Best AV Receivers of 2023
About AV Receivers
An Audio/Video Receiver is a device that acts as the core of a home theatre system, serving multiple functions related to audio and video processing. Specifically focusing on sound amplification, AVRs excel at receiving, decoding, and amplifying audio signals from various sources such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and much more.
Audiovisual receivers (AVRs) play a major role in sound amplification, providing a robust and immersive audio experience for, music enthusiasts, gaming setups and home theatres. Serving as the central hub of an audio system, AVRs handle the task of decoding audio signals, amplifying sound, and distributing it to multiple speakers.
They serve as the central hub for sound amplification and management. AVR technology has revolutionized home theatre systems and sound setups, enabling users to unlock the full potential of their audio equipment.
Key Aspects of AV Receivers
Decoding and Processing Audio Signals: AVRs act as the audio/video input of a home theatre or audio setup, receiving and decoding various audio signals from sources such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and more. These signals may come in different formats, including Dolby Digital, DTS, and various high-resolution audio codecs.
They employ advanced digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms to decode and process these audio signals, ensuring compatibility and optimal playback. They extract the individual audio channels and apply necessary adjustments, such as bass management, equalization, and room correction, to tailor the sound output to the specific listening environment.
AVRs also provide sophisticated audio processing capabilities, allowing users to tailor the sound to their preferences. With equalization options, sound enhancements, and advanced calibration systems, AVRs can optimize the audio output for specific room acoustics and speaker configurations, compensating for limitations or irregularities in the listening environment.
Amplification and Power Distribution: One of the primary functions of an AVR is to amplify the audio signals it receives. After decoding and processing the audio, the AVR uses built-in amplifiers to boost the signal strength before it is sent to the connected speakers. This amplification process ensures that the audio reaches the desired volume level while maintaining clarity and fidelity.
AVRs often provide multiple channels of amplification, ranging from stereo setups to elaborate surround sound configurations with numerous speakers. They allocate power to each channel based on the audio content and the desired listening experience, creating an immersive soundscape that enhances the overall entertainment value.
Signal Routing and Connectivity: AVRs act as the central hub for audio signal routing, allowing users to connect multiple audio sources simultaneously. Whether it’s gaming consoles, media players, streaming devices, or traditional audio sources like turntables and CD players, AVRs provide the necessary inputs and outputs to manage and switch between them effortlessly. This versatility enhances convenience and simplifies the overall setup process.
AVRs include advanced connectivity features, such as HDMI inputs and outputs that support the latest video and audio formats. HDMI-ARC (Audio Return Channel) allows for bidirectional audio transmission between the TV and AVR, streamlining the setup and enabling seamless control over the audio system using a single remote control.
Connectivity and Integration: Modern AVRs are designed with an array of connectivity options to accommodate a wide range of audio sources and devices. They feature HDMI inputs and outputs to connect with modern digital sources, including 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. These HDMI connections also support advanced features such as high dynamic range (HDR), wide colour gamut (WCG), and audio return channel (ARC), enhancing the overall audiovisual experience.
Furthermore, AVRs often provide wireless connectivity options, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and network streaming capabilities. This allows users to wirelessly stream music from their smartphones, tablets, or computers directly to the AVR, providing a convenient and versatile audio playback solution.
As technology continues to advance, AVRs will likely incorporate even more advanced features, such as support for emerging audio formats and enhanced connectivity options. As a result, the role of AVR in sound amplification will continue to evolve, further enriching our audio experiences and bringing us closer to the ultimate sonic immersion.
Audiovisual receivers (AVRs) serve as the cornerstone of sound amplification systems, delivering exceptional audio quality and versatility. By decoding, processing, amplifying, and distributing audio signals, AVRs provide immersive sound experiences for home theatres, gaming setups, and music enthusiasts alike.
Nikwik provides an unbiased review of Audio/Video Receivers (AVR), based on extensive research. This is an honest review and not sponsored by any company or organisation.
