Home theater receiver selection algorithm – the best models of 2026

It is important to take the

process of choosing a receiver
for a home theater responsibly, because this device performs not only the functions of a controller, but also the central element of a stereo system. It is important to choose the right receiver model so that it is compatible with the original components. Below you can learn more about the specifications of the home theater receiver and the ranking of the best devices as of 2021.

Home theater receiver: what is it and what is it for

A multi-channel amplifier with digital audio stream decoders, a tuner and a video and audio signal switcher is called an AV receiver. The main task of the receiver is to amplify the sound, decode a multi-channel digital signal, and switch signals coming from the source to the playback device. Having refused to buy a receiver, you can not hope that the sound will be the same as in a real cinema. Only the receiver has the ability to combine individual components into a single whole. The main components of AV receivers are a multi-channel amplifier and a processor that converts sound from digital to analog. Also, the processor is responsible for the correction of time delays, volume control and switching.

Connecting via HDMI allows you to achieve the highest quality sound. To do this, the AV receiver must have enough HDMI inputs to support each device that the user wishes to use. USB input located on the front of the AVR

Note! The presence of the Phono input allows you to connect a turntable to your home theater.

Receiver models with a different number of channels are on sale. Experts advise giving preference to 5.1 and 7-channel amplifiers. The number of channels needed in the AV receiver must match the number of speakers used to achieve the surround effect. For a 5.1-channel home theater setup, a 5.1 receiver will do.
The 7-channel system is equipped with a pair of rear channels that provide the most realistic 3D sound. If desired, you can choose a more powerful configuration 9.1, 11.1 or even 13.1. However, in this case, you will need to additionally install a top speaker system, which will make it possible to immerse yourself in three-dimensional sound when watching a video or listening to an audio file.
Manufacturers equip modern amplifier models with an intelligent ECO mode, which significantly reduces power consumption when listening to audio and watching movies at a moderate volume level. However, it should be borne in mind that when the volume is increased, the ECO mode will be automatically turned off, transferring all the power of the receiver to the speakers. Thanks to this, users can fully enjoy impressive special effects.

What types of receivers for DC are

Manufacturers have launched the production of conventional AV amplifiers and combo DVDs. The first type of receivers is used for budget home theater models. The combined version can be found as part of a large recreation center. Such a device is a successful combination in one case of an AV receiver and a DVD player. Such equipment is quite simple to manage and configure it. In addition, the user will be able to reduce the number of wires.

Best Receivers – Review of Top Home Theater Amplifiers with Prices

The stores offer a wide range of receivers. In order not to make a mistake and not to purchase an amplifier of poor quality, you should read the description of the devices included in the rating of the best before buying.

Marantz NR1510

Marantz NR1510 is a model that supports Dolby and TrueHD DTS-HD formats. The power of the device with 5.2-channel configuration is 60 watts per channel. The amplifier works with voice assistants. Due to the fact that the manufacturer has equipped the amplifier with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization technology, the output sound is surround. You can use the remote control or a special application to control the Marantz NR1510. The cost of Marantz NR1510 is in the range of 72,000 – 75,000 rubles. The main advantages of this model include:

• support for wireless technologies;
• clear, surround sound;
• the possibility of integration into the “Smart Home” system.

The amplifier turns on for a long time, which is a minus of the model.

Sony STR-DH590

The Sony STR-DH590 is one of the best 4K amplifier models out there. The power of the device is 145 watts. S-Force PRO Front Surround technology creates surround sound. The receiver can be activated from a smartphone. You can buy Sony STR-DH590 for 33,000-35,000 rubles. The presence of a built-in Bluetooth module, ease of setup and control are considered significant advantages of this receiver. Only the lack of an equalizer can upset a little.

Denon AVC-X8500H

The Denon AVC-X8500H is a 210W device. The number of channels is 13.2. This receiver model supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro 3D 3D audio. Thanks to HEOS technology, a multi-room system is created that allows you to enjoy listening to music in any room. The cost of Denon AVC-X8500H is in the range of 390,000-410,000 rubles.

Onkyo TX-SR373

Onkyo TX-SR373 is a model (5.1) equipped with popular features. Such a receiver is suitable for people who have installed a home theater in a small room, the area of ​​\u200b\u200bwhich does not exceed 25 sq.m. Onkyo TX-SR373 is equipped with 4 HDMI inputs. Thanks to high-resolution decoders, full-fledged playback of audio files is ensured. You can buy an Onkyo TX-SR373 with an automatic calibration system for 30,000-32,000 rubles. The presence of a built-in Bluetooth module and a deep, rich sound are considered significant advantages of the device. However, it should be borne in mind that there is no equalizer, and the terminals are unreliable.

YAMAHA HTR-3072

YAMAHA HTR-3072 (5.1) is a Bluetooth compatible model. Discrete configuration, high-frequency digital-to-analog converters. The manufacturer equipped the model with YPAO sound optimization technology, the functions of which are to study the acoustics of the room and the audio system. This makes it possible to fine-tune the sound parameters as accurately as possible. The presence of a built-in energy-saving ECO function has a positive effect on reducing electricity consumption (up to 20% savings). You can buy the device for 24,000 rubles. Among the main advantages of the model, it is worth highlighting:

• ease of connection;
• the presence of a power saving function;
• sound that pleases with power (5-channel).

A little frustrating is the large number of elements on the front panel.

