front panel, or through network sources. Read Review
Having an antenna and cable to watch live TV can be a challenge if you live in an area where signal strength is poor. You are not alone if you feel that way, especially in the city. Many urban areas struggle to maintain a strong television signal. Luckily, there are ways to overcome these challenges and enjoy your favorite shows again.
When it comes to picking the best network receiver, some might think it’s as simple as choosing one with more channels or a better price point. However, there are many other features that should factor into this decision. A good network receiver should have insatiable performance, be adaptable to any location and support most of today’s technologically advanced features. Below is a list of considerations when looking for the best network receiver:
Our team spent about 19 hours researching, sifting, and selecting many high-quality models. Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver is the product that receives the highest award from us. In addition to the other suggestions on this list, which are equally deserving of your consideration, we have also compiled a helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.
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Our Top Picks
- PURE DIRECT FUNCTION: Suppresses front panel noise to provide higher-fidelity sound from all inputs
- 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
- BREATHTAKING AUDIO: Dolby Atmos and DTS:X deliver multi-dimensional and object-based surround sound
- GET CONNECTED: 4 in/1 out HDMI each and 1 optical / 1 coaxial digital and analog audio connections
- CINEMATIC SOUND AT HOME: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home
- LOW PROFILE DESIGN: STRDH790 Bluetooth receiver measures 5 1/4" tall to fit into most AV cabinets
- 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
- IN THE BOX: AV receivers include a calibration microphone, FM antenna, remote control and batteries
- Simple and sophisticated design with two channels of 100 W high-power output. Minimum RMS Output Power: 100W plus 100W (8ohms, 40Hz-20kHz, 0.2 percentage THD)
- Works with Alexa for voice control (Alexa device sold separately)
- Wi-Fi, wireless direct, Bluetooth, airplay, and MusicCast multiform Audio. Network section - DLNA - Version 1.5
- Optical and coaxial Audio inputs for TV. Frequency Response-0 ± 0.5dB / 0 ± 3.0dB. FM Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Mono/Stereo)-65dB / 64dB
- Phono input terminals for turn tables voice control using your Alexa device like echo or echo dot. FM 50dB Quieting Sensitivity (IHF, 1kHz, 100% Mod., Mono) - 3 µV (20.8 dBf). FM Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Mono/Stereo) - 65dB / 64dB
- Access to your music library, Pandora, Spotify, SiriusXM internet radio, Tidal and Deezer. Standby Power Consumption-0.1W (Network standby on / Wi-Fi connection, 1.8W)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- ADVANCED HDMI VIDEO SECTION FOR A STUNNING CINEMATIC EXPERIENCE – Features full 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub sampling, HDR10, HLG, and BT.2020 pass-through. Watch your favorite movies & shows with exceptional color, clarity and contrast.
- ENJOY MULTI-ROOM STREAMING – Built-in HEOS technology allows you to playback music through any popular streaming service such as Pandora, Spotify, Amazon Prime Music and others via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or AirPlay 2 in one room and more simultaneously
- With its 100-year legacy & Japanese precision technology, Denon BRINGS PURITY OF SOUND AND JOY TO YOUR LIVES. Immerse yourself in multi-dimensional audio & sensational surround sound with this amplifier for an unmatched home theater & entertainment system
- EXPERT SOUND ENGINEERING – Denon’s experience in designing award-winning amplifiers and their use of Hi-Fi parts, custom resistors, audio grade capacitors, a double differential DAC circuit and analog preamp circuits deliver a superior sound experience
- HI-RES AUDIO PLAYBACK – Listen to your favorite tracks stored on a memory device via the USB port on the front panel, or through network sources. Also, connect your turntable to the speakers or amp via the integrated phono input and MM equalizer
- HIGH-PERFORMANCE DISCRETE 2-CHANNEL AMP – Feel the power & hear every audio detail with this ultra-stylish & powerful receiver (100W per channel at 8 ohms) that offers greater stability with a wide range of speakers & delivers balanced sound each time.
- VOICE CONTROL COMPATIBILITY WITH ALL MAJOR VOICE AGENTS – Change audio tracks, control volume, switch inputs, and play & pause music with your voice. Just command Alexa, Siri, and other leading voice agents or any smart home automation systems
- Includes Chromecast built-in, DTS Play-Fi, airplay, Spotify, Tidal, tune in, Pandora, and Deezer (requires future firmware update).Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry.Frequency Response:10 Hz-100 kHz (+ 1 dB, -3 dB)(Direct Mode)
- 100 W/Ch. stereo power (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.08%, 2 channels Driven, FTC) deftly drives your favorite bookshelf or small tower speakers with power and precision.
