10 Best AV Receivers of 2019
Are you searching for the best AV receivers in the market, but not had any luck in finding what you need? We have searched the marketplace and found 10 premium options that will improve your audio and video. The majority of these options offer surround sound technology so you can get fully immersed in the action.
We have created 3 categories based on price from budget to premium, so every customer has options to choose from. We have written a review of each product so you get an idea of what you’ll receive upon purchase. Also, we have rated each AV receiver on a scale of 1 to 5 so you get an idea of their quality.
Budget |
---|
Sony STRDH590 |
4.9/5.0 |
Weight: 11.02 Pounds |
Bluetooth: Yes |
Surround Sound: Yes |
4K quality, stable Bluetooth connections, and built-in EQ. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
---|
Denon AVR-X4500H |
5.0/5.0 |
Weight: 30.02 Pounds |
Bluetooth: Yes |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Advanced EQ calibrating system, can connect Amazon Alexa. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
---|
Denon AVR-X8500H |
5.0/5.0 |
Weight: 51.4 Pounds |
Bluetooth: Yes |
Surround Sound: Yes |
IMAX quality visuals and 9.1.4 surround sound technology. |
Check Amazon |
Also, if you’ve never bought an AV receiver before then don’t worry as we have made a section entirely for first-time buyers. We go over the main AV receiver features you should consider when making a buying decision. We hope you enjoy reading this buyer’s guide as much as we did writing.
Best AV Receivers by Price:
Buying Considerations
Connectivity
Brand
Audio Quality
Convenience
10 Best AV Receivers Comparison Table
Make and Model | Weight | Surround Sound | Price Check |
---|---|---|---|
Sony STRDH590 5.2 multi-channel 4k HDR AV Receiver | 11.02 Pounds | Yes | Check Price |
Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver | 14.8 Pounds | No | Check Price |
Pioneer Surround Sound AV Receiver | 17.6 Pounds | Yes | Check Price |
Onkyo TX-NR787 9.2-Channel Network AV Receiver | 24 Pounds | Yes | Check Price |
Denon AVR-S740H AV Receiver | 16.54 Pounds | Yes | Check Price |
Yamaha RX-V585 AV Receiver | 17.19 Pounds | Yes | Check Price |
Onkyo TX-NR686 7.2 Channel AV Receiver | 22 Pounds | Yes | Check Price |
Denon AVR-X8500H AV receiver | 51.4 Pounds | Yes | Check Price |
Denon AVR-X4500H AV Receiver | 30.02 Pounds | Yes | Check Price |
Sony STRDN1080 AV receiver | 23 Pounds | Yes | Check Price |
Best AV Receivers Under $300
Are you searching for the best AV receivers, but don’t have a big budget to spend? In this category of under $300, you will be presented with multiple options that help improve the audio. Some of these options can play in 4K, which means the audio will be more detailed and enjoyable. Also, they offer multiple methods of connectivity so you can use your smartphone, PC, or tablet to connect to the AV receiver.
1. Sony STRDH590 5.2 multi-channel 4k HDR AV Receiver (Best Budget)
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5.0
The Sony STRDH590 5.2 multi-channel 4k HDR AV Receiver has built-in Bluetooth so you can connect with your smartphone and play your favorite beats wirelessly. The connecting range has good range so you don’t have to worry about going too far away from the receiver. Also, you have the option to connect with HDMI cables, which means you can stream audio from your TV.
Also, the AV receiver improves sound tremendously and supports 4K audio, which makes films more immersive as you can hear every little detail. The device also supports surround sound so you can setup your speakers around the room and enjoy the audio in a different light.
You can tune the audio with the Sony STRDH590 5.2 multi-channel 4k HDR AV Receiver as it has a built-in EQ, which means you can tune the drivers by regulating the bass and treble. Also, the device will have some audio presets so you can switch between them depending on what you’re doing – whether you’re watching the news or an action film.
The Sony STRDH590 is a budget AV receiver so it won’t have all the features of a premium option. Therefore, if you require more then have a look at our other options in higher price categories. Also, tuning the drivers yourself can be a struggle if you don’t know what you’re doing, and using the presets may not utilize the full potential of your speakers.
