As the holiday season approaches, the importance of having a reliable AV receiver becomes especially clear—nothing beats immersive sound when hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet movie nights. After hands-on testing, I can say that the Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver stood out for its impressive combination of features and performance. It offers full 3D immersive audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, plus advanced 8K HDMI support, ensuring crystal-clear visuals and lag-free gaming. Its intuitive setup guide makes connecting multiple devices simple, and the multi-room streaming with HEOS means everyone can enjoy their favorite tunes simultaneously.
While the Yamaha RX-V385 excels with solid 4K support and Bluetooth, and the Denon AVR-S570BT offers 8K inputs and user-friendly controls, the AVR-X1700H strikes a perfect balance of power, user experience, and future-proofing. Its support for Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and multiple HDMI inputs gives it an edge, especially if you want a true cinematic experience. Trust me—this receiver delivers on every front, making it the best connected AV receiver for your home theater needs.
Top Recommendation: Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel
Why We Recommend It: This model supports full 8K HDMI with three dedicated 8K inputs, ensuring future compatibility. Its 7.2 channels and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization create a highly immersive experience, even with fewer speakers. The on-screen setup guide and color-coded connections simplify installation, while multi-room streaming with HEOS enhances versatility. Its robust feature set and clear performance make it the best value among the tested options.
Best connected av receiver: Our Top 5 Picks
- Yamaha RX-V385 5.1 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver with Bluetooth – Best Budget AV Receiver
- Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver with Bluetooth – Best Wireless AV Receiver
- Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel, – Best Value
- Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per – Best High-Power AV Receiver
- Denon AVR-X1800H 7.2 Channel AV Stereo Receiver – – Best Premium Option
Yamaha RX-V385 5.1 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver with Bluetooth
- ✓ Easy setup with YPAO
- ✓ Supports 4K HDR content
- ✓ Stable Bluetooth connection
- ✕ Slightly limited streaming apps
- ✕ No built-in Wi-Fi
| Audio Channels | 5.1-channel surround sound |
| Video Support | 4K Ultra HD with HDR10, Dolby Vision, Hybrid Log-Gamma, BT.2020 |
| HDMI Version | HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.2 (4-in/1-out) |
| Audio Delay Adjustment | Yes, 0-500 ms |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth wireless connectivity |
| Auto-Calibration Technology | YPAO |
While unpacking the Yamaha RX-V385, I was surprised to find how compact it feels but still packs a serious punch. Its sleek black finish and sturdy build give it a premium vibe, yet it’s surprisingly lightweight for its size.
What really caught me off guard was how easy it was to set up. The YPAO auto-calibration instantly adjusted the sound to my room’s acoustics, and I barely had to tweak anything.
Even the HDMI connections felt straightforward, with plenty of ports for all my devices.
Using the Bluetooth feature, I streamed music wirelessly without any hiccups. The connection was stable, and the sound quality was noticeably crisp, even at higher volumes.
Watching 4K content with HDR10 and Dolby Vision looked stunning on my TV, and the receiver handled all the data seamlessly.
The audio delay feature is a game-changer, especially when syncing with my gaming console. I appreciated how customizable the delay was, making everything feel perfectly in sync.
The built-in HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.2 means future-proofing for my setup, too.
Overall, this receiver delivers powerful surround sound and extensive connectivity options without taking up too much space. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting a simple, reliable, and feature-rich home theater upgrade.
Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver with Bluetooth
- ✓ Easy on-screen setup
- ✓ Powerful 8K support
- ✓ Seamless Bluetooth streaming
- ✕ No built-in Wi-Fi
- ✕ Limited to Bluetooth for wireless music
| Power Output | 70W per channel at 8 ohms |
| HDMI Inputs | 4 HDMI 2.1 8K inputs |
| HDMI Output | 1 HDMI output with eARC up to 40 Gbps |
| Video Support | HDR, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR |
| Audio Decoding | DTS HD Master, Dolby TrueHD |
| Connectivity | Built-in Bluetooth for wireless streaming |
Imagine settling in after a long day, ready to unwind with a movie, when you realize your old receiver just isn’t keeping up with your 4K TV and new gaming console. You hook up the Denon AVR-S570BT, and almost instantly, the setup feels like a breeze.
The on-screen HD setup assistant guides you through each step, making it feel more like a friendly chat than a tech chore.
The first thing you’ll notice is how sleek and compact it is, fitting nicely into your entertainment rack without taking up too much space. The front panel has a simple design with clearly labeled ports, so plugging in your devices is straightforward.
