The pillar of every home’s theater system is the Audio-visual “AV” receiver (can also be referred to as a Home theater or surround sound receiver). The receiver provides a central control and connection unit.
Top of the line AV receivers have an in-depth network connection, customized control abilities, and also wide range switching and processing of audio and video.
It should be a breeze purchasing an AV receiver right? After all, you know what you are looking for. It should have the features you want and the channels all at an affordable price.
As straight forward as that seems, that is usually not the case when a purchase is about to be made. With directly deceptive specifications and endless available features, it is a lot more complex than expected when choosing a quality receiver from the never ending range that exists.
Since we have had the opportunity to use a good amount of quality receivers in the market currently, we decided to put together a list that combines our vast knowledge of AV’s into helping you choosing the one that is right for you and your pocket.
Here are our top ranked receivers for 2017
5) Sony STRDH550
This is one of Sony’s junior level receivers this year. It differs from its more expensive counterparts in that it doesn’t come with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth advanced services. This is perfect if you aren’t into the elaborate AV systems, and you rarely concern yourself with music streaming or Wi-Fi.
The design and structure of the Sony STR-DH550 might not be as pretty as that of the Marantz but it has simplistic and modern touches. The front of the receiver is free of clutter from buttons. This sound system is more inclined to producing amazing quality sound and thus is meant for individuals who enjoy great music quality.
The Pros
- The Sony STRDH550 is reasonably priced. It produces great sound in small or medium room sizes. Strong sound player for music and movies.
The Cons
- It does not have advanced systems like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It operates on an old interface.
Bottom Line
Generally, the Sony STR-DH550 is an exceptional AV receiver if you’re not looking to spend a lot and still get quality sound.
4) Onkyo TX-NR757 7.2-Channel Network A/V Receiver
The Onkyo TX-NR757 7.2-Channel is a receiver that gives quality sound. This receiver deals with modern formats easily with the use of Ultra HD pass-through like; such as HDR, 4:4:4 color space and of course 4K. Depending on when your model was shipped, your receiver also supports DolbyAtmos and DTS:X.
It also comes with features such as Bluetooth, Wifi, Hi-res up to DSD 5.6 MHz and Airplay. Other additional features such as inbuilt CHromecast, fireconnect wireless multiroom function and streaming services support are a part of what makes the Onkyo TX-NR757 7.2-Channel an amazing buy.
The Pros
- Wide range of options for wireless connectivity
- Competitive price for excellent value
- An app is available for your phone
The Cons
- Slight connectivity issues with the Bluetooth
- High price for a junior receiver
Bottom Line
If you are in search of a receiver that is user-friendly, has effortless and efficient audio streaming, and vast connection options, this is a perfect fit for you.
3) Yamaha RX-V679BL 7.2-Channel MusicCast AV Receiver
The 679 Yamaha is practically an identical match in design to the 677. It comes in a black box and is rectangular in shape with a front panel made of aluminum.
The standard input buttons can all be found on the front panel, even though chances of you needing them are slim to none. This AV receiver has four stereo RCA inputs with one output. It also has optical and dual coaxial inputs.
A complete number of six HDMI inputs can be found on the Yamaha 679 with one located in front. The initial three input points and one output point are HDCP 2.2 copy security capable, while the remaining input/output points are all HDMI 2.0 and have 4K video capabilities.
Having an HDCP 2.2 capable receiver will be very essential once 4K video creators start working with encryption systems. Also, the 679 can upscale most HD content to 4K and can handle 4K pass-through.
This receiver comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth systems built in. with the use of Pandora, Rhapsody, Spotify, SiriusXM, and the likes, internet streaming is easy and comes with various options. The last bonus feature is the use of Apple’s Airplay by the Yamaha 679.
The Pros
- Inbuilt Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support
- 4K compatible
- Updated version of HDMI 2.2
- Various input points
The Cons
- Slightly expensive
- Difficult interaction with the menu
Bottom Line
If you want a top of the line receiver and are willing to spend for the features, then this is the AV system for you.
2) Anthem MRX 1120
The name Anthem is highly recognized with those who want the best of sound quality in a receiver. With that said, it is expected that the MRX 1120 will provide just that and it delivered with no questions asked.
This receiver comes with 140 watts of pure power through each channel at 80hms all via a huge toroidal power supply.
It also works with Ultra HD pass-through, excellent support fro the 4K, HDR, 4:4:4 and BT.2020 chrome and colorspace. It even increases standard sound and high-def signals to 4K with the use of an upscaler. It comes with a perfect number of 8 HDMI inputs.
In its second zone, the MRX 1120 has wired multi-room capabilities along with DTS Play-fi. Streaming is not an issue with this receiver as it supports stream services such as Tidal, Spotify, amazon prime music, Pandora and the likes.
The Pros:
- Amazing sound quality
- Various HDMI 2.0 input points
- User-friendly configuration and setup
- High-end room correction
- inbuilt streaming with HiRes audio
The Cons:
- the firmware only updates via USB
- use of a PC or iPhone is needed for ARC room correction
Bottom Line
If you are in the market for quality sound with wide streaming options and you happen to have a flexible budget, this receiver works for you.
Our Top Pick:
Denon AVR-S720W
This last entry is designed for those who want an affordable and user-friendly sound system. Apart from ease of use and affordability, the DenonAVR-S720 also packs a lot of power and beneficial additional features.
This Denon model brings 8 ohms at 75 watts per channel to the table, also with complete 3D / 4K / HDR pass-through. In comparison with the Sony listed above it wins in that it had Dolby Atmos and DTS:X object-based surround sound support.
The 6 HDMI inputs and one output located on the AVR-S720 all support HDMI 2.0 and HDCP 2.2. in addition it features support for the 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling and BT.2020 color space.
You are provided with wide DLNA server streaming directly from your home along with connectivity options like Airplay, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.
It supports a large number of streaming services such as Spotify, Pandora and it also supports internet radio. There is also Hi-res audio support with a difference from the standard format included which is the DSD at 2.8 MHz and 5.6 MHz.
The setup makes use of one the most user-friendly interface in the market today with graphical icons on its screen and the AudesseyMultEQwhich is top of the line in today’s market.
The Pros:
- it has good features and a great sound to boot
- supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- 4K compatible
- It has an easy setup
The Cons:
- Not a lot of connectivity options
- Archaic looking interface
- Its app tends to have problems occasionally
Bottom Line
The Denon AVR-S720 offers great sound at an affordable rate. If you are on the lookout for something cheap which still comes with great quality, then this is the best choice.