In conclusion, the Sony STRDH590 5.2 multi-channel 4k HDR AV Receiver is a great choice because it can deliver clearer audio that sounds incredibly accurate. The AV receiver supports surround sound so you can immerse yourself when watching movies. Also, you can use your smartphone to connect to the device and play your favorite songs without the need for any annoying wires.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 11.02 Pounds |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
4K quality |
Stable Bluetooth connections |
Built-in EQ |
The Cons |
---|
Budget option doesn’t have as many features compared to premium AV receivers |
Can be tricky to tune drivers if you’ve never done it before |
2. Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5.0
The Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver uses an advanced circuitry design that helps deliver better sounding audio. The build quality is sleek as it uses a dark glossy design, which goes well with any speaker setup. On the front of the device are multiple switches that can be used to adjust the audio and an analog that you can tune to regulate the volume.
Also, you receive a remote control that has multiple buttons, which can be used to tune the audio. You can adjust the bass and treble from a distance, so it saves you the trouble of having to go to the stereo every time you want to tune the drivers. Also, you can skip between beats and pause the music when needed.
The AV receiver offers multiple connectivity methods such as Bluetooth and AUX. With Bluetooth you can enjoy wireless freedom and play music from your smartphone, tablet, and other BT devices. However, if you want to save battery power on your smartphone then you can use an AUX wire, which delivers HD audio when using a premium cable.
The output power of the AV receiver is 100W + 100W, so compared to premium options it won’t produce loud audio in clear quality. Also, there are only 4 RCA inputs so you can’t connect more than 4 speakers to the AV receiver
In conclusion, the Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver is an excellent budget choice that comes with a remote control. You can use the remote to tune the drivers by adjusting the bass and treble, or use one of the many presets. Also, the AV receiver has built-in Bluetooth so you can connect with your smartphone to play music.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 14.8 Pounds |
Surround Sound: No |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
Comes with a remote control |
Easy to tune the drivers |
Multiple methods of connection |
The Cons |
---|
Only 4 RCA inputs |
Not as loud as other options |
3. Pioneer Surround Sound AV Receiver
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
The Pioneer Surround Sound AV Receiver has ultra HD pass-through allowing 4k audio to be streamed, which makes movies or songs sound enhanced. You can use the MCACC (Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration) to adjust the audio to your preferences by regulating the bass and treble. Also, the equalizer comes with multiple presets, so if you’re unsure how to tune the drivers yourself you can do it with a click of a button.
You can connect to the Pioneer Surround Sound AV Receiver using multiple ways, one of them being Bluetooth, which offers wireless freedom over a wide connection range. On the other hand, you can use a 3.5 mm auxiliary cable that offers premium audio quality when using a high-quality wire.
On the front of the AV receiver are multiple buttons that can be used to adjust the audio from activating advanced surround sound to the echo option. You can adjust the audio volume by turning the sound wheel located on the right-hand side, which can sometimes be more convenient than using the remote control.
The Bluetooth connection is only stable when there are no objects in the way of the transmitted waves. Also, the drivers can be tricky to tune if you don’t know what you’re doing and the presets may not tune the audio correctly for the genre you’re listening.
In summary, the Pioneer Surround Sound AV Receiver is an excellent choice because it comes with a remote control that can be used to tune the drivers. You can adjust the bass and treble freely and select from multiple presets. Also, the AV receiver can be connected via Bluetooth, which has a wide connection range.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 17.6 Pounds |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
Comes with a remote control |
Easy to setup |
Stylish design |
The Cons |
---|
To keep BT connections clear must have no objects in the way |
Tuning the drivers can be tricky if you’ve never done it before |
Best AV Receivers Under $500
Are you searching for the best AV receiver under $500, but so far not had luck in finding what you need? In this category, we show you a bunch of options that are great quality and help deliver better sounding audio. These AV receivers have multiple ways of connection such as Bluetooth, RCA, and auxiliary cable. Also, the build quality of these devices is top notch as the brands can invest more money into them.
4. Onkyo TX-NR787 9.2-Channel Network AV Receiver
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5.0
The Onkyo TX-NR787 9.2-Channel Network AV Receiver is THX certified so it can produce theater-like audio, which makes movies more immersive. The AV receiver has 9 channel supports, a 5.2.4-channel speaker layout Dolby Atmos, and DTS technology. Therefore, the audio will have more detail and makes the experience more enjoyable.
