Home Theater Receiver Selection Algorithm – Best Models of 2025

It is important to take a responsible attitude to the process of choosing a receiver
for a home theater , because this device performs not only the functions of a controller, but also the central element of a stereo system.
It is important to select the correct model of your receiver to be compatible with the original components. Below you can find out in more detail the technical characteristics of the home theater receiver and the rating of the best devices as of 2021.

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

A multichannel amplifier with digital audio decoders, a tuner, and a video and audio switcher is called an AV receiver. The main task of the receiver is to amplify the sound, decode a multichannel 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 the individual components into a single whole. The main components of AV receivers are a multichannel amplifier and processor that converts sound from digital to analog. Also, the processor is responsible for correcting time delays, adjusting volume and switching.
Block diagram of AV receiver [/ caption]

Specifications

Modern multi-channel amplifiers are equipped with optical, HDMI and USB inputs. Optical inputs are used in order to achieve high-quality sound from a PC / game console. It should be borne in mind that an optical digital cable does not reproduce video signals like HDMI.
Receiver interfaces [/ caption] 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
allows you to play almost any audio file (normal stereo recording / multichannel surround / Hi-Res high resolution audio).

Note! Phono input allows you to connect a turntable to your home theater.

Models of receivers with a different number of channels are on sale. Experts advise to give preference to amplifiers 5.1 and 7-channel systems. The number of channels required in the AV receiver must match the number of speakers used to achieve the surround sound effect. For a 5.1-channel home theater setup, a 5.1 receiver is suitable.
The 7-channel system is equipped with a pair of rear channels for the most realistic 3D sound possible. If desired, you can choose the 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 deeply 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 moderate volume levels. However, it should be borne in mind that when the volume is increased, the ECO mode will be automatically turned off, transmitting all the power of the receiver to the speakers. Thanks to this, users can fully enjoy the impressive special effects.

What types of receivers for recreation centers are

Manufacturers have begun to produce conventional AV amplifiers and DVD combo amplifiers. The first type of receivers is used for budget models of home theaters. The combined version can be found as part of a large recreation center. Such a device is a good combination in one body of an AV receiver and a DVD player. Such equipment is quite simple to operate and configure. In addition, the user will be able to reduce the number of wires.
AV amplifier Denon AVR-S950H [/ caption]

Best Receivers – Review of the Top Home Theater Amplifiers with Prices

The stores offer a wide range of receivers. In order not to make a mistake and not to buy a poor quality amplifier, it is worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the description of the devices included in the rating of the best before buying.

Marantz NR1510

The Marantz NR1510 is a Dolby and TrueHD DTS-HD model. The power of the device in a 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 sound at the output is surround. To control the Marantz NR1510, you can use the remote control or a special application. The cost of the Marantz NR1510 is in the range of 72,000 – 75,000 rubles. The main advantages of this model are:

• support for wireless technologies;
• clear, surround sound;
• the ability to integrate into the “Smart Home” system.

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

Sony STR-DH590

The Sony STR-DH590 is one of the very best in 4K amplifier. The power of the device is 145 W. 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 be a little upsetting.

Denon AVC-X8500H

Denon AVC-X8500H is a device with a power of 210 watts. The number of channels is 13.2. This receiver model supports Dolby Atmos, DTS: X and Auro 3D 3D audio. HEOS technology creates a multi-room system 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 – model (5.1), equipped with the requested features. Such a receiver will suit people who have installed a home theater in a small room, the area of ​​which does not exceed 25 square meters. The Onkyo TX-SR373 is equipped with 4 HDMI inputs. High-resolution decoders provide full audio playback. You can buy Onkyo TX-SR373 with an automatic calibration system for 30,000-32,000 rubles. The presence of a built-in Bluetooth module and 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. The configuration is discrete, high-frequency digital-to-analog converters. The manufacturer has 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 precisely as possible. The built-in ECO energy-saving function has a positive effect on reducing energy consumption (up to 20% savings). The device can be purchased 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 bit frustrating with the large number of elements on the front panel.

NAD T 778

The NAD T 778 is a premium 9.2 channel AV amplifier. The power of the device is 85 W per channel. The manufacturer has equipped this model with 6 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs. Thanks to its 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. The sound is of high quality. There are a couple of MDC slots. The amplifier can be purchased 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 is listening to music from a smartphone using the built-in Bluetooth module. Up to 8 paired devices will be stored in memory. 5 amplifiers provide 130 watts. The sound saturation is maximum, the dynamic range is wide. The manufacturer equipped the model with 5 HDMI inputs and support for the Dolby TrueHD audio format. ECO mode reduces power consumption by 20%. This will turn on the standby mode, turn off the power when the receiver is not in use. The power of the device will be adjusted depending on the volume level. You can buy Denon AVR-X250BT for 30,000 rubles. The package includes a user manual. It contains simple and understandable explanations for each user.In the instructions, you can find a color-coded speaker connection diagram. As soon as the TV is connected to the amplifier, an interactive assistant appears on the monitor, which will tell you how to perform the setup. Significant advantages of this model are:

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

By listening to music for a long time, protection will work. This prevents the receiver from overheating. The lack of a calibration microphone can be a little frustrating. You cannot select Russian in the settings. This is a significant disadvantage. How to choose an AV receiver for your home theater – video review: https://youtu.be/T-ojW8JnCXQ

Receiver selection algorithm

The process of choosing a home theater receiver 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 take into account the area of ​​the 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 square meters), equipment is needed with a power of 120 watts.
2. Digital-to-analog converter . High sampling rates (96 kHz-192 kHz) should be preferred.
3. Ease of navigation is an important parameter, because most manufacturers offer users an overly complex, confusing menu, which complicates the setup process.

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

Algorithm for choosing an av receiver for home theater [/ caption]

Top 20 best home theater receivers with prices at the end of 2021

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

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