The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best AV Receiver

AV receiver under $500

Sony STR-DH790 – under $500

I will start my diverse review with a model that has been one of the most popular since 2018. The whole point is that the Sony STR-DH790 is a 7.2-channel receiver you can afford without considering the family budget. It provides decent sound and has enough features for all its shortcomings (let’s call them compromises in favor of affordability).

It is natural that when it comes to a cheap device, the manufacturer saves on the quality of the construction in the first place. The case is quite soft; try not to squeeze it too much so as not to wrinkle it. The narrow buttons under the LCD are not too convenient and click when pressed. The speaker terminals are spring-loaded and made of cheap plastic, so I wouldn’t unnecessarily yank them. The light weight of 16.6 pounds also speaks to the not-so-high-quality internal components (you’ll see when we review the more expensive Denon AVR-X1800H). But considering when the receiver was released and how much it cost, it’s all tolerable. Just tune in beforehand, and don’t get frustrated.

The manufacturer claimed 145W per channel, and you may say, “Oh! You said there are no cheap, powerful receivers!”. Always look at the figures in parentheses. This rating is for 6 ohms, and the THD is 0.9%. This means that the receiver is monstrously hoarse at high volume, and on average, you will get 50-70W (8 ohms,20 Hz – 20 kHz, 2 ch) for good sound quality. In addition, the receiver overheats with prolonged use because the ventilation is poorly designed. Still, the main advantage of this home audio receiver is that it decodes Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound formats.

With the Sony STR-DH790, you get 4/1 HDMI ports. This is the smallest number in my selection, but it is normal for a cheap receiver. In addition, we are talking only about 4K/60Hz video, and the range of HDR formats is not much (HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision). This is not strange because in 2018, they have not yet introduced the 2.1 HDMI version.

You may think that the model in question is not worthy of being on my list, but do not forget that this is the most inexpensive receiver here. What is the most important thing in the center of a home theater? That’s right – sound! And if you set up the system correctly (there is a calibration microphone) and don’t squeeze the volume, you’ll hear a nice, clean sound of STR-DH790. Nothing supernatural, but the overall sound picture pleasantly amazes me. And I’m not surprised that AVR is so popular. I highly recommend using the Bi-amping and Pure Direct functions, greatly improving the sound. There is also the S-Force PRO function. It’s pretty awesome. It simulates surround sound with just 2 front speakers, so you don’t need to bother with surround sound speakers.

For streaming music lovers, there’s only Bluetooth. Although giving credit, I want to say that it supports the AAC codec and is compatible with Apple devices.

AV receiver under $1000

Denon AVR-X1800H – under $1000

The winner in this category represents my favorite brand, Denon. Model AVR-X1800H was released in 2023, and on the example of this 7-channel receiver, you can see the difference with the budget Sony STR-DH790. This way, you will better understand what you are paying almost 2 times more for.

For the same purpose, we have 19 pounds of net weight. The case isn’t overly rigid but still looks and feels more robust than the STR-DH790. Though it, too, overheats at high power. But this is pretty standard for inexpensive models. The design is standard for Denon; even premium models look exactly the same – classic.

The output power of 80 watts is pretty standard for a 7-channel unit, but the performance of this Denon is much better than the previous Sony. The power is specified for 8 ohms (20 Hz-20 Khz, 0.08% 2ch), and as you can see, its THD allows you to listen to movies at almost maximum without fear of distortion. There’s also a bi-amping function here, but the receiver is only compatible with 6 and 8-ohm speakers.

In the video area, the AVR-X1800H surpasses its predecessor in the budget category. It supports 8K video on 3 of its 6 HDMI inputs. This also means you have HDCP 2.3 protection, CEO, and eARC. Note HDMI Diagnostic Mode. If you have problems with audio or video signal transmission, just use it to find the problem and fix it. Isn’t that cool? But yes, it does mean that problems happen. I’ve noticed a slight delay in video when streaming a couple of times, but it’s not critical. There are also delays of about 10 seconds when switching between sources. In principle, these are acceptable flaws; they are not annoying.