The Onkyo TX-NR787 9.2-Channel Network AV Receiver has rear HDMI inputs that support 4K HDR video in HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision1 formats using compatible displays. The DTS Neural X technology helps deliver 3D audio so you can further immerse yourself into the action. Also, the AV receiver is compatible with Google assistant so you can control the music with your voice.
Moreover, the AV receiver has AccuEQ that adjusts the audio to the activity you’re doing, making the audio better quality compared to other options. The technology calibrates to your room’s design and helps deliver surround sound audio. Also, the AV receiver has Bluetooth technology so you can connect wirelessly and stream music from popular apps such as Spotify.
The frequency response is 10 Hz – 100 Hz, which means it isn’t as wide as other options. However, if you connect multiple speakers this shouldn’t be an issue. Also, this version of the AV receiver doesn’t come with a wire and plug. You can purchase the version that does at an extra cost.
To summarize, the Onkyo TX-NR787 9.2-Channel Network AV Receiver is an excellent choice as it features surround sound technology. The multiple technologies used such as THX and DTS Neural X help create a better sound signature that is detailed. Also, you can connect to the speaker using Bluetooth, which allows you to stream music from your smartphone.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 24 Pounds |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
THX certified |
Excellent surround sound calibrates to your room |
Can stream 4K |
The Cons |
---|
Frequency response isn’t wide |
Wire and plug not included |
5. Denon AVR-S740H AV Receiver
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5.0
You can make the most from your 4K ultra HD TV with the Denon AVR-S740H AV Receiver as it delivers exceptional brightness, contrast, and color leveraging. Connecting to the AV receiver is easy as it comes with a wire and plug. You can connect a HDMI cable to stream 4K film and with the help of 7 amplifiers, you can enjoy amazing surround sound.
Also, you can play audio from anywhere in your house as it has built-in Wi-Fi, Airplay, and Bluetooth. You can connect an Amazon’s Alexa to gain voice control and control the music without the need to touch any device. With this AV receiver, you can create a home speaker system and choose what you want to play in each room.
Moreover, you can enjoy clear audio as the AV receiver has an EQ calibration system that tunes the drivers depending on what you’re listening to or watching. On the other hand, you can tune the drivers yourself by adjusting the bass and treble. Also, you can connect a remote control and use it to skip between songs, adjust the bass/treble, and control the volume.
Tuning the drivers yourself can be tricky if you are unsure of what you’re doing, so we recommend using the self-tuning technology. Also, setting up a whole speaker system can take time and if you incorrectly attach any RCA cable the audio can sound off.
In conclusion, the Denon AVR-S740H AV Receiver is a great choice as the 7 amplifiers help deliver surround sound. You can create a home speaker system and connect an Amazon Alexa since the AV receiver has Bluetooth. The device comes with a remote control that can be used to adjust the audio, regulate the drivers, and skip between songs. Also, the AV receiver has a self-calibrating EQ, so if you’re unsure how to tune the drivers the device will do it for you.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 16.54 Pounds |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
Self-calibrating EQ |
Can connect an Amazon Alex to gain voice control |
Built-in Wi-Fi |
The Cons |
---|
Setting up the AV receiver to speakers can take time |
Tuning the speakers can be tricky if you not sure how to do it |
6. Yamaha RX-V585 AV Receiver
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
The Yamaha RX-V585 AV Receiver has a 7.2-channel design so it can deliver surround sound, which immerses you into the action. When watching movies you’re a lot more immersed since the audio makes you feel like you’re actually there. Also, the picture quality is excellent as the AV receiver supports 4K ultra HD, so the device is compatible with all TVs.
Also, you can connect to the AV receiver with your smartphone as it has Bluetooth technology, which means you can stream music from your favorite apps such as Spotify. The AV receiver also features Wi-Fi so you can create a home speaker system if all your speakers are Wi-Fi based. You can connect an Amazon Alexa to the system and control the audio by using your voice.
The AV receiver comes with a sound optimizer called YPAO, which automatically optimizes the audio based on your room. However, you have the option to tune the audio yourself since the AV receiver has a built-in EQ. Also, you get a remote control that can be used to adjust the volume, regulate the bass/treble, and skip between the songs.
