AV Receivers Price Range: Compare Models & Prices

Shopping for a receiver can feel overwhelming. This guide explains the US market from sub-$500 starters to high-end separates. You’ll learn how to match a unit to your room, speakers, and content habits.

The right component anchors a home theater by routing video, decoding audio, and powering speakers. Good HDMI switching and clear outputs make upgrades easier and improve your viewing and listening experience.

We preview tiers and tested picks, from budget Denon and Yamaha models to Onkyo with Dirac Live and Sony with many powered channels. Key buying variables include channels, watts per channel, room EQ, and 8K HDMI inputs.

Expect basics such as Dolby Atmos, streaming, app control, and simple setup in 2025. This guide favors honest specs and real room-corrected performance so you get the best sound and long-term value.

How to use this Buyer’s Guide to compare models, features, and prices

Begin this guide by matching channel counts, real-world watts, and room correction to your listening space. That quick filter reduces models fast and keeps comparisons fair.

Focus on measurable specs like channels, verified watts per channel, and the room EQ type. These items predict how a receiver will behave in your home and with your speakers.

Use the Data blocks for each review to compare inputs and outputs, HDMI counts, and 8K/4K120 readiness. Also note preamp outputs if you plan to add amps later.

• Shortlist by budget tier, then compare like-for-like on channels and calibration.
• Prefer honest power specs and upgrade options over flashy peak claims.
• Cross-reference room correction systems (Dirac Live, ARC Genesis, DCAC IX, Audyssey) since calibration often defines real quality.

Treat this guide as a checklist: channels, HDMI, room EQ, streaming support, pre-outs, and build quality. Use the comparison-by-tier section to confirm your final pick quickly.

What does “av-receivers price range” really mean for your setup and budget

A sensible spend ties directly to how many channels you’ll use and how much power your speakers require.

Matching channels, power, and room size to your spend

Small rooms often get the best return with a 5.1 or 5.1.2 layout. That keeps costs down and simplifies setup.

Medium rooms benefit from 7.x setups or 5.1.4 layouts to add immersive height. Larger rooms can justify 9–11 channels and multiple subs.

When to save, when to splurge

Save on entry models like the Yamaha RX-V4A if streaming and ease matter more than expansion. These work well for compact rooms and simple speaker arrays.

Spend more for mid-tier units (for example, Denon AVR-X2800H) when you need extra headroom and finer room correction.

Splurge only if your room and speaker plan can use the extra channels and preamp outputs—Onkyo TX-RZ50 and Denon AVR-A1H reward setups that truly use many speakers.

• Prioritize channels for realistic speaker placement, not specs alone.
• Match power to speaker sensitivity and seating distance for clean dynamics.
• Factor in costs for extra speakers, mounts, and acoustic treatment.

Key features that move the needle on price and performance

Not all specs are equal. Some features change how a system sounds and how you use it every day. Focus on processing, power, and connectivity to find the biggest performance gains for your budget.

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X: formats, upmixers, and height virtualization

Modern decoders deliver immersive envelopment from true Atmos tracks and from upmixed content. Virtual height modes help small rooms achieve overhead effects without in-ceiling speakers.

Watts per channel and all-channels-driven truth vs marketing specs

Check real-world specs: look for 20Hz–20kHz ratings and low THD. All-channels-driven numbers tell you how amps behave under load; many marketing claims use two-channel figures that overstate performance.

HDMI inputs/outputs, 8K/4K120, eARC, VRR, and gaming readiness

Count the HDMI inputs you’ll actually use. Gamers need 4K/120 and VRR, while media rooms may want multiple 8K inputs like the six on some higher-tier models. eARC simplifies TV-to-receiver audio paths.

Calibration, preamp outputs, discrete subwoofer channels, and streaming

Room correction (Dirac Live, ARC Genesis, Audyssey, Sony DCAC) often yields the largest audible improvement. Multiple pre-outs and discrete subwoofer channels matter when expanding or smoothing bass across seats.