NAD T 778

NAD T 778 is a premium 9.2 channel AV amplifier. The power of the device is 85 W per channel. The manufacturer equipped this model with 6 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs. With serious video circuitry, UHD/4K pass-through is ensured. Ease of use and improved ergonomics are provided by a full touch screen located on the front panel. Sound quality. There are a couple of MDC slots. You can buy an amplifier for 99,000 – 110,000 rubles.

Denon AVR-X250BT

Denon AVR-X250BT (5.1) is a model that provides high-quality sound even if the user listens to music from a smartphone using the built-in Bluetooth module. Up to 8 paired devices will be stored in memory. Thanks to 5 amplifiers, 130 watts of power is provided. The saturation of the sound is maximum, the dynamic range is wide. The manufacturer equipped the model with 5 HDMI inputs and support for Dolby TrueHD audio format. ECO mode allows you to reduce power consumption by 20%. This will turn on the standby mode, turn off the power during the period when the receiver is not in use. The power of the device will be adjusted depending on the volume level. You can buy a Denon AVR-X250BT for 30,000 rubles. The package includes a user manual. It displays simple and understandable explanations for each user. In the instructions you can find a color-coded speaker connection diagram. Once the TV is connected to the amplifier, an interactive assistant will appear on the monitor to guide you through the setup. The significant advantages of this model are:

• rich high quality sound;
• Ease of controls;
• the presence of a built-in Bluetooth module;
• having clear instructions.

Listening to music for a long time, protection will work. This will prevent the receiver from overheating. The absence of a calibration microphone can be a little frustrating. In the settings, you can not select the Russian language. This is a significant disadvantage. How to choose an AV receiver for home theater – video review: https://youtu.be/T-ojW8JnCXQ

Receiver selection algorithm

The process of choosing a receiver for a home theater is important to take responsibly. When choosing an amplifier, you should pay attention to:

1. The power of the device , on which the sound quality will depend. When buying a receiver, you need to consider the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room in which the home theater is installed. If the room is less than 20 square meters, experts recommend giving preference to 60-80-watt models. For a spacious room (30-40 sq.m), you need equipment with a power of 120 watts.
2. Digital-to-analog converter . It is worth giving preference to a high sampling rate (96 kHz-192 kHz).
3. Ease of navigation is an important parameter, because most manufacturers offer users too complicated, confusing menus, which makes the setup process difficult.

Advice! It is very important when choosing to pay attention not only to the cost of the amplifier, but also to the important parameters listed above.

Top 20 Best Home Theater Receivers with Prices End of 2021

The table shows the comparative characteristics of the most popular models of home theater receivers:

Model	Number of channels	Frequency range	Weight	Power per channel	USB port	Voice control
1 Marantz NR1510	5.2	10-100000 Hz	8.2 kg	60 watts per channel	There is	Available
2. Denon AVR-X250BT black	5.1	10 Hz – 100 kHz	7.5 kg	70 W	Not	Missing
3. Sony STR-DH590	5.2	10-100000 Hz	7.1 kg	145 W	There is	Available
4. Denon AVR-S650H black	5.2	10 Hz – 100 kHz	7.8 kg	75 W	There is	Available
5. Denon AVC-X8500H	13.2	49 – 34000 Hz	23.3 kg	210 W	There is	Available
6 Denon AVR-S750H	7.2	20 Hz – 20 kHz	8.6 kg	75 W	There is	Available
7.Onkyo TX-SR373	5.1	10-100000 Hz	8 kg	135 W	There is	Available
8. YAMAHA HTR-3072	5.1	10-100000 Hz	7.7 kg	100 W	There is	Available
9. NAD T 778	9.2	10-100000 Hz	12.1 kg	85 watts per channel	There is	Available
10 Marantz SR7015	9.2	10-100000 Hz	14.2 kg	165W (8 ohms) per channel	Missing	Available
11. Denon AVR-X2700H	7.2	10 – 100000 Hz	9.5 kg	95 W	There is	Available
12. Yamaha RX-V6A	7.2	10 – 100000 Hz	9.8 kg	100 W	There is	Available
13. Yamaha RX-A2A	7.2	10 Hz – 100 kHz	10.2 kg	100 W	There is	Available
14. NAD T 758 V3i	7.2	10 Hz – 100 kHz	15.4 kg	60 W	There is	Available
15. Arcam AVR850	7.1	10 Hz – 100 kHz	16.7 kg	100 W	There is	Available
16 Marantz SR8012	11.2	10 Hz – 100 kHz	17.4 kg	140 W	There is	Available
17 Denon AVR-X4500H	9.2	10 Hz – 100 kHz	13.7 kg	120 W	There is	Available
18.Arcam AVR10	7.1	10 Hz – 100 kHz	16.5 kg	85 W	There is	Available
19. Pioneer VSX-LX503	9.2	5 – 100000 Hz	13 kg	180 W	There is	Available
20. YAMAHA RX-V585	7.1	10 Hz – 100 kHz	8.1 kg	80 W	There is	Available

Best Audio of the Year – EISA 2021/22 nominees: https://youtu.be/fW8Yn94rwhQ Choosing a home theater receiver is considered to be quite a difficult process. Experts say that it is important not only to choose a quality model, but also to check whether it is compatible with the original components. Only in this case, you can be sure that the multi-channel amplifier will be able to amplify the sound, making it better.
The description of the best models proposed in the article will help each user choose the most suitable receiver option for themselves.