Unlike Sony, the AVR-X1800H is an AV receiver for music. In addition to having a phono input for connecting a vinyl player, it works with an impressive number of streaming services, is compatible with voice assistants (Alexa, Google Voice Assistant, Apple HomePod), and has a built-in multi-room HEOS system working via Wi-Fi. The stereo with the Denon is excellent. Maybe not as rich as the more expensive AVR-X3800H or AVR-X8500HA, but with a bright, dynamic shade inherent to the brand. And, as always – don’t expect bass without a subwoofer.

The surround sound is very good. Upper and middle frequencies are expressed very well. Still, since we are talking about the minimum configuration 5.2.2 for Dolby Atmos, the sound picture is vivacious but not as rich in nuances as in the premium segment (this is normal). The AVR-X1800H holds its balance well even in intense action scenes, and in a small studio (about 200 square feet), the sound was dispersed with just the right amount of dispersion. It supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X surround formats, so you don’t have to buy ceiling-mounted speakers. Given the uncomplicated system, imitating the upper channels is very close to full range.

AV receivers under $2000

Denon AVR-X3800H – best overall

I have two models that can safely compete in this category because they have very similar features and costs. But my favorite was, is, and will be Denon because it combines the most reasonable price/quality ratio among all brands. In this review, the AVR-X3800H has a higher price tag than the Onkyo TX-RZ50, but it becomes the best AVR in the under $2000 category.

Externally, it’s impossible to distinguish the AVR-X3800H from the AVR-X1800H previously featured in the review. That’s the company’s saying that they don’t pay much attention to design. But it means you don’t pay for a beautiful appearance, but only for what’s under the case. Remember what I said about the weight value? Well, here we have 27.6 pounds, which means that there are not only two additional amplifiers under the hood (we’re dealing with a 9-channel receiver) but also a better processor and all the other components. The front panel is not metal, but the case looks solid to the touch. And, unlike AVR-X1800H, it doesn’t overheat under heavy loads.

So, the main advantage of AVR-X3800H is that you can expand your system up to 11 channels with an additional amplifier. You can only provide sound to 2 zones. The receiver’s output power is 105 watts, and here it loses out to the Onkyo TX-RZ50, which has 120 watts, but with the same bracing data into 8 ohms (20Hz – 20kHz, 0.08%, 2ch). But Denon’s engineers are no fools and gave their receiver a bass advantage by equipping it with 4 separate pre-outputs for subwoofers. It makes a difference if you like to feel the sound on your skin.

As you’ve already realized, the year of release matters, and in this 2022 receiver, all 6/3 HDMI ports are version 2.1, meaning they work with 8K video. You can forget about upgrading for years to come (and not just for that reason). You can even stream 4K video to a second zone. Considering all the features you need for gaming, we have a great example of modernity in the mid-range segment.

In addition to the standard DTS:X and Dolby Atmos, you can watch movies with IMAX Enhanced Sound, 360 Reality Audio, and Auro 3D. AVR-X3800H, of course, is not a monster among receivers, but watching the movie “Han Solo” with its help made me absolutely delighted. In the train robbery scene, when Woody Harrelson was shot with guns, and he took cover behind a metal cover, I dodged a ricochet at one point with my movie-watching experience. For me, this is enough to give the receiver a high mark. Separately, it is worth saying about the Audyssey calibration system. It is rightly considered the most adaptive and simple of the “native”, even for beginners. It does not require additional intervention if you are unfamiliar with the nuances.

Why do I love Denon? Because they are versatile. With the AVR-X3800H, listening to music is as much fun as watching a movie. In addition to the vinyl I adore, which gets the warmth it needs (there’s a phono stage), the wireless capabilities are impressive. Just look at the list of streaming services the receiver works with, and rest assured, you’ll always have something to listen to. The HEOS system developed by the company is one of my favorites; it is coherent and stable in any segment. There are some small problems with the work of applications, but I think the company will fix them soon (simultaneous use of Denon and HEOS applications slows down).

Onkyo TX-RZ50 – alternative pick

An alternative, less expensive model in this category is the Onkyo TX-RZ50 9kas you have already guessed), released in 2021. It costs a little less because the brand produces receivers with many features, but their quality is still inferior to the more prestigious Denon. That’s why the receiver will suit those who do not believe in the company’s name but only want to get everything in one package.

