The 10 Best Receiver Amplifier, Tested And Researched

Dan Simmons By, Dan Simmons
Updated
Denon AVR-X4700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Denon AVR-X4700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel

The AVR-X4700H allows you to build the most advanced 4K home theater and provides the security of knowing your AV receiver will be 8K ready whenever you need it. For the most demanding entertainment requirements, you can enjoy the best quality 3D audio/video. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Pyle PTA66BT Wireless Home Audio Amplifier System

Improve your home audio system with the Wireless Home Audio Amplifier System. This PA amplifier has a MIC talk over function that temporarily halts the current music or audio being played and is used in paging, PA, voice-overs and announcements. There are also source input mode selector which can be controlled remotely by a remote control. Read Review

3. Best Sound Quality: Marantz NR1510 UHD AV Receiver

This amplifier section features a high-current discrete Power Amplifier Section. Enjoy superior sound quality for movies and music. It has identical power on all five channels. The low-impedance drive capability allows for excellent speaker control. Read Review

4. Best For The Price: Pyle Wireless Bluetooth Stereo Power Amplifier - PDA29BU.5

The Pyle Wireless Bluetooth Stereo Power Amplifier is the ultimate in portability and versatility. It's 5 inputs offer a flexible setup that allows for any sound source to be amplified and played wirelessly on your speakers. Read Review

When signal strength is weak, signals may be too weak for your receiver to decode. This causes signal distortion and video skipping, pixelation, or freezing. You can avoid this problem by using a receiver amplifier. A receiver amplifier boosts the signal from your antenna and sends stronger signals to your TV. It also helps reduce interference from other devices in your home that uses the same frequency range as your outdoor antenna.

A quality outdoor digital antenna should come with a receiver amp included, but if you have an older model that doesn’t, you can purchase and install one separately. Keep reading to learn more about selecting the best receiver amplifier for your needs, as well as our top recommendations.