YAMAHA RX-A2A
Yamaha, a renowned name in the realm of audio equipment, has once again pushed the boundaries with its latest offering – the Yamaha RX-A2A AVR (Audio/Video Receiver). This powerhouse of audio excellence serves as proof of Yamaha’s commitment to provide immersive, high-fidelity sound for both music and movie enthusiasts. The standout features that make the Yamaha RX-A2A a standout performer in the world of AV receivers.
Superior Audio Quality: The Yamaha RX-A2A is equipped with the latest technology to deliver a pristine audio experience. It boasts a powerful 7.2-channel configuration, with each channel capable of outputting an impressive 100 watts (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 0.06% THD). This substantial power output ensures that the receiver can handle even the most demanding of audio setups, resulting in crystal-clear sound and a wide soundstage.
Cinema DSP 3D and Dolby Atmos Support: The RX-A2A is engineered to elevate your home theatre experience to cinematic heights. With Yamaha’s renowned Cinema DSP 3D technology, the AVR reproduces a natural sound field that emulates the acoustics of different venues, transforming your living room into a concert hall or a movie theatre.
This AVR is fully equipped with Dolby Atmos support, providing an immersive three-dimensional sound experience. With compatible speakers placed strategically around the room, sound objects move freely in a three-dimensional space, creating an incredibly realistic and enveloping soundscape.
DTS:X and Auro-3D Compatibility: Yamaha RX-A2A AVR is also compatible with DTS:X, another advanced object-based audio technology. DTS:X enables sound to move freely around the listener, offering a highly immersive surround sound experience. Additionally, the receiver supports Auro-3D, a format that adds a vertical dimension to audio, producing an even more lifelike experience.
MusicCast Multi-Room Audio:
Yamaha’s MusicCast technology is a game-changer for whole-home audio. The RX-A2A comes with built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to seamlessly connect with other MusicCast-enabled devices throughout your home. This means you can enjoy your favourite tunes in multiple rooms simultaneously or create a synchronized playback experience. Whether it’s a house party or a relaxing evening, MusicCast offers ultimate flexibility and convenience.
High-Resolution Audio Support: Yamaha RX-A2A AVR supports high-resolution audio formats, including FLAC, ALAC, WAV, and DSD. This means you can enjoy studio-quality sound, preserving the subtle nuances and details in your music that are often lost in compressed audio formats.
HDMI 2.1 with eARC: The RX-A2A is future-proofed with multiple HDMI 2.1 inputs, which support 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz, and even 10K resolutions. The Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) feature allows for continuous transmission of audio from compatible TVs, ensuring you get the best possible sound from your TV’s apps and sources.
Denon AVR-S750H
Denon AVR-S750H AVR is a cutting-edge Audio/Video Receiver (AVR) that promises to revolutionize your home entertainment experience. With a legacy of over a century in the audio industry, Denon has consistently pushed the boundaries of audio technology, and the AVR-S750H is no exception. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the impressive features that make this AVR a standout choice for both movie enthusiasts and audio lovers.
Uncompromising Sound Quality: At the core of the Denon AVR-S750H is its commitment to delivering unmatched sound quality. Featuring a 7.2-channel configuration, each channel outputs a robust 75 watts (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 0.08% THD), ensuring a dynamic and immersive audio experience. Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or playing video games, the AVR-S750H creates a room-filling soundstage that captivates your senses.
Dolby Atmos and DTS X Support: The Denon AVR-S750H comes equipped with support for both Dolby Atmos and DTS: X. With these advanced object-based audio technologies, sound moves freely around the listener, creating a three-dimensional audio environment. Compatible with overhead speakers or up-firing modules, the AVR-S750H delivers a sense of height, placing you right at the center of the action.