Streaming ecosystems (HEOS, Play‑Fi, Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Sonos) shape daily use. Pick an ecosystem that matches your phones, voice assistant, and other gear for the best experience.

Entry-level value picks: under $500 to start your home theater

Sub-$500 receivers offer a straightforward way into multichannel sound. They focus on clear stereo, basic HDMI switching, and easy wireless music playback for small rooms.

Who it’s for: small rooms, 5.2 starters, streaming-first users

Target users include apartment owners and first-time builders who want a compact 5.2 layout. These units keep setup simple and daily use friction-free.

Example models and trade-offs at this tier

Yamaha RX-V4A shines for wireless music and app-based streaming, but it omits Atmos processing. Onkyo TX-SR393 brings Dolby Atmos support on a tight budget, yet it lacks built-in streaming and a phono input.

• Expect fewer channels and modest power; HDMI 2.1 features are limited.
• Plan to spend more on quality speakers and a subwoofer for better bass and clarity.
• Use this tier as a learning step; keep a shortlist of higher-tier options for future growth.

Best under $750: proven 7.2 starters with Atmos upmixing

This tier gives you a solid 7.2 foundation that upgrades movie immersion without forcing immediate speaker rewiring.

Denon AVR-S770H highlights: Seven powered channels at 75W (20Hz–20kHz, low THD), three 8K-capable hdmi inputs, eARC, and Audyssey MultiEQ. It also adds Dolby Vision support and height virtualization modes for expanded sound without in-ceiling speakers.

What you gain over sub-$500 models

• True 7.2 amplification for fuller surround and better upmixing of Dolby Atmos content.
• Cleaner dialog and tighter bass thanks to improved power supply and Audyssey room correction.
• Flexible connectivity: hdmi inputs for next-gen sources, HEOS streaming, Bluetooth transmit, and an MM phono input for vinyl.

Best under $1,250: stronger amps and smarter height options

Step up to a receiver that adds real muscle and smarter height handling without forcing a full system rewire. This tier targets living rooms where better dynamics and flexible Atmos setups make a clear difference.

Denon AVR-X2800H: watts per channel, MultEQ XT, HEOS, 8K

Denon’s AVR‑X2800H offers seven powered channels rated at 95W/ch (8 ohms, 20Hz–20kHz, 0.08% THD, two‑channel driven) and Audyssey MultEQ XT for tighter bass and clearer imaging.

It includes three 8K HDMI inputs and eARC to simplify cabling and handle future video sources. HEOS streaming, Bluetooth TX/RX, and an MM phono input cover diverse listening habits.

Is this the sweet spot for most living rooms

The AVR‑X2800H balances headroom and simplicity. Its height speaker options and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer help map on‑wall, up‑firing, or in‑ceiling speakers for convincing overhead effects.

Expect: better dialogue clarity, usable headroom for medium rooms, and reliable app-driven setup that suits mixed-device homes.

• Improved power and calibration over entry models.
• Flexible inputs and outputs to future‑proof video and audio connections.
• Performance gains without adding unnecessary channels you won’t use.

$1,300-$1,700 performance jump: calibration and upgrade paths

Expect a meaningful performance boost here — more powered channels, advanced room correction, and smarter expansion options.

Onkyo TX-RZ50 highlights: nine onboard channels with 11.2 processing and Dirac Live included. The unit delivers crisp dynamics and reliable headroom at 120W/ch (8Ω, 20Hz–20kHz, 0.08% THD, two‑channel driven).

When pre-outs and expansion matter

Move beyond a basic 7‑channel setup to run 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 today and add 7.1.4 later via an external amp. The TX‑RZ50 includes preamp outputs to reach 11 channels without replacing the main unit.

• Calibration: Dirac Live refines frequency balance and timing for tighter imaging.
• HDMI inputs & outputs: six 8K HDMI inputs and dual 8K outputs support multi-display and zones.
• Connectivity: eARC, two‑way Bluetooth, app/voice control, streaming and Sonos Port integration broaden everyday use.