You are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the Denon AVR-X4700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel as our top product. Or you can check the Pyle PTA66BT Wireless Home Audio Amplifier System as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Denon AVR-X4700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel
Our Score:
9.8
Denon
  • Enjoy high quality 3D audio & video knowing that AVR-X4700H 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
  • AWARD-WINNING 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
  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER & TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND – USB, 11 HDMI ports (8 In/ 3 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input and Network support with a range of wireless connections
  • 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 & color, and Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • 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)
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Auro-3D, IMAX Enhanced, DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Atmos and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz pass-through
TOP Choice #2 Pyle PTA66BT Wireless Home Audio Amplifier System
Our Score:
9.6
Pyle
  • BLUETOOTH COMPATIBLE: The professional integrated indoor stereo receiver is compatible with wireless bluetooth and works with latest devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops and computers. It also has a headphone jack for audio monitoring
  • TALK OVER BUTTON: The compact PA amplifier features a MIC talk over function which, when activated, the current music or audio being played will be temporarily halted. This function is used in paging, PA, voice over, and announcements
  • EQ CONTROLS: The sound amplifying device has rotary knob and crisp buttons for treble, bass, master volume, echo, mic volume, mic tone configuration and source input mode selector. A remote control is also included in the package for distant control
  • 600 WATT POWER: The Pyle 6 Channel home audio amplifier is perfect for your PA and home theater entertainment. It gives you 600 Watts peak power which can be used for multi speakers with 4-8 ohms impedance allowing you to enjoy high quality audio
  • 6 INPUTS: The personal portable digital amp box has a USB flash drive / SD card reader for MP3 / WMA playback, AUX input, dual 1/4 inches microphone in, and RCA connector. It also has FM radio with digital LCD channel display, push type speaker connector. Bluetooth Connectivity - Wireless Range Up to 40 plus feet
TOP Choice #3 Marantz NR1510 UHD AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.5
Marantz
  • ULL COMPATIBILITY WITH 4K ULTRA HD TV – Featuring 60Hz full-rate content, pure color sub-sampling, BT.2020, HDR, HLG, eARC & Dolby Vision, enjoy an IMPACTFUL HOME THEATER EXPERIENCE with EXCEPTIONAL PICTURE QUALITY & A THRILLING SURROUND 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 amplifier receiver
  • MULTI-ROOM AUDIO TECHNOLOGY – With the HEOS Home Entertainment App, 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
  • This 5 CHANNEL DISCRETE POWER AMPLIFIER (50W per channel) boasts 6 HDMI inputs and 1 output, full HDCP 2.2 support for copy protection - a must-buy for your home entertainment and speaker system
  • 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 or Wi-Fi
  • At 4-inches tall, this 5.2 channel stereo receiver is A COMPLETE HOME ENTERTAINMENT BOX LOADED WITH FEATURES. Connect all your audio sources, enjoy wireless streaming, plug your USB drives or play vinyls using the MM phono preamp – it’s got it all
  • BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY: The sound amplifying mixer device is equipped w/ Bluetooth wireless music streaming. Works w/ today’s latest devices including smart phones, tablets, iPhone and computer w/ hassle-free receiver pairing
  • DISPLAY METER: The compact and integrated indoor AV receiver has a built-in digital LED display showing input mode, track and folder name. FM antenna and remote control are also included in the package for distant audio adjustments
  • EQ CONTROLS: The improved professional compact & powerful mini amp system features crisp, responsive buttons for mode controls & power ON/OFF switch. Equipped with rotary knob controls for microphone volume, bass, treble, and master volume
  • 200 WATT POWER: The Pyle Dual Channel Stereo Amplifier is perfect for your karaoke and home theater acoustic sound system. It gives you 200W power w/ 100W RMS, accommodates 2 sets of speakers, allow you to enjoy high quality amplified audio
  • 5 INPUTS: This personal digital amp box supports various external sources. Features 1 RCA audio input for tuner, CD player, tape deck, 2 1/4" microphone IN, USB, SD card slot & Bluetooth/FM radio antenna to improve FM sensitivity & bluetooth distance
  • High-power independent control: Its peak power can set of to 440W(110W x 4),and has four channels which is independently controlled.440W is enough to support 4 groups of 8 speakers with 4-8 ohms and peak power within 50W.
  • HD SCREEN: The integrated receiver for home stereo has a built in LED display. FM antenna and remote control are included in the stereo amplifier package for distant audio adjustments. [Notice] The product needs to be connected to passive speakers to play audio. When there is no speaker connected, there will be a certain amount of wind noise, which is normal
  • Bluetooth 5.0: The integrated hybrid amplifier is equipped with the new updated 5.0 bluetooth.It will increase the stability, sound quality and use distance.It Works with latest devices including smartphone, tablet, laptop, computer, etc.
  • Multiple input modes: In addition to the Bluetooth function, the amplifer can also be connected to SD card, USB disk, RCA input and ECHO microphone input.And supports treble and bass adjustment and microphone volume control
  • FM function:With automatic search function, you can save up to 50 radio stations. Detailed operating instructions can be found in the manual or contact our customer staff.
  • EQ CONTROLS: The sound amplifying device has crisp buttons for the audio sources and selectors, rotary knob for equalization, mic and master volume adjustments. A remote control is also included in the package for distant audio adjustments
  • TALK OVER BUTTON: The compact speaker amplifier features a MIC talk over function which, when activated, the current music or audio being played will be temporarily halted. This function is used in paging, voice over, and announcements