In-built HEOS: The AVR-S750H features HEOS built-in, Denon’s multi-room audio streaming technology. With HEOS, you can wirelessly connect and synchronize multiple HEOS-enabled speakers throughout your home, creating a seamless and immersive listening experience. Control everything through the HEOS app, which allows you to access your favorite music services and create personalized playlists effortlessly.
High-Resolution Audio Playback: The AVR-S750H supports high-resolution audio formats. From lossless FLAC and ALAC to WAV and DSD (DSD 2.8/5.6 MHz), the AVR-S750H ensures that your music retains its studio-quality sound, capturing every nuance and detail.
Advanced 4K UHD Video Capabilities: The AVR-S750H is fully equipped to handle the latest 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) video standards. It features multiple HDMI inputs with 4K/60Hz pass-through, ensuring that your video sources, such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices, deliver crystal-clear picture quality on your compatible 4K UHD TV.
Voice Control and Smart Home Integration: The Denon AVR-S750H is compatible with popular voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri. With voice control, you can adjust volume levels, switch inputs, and even initiate playback. Additionally, the AVR-S750H works seamlessly with major smart home ecosystems, allowing you to integrate it with other smart devices.
Pioneer VSX-834
Pioneer VSX-834 AVR is a powerful and feature-rich Audio/Video Receiver that promises to transform your home entertainment setup. Pioneer, a renowned brand in the audio industry, has a legacy of delivering high-quality audio equipment, and the VSX-834 is no exception. In this article, we will explore the impressive features that make this AVR a standout choice for audiophiles and movie enthusiasts alike.
Enhanced Audio Performance: At the heart of the Pioneer VSX-834 is its commitment to delivering exceptional audio performance. With its 5.2-channel configuration, each channel outputs a robust 80 watts (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 0.08% THD), providing clear and dynamic sound reproduction. Whether you are listening to your favorite music or watching the latest blockbuster, the VSX-834 ensures a captivating and immersive audio experience.
Dolby Atmos and DTS X Support: The Pioneer VSX-834 is equipped with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, taking your home theater experience to new heights. With these object-based audio technologies, sound objects move freely around the listener, creating a three-dimensional audio environment. Compatible with overhead speakers or height-enabled speakers, the AVR produces sound from all directions, placing you at the center of the action.
4K Ultra HD and HDR10 Compatibility: Embracing the latest video standards, the Pioneer VSX-834 AVR supports 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) video pass-through. It boasts multiple HDMI inputs that allow you to connect your 4K UHD sources, such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and media streamers while ensuring pristine picture quality on your 4K UHD TV. Additionally, the AVR supports High Dynamic Range (HDR10), delivering enhanced contrast and a wider color gamut for an incredibly lifelike viewing experience.
MCACC Room Calibration: Pioneer’s Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration System (MCACC) is a game-changer for optimizing your audio setup. The VSX-834 uses an included microphone to automatically analyze your room’s acoustic characteristics and calibrate the audio settings accordingly. This ensures that the sound is tailored to your specific room, eliminating acoustic anomalies and providing an accurate and balanced listening experience.
Music Streaming and Bluetooth Connectivity: The Pioneer VSX-834 embraces modern connectivity options, making it easier than ever to enjoy your favorite music. With built-in Bluetooth technology, you can wirelessly stream music from your compatible devices, such as smartphones and tablets, directly to the AVR. Additionally, the receiver supports popular music streaming services, giving you access to a vast library of songs at your fingertips.
Zone B Output: The Pioneer VSX-834 AVR features a Zone B output, allowing you to power speakers in a separate room. This feature enables you to enjoy music in one zone while using the main zone for other audio or video sources. Whether you want to create a dedicated listening space or entertain guests throughout your home, Zone B output offers the flexibility to do so.
Marantz SR6015
The Marantz SR6015 AVR is a flagship Audio/Video Receiver that promises to redefine your home entertainment experience. Marantz, a legendary name in the world of audio equipment, has a storied history of delivering premium sound quality and cutting-edge features. The SR6015 is a testament to this legacy, boasting a robust set of features that cater to audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts alike. In this article, we explore the exceptional features that make the Marantz SR6015 a true powerhouse in the AV receiver domain.