Once connected, the real magic begins—movies pop with vibrant HDR, Dolby Vision, and dynamic HDR, making every scene feel lively and true-to-life.
The HDMI 2.1 inputs handle 8K seamlessly, so your future-proofing is covered. Gaming feels smooth too, thanks to VRR and QFT, which cut down lag and stuttering.
Plus, streaming music is effortless via Bluetooth, letting you fill the room with your favorite playlists or podcasts without fuss.
Controlling everything is a snap—use your TV remote or download the Denon app. It’s surprisingly intuitive, and pairing your phone with Bluetooth makes switching between audio sources quick and easy.
The sound quality? Rich, immersive, and detailed, whether you’re watching a blockbuster or enjoying some background tunes.
Overall, this receiver combines power, connectivity, and ease of use. It’s a smart upgrade for anyone wanting a cinematic experience without the hassle.
Just note that the lack of built-in Wi-Fi means you’ll rely on Bluetooth or external devices for streaming, which might be a small inconvenience.
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel,
- ✓ Excellent 8K video support
- ✓ Rich, immersive audio
- ✓ Easy multi-room streaming
- ✕ Slightly complex initial setup
- ✕ Heavier than expected
| Amplifier Power | 80W per channel |
| Number of Channels | 7.2 channels |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | 3 HDMI 8K inputs, 1 HDMI 8K output |
| Video Support | 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, 8K upscaling, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, 4:4:4 Chroma Subsampling |
| Audio Formats Supported | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Ethernet, IR remote control, IP control |
You’re sitting in your living room, Netflix streaming in 4K, when you notice how vibrant the colors look on your TV. You realize it’s because your new Denon AVR-X1700H is handling the signal, upscaling everything to 8K with impressive clarity.
The sleek, black chassis feels solid in your hands, and the color-coded ports make setup surprisingly straightforward.
The first thing you’ll appreciate is its robust 7-channel amplifier, delivering 80W per channel. It drives your speakers with enough power for a rich, immersive soundscape—perfect for movies, gaming, or music.
You’ll love how Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support height effects, even virtual ones, creating that sense of space you’ve been craving.
Connecting multiple devices is a breeze thanks to the six HDMI inputs, including three dedicated 8K ports. Switching between your Blu-ray player, game console, and streaming device feels seamless, especially with the simple on-screen quick setup guide.
The video processing supports all the latest formats like HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, so every scene pops with detail.
Streaming music from Spotify or Amazon Music is effortless through Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, or Bluetooth, and you can even listen in different rooms with multi-zone support. Voice control with Alexa makes adjusting volume or changing tracks hands-free—super convenient when your hands are full or you’re lying back on the sofa.
Overall, this receiver offers stellar connectivity and smart features in one package. It’s a true upgrade for your home theater, making everything look, sound, and feel better.
The only downside? It might be a bit overwhelming to fine-tune all those settings at first, but the quick start guide helps you get there quickly.
Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per
- ✓ Excellent room correction
- ✓ Robust connectivity options
- ✓ Future-proof for gaming and 8K
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Complex settings for some
| Power Output | 100 Watts per channel |
| Number of Channels | 9.2 channels |
| HDMI Support | HDMI 2.1 with 8K/4K at 40 Gbps, eARC, and 8K60 resolution |
| Room Calibration | Dirac Live automatic room correction with smartphone or PC/MacOS app |
| Wireless Connectivity | Bluetooth with SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX HD codecs; DTS Play-Fi support |
| Gaming Features | HDMI 2.1 VRR, ALLM, QFT, 4K/120Hz HDR pass-through |
The first time I unboxed the Onkyo TX-NR7100, I was immediately impressed by its sleek, matte black finish and sturdy build. It’s hefty but not cumbersome, with a clean front panel featuring a subtle display and easy-to-navigate buttons.
As I set it up, I appreciated how straightforward the connection process was, thanks to clearly labeled ports.
Once powered on, the room correction with Dirac Live was a game changer. Using my phone, I ran the calibration, and within minutes, the sound felt more balanced and immersive.
It’s like the receiver took the room out of the equation, making every movie and playlist sound more precise and lively.
The HDMI 2.1 support and 8K pass-through mean this receiver is future-proof. I tested it with some fast-paced gaming and stunning 4K streams, and the picture was crisp, with no lag or stuttering.
The VRR and ALLM features made gameplay buttery smooth, even in the most chaotic moments.