  • 500 WATT POWER: The Pyle 4 Channel Bluetooth Home Audio Amplifier is perfect for your PA and home theater entertainment. It gives you 500W peak power which can be used for multi speakers with 4-8 ohms impedance allowing you to enjoy high quality audio
  • 7 INPUTS: The personal portable digital amp box supports iPod or MP3, USB, micro SD, AUX playback, built in FM radio with digital LCD display, audio input and REC, plus subwoofer output RCA (L/R) connectors, 2 ¼” microphone inputs with echo
  • BLUETOOTH COMPATIBLE: The professional integrated indoor house stereo receiver is equipped with bluetooth wireless music streaming. Works with today’s latest devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops and computers with hassle free receiver pairing
7 Marantz NR1200 AV Receiver (2019 Model)
Our Score:
8.8
Marantz
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • 6 INPUTS: The personal digital amp box supports SD / MMC card, USB, MP3, AM FM tuner, AUX, CD player, 2 microphone input with echo for karaoke or event hosting, RCA, AUX, and Bluetooth inputs
  • EQ CONTROLS: The sound amplifying device has crisp buttons for the audio sources and selectors, rotary knob for equalization and master volume adjustments. Includes remote control for distant audio adjustments and a power cable. Note :Refer to the PDF attached below in Technical Specification for Manual
  • 300-WATT POWER: The Pyle 4 Channel Pre-Amplifier is perfect for your home theater entertainment system. It gives you 300 watts peak power to be used for multi speakers witth 4-8 ohms impedance allowing you to enjoy high quality amplified audio
  • A/B SPEAKER SELECTOR: The professional integrated stereo receiver has A/B speaker selector enabling you to choose b/w speaker set. Use either A or B speakers or both. Note that when it is turned on initially it uses both speakers as default
  • BLUETOOTH ENABLED: The integrated hybrid amplifier is equipped with Bluetooth for wireless music streaming. Works with today’s latest devices including smartphone, tablet, laptop, computer, etc.
  • 7 INPUTS: The digital amp box supports MP3 audio playback and other external devices. It is equipped w/ built-in USB reader, SD memory card reader, 2 microphone inputs, optical & coaxial digital signal input, DVD input & REC/PRE/speaker outputs (L/R)
  • DESKTOP DESIGN: High powered home theater pro audio receiver features a desktop/tabletop design w/ built-in cooling fan. Additional features include double decoder digital media function w/ remote control which is included with the unit
  • 600-WATT POWER: The Pyle Digital Karaoke Amplifier is perfect for your karaoke & home entertainment system. It gives you 600W peak power to be used for multi speakers w/ 4-16 ohms impedance allowing you to enjoy high quality amplified audio
  • FRONT PANEL CONTROL: The sound speaker amplifying device features front panel controls, digital LED display w/ blue LED screen, rotary control center for mic volume, treble, bass, balance, delay, echo, and master volume controls
  • BLUETOOTH-COMPATIBLE: The professional integrated indoor house stereo receiver is equipped w/ bluetooth wireless music streaming. Works w/ today’s latest devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops and computers with hassle-free receiver pairing
  • 4 INPUTS: The professional Hi Fi amp supports various external devices. Features RCA subwoofer output, AUX RCA L/R audio inputs, HDMI output plus 2 HDMI inputs, FM radio antenna input, 5 sets of spring loaded speaker terminal connectors
  • 100 WATT POWER: The Pyle 5 Channel HiFi Audio Amplifier w/ 100W peak power gives your entertainment system a boost. Offers low distortion w/ acoustically accurate audio reproduction, allowing you to enjoy crisp and high quality amplified audio
  • EQ CONTROLS: This multi purpose 5 channel compact home theater digital stereo receiver box features crisp buttons and rotary knob controls for audio adjustment. Includes 12V adapter and remote control for easy distant audio adjustments. Note: Refer to the PDF attached below in the Technical Specification for User Manual
  • BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY: The small personal integrated indoor stereo receiver is equipped with Bluetooth wireless music streaming. Works with today’s latest devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, computer w/ hassle free receiver pairing
  • FRONT CONTROL PANEL: The compact amplifier which features full range stereo sound reproduction has a built in LCD display w/ crisp buttons for the functions such as standby, tuner (minus/plus), surround, mute, input and a rotary control knob for the volume
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What to Look For in a best receiver amplifier?

When selecting a suitable best receiver amplifier, a variety of factors have been found. Information sources are available in a wide range of forms.  As a basis, we are doing it to support, inform, and solve your demands.

Please keep these things in mind before selecting the best receiver amplifier:

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.

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.

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.

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%.

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.

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.

FAQs

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 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.

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 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 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.

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.

With new information arriving, our editor will usually update the best receiver amplifier frequently. Please constantly check our site for the most up-to-date material.

We will try our best to help you with more best receiver amplifier. You are supposed to be free to ask for assistance with your problems.


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About Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons is a writer who loves home theater and HiFi audio. As the editor of TheAudioInsights, he has helped countless people enjoy the best possible sound quality in their homes. He is an audiophile who takes great pleasure in helping others find the perfect audio equipment for their needs. When he's not writing or editing, Dan enjoys listening to music and spending time with his family.