So, the TX-RZ50 weighs an impressive 30.9 pounds, but it’s just bigger than the Denon AVR-X3800H. The control buttons are on the side but very small and awkward (I don’t find them comfortable at all, haha). But I can already “see” how dirt and grease from hands get into the slots. And it’s not solid somehow. In general, nothing special can not be singled out. Normal design, good LCD, simple control.

There is more power (as I already mentioned); it is 120 W (8 Ohm, 20 Hz – 20 kHz, 0.08% THD, 2 ch), but taking into account the possibility of adding only 2 subs, the overall sound picture is not better than that of AVR-X3800H. In general, if we talk about sound, Denon has it fat and dense; you feel like you’re bathing in it. TX-RZ50 has a simple, flat, clean, and balanced sound. Of the surround sound formats, only Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (with IMAX Enhanced added) are supported. Not that it’s bad (enough), but to be a 9-channel receiver with expandable up to 11 channels (like AVR-X3800H) and not have Auro 3D support today is somehow not respectable. But you pay less, so get the difference.

To make it easier to understand what we are dealing with, I’ll just highlight the main advantages and disadvantages of Onkyo TX-RZ50 (including in comparison with AVR-X3800H) from those I haven’t mentioned yet. But I will say right off the bat that they are identical in video capabilities.

Pros:

• Different HDMI configuration (1 more input);.
• Audio distribution into 3 zones;.
• DTS Play-Fi Ready and Bluetooth with support for AAC and aptX HD codecs are considered more stable than the standard versions;.
• The receiver is THX Certified Select, emphasizing its high-end class.

Cons:

• The receiver is compatible with Hey Google or Alexa voice assistants, but you must purchase a separate device. That’s an additional expense.

Premium AV receivers

Denon AVR-X8500HA – premium AVR

Dear friends, the end of my review has arrived. Ultimately, I am thrilled to present you with the best home theater receiver in the premium segment – Denon AVR-X8500HA. I think you have already felt my love for the brand’s devices, and you know that this is the third representative of the company in this selection. But believe me, I base my analysis not only on my subjective opinion (but I don’t hesitate to express it).

So, in front of us, we have a monster with 150W of power (8 ohms, 20Hz – 20kHz, 0.05% 2ch). The AVR-X8500HA has 13.2 channels of amplification, but you can add another external amplifier and get 15 channels. This receiver requires a professional approach, special acoustics, comfortable chairs, and, of course, popcorn because if you do it right, you might even have more fun than in a public theater. Everything in it gives away the feeling of belonging to luxury, except for the design. I like it; no surprises. The external controls are hidden under a metal cover, moving so smoothly that I can adjust the sound extremely nuanced. You’ll even have gold-plated RCA connectors. The AVR weighs 52 pounds; I don’t think you’ll need to fix it anytime. It’s like a reliable Mercedes. You bought it once and passed it on to your grandson.

There’s no limit to the number of connections. It’s true. As much equipment as I have in my studio, believe me, I connected everything I wanted. Gamers, movie buffs, and music lovers will be delighted. But still, the year of release has played its cruel joke, and the Denon AVR-X8500HA has only 1 HDMI connector with version 2.1.

I have already said that listening to vinyl with Denon is a special pleasure. The records from the ’70s, which I have plenty of, sound amazing (of course, I have a great turntable too). Fleetwood Mac, Townes Van Zandt, and Black Sabbath sounded like I was sitting right there with the performers when they were recorded. I could feel the hand touching the strings of the guitar… If you decide to buy AVR-X8500HA but have not yet joined vinyl – I highly recommend it (don’t skimp on acoustics). The digital stereo also delighted me, as I did not catch a single lag, failure, or delay. Everything works lightning fast.

The movie? Oh. That’s a delight. I love nuance, so in addition to Avatar Part II, I chose the unique (in my opinion) film A Quiet Place. If, in the first case, there was a lot of action, and I was periodically squeezed into the chair or knocked out of it (the sound literally throws you following what is happening on the screen), then in the second case, I felt the sound in the hairs on the skin of my hands. Amazing. Fantastic. Unrivaled. These are the words I would like to say to the AVR-X8500HA. The movie, which has almost no dialogue, made me experience every second and listen to every nuance. The bar has been set.