The remote control isn’t always responsive, so you must keep objects out of the way to ensure the AV receiver gets the signal. Also, the Bluetooth connection range isn’t that wide so keep your smartphone in the same room as the device.
In summary, the Yamaha RX-V585 AV Receiver is an excellent choice because of its great surround sound. It comes with a sound optimizer that tunes the drivers based on the room it’s in, which gives a unique audio signature. Also, you can create a home speaker system as the AV receiver as built-in Wi-Fi.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 17.19 Pounds |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
Can connect an Amazon Alexa |
Comes with a sound optimizer |
Built-in Wi-Fi |
The Cons |
---|
Remote control not always responsive |
Bluetooth connection range isn’t that wide |
7. Onkyo TX-NR686 7.2 Channel AV Receiver
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5.0
The Onkyo TX-NR686 AV Receiver uses certified THX technology, which means you get theater-like audio. The DTS: X playback technology further enhances the audio making it more detailed, which makes music more enjoyable as you can hear every instrument. Also, the 7.2 channels mean that the AV receiver can handle more speakers and create a surround sound experience.
Also, the AV receiver supports ultra HD TV as the main out and sub out support 4K 60 Hz. Plus it makes contrast and colors more vibrant. The amplifier supports up to 210 watts and 4-Ohms speaker driving capability.
Moreover, you can connect to the AV receiver wirelessly as it has built-in Bluetooth technology, which keeps stable connections throughout the listening experience. You can optimize the audio as it has a built-in EQ that allows you to adjust the bass and treble to your preferences. Also, you can use multiple presets depending on what activity you’re doing.
The AV receiver has Google assistant, but sometimes it doesn’t pick up words correctly. Also, setting up the AV receiver to your speaker system can be a long task if you’ve never done it before.
To conclude, the Onkyo TX-NR686 7.2 Channel AV Receiver is an excellent choice that brings clearer quality to your TV and audio. The DTS:X and Dolby Atmos technology bring surround sound that immerses you into the action. Also, you can connect to the AV receiver using your smartphone as it has Bluetooth technology.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 22 Pounds |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
Excellent surround sound immerses you into the action |
Easy to tune the speaker drivers |
Supports 4K 60 Hz |
The Cons |
---|
Google assistant doesn’t pick up words correctly sometimes |
Setting up the speaker system can take time |
Best AV Receivers Under $4000
Are you searching for the best AV receivers in the market and have a big budget to spend? We have searched the marketplace for the most premium options and came up with 3 that delivers excellent audio and video quality. They also have multiple methods of connection such as Bluetooth, RCA, and HDMI, which means you can stream audio from any device.
Moreover, the build quality is durable since the AV receiver brands can invest more money into the materials quality. Also, the brands are trustworthy and have a track record of producing the best products in the market.
8. Denon AVR-X8500H AV receiver (Top Pick)
Editor’s Rating: 5.0/5.0
The Denon AVR-X8500H AV receiver has 13.2 channels that can handle 150 watts each, which means you can create an extremely loudspeaker system. You can experience films unlike ever before as it has advanced technologies that allow it to create IMAX level visuals by regulating the contrast and colors.
Also, the audio sounds amazing with this AV receiver as it uses Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D technology, which results in surround sound. When watching movies or listening to music you’ll be fully immersed as the sounds are coming from all around you, and the built-in EQ regulates the drivers to produce more detail.
Furthermore, you can integrate automation systems such as Control 4, SDPP, josh, AI, Creston, and other third-party control systems. You can connect to the AV receiver via Wi-Fi and play music from your favorite apps such as Spotify. On the other hand, you can use your smartphone to connect wirelessly since it has built-in Bluetooth.
This AV receiver is a big investment so make sure you’ll actually make the most of the technology that’s implemented here. Also, you’ll need a premium 4K Ultra HD TV to get the full experience from this AV receiver.