- HDMI Supports 4K/60 Hz, HDR, Dolby vision compatibility, 3D, Audio Return Channel, Deep Color, X.V.Color, lip-sync, DSD, DVD-Audio, super Audio CD (SACD), and CEC.Optimum Gain Volume Circuitry
- Your Onkyo receiver can now be part of your existing Sonos Home Sound System, or the start of a new one. Instantly upgrade the music streaming capability of your home theater receiver with Sonos Connect and a free firmware update
- Unmatched connectivity: 3 line and 1 phono input, 1 coaxial and 2 optical digital, 4 HDMI inputs/1 out, front (for playback) and rear (for power) USB, LAN, IR in/out, Bluetooth (4.1) and Wi-Fi
- Gold-plated speaker a/B outputs, two sub-woofer pre-outs and zone 2 Line-outs accommodate your home's listening setup
- Apple airplay 2. Apple airplay 2 lets you effortlessly stream music or podcasts to speakers throughout your house using any Apple device or by asking Siri, and it all stays in perfect sync.
- Dolby Atmos height virtualization* when playing any Dolby format, engaging the Dolby Atmos height virtualize enables a more immersive listening experience, creating a virtual Surround and height effect from traditional speaker layouts without employing additional surround or height speakers. * function available with future firmware update
- Imax enhanced* the vsx-lx304 is IMAX enhanced, Certified to deliver the powerful sound just as intended by the Filmmaker, and provide the immersive experience on your home theater. * function available with future firmware update
- Dts: x/DTS neural: x mixing DTS: x is the next-generation Audio CODEC from DTS that leverages object-based Audio to enable new immersive and interactive audio experiences. Enjoy a seamless soundscape with 7. 2. 2Ch/5. 2. 4Ch surround system offering maximum excitement. Other Audio Codecs such as PCM and DSD can be upmixed using DTS neural: x for enjoying 3D surround sound.
- Dolby Atmos/Dolby Surround mixing the vsx-lx304 is compatible with 7. 2. 2Ch/5. 2. 4Ch configuration of the latest theater sound platform, Dolby Atmos. You can reproduce object-oriented sound in smooth, curving movements, or the realistic three-dimensional movement overhead by the top speakers. Other Audio Codecs such as PCM and DSD can be upmixed using Dolby Surround for enjoying 3D surround sound.
- Discrete Zone 2 Audio and Video
- 5.2.2-channel Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback
- 8K with HDMI 2.1 40Gbps (3 ins)
- 210 W/Ch THX Certified Select Dynamic Audio Amplification system
- THX Select Certification
- Ready for 8K/4K entertainment
- Immersive Sound from your TV Apps: eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) simplifies connectivity and supports the latest high-bitrate audio formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS-HD Master Audio, DTS: X, Dolby TrueHD.
- Voice Control: Work with your digital assistant in any room with easy Google and Amazon Alexa SMART home ecosystem integrations
- Enhanced Gaming: Own your opponents with HDMI 2.1 enhancements for gamers: 4K/120Hz HDR pass-through enables ultra-fast motion – VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) eliminates lag, stutter, and frame-tearing for fluid gameplay. – ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) optimizes latency from source to screen – QFT (Quick Frame Transport) limits lag for a smoother experience.
- Stream your favorite music: Use Works with Sonos 1, Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, and DTS Play-Fi; includes Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, TIDAL, Deezer, or TuneIn streaming services
- Dirac Live Room Correction HDMI 2.1 Ultimate 4K Gaming Experience Imax Enhanced Discrete HDMI Zone 2 Switching 100 Watts per channel (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, THD 0.08 %, 2-channel driven ) Subwoofer 2 Pre Out Bi-directional Bluetooth with aptX HD Built-in music streaming including Spotify and Tidal Works with Sonos Certified Immersive sound from your TV apps Advanced MCACC Roon Tested DTS Play-Fi
- Chromecast built-in, FireConnect, and DTS Play-Fi Multi-room Audio
- Mm phono, analog, USB, and digital Audio inputs
- Spotify, Tidal, Pandora, tune in, and Deezer via Onkyo controller app
- Your Onkyo receiver can now be part of your existing Sonos Home Sound System, or the start of a new one. Instantly upgrade the music streaming capability of your home theater receiver with Sonos Connect and a free firmware update
- 80 W/Ch stereo power (8 ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.1%, 2 Ch Driven, FTC); 160 W/Ch (6 ohms, 1 kHz, 10%, 2 Ch Driven)
- 5 GHz/2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, airplay, and Bluetooth technology
Which Criteria Do Our Experts Advice To Consider When Purchasing Of best network receiver?
According to our experts, you should understand some sides of the product to get the finest one. Like others, best network receiver of 2024 might include many factors for you to take into account. For that, each among best network receiver will have unique features and challenges as well to consist of.
The focus on the following features of best network receiver is highly recommended, given they have come together with tech-evaluated certification:
Network Connectivity
Power
Total Harmonic Distortion
Calibration
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
Inputs And Outputs
Multi-zone Audio Feature
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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 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 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 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.
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 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.
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.READ NEXT: The 10 Best Tablet 13 Inch Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
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