Practical note: adding a calibrated measurement mic (for example, a MiniDSP‑type mic) improves Dirac results and makes the setup effort worthwhile.

In short, this tier offers a major performance and feature jump while staying approachable. The receiver works well for users who want immersive dolby atmos now and expansion options later.

Best value 11-channel receivers for full Atmos layouts

For true ceiling-to-floor immersion, consider receivers with eleven onboard amplifiers. These units simplify large installations and cut the need for extra power amps.

Sony STR-AZ5000ES brings 11.2 channels of native amplification and 130W per channel (8Ω, spec). It includes preamp outputs for full 11-channel expansion and DCAC IX with 3D mapping for precise timing and distance alignment.

The AZ5000ES offers wireless surround options when wiring is impractical. Six 8K HDMI inputs and eARC keep next-gen sources and gaming consoles attached without swapping cables.

Decide between a 7.1.4 and 9.1.2 layout based on room width and content. Wider rooms often gain from extra side/wide speakers, while many listeners prefer four overheads for stronger vertical envelopment.

• Why pick 11 channels: powers full 7.1.4 or 9.1.2 setups without external amps.
• Calibration: DCAC IX multi-position mapping locks in timing for tighter imaging.
• Practical notes: plan speaker placement, cable runs, and outputs before purchase to smooth the setup process.

Refined 9-channel class: warmth, power, and subwoofer control

This 9-channel class focuses on musical warmth, solid headroom, and precise bass control for serious home theaters.

Marantz Cinema 50 pairs nine onboard amplifiers with 11.4 processing and four independent sub outputs. Each amp is rated at 110W/ch (8 ohms, 20Hz–20kHz, 0.08% THD, two‑channel driven), and the unit includes six 8K HDMI inputs, eARC, HEOS streaming, and an MM phono input.

Use the four discrete sub outputs to smooth bass across seats. Proper placement and phase alignment make this feature outperform single-sub setups in many rooms.

Audyssey vs optional Dirac Live

Audyssey MultEQ XT ships onboard for reliable, straightforward calibration and fast setup. It delivers clear improvements with minimal fuss.

The optional add-on of Dirac Live brings more granular correction and staging finesse for users who want deeper tuning after break-in and measurement work.

• Why choose Cinema 50: rich tonal voicing, stout power supplies, and advanced bass management with four sub outputs.
• Flexibility: run 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 now and expand processing to 11.4 later with an extra amp.
• Practical features: strong GUI, dynamic volume for late-night listening, and broad connectivity for movies, gaming, and vinyl.

For rooms that value musical quality and impactful low end, this receiver offers a practical sweet spot. Factor in the cost of optional Dirac Live only if you plan to extract maximum calibration performance.

Sound-first mid-high end: audiophile voicing and ARC/Dirac

This tier favors sonic refinement over flashy extras, focusing on tonal accuracy and deep room correction.

Anthem MRX 740: ARC Genesis, power amp matrixing, upgrade paths

The Anthem MRX 740 is built for listeners who put music and measured performance first. It offers seven powered channels rated at 140W (2‑channel driven) and a single discrete sub output for tight low end.

ARC Genesis calibration provides deep, user-adjustable filters to smooth bass, tame reflections, and improve coherence across seats. That calibration preserves microdetail and timbre for demanding listeners.

• Power amp matrixing lets you reassign internal amps when adding external amplification or bi-amping mains.
• Preamp outputs expand processing to 11 channels while keeping the same sonic signature.
• Seven 8K-capable HDMI inputs and eARC ensure modern sources integrate cleanly.

Why choose it: expect authoritative dynamics, refined tonal balance, and a receiver that acts as an audiophile gateway to separates-level sound. For larger rooms, add quality external amplifier support for LCR channels while keeping ARC Genesis in control.

High-end heavyweights: extreme channels, power, and formats

When a room demands full 3D immersion, consider units that can drive many zones and complex speaker layouts.