Uncompromising Sound Performance: The heart of the Marantz SR6015 lies in its uncompromising sound performance. With a staggering 9.2-channel configuration, each channel delivers an impressive 110 watts (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 0.08% THD). This immense power output ensures clear, dynamic sound, capable of filling even large home theater spaces with captivating audio.
IMAX Enhanced and Auro-3D Support: The SR6015 AVR is equipped with IMAX Enhanced technology, providing an unparalleled cinematic experience in the comfort of your home. IMAX Enhanced content is mastered specifically to deliver stunning picture quality and immersive sound, optimized for the Marantz AVR’s capabilities.
The Marantz SR6015 supports Auro-3D, an advanced audio format that adds height and overhead channels, producing a lifelike three-dimensional audio experience. With the combination of IMAX Enhanced and Auro-3D support, the SR6015 guarantees an unparalleled home theater journey.
Dolby Atmos and DTS X: The Marantz SR6015 creates a true 3D audio soundscape that surrounds you from every direction, with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. Compatible with ceiling speakers or Dolby Atmos-enabled speaker modules, the AVR reproduces sound with remarkable precision, giving you the feeling of being inside the action on screen.
High-Resolution Audio Playback: The SR6015 supports high-resolution audio formats, including FLAC, ALAC, WAV, and DSD (2.8/5.6 MHz). These formats preserve the original studio recording quality, allowing you to experience your favorite music with stunning clarity and detail, just as the artist intended.
Advanced Video Technologies: The Marantz SR6015 is fully equipped to handle the latest video technologies. It supports 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) video pass-through, enabling seamless transmission of 4K content from your sources to your compatible 4K UHD TV. Additionally, it supports High Dynamic Range (HDR) formats like Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG, delivering lifelike picture quality with enhanced contrast and vibrant colors.
Audyssey Room Calibration: The Marantz SR6015 incorporates Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room calibration technology, which precisely analyzes your room’s acoustic characteristics and optimizes the audio settings accordingly. This ensures that the audio output is tailored to your specific listening environment, eliminating acoustic issues and delivering an immersive and balanced sound experience.
Built-in HEOS: Marantz’s HEOS technology is integrated into the SR6015, providing seamless multi-room audio streaming. With HEOS, you can connect and synchronize multiple HEOS-enabled speakers throughout your home, creating a cohesive and flexible audio setup. The HEOS app lets you control your music and playback settings from your smartphone or tablet, offering convenience and versatility.
Denon AVR-X2800H
Denon AVR-X2800H AVR is a powerful and feature-rich Audio/Video Receiver that promises to revolutionize your home entertainment experience. Denon, a renowned brand in the audio industry, has a long-standing reputation for delivering top-notch sound quality and cutting-edge technologies.
The AVR-X2800H is a testament to Denon’s commitment to providing immersive home theater and hi-fi audio experiences. In this article, we delve into the impressive features that make the Denon AVR-X2800H a standout choice for both movie enthusiasts and audio lovers.
Powerful and Immersive Sound: At the core of the Denon AVR-X2800H lies its dedication to delivering powerful and immersive sound. With a 7.2-channel configuration, each channel boasts 95 watts (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 0.08% THD), ensuring rich and detailed audio reproduction. Whether you’re watching an action-packed movie or listening to your favorite music, the AVR-X2800H provides a captivating and dynamic soundstage that envelops you in the audio experience.
Dolby Atmos, DTS X, and Auro-3D Support: The Denon AVR-X2800H embraces the latest audio technologies, offering support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D. With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, sound objects move freely around the listener, creating a three-dimensional audio environment. This realistic sound positioning, combined with compatible overhead or height speakers, adds an extra dimension to your home theater experience.