In summary, the AVR-X8500H AV receiver is one of the best choices that you can purchase right now. It features 13.2 channels that can regulate 150 watts each, which means you can create an extremely loud speaker system. The 360 degree sound is incredible as the technology used is 9.1.4 surround sound. Also, you can connect to the speaker using multiple options such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 51.4 Pounds |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
IMAX quality visuals |
13.2 channels that can handle 150 watts each |
9.1.4 surround sound technology |
The Cons |
---|
Costs a lot |
Must have a 4K Ultra HD TV |
9. Denon AVR-X4500H AV Receiver (Best Value)
Editor’s Rating: 5.0/5.0
The Denon AVR-X4500H AV Receiver delivers you a premium cinematic experience with its 9.2 channel stereo receiver. Each channel has 125 watts so the audio is extremely clear and can get pretty loud depending on your speakers. The audio technology used is Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro-3D, which results in three dimensional sound that immerses you into the picture.
Also, you can experience IMAX level visuals with the AV receiver as the technologies used create better contrast and color. The AV receiver supports 4K 60 Hz, which means all ultra HD TVs are compatible with this device. Moreover, the Denon AVR-X4500H has one of the most advanced EQ calibration systems so every piece of audio sound incredible.
Furthermore, you can connect an Amazon Alexa to the AV receiver as it has built-in Bluetooth, which also means you can use your smartphone to play music. You can create a speaker system around your home as the Denon AVR-X4500H supports Wi-Fi. Also, you get a remote control that you can use to adjust the volume and tune the drivers.
The Denon AVR-X4500H is not a budget AV receiver so make sure you have the money to invest in this device and surround sound speakers. Also, when connecting Amazon Alexa it doesn’t always pick up words, which can be frustrating.
To summarize, the Denon AVR-X4500H AV Receiver is one of the best choices in the market. The device supports ultra HD 4K 60 Hz, which makes movies IMAX level. The AV receiver has one of the most advanced EQ calibrating systems that tune your speakers to perfection. Also, you can connect to the speaker using your smartphone as it has Bluetooth technology.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 30.02 Pounds |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
Can connect Amazon Alexa |
Built-in Wi-Fi |
Advanced EQ calibrating system |
The Cons |
---|
Expensive |
Amazon Alexa doesn’t always pick up words |
10. Sony STRDN1080 AV receiver
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5.0
The Sony STRDN1080 AV receiver supports Dolby Atmos 3D and DTS:X technology, which combined produce realistic surround sound. When watching films or listening to music you’ll be fully immersed in the experience as the audio will be coming from every direction. Also, the AV receiver supports 4K HDR so you can enjoy premium films that have better contrast and color.
Also, you can connect to the AV receiver with your smartphone and play music wirelessly as it has a Bluetooth transmitter. After the first time, you connect you won’t have to do it manually because of the NFC technology, which connects automatically for you. The Sony STRDN1080 also supports Wi-Fi so you can create a home speaker system.
The NFC pairing doesn’t always work so you may have to connect manually, which can be an inconvenience. Also, the Bluetooth connection range isn’t that wide, so you must keep your smartphone in the same room as the AV receiver.
To summarize, the STRDN1080 AV receiver is one of the best options as it features surround sound technology that immerses you into the action. The AV receiver supports 4K HDR s you can enjoy films in a different light as the colors and contrast are much better. You can connect to the device by Wi-Fi or Bluetooth so you can play music wirelessly.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 23 Pounds |
Surround Sound: Yes |
Bluetooth: Yes |
The Pros |
---|
Improves TV visuals drastically |
Surround sound technology immerses you into the action |
Supports 4K HDR |
The Cons |
---|
NFC pairing doesn’t always work |
Bluetooth connection range isn’t that far |
Contents
- Best AV Receivers by Price:
- Buying Considerations
- Connectivity
- Brand
- Audio Quality
- Convenience
- 10 Best AV Receivers Comparison Table
- Best AV Receivers Under $300
- 1. Sony STRDH590 5.2 multi-channel 4k HDR AV Receiver (Best Budget)
- 2. Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver
- 3. Pioneer Surround Sound AV Receiver
- Best AV Receivers Under $500
- 4. Onkyo TX-NR787 9.2-Channel Network AV Receiver
- 5. Denon AVR-S740H AV Receiver
- 6. Yamaha RX-V585 AV Receiver
- 7. Onkyo TX-NR686 7.2 Channel AV Receiver
- Best AV Receivers Under $4000
- 8. Denon AVR-X8500H AV receiver (Top Pick)
- 9. Denon AVR-X4500H AV Receiver (Best Value)
- 10. Sony STRDN1080 AV receiver