Denon AVR-A1H is built to run huge home theaters. It supports 15.4 channels and can power up to 15 speakers simultaneously while accommodating 17 speaker connections.

The amp section delivers 150W at 8 ohms (2‑channel driven), and the platform supports up to 9.1.6 dolby atmos formats for true height detail. Next-gen features include 8K HDMI, VRR, ALLM, and QFT to keep gaming and video sources current.

• Use four subwoofer outputs to smooth bass across multiple seating rows.
• Start with Audyssey for fast setup; upgrade to Dirac Live for finer staging and tonal balance.
• Flagship convenience often beats separates for integration, but separates can offer more amplification options.
• Budget for pro installation in very large rooms and ensure cabinet ventilation and adequate power delivery.

Music-centric buyers: stereo finesse inside multichannel receivers

Choosing a music-first receiver means valuing clarity, timing, and tonal balance above raw channel counts. Prioritize DAC implementation and analog stages—these shape imaging and low-level detail during two‑channel listening.

Look for an onboard phono input (MM) if you play vinyl without a separate preamp. Models like the Yamaha RX‑A4A and Denon AVR‑X2800H include useful phono support and solid analog stages.

What to prioritize: DACs, inputs, streaming suites, and correction

Choose a receiver with high-res format support (24-bit/192kHz) and gapless playback for albums. Validate HEOS, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Roon readiness, or Spotify Connect based on your library.

Room correction matters for music too—ARC Genesis and Dirac Live can tighten bass and correct tonal imbalances without killing dynamics when used sparingly.

• Use pure direct or 2‑ch modes to judge baseline fidelity.
• Prefer units with strong power supplies and discrete outputs for better timbre at listening volumes.
• If stereo is primary, plan to add external amps via pre-outs for ultimate L/R performance.

Choice tip: shortlist designs praised for musical warmth and detail retrieval—Anthem MRX 740 and Marantz Cinema 50—if critical listening guides your purchase.

Gaming-focused setups: HDMI 2.1, 4K/120, VRR, ALLM, eARC

For console and PC play, a receiver that nails 4K/120 and VRR makes the difference between laggy input and responsive action.

Key checklist: favor units with multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, native 4K/120, VRR, and ALLM so Xbox Series X and PS5 work at peak performance.

Sony STR-AN1000 and calibration, latency considerations

The Sony STR-AN1000 is a solid gaming pick. It offers 7.2 channels, HDMI 2.1 with 4K/120, and two 8K-capable inputs among six total.

DCAC IX with a stereo mic and multi-position support helps calibrate for couch and desk play. Manual overrides for speaker height and distance fine-tune dolby atmos cues.

• Use eARC if you route game audio through the TV.
• Watch firmware maturity for stable hdmi features and fewer handshake issues.
• Map inputs so consoles stay on dedicated ports to avoid cable juggling.

Room size, speakers, and subwoofers: getting channels and power right

Room acoustics dictate how many channels and how much power you truly need for clean, consistent sound. Start by measuring room volume and seating rows before selecting a channel count or amp headroom.

Small, medium, and large rooms: channels, watts per, and placement

Small rooms often perform best with 5.1.2 or 5.1.4 setups. These layouts keep speaker placement simple and reduce the need for high power.

Medium rooms usually benefit from 7.1 or 5.1.4. Consider honest specs: the S770H at about 75W/ch, the X2800H near 95W/ch, and the RZ50 at roughly 120W/ch for added headroom.

Large spaces often require 9–11 channels and more amplifier power. If you plan many listeners, budget for extra amplification on LCRs to preserve quality at reference levels.

Discrete sub outputs and why multiple subs smooth bass

Use discrete subwoofer outputs when available to calibrate each sub independently. Marantz Cinema 50 offers four outs for trimming phase and level per unit.

• Multiple subs reduce modal peaks and nulls when placed symmetrically.
• Dual or quad subs let you lower the master level for the same perceived bass, reducing distortion.
• Run room correction only after final placement so the system optimizes response, not masks placement errors.

