The AV receiver can be called the heart of a home theater. This smart amplifier connects audio devices with signal sources, receives radio, decodes surround sound, and generally turns your TV and speakers into a full-fledged multimedia system. In general, without such a receiver, a home theater loses its proud name. Read about how to choose an AV receiver and which 6 of them deserve the title of best.
- AV receivers: what to look for when choosing
- Top 6 AV receivers Best stereo receivers Onkyo TX-L20D receiver
- Receiver YAMAHA R-N602
- Receiver YAMAHA R-N402
- AV receiver Marantz NR1608
- Which is better, AV receiver or sound card?
AV receivers: what to look for when choosing
Power per channel. Without going into technical details, the power of a receiver can be understood as its ability to produce loud and clear sound, pumping any audio systems in large areas without signal distortion. It is generally believed that a 100-watt amplifier is sufficient for a typical 18-square-meter room.
In principle, the more, the better, because more power means that the device will not work at its maximum capabilities, which means it will last longer and cope with its responsibilities more calmly.
Number of channels. Here, in general, everything is simple: the more channels a speaker system has, the richer, more voluminous and more realistic the sound. The most common options are in 2.1, 5.1 or 7.1 format - that is, combinations of two, five or seven speakers and one subwoofer. Although systems with nine or more channels can also be found on sale.
In principle, it makes sense to purchase a receiver “for growth”, since a seven-channel amplifier can connect five-channel acoustics, but vice versa - not (at least without expensive technical tricks). In the end, speakers for free channels can always be purchased in the future.
Interfaces. AV receivers are designed to combine a large number of different audio-video devices into one multimedia system. Therefore, they usually have plenty of interfaces. The standard set includes RCA, S/PDIF, TOSLINK, S-Video, SCART, HDMI, USB, Ethernet and, most likely, something else.
We must not forget about wireless data transmission channels. The presence of not only Ethernet, but also Wi-Fi in the receiver greatly simplifies connecting to a home network, and Bluetooth is always useful for connecting with smartphones, tablets and wireless speakers.
You should select interfaces to suit your equipment, although even “extra” connectors may come in handy someday. In any case, the problem of “wrong” inputs and outputs can almost always be solved with the help of adapters and adapters.
Decoders. One of the main reasons to buy an AV receiver is surround sound, which can be encoded in different formats. The most popular standard today, the decoding of which the receiver must support, is Dolby Atmos. Close on its heels are DTS:X and Auro-3D standards. Unlike surround audio of previous generations, they provide not only “surround sound”, but also “sound from above” - a very cool effect (with appropriate acoustics and correct settings, of course).
Additional functions. Such complex (and not cheap!) digital devices as AV receivers are always packed to the brim with modern technologies and additional functions that are not necessary to perform the main task, but add zest to the device. The most important thing to pay attention to is support for network connections, automatic surround sound setup, support for satellite radio, analogue to digital video converter, as well as support for a universal “smart” remote control that can control not only the receiver, but the entire audio system.
When you want everything in one
The idea of uniting all home multimedia devices under common control is not new, but it was with the improvement of digital technologies that it was fully realized.
A modern AV receiver is a device that can “serve” multi-channel acoustics, receiving signals from a variety of devices: from the latest iPhone or optical input to an archaic turntable for vinyl, take sound from the HDMI channel of a home theater, decoding and processing many digital formats spatial sound. The “heart” of such devices is a powerful DSP (signal processor) that processes the incoming digital signal (including that received from the internal ADC on the analog inputs) and transmits it to the DAC-final amplifier combination. Of course, ideological audiophiles will be offended by the very awareness of the presence of digital circuits in the device, but for any other user who does not require half a centner of radio tubes and transformers, the sound quality of the AV receiver will be more than enough, and the widest customization options will definitely not be superfluous. Our rating includes only the best AV receivers (according to reviews from experts and ordinary buyers).
Top 6 AV receivers
The best stereo receivers
Receiver Onkyo TX-L20D
A modern digital AV receiver with rich multimedia and network capabilities. The device is made in stereo format and has a power of 1000 watts per channel, so its capabilities are sufficient even for a large room. Connecting to the Internet is possible via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, and the Deezer service and TuneIn network radio are supported - you just need to synchronize the receiver with your account. You can control the device either using the remote control or through a proprietary smartphone application (Bluetooth is used for connection). Finally, the device just looks great.
A powerful and versatile AV receiver will cost you about 55,000 rubles, but it definitely gets its money’s worth.
Price: RUB 54,990
Receiver YAMAHA R-N602
Semiconductor stereo receiver from the famous Japanese audio equipment manufacturer. The capabilities of the device are quite enough to fill a room of 20-25 square meters with first-class sound. At the same time, the R-N602 can do everything that a modern device should be able to do, from working with Internet radio to playing any music formats from flash drives. But the most important thing in any AV receiver is, after all, the sound. And he's just great here.