The Denon AVR-X2800H supports Auro-3D, which adds a vertical dimension to audio, creating an even more lifelike and immersive soundstage. This comprehensive compatibility with advanced audio formats ensures that you experience movies and music like never before.
3. 8K and HDR10+ Pass-Through: The Denon AVR-X2800H is future-proofed with support for the latest video technologies. It features multiple HDMI inputs and supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, enabling seamless transmission of ultra-high-definition content from your 8K and 4K sources to your compatible TV. Additionally, the AVR-X2800H supports HDR10+ and Dynamic HDR, delivering enhanced contrast and vibrant colors for a truly lifelike visual experience.
Audyssey MultEQ XT Room Calibration: Denon’s advanced room calibration system, Audyssey MultEQ XT, ensures that your audio setup is perfectly optimized for your listening environment. The system analyzes the acoustic characteristics of your room and automatically adjusts the audio settings to deliver the best possible sound quality. This feature eliminates acoustic anomalies and provides a balanced and accurate audio experience, tailored to your specific room.
Built-in HEOS: The AVR-X2800H features HEOS built-in, Denon’s multi-room audio streaming technology. With HEOS, you can wirelessly connect and synchronize multiple HEOS-enabled speakers throughout your home, creating a seamless and immersive listening experience. The HEOS app allows you to control your music and streaming services effortlessly, putting the power of multi-room audio at your fingertips.
Denon AVR-X2700H
Denon AVR-X2700H is a powerful and feature-packed Audio/Video Receiver that promises to take your home entertainment experience to new heights. Denon, a well-respected name in the audio industry, has a long history of delivering high-quality sound and cutting-edge technologies.
The AVR-X2700H continues this tradition, offering an array of impressive features that cater to movie enthusiasts and audiophiles alike. In this article, we delve into the exceptional features that make the Denon AVR-X2700H a standout choice for creating a captivating home theater and hi-fi audio setup.
Immersive and Dynamic Sound: At the heart of the Denon AVR-X2700H lies its dedication to delivering immersive and dynamic sound performance. Equipped with a 7.2-channel configuration, each channel outputs an impressive 95 watts (8 ohms, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 0.08% THD). This substantial power output ensures crystal-clear audio reproduction and room-filling sound, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in your favorite movies and music.
Dolby Atmos, DTS X, and IMAX Enhanced Support: The AVR-X2700H embraces the latest audio technologies, offering support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced. With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, sound objects move freely around the listener, creating a three-dimensional audio experience. Compatible with overhead or height speakers, these technologies elevate your home theatre setup, delivering an enveloping and lifelike soundstage that draws you into the heart of the action.
Moreover, the AVR-X2700H is IMAX Enhanced certified, ensuring that IMAX Enhanced content is presented with the highest level of sound quality and picture performance. This certification guarantees an unparalleled cinematic experience in the comfort of your home.
3. 8K and HDR10+ Pass-Through: The Denon AVR-X2700H is future-proofed with support for the latest video technologies. It features multiple HDMI inputs and supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, allowing you to seamlessly connect and enjoy your 8K and 4K UHD sources on your compatible TV. Additionally, the AVR-X2700H supports HDR10+ and Dynamic HDR, providing enhanced contrast and a wider colour gamut for incredibly realistic visuals.
Audyssey MultEQ XT Room Calibration: Denon’s advanced room calibration system, Audyssey MultEQ XT, is built into the AVR-X2700H. This powerful technology measures your room’s acoustics and automatically adjusts the audio settings to deliver the best possible sound quality. The result is a balanced and precise audio experience, free from acoustic anomalies and tailored to your specific listening environment.
Built-in HEOS: The AVR-X2700H features HEOS built-in, Denon’s multi-room audio streaming technology. With HEOS, you can connect and synchronize multiple HEOS-enabled speakers throughout your home, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. Control your music and streaming services effortlessly with the HEOS app, granting you convenient access to your favorite tunes in any room.
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