Calibration deep dive: Audyssey, Dirac Live, ARC Genesis, DCAC

A proper calibration pass reveals how a receiver truly interacts with your room and speakers, not just lab specs. That practical tuning often improves clarity and bass integration more than swapping components.

Expect a spectrum: Audyssey (MultiEQ and MultEQ XT) is fast and user-friendly. Dirac Live and ARC Genesis require more time but can deliver finer correction. Sony’s DCAC IX offers multi-position mapping with an included stereo mic and simple screen entry for speaker height.

Setup complexity versus payoff in real rooms

Plan 30–90 minutes for a careful setup. Allow extra time for Dirac or ARC when tweaking target curves and filter strength.

Payoff: better timing, smoother bass, and more consistent envelopment across seats. The trade-off is more hands-on tuning and learning the receiver app or desktop tool.

Microphone tips and multi-position measurements

• Use a sturdy mic stand at ear height; avoid handheld or couch placement.
• Take multi-position measurements that reflect real seating, with priority on the primary seat.
• Silence the room: HVAC off, appliances paused, and pets out to protect low-level sweeps.
• Verify input levels and re-run sweeps if you see clipping or noise in the receiver display.
• Start with default target curves, then iterate—small bass or midrange tweaks often improve the listening experience.
• Save profiles (if supported) for different use cases and A/B calibration on/off at matched levels to confirm performance gains.

Final note: document settings so you can roll back changes after experimentation. A careful calibration is a repeatable upgrade to your listening experience, not a one-time guess.

av-receivers price range: quick comparison by tier with example models

Use this brief comparison to lock a shortlist quickly. Below are clear examples across budgets and capability so you can match channels, HDMI counts, and calibration to your room and goals.

Budget and midrange picks

Yamaha RX‑V4A: a 5.2 starter focused on streaming and simplicity. Great for small rooms if Atmos isn’t required.

Denon AVR‑S770H: a strong under‑$750 choice with 7.2 amps, three 8K hdmi inputs, eARC, and Audyssey MultiEQ for fast, usable correction.

Denon AVR‑X2800H: the sweet spot under $1,250 — 7.2 channels, 95W per channel, MultEQ XT, and practical connectivity for mixed music and movies.

Upper mid to flagship picks

Onkyo TX‑RZ50: nine onboard amps, 11.2 processing, Dirac Live, six 8K hdmi inputs and two 8K outputs — ideal for staged growth from 5.1.4 to 7.1.4.

Sony STR‑AZ5000ES: an 11-channel workhorse with DCAC IX and wireless surround options for rooms where wiring is difficult.

Marantz Cinema 50: nine amps, 11.4 processing, and four discrete sub outputs for refined bass control and warm, musical voicing.

Denon AVR‑A1H: flagship-level 15.4 amplification, 9.1.6 Atmos capability, and full gaming/hdmi feature support for very large rooms.

• How to use this list: match the receiver’s channel count and inputs/outputs to your speaker plan before buying.
• Future-proofing: prefer models with pre-outs if you plan to add external amps later.
• Final step: confirm local availability, read a hands-on review for the model you pick, then audition if possible.

Conclusion

Start with the needs of your living space; that will narrow the field faster than chasing features.

Make a clear choice by matching channels, honest power, HDMI capacity, and room EQ to your room and seating. Pick a receiver that supports the speakers and future expansion you plan.

Use tier exemplars to guide the final step: Denon AVR-X2800H for midrange value, Onkyo TX-RZ50 for Dirac and growth, Sony STR-AZ5000ES for 11-channel power, Marantz Cinema 50 for bass control, and Anthem MRX 740 for music-first quality. For maximum scale, the Denon AVR-A1H covers very large homes.

One final tip: careful setup and calibration often improve sound more than upgrading to the next model. Balance music, movie, and gaming needs so daily experience is seamless.