Compare AV Receivers: Ultimate AV Receiver Comparison Chart

Goal: this quick intro helps you scan key specs and pick the right system for your home. We focus on channels, watts per channel, HDMI capabilities, room correction, and price so you can decide fast.

The hub of any great sound setup is a capable receiver. It handles decoding for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro 3D, switches multiple sources, and amplifies your speakers in one chassis.

Our side‑by‑side view highlights core audio and video features, from 8K/4K120 HDMI to multichannel processing and streaming platforms like HEOS, MusicCast, and Sonos.

What to expect: model matchups (Denon AVR‑X1800H vs X3800H, AVC‑X6800H vs AVC‑A1H, Marantz CINEMA 60/50/40) and best‑value picks like the S760H and Sony STR‑DH590.

We call out room correction options (Audyssey vs Dirac), subwoofer outputs, and real‑world setup factors so the specs map to your room size and speaker layout.

Ready to narrow choices? See a practical guide to models and features in our full list at best AV receivers for most people.

How to use this comparison to pick the right receiver today

Begin with the space: how you place speakers and subs will drive every gear choice. Start by counting speaker positions and planning for future height channels. This step defines channels, processing needs, and whether you need extra pre‑outs for later upgrades.

Match features to real needs. Focus on HDMI 2.1, 4K/120, eARC, VRR, and streaming apps you actually use. Balance price against meaningful upgrades like Audyssey XT32 or Dirac Live and multiple independent sub outs to improve sound.

Look at model strengths: some offer extra processing headroom for external amps, others emphasize wireless ecosystems like MusicCast or Sonos, and a few prioritize UI and design. For gaming, verify low input lag and the exact HDMI inputs that support VRR.

• Plan power per channel for your room size and speaker sensitivity.
• Make sure cables, rack space, ventilation, and electrical outlets are ready.
• Shortlist two or three units that match your system, setup, and budget, then test apps and