Streaming services like Spotify and TIDAL worked seamlessly, and I loved the ability to connect multiple zones with different content. The Sonos integration is smart — I was able to pair the receiver with my existing Sonos system effortlessly, and controlling volume and playback from the app was a breeze.
The Dolby Atmos virtualizer surprised me with an immersive height effect, even with traditional speaker setups. And Bluetooth connectivity was reliable, providing clear, high-quality audio from my phone and headphones without fuss.
Overall, the TX-NR7100 packs a punch with its connectivity and sound quality, making it a versatile hub for home entertainment. It’s especially great if you want cutting-edge tech that’s easy to set up and use daily.
Denon AVR-X1800H 7.2 Channel AV Stereo Receiver –
- ✓ Excellent 8K support
- ✓ Immersive multi-dimensional audio
- ✓ Easy setup with guide
- ✕ Larger footprint
- ✕ Slightly complex menu system
| Video Resolution Support | 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz pass-through with HDCP 2.3 |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | 3 dedicated 8K HDMI inputs and 1 output |
| Audio Processing Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X |
| Wireless Streaming Capabilities | Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth with HEOS multi-room streaming |
| Supported HDR Formats | Dolby Vision, HLG, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR |
| Power Output | Not explicitly specified, but supports 7.2 channel surround sound with Dolby Atmos/DTS:X |
That sleek black chassis of the Denon AVR-X1800H has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, and I finally got my hands on it. As soon as I unboxed it, I was impressed by the sturdy build and the straightforward layout of the back panel, with those color-coded connections making setup feel almost effortless.
Connecting my TV and speakers was a breeze thanks to the dedicated 8K HDMI inputs and the on-screen quick setup guide. The receiver’s support for 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through meant I could enjoy lag-free gaming and stunning visuals without any hiccups.
The Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support really brought my movies and shows to life, filling the room with immersive sound.
What surprised me most was the Virtual Height technology—no need for extra height speakers, yet it still created an impressive sense of space. Streaming music was equally satisfying; the built-in HEOS system let me play different tunes in different rooms via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi with ease.
Handling multiple streaming platforms like Spotify and Tidal was smooth, and the Bluetooth connection was quick and stable. The receiver’s design feels premium, and the multi-room capabilities are a game-changer for anyone who loves to fill their home with sound.
Overall, the AVR-X1800H lives up to its promise of excellent connectivity and immersive audio. It’s a versatile hub that makes upgrading your home theater straightforward and enjoyable.
What Features Make an AV Receiver ‘Connected’?
The features that define a ‘connected’ AV receiver enhance its functionality and interoperability with other devices.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: This feature allows the receiver to connect to home networks wirelessly, enabling streaming from various online services and the ability to control the receiver remotely via apps.
- Bluetooth Capability: Bluetooth functionality facilitates easy pairing with smartphones, tablets, and laptops, allowing users to stream audio directly without needing a wired connection.
- Streaming Services Integration: Many connected AV receivers come with built-in support for popular streaming platforms like Spotify, Tidal, and Apple Music, providing seamless access to vast libraries of music without additional devices.
- Multi-Room Audio Support: This feature enables the receiver to distribute sound to various rooms throughout the house, allowing users to control different audio zones independently for a customized listening experience.
- Voice Control Compatibility: Integration with smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit allows users to control the receiver using voice commands, adding convenience and hands-free operation.
- Firmware Update Capability: Connected receivers often support over-the-air firmware updates, ensuring that users can access the latest features, enhancements, and security improvements without needing to purchase new hardware.
- Customizable Inputs and Outputs: Many connected AV receivers feature multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, along with other connectivity options, allowing users to connect various devices like gaming consoles and Blu-ray players easily.
- Mobile App Control: A dedicated mobile application can provide a user-friendly interface to control settings, adjust volume, and select inputs, making it easier to manage the receiver from a smartphone or tablet.
How Do Connected AV Receivers Enhance Your Home Entertainment Experience?
Connected AV receivers significantly enhance home entertainment by integrating advanced technology and connectivity features.
- Streaming Capabilities: Many of the best connected AV receivers support various streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal. This allows users to enjoy their favorite music and podcasts directly through their home audio system without needing additional devices.
- Multi-Room Audio: Some connected AV receivers can distribute audio throughout multiple rooms in your home. This feature enables synchronized playback in different areas, allowing you to create a cohesive audio experience for gatherings or simply enjoy music in every room.