Among the shortcomings, we can only note that there are problems with the Cyrillic alphabet and not the most successful control panel included (the last minus is offset by the fact that the device can be controlled via a smartphone). In general, at a price of around 45,000 rubles, this is a very interesting purchase.
Price: RUB 43,990
Receiver YAMAHA R-N402
This AV receiver can be called the younger brother of the previous device. The “four hundred and two” differs from the R-N602 in its more affordable price (35,000 rubles versus 45,000), slightly less power, slightly fewer connectors and generally slightly reduced functionality. But in general, the manufacturer did not cut anything particularly important from the model, so the excellent sound, network capabilities, and first-class build quality remained in place. Yamaha is Yamaha.
Yes, you can find fault with the brutal design or Bluetooth outdated revision 2.1. But at such a price and such capabilities, these shortcomings remain just nitpicking.
Price: RUB 33,990
The best multi-channel receivers
AV receiver Marantz NR1608
A very compact AV receiver, which is distinguished by a height of only ten centimeters: the device can be placed even on the lowest shelf. Fortunately, the compact size does not affect the functionality in any way: the NR1608 supports multi-channel 7.2 format audio, the 32-bit DAC-AK-4458 from Asahi Kasei produces clear and richly detailed sound, all possible audio formats are reproduced without problems and surround sound of Dolby Atmos standards is decoded and DTS.
Of course, the desire to fit great capabilities into a small body forced the manufacturer to place the connectors extremely tightly. But with this exception, the receiver priced at 62,000 rubles does not have any serious shortcomings.
Price: ₽ 61,500
AV receiver Sony STR-DN1080
The AV receiver is still quite rare in 7.2 format. It seems to support all current standards for both wired and wireless connections. Including USB, which the next model lacks, and even NFC for quick and easy pairing with a smartphone with one touch. Surround sound is automatically adjusted using the included microphone. Some people, however, do not have enough HDMI on the front panel - but this, honestly, is nothing more than nitpicking.
The price of the device is almost 50,000 rubles. And the STR-DN1080 justifies this price to the last penny.
Price: RUB 50,990
AV receiver Pioneer VSX-832
Semiconductor AV receiver in 5.1 format. With a power of 130 watts per channel, it can easily pump a room of 20-30 square meters. It seems to support all versions of Dolby and DTS standards. It is distinguished by a very pleasant soft sound, which can easily outperform most competitors by ear - especially in the price range of “about 40,000 rubles”.
A full range of network capabilities, integration with a smartphone, an affordable price - you probably won’t find any serious flaws in the VSX-832. The only exception is the inability to play files directly from USB drives, but any modern TV can do this, so it’s completely unnecessary to pay attention to this little detail.
Price: RUB 38,990
RX-Vx75 series receivers
Yamaha RX-V775 is a network receiver with powerful 7-channel surround sound.
Power consumption 280 W. At a power of 160 W (4 Ohms) per channel, the nonlinear distortion coefficient is 0.9%, 95 W (8 Ohms) - 0.09%, 160 W (8 Ohms) - 10%. Sampling frequency 192 kHz, audio bit depth 24 bit. The Yamaha RX-V775 AV receiver has a discrete amplifier and network functions (AirPlay and AV Controller). MHL standards are supported for playing Full HD audio and video from mobile and portable devices. Digital connection via USB to iPod, iPhone and iPad is possible. The ECO mode is very convenient, which reduces energy consumption by up to 20%.
Yamaha RX-V675 is a receiver that has powerful 7-channel sound.
At a power of 150 W (4 Ohms) per channel THD 0.9%, 90 W (8 Ohms) – 0.09%, 150 W (8 Ohms) – 10%. Sampling frequency - 192 kHz, audio bit depth - 24 bits. The receiver has a discrete amplifier. The RX-V675 model supports MHL standards. The model has a discrete amplifier and network functions (such as AirPlay and AV Controller). There is a possibility of digital connection via USB to iPod, iPhone and iPad. The ECO mode is very convenient.
Yamaha RX-V575 has 7-channel surround sound.
At a power of 155 W per channel, THD is 0.9%, 80 W – 0.09%, 135 W – 10%. Otherwise, the specifications are the same as the RX-V675.
The Yamaha RX-V475 AV receiver has 5-channel surround sound.
At a power of 155 W per channel, THD is 0.9%, 80 W – 0.09%, 135 W – 10%. Otherwise, the specifications are the same as the RX-V675.
The Yamaha RX-V375 AV receiver is characterized by powerful 5-channel sound.
At a power of 100 W per channel, THD is 0.9%, 70 W – 0.09%, 135 W – 10%. Otherwise, the specifications are the same as the RX-V675.
FAQ
Which is better, AV receiver or sound card?
The best thing is both. The fact is that these devices have different purposes. The sound card expands the audio capabilities of the computer, and the receiver amplifies the sound, provides spatial sound and combines audio devices into a single system. Therefore, nothing prevents you from connecting a sound card to the input of the AV receiver along with other audio sources.
Which is better, AV receiver or amplifier?
An amplifier is one of the components of the receiver, which, in addition to sound amplification, performs the functions of a tuner, switcher and decoder. Often, the element base in highly specialized devices is better than in universal ones, and interference from additional components does not affect the operation of the amplifier itself. Therefore, if you are not interested in additional functionality, but need the capabilities of the amplifier, then it is better to take it.
Yamaha receiver series – AVENTAGE
Yamaha RX-A820 is an AV receiver with a power consumption of 330 W.
Sampling frequency 192 kHz, audio bit depth 24 bit. It has a rigid and stable frame, reinforced with an H-shaped cross frame, which reduces chassis vibration to almost zero, which keeps the sound quality as high as possible. The tuner optimizes the video signals that are sent to the TV. The receiver's effective suppression feature improves the sound of even low-quality recordings. The RX-A820 model supports CINEMA DSP, 3D.
Yamaha RX-A820 has the following features:
- 7-channel powerful surround sound;
- HD Audio format decoding;
- discrete amplifier configuration;
- Pure Direct mode and 4K Pass-Through function;
- removable power cable;
- intelligent assignment of amplifiers;
- USB connection for iPod, iPhone and iPad.
We are building the most modern Home Cinema
Autumn is the traditional harvest time for high-tech AV components. The 2022 season was no exception: there is a revival in the field of home cinema, and on store shelves there is a replenishment of the latest models of receivers. They are the heart of home cinema, they are responsible for the capabilities and sound of the system - and it is them that we are studying today. Our rating is made up of the most striking modern devices and sorted in order of increasing cost.
Sony STR-DH790
Scheme – 5.1.2 or 7.2 | Output power – 145 W per channel | Support – DTS:X and Dolby Atmos | Autotuning and Calibration - DCAC | 4 HDMI inputs and 1 output | Weight – 7.4 kg
Pay attention to the price - for the Sony STR-DH790 they ask for a very modest amount in these days, but the model offers excellent capabilities. The S-Force PRO Front Surround system provides excellent surround sound performance with exquisitely precise effects processing, and the DCAC module allows you to equalize the sound field even when using speakers from different manufacturers. HDMI inputs and outputs operate up to 4K/60 Hz, but, once again, they ask for less than forty thousand rubles for the device!
Onkyo HT-R997
Scheme – 7.2 | Output power – 165 W per channel | Support – DTS:X and Dolby Atmos | Auto Setup and Calibration – AccuEQ Room Calibration | 7 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs | Weight – 18.3 kg
The Onkyo HT-R997 uses proprietary Dynamic Audio Amplification circuitry and can work reliably even with 4-ohm speakers - a rarity for this price group. By the way, again, this is the only model on our list that is certified according to the THX Integrated System standard. The velvety sound of the model will appeal to many, and the built-in Chromecast, plus built-in DTS Play-Fi, Spotify, AirPlay and Bluetooth protocols guarantee sufficient flexibility in choosing a signal source. The DACs are also advanced - AKM AK4458, the only pity is that the video model only passes up to 4K/60 Hz.
Marantz NR1711
Scheme – 7.2 | Output power – 90 W per channel | Support – DTS:X and Dolby Atmos | Auto Setup and Calibration – Audyssey MultEQ XT 9 | 6 HDMI inputs and 1 output | Weight – 8.3 kg
The stylish Marantz NR1711 sports HDMI connectors compatible with 8K/60 Hz (or 4K/120 Hz) video, supports DTS:X and Dolby Atmos in 5.1.2 versions, is equipped with a DTS Virtual:X module and has advanced Audyssey MultEQ XT 9 auto-calibration. As many as three voice assistants complete the picture: Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri and Google - and despite the not too high output power, the model’s sound pleases with the full richness of the palette of colors and achieves real pressure.
Rating of budget hi-fi receivers
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An unattainable ideal
Acurus: ACT4 preamp/processor and A2007 power amplifier
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High-end equipment does not pamper the consumer with comprehensive (sometimes redundant) functional equipment typical of mass-produced models.
Excellence here is determined by the fundamentality and uncompromising approach to the creation of each model. At the top floors of the High End pyramid, there is an understanding of the need to separate functions between individual components so that each of them performs its task as efficiently as possible.
Presented at CEDIA 2016, the Acurus ACT4+A2007 pair attracted numerous visitors with its reference sound.
The ACT4 processor intelligently calculates, distributes and switches signals. Its balanced preamplifier, which supports the new 3D audio formats Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, can be connected to multiple power amplifiers to create immersive 13.3, 7.3.6 or 9.3.2 surround sound configurations that demonstrate what 21st century home theater sound can and should be .
Certified to the highest standard of quality - THX Ultra 2, built on a classic analog "AB" circuit, the A2007 kilowatt seven-channel amplifier doesn't just amplify, it transforms invisible, ephemeral electrical current into an incredible sonic storm that gives you absolutely clear knowledge that you've done the right thing. choice.
