The Surround Sound Av Receiver For 2024

Harlan Ellison By, Harlan Ellison
Updated
Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver

This low-cost receiver can satisfy the user's high audiovisual entertainment expectations. You can enjoy your favourite movies, TV shows and more with theatre like sound in the comfort of your home. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel AV Receiver

The receiver has a great combination of the latest and old-schooled features. You can explore entertainment possibilities for an advanced home theatre with the latest in video and Audio. Read Review

3. Best 7.2-Channel Receiver: Denon AVR-S960H Ultra HD 7.2

This fantastic AV receiver can amplify your content with a superb audio and visual performance. Read Review

4. Best Design: Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio Smart

Made by one of the leading brands for receivers, this device brings along great value for its insanely affordable price. Read Review

Nowadays, many households wish to transform their living rooms into a superb home theater system. If you wish to power up your theater, an AV receiver is a must-have. When connected with any compatible TV, a powerful AV receiver can deliver excellent surround sound quality, which will elevate your audio experience to new heights in your living room.

Furthermore, most modern AV receivers offer everything you need to achieve audio-rich and theater-feel surroundings to enjoy music from your favorite artists or watch your favorite movies or TV programs.

We understand that purchasing a complex tech device like an AV receiver can be too overwhelming and confusing to a non-audiophile. Therefore, to assist our dear readers, we have come up with a list of the best surround sound AV receivers that have been researched and tested carefully by our team.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.8
Sony

The 7.2-channel Sony STR-DH790 is an affordable receiver with a long list of remarkable features. The overall quality and design are great. It also includes two large knobs that can be effortlessly moderated to your liking.

Additionally, setup is simple and takes minimal time. Plus, music audio is pleasurable to listen to, with superb sound reproduction in almost all genres.

TOP Choice #2 Yamaha RX-V685 7.2-Channel AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.7
Yamaha Audio

With a variety of functions and wonderful performance at a reasonable price, this Yamaha receiver is an excellent choice whether you’re watching movies or listening to music. In terms of sound, it has no problem filling a large area with detailed and direct sound.

Additionally, the receiver supports both audio formats from the old days and today, allowing you to enjoy multi-channel surround sound.

TOP Choice #3 Denon AVR-S960H Ultra HD 7.2
Our Score:
9.6
Denon

The Denon AVR-S960H is an ideal product that carries the latest qualities, such as HDMI 2.1 and 8K video compatibility while keeping satisfactory performance. The device delivers powerful surround theater sound, detailed musicality, and massive power.

Overall, it’s a powerful amplifier that delivers amazing visual and audio quality.

4 Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio Smart
Our Score:
9.5
PIONEER

This receiver is an excellent machine from a widely popular manufacturer that provides many budget-tier devices at a good price. Besides, the parameters for power and speed are so incredible that it edges over many of its rivals.

The setup and operation are super simple as well, so it's an ideal choice for beginners.

5 Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio
Our Score:
9.4
Onkyo

This is one of the most powerful AV receivers with tons of abilities to customize and connect while providing spectacular audio quality. The result is detailed and abundant in most action scenes that contain a lot of sound effects.

Besides, the mood in dramatic scenes can be strongly displayed and felt, with an incredible general presence effect. Overall, this device’s price and performance are equally impressive.

This receiver from YAMAHA is feature-rich with a modern look with impressive performance for both movies, TV shows, and different music genres. It is powerful enough to push the audio system to fit most high-resolution cinematic formats.

Surround sound is excellent as well and can make your surroundings become a cinema. When listening to plenty of music genres, the Yamaha provides thrills and energy with upbeat effects that can lift your mood.

7 Denon AVR-X2600H 4K UHD AV Receiver
Our Score:
9.0
Denon

This is a fantastic audio product that can deliver both versatility and modernity to your audio system. This Denon AV receiver is made to bring an advanced 3D audio experience for movies and music.

Moreover, with this receiver, the audiovisual effects feel authentic with prominent and clear dialogue.

8 Pioneer Elite VSX-LX104 7.2-ch
Our Score:
8.8
PIONEER

With this receiver, you can enjoy wireless audio streaming as well as object-based, multi-channel audio. The surround sound from movies performs well with strong bass.

Moreover, the effects were elastically isolated from the speakers, allowing for large dynamic sound fields to emerge.

9 YAMAHA AVENTAGE RX-A780
Our Score:
8.6
Yamaha Audio

This is an ideal receiver for people who want a reliable gadget with modern features. We like how this machine is built. The ports are on the rear panel, and everything is well labeled so you won't have any problem connecting things.

Additionally, in our movie and music testing, the RX-A780 received good marks as well.

10 Marantz SR7010 9.2 Channel
Our Score:
8.4
Marantz

With a stunning movie performance, the SR7010 lives up to its high-end reputation. The soundstage has incredible quality, which will put you in the middle of the action thanks to slick channel interaction and seamless integration.

Plus, the most complicated movie audio in action scenes is recreated with incredible clarity and structure.

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Is It Effortless to Choose The Ideal surround sound av receiver For Your Demands?

Sometimes, purchasing a product can draw some difficulties for shoppers, and that's why you shouldn't waste your time on unreliable sources of information. A variety of variables impact the surround sound av receiver, along with all of the ones listed below. The formative assessment varies depending on the types and functions of the product. 

Fortunately, the visitors rely on our support and assistance. It's not a surprising thing! Seeing that our research is supported with AI tools and Big Data so that the information for you is objective and precise.

We will give you some purchase guides to help you with your selection proc in the following sectors. Continue reading to learn about what you should look for when looking for the surround sound av receiver: 

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.

Supported Media Formats

Each receiver includes a pair of audio decoders to decode the audio it receives from different sources. Receivers support Dolby Digital and DTS files, while newer receivers can support Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD. These decoders should be included in amplifier receivers.

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.

Network Connectivity And Internet Streaming

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.

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%.

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.

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.

Auto-calibration Capabilities

While wiring up the home theater system is easy, calibrating it so it sounds good can be difficult. Calibration is the process of setting the speakers at the correct volume level so that the whole setup works well with your furniture. A few amplifiers come with an automatic calibration feature that requires you to position a microphone exactly where you would normally sit. After sending test tones, the amplifier analyzes how each speaker sounds. The amplifier then adjusts the volume and setting until everything sounds normal. You can also adjust the volume and settings manually if necessary.

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.

AirPlay Compatibility

AirPlay compatibility can be found in many of the newer receiver models. This technology allows you to stream music wirelessly from your iOS devices (iPhone/iPad/iPod touch) and digital apps such as Pandora directly to the receiver. [source: Moskovciak].
AirPlay is worth it if you have most of your music stored on these devices. You can save money if you don't like the nostalgia, comfort and character of vinyl music, or if you have lots of music on tape or CD, then skip AirPlay.

FAQs

What Is The Best Way To Use A/V Receivers With Turntables?

Yes, as long as the turntable has phono input. To boost the low signal coming from your turntable, a preamp will be needed. For entry-level models, preamps are quite inexpensive.

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

No. 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.

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.

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 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 Need An Amplifier?

No. A AV receiver can be equipped with an amplifier that will power your speakers.

Generally, new information is continuously included into of surround sound av receiver. Visit our sites for revisions and improvements regularly.

You now have a far better knowledge of how to purchase the surround sound av receiver on the market. Hopefully, we've supplied you with enough information to help you make an informed decision. We'll see you in the following article.


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About Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison

Harlan Ellison is a writer and audio equipment enthusiast. He's particularly interested in home theater HiFi audio, and he has been the editor of The Audio Insights since its inception. Harlan is known for his sharp wit and scathing critiques, but he also has a great love of music and audio gear. When he's not writing or editing, Harlan can be found listening to music or watching movies with his wife.