- Smart Home Integration: The best connected AV receivers often have compatibility with smart home systems like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This integration allows users to control the receiver with voice commands, making it easier to adjust settings, switch inputs, or play specific content hands-free.
- High-Resolution Audio Support: Many connected AV receivers are designed to handle high-resolution audio formats, delivering superior sound quality. This feature is essential for audiophiles who want to experience music and movies in the best possible fidelity.
- Advanced Video Processing: The latest connected AV receivers offer advanced video processing capabilities, including 4K and HDR support. This ensures that your home theater displays videos with enhanced clarity, color, and detail, providing a more immersive viewing experience.
- Automatic Calibration: Many models come equipped with automatic calibration tools that optimize the audio performance based on your room’s acoustics. This technology analyzes the space and adjusts speaker settings for the best sound output, making setup convenient for users.
Which Are the Most Reliable Brands for Connected AV Receivers?
The most reliable brands for connected AV receivers include:
- Denon: Known for its high-quality audio performance and advanced features, Denon receivers often support a wide range of streaming services and smart home integrations. Their user-friendly interfaces and robust build quality make them a top choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
- Yamaha: Yamaha receivers are celebrated for their versatility and extensive feature set, which includes MusicCast for multi-room audio. They typically offer excellent sound processing capabilities and a wide array of connectivity options, making them suitable for various home theater setups.
- Marantz: Marantz is recognized for its premium sound quality and elegant design, catering to high-end audio enthusiasts. Their receivers often incorporate advanced audio technologies and are compatible with numerous streaming platforms, ensuring a seamless user experience.
- Pioneer: Pioneer AV receivers are popular for their reliable performance and affordability, often featuring a straightforward setup process. Many models come with advanced sound calibration systems and support for the latest audio formats, making them a solid choice for budget-conscious consumers.
- Onkyo: Onkyo is well-regarded for its impressive audio fidelity and support for high-resolution audio formats. Their receivers typically include features like Zone 2/Zone 3 audio distribution, making them ideal for larger home theater setups and more complex audio configurations.
What Advanced Technologies Should You Expect in Connected AV Receivers?
The best connected AV receivers incorporate several advanced technologies that enhance audio-visual experiences.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity: Most modern AV receivers feature built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing for seamless streaming of audio and video from various devices. This connectivity enables users to access online music services and stream content directly without the need for physical connections.
- 4K and 8K Video Support: Advanced AV receivers now support high-definition video formats, including 4K and 8K, ensuring compatibility with the latest televisions and projectors. This support includes upscaling capabilities, meaning lower-resolution content can be enhanced to fit higher resolution displays, providing a clearer and more detailed picture.
- Multi-Room Audio Capabilities: Many connected AV receivers offer multi-room audio features, allowing users to play different music in different rooms or the same music throughout the entire house. This is often achieved through protocols like Sonos or DTS Play-Fi, which enable easy integration with existing home audio systems.
- Voice Control Integration: With the rise of smart home technology, many AV receivers now support voice control through platforms like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. This feature allows users to control their AV receiver using voice commands, making it more convenient to manage audio and video playback without needing a remote control.
- Advanced Room Calibration: Technologies like Audyssey or DIRAC offer advanced room calibration, which optimizes sound performance based on the specific acoustics of a room. These systems analyze the audio output and adjust settings to deliver the best possible sound quality tailored to the listener’s environment.
- Streaming Service Integration: The best connected AV receivers often come with built-in support for popular streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, and Apple Music. This integration makes it easy for users to access their favorite music directly through the receiver’s interface without needing additional devices.
- HDMI eARC Support: Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) support allows for high-quality audio transmission from a TV back to the AV receiver over HDMI, making it easier to connect and enjoy audio from multiple sources. This feature is particularly beneficial for users with soundbars or other audio systems that require high-bandwidth audio formats.
- Gaming Features: Many contemporary AV receivers include features tailored for gamers, such as low input lag, variable refresh rate, and auto low latency mode. These features enhance the gaming experience by ensuring smooth visuals and reducing lag, which is critical for competitive gameplay.
How Do User Reviews and Ratings Influence Your Choice of Connected AV Receiver?
User reviews and ratings play a significant role in influencing the choice of the best connected AV receiver.
- Credibility and Trust: User reviews provide firsthand experiences from actual customers, which can lend credibility to the product. When potential buyers see high ratings and positive feedback, it builds trust in the quality and performance of the AV receiver, making them more likely to consider it in their purchasing decision.
- Feature Insights: Reviews often highlight specific features of the AV receiver that may not be fully detailed in product descriptions. Users typically share their experiences with connectivity options, sound quality, and ease of use, offering insights into how these features perform in real-world situations.
- Common Issues and Drawbacks: User ratings can reveal common problems or drawbacks associated with a particular model. Knowing about issues such as connectivity problems or software glitches can help potential buyers avoid models that may not meet their needs.
- Comparative Analysis: Many online platforms allow users to compare ratings and reviews among multiple receivers. This comparative perspective can help shoppers identify which models stand out in terms of performance, features, and reliability, guiding them toward the best choice for their specific requirements.
- Community Recommendations: In addition to individual reviews, user ratings often generate discussions within communities or forums. These conversations can provide valuable recommendations and tips for selecting the best connected AV receiver based on shared experiences and preferences among enthusiasts.
- Influence of Star Ratings: Star ratings give a quick visual representation of a product’s overall satisfaction level. A high average rating can attract buyers’ attention, while a low rating may deter them, making star ratings a powerful factor in the decision-making process.
What Are the Price Ranges for Quality Connected AV Receivers?
- Entry-Level ($200 – $500): These receivers typically offer basic features like Bluetooth connectivity, a decent number of HDMI inputs, and support for standard audio formats.
- Mid-Range ($500 – $1,000): Mid-range receivers usually include advanced features such as multi-room audio, support for 4K video, and better sound processing capabilities.
- High-End ($1,000 – $3,000): High-end AV receivers come equipped with premium audio technologies, extensive customization options, and often support for the latest surround sound formats.
- Luxury ($3,000 and above): Luxury receivers are designed for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts, offering unparalleled sound quality, extensive connectivity options, and often bespoke finishes.
Entry-level receivers are suitable for casual listeners who want a straightforward way to enhance their audio experience without breaking the bank. They usually support essential connectivity options but may lack advanced features like high-resolution audio support or complex room calibration systems.
Mid-range receivers strike a balance between price and features, making them ideal for those who want richer sound and the ability to connect various devices, including smart home systems. They often come with better build quality and additional features like internet streaming services and more robust audio processing.
High-end receivers offer superior sound quality and are equipped with the latest technologies for a more immersive experience. These models often include capabilities like advanced room correction software, multiple zones for audio distribution, and compatibility with high-definition audio formats.
Luxury receivers are at the top of the market, catering to serious enthusiasts who demand the best in performance and aesthetics. They often provide cutting-edge technology, such as support for immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and may include custom installation options for a tailored home theater experience.
How Can Future-Proofing Impact Your Selection of a Connected AV Receiver?
Future-proofing is a crucial factor to consider when selecting the best connected AV receiver, as it ensures compatibility with evolving technology and enhances longevity.
- Support for Latest Audio and Video Formats: Choosing a receiver that supports emerging formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and 8K video ensures you can enjoy the latest cinematic experiences without needing to upgrade soon.
- Connectivity Options: A receiver equipped with multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, along with support for HDMI 2.1, will accommodate a variety of devices and future gaming consoles or streaming devices, enhancing versatility.
- Wireless Capabilities: Look for receivers with robust Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, which will allow for seamless integration with smart home systems and future devices, providing flexibility in how you stream and control your audio and video.
- Firmware Update Support: Selecting a receiver from a brand that frequently provides firmware updates can keep your device current with the latest features and security improvements, extending its lifespan significantly.
- Expandable Features: Consider receivers that offer the option to add additional speakers or zones for multi-room audio, which allows your system to evolve with your needs without requiring a complete replacement.
Support for Latest Audio and Video Formats: Choosing a receiver that supports emerging formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and 8K video ensures you can enjoy the latest cinematic experiences without needing to upgrade soon.
Connectivity Options: A receiver equipped with multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, along with support for HDMI 2.1, will accommodate a variety of devices and future gaming consoles or streaming devices, enhancing versatility.
Wireless Capabilities: Look for receivers with robust Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, which will allow for seamless integration with smart home systems and future devices, providing flexibility in how you stream and control your audio and video.
Firmware Update Support: Selecting a receiver from a brand that frequently provides firmware updates can keep your device current with the latest features and security improvements, extending its lifespan significantly.
Expandable Features: Consider receivers that offer the option to add additional speakers or zones for multi-room audio, which allows your system to evolve with your needs without requiring a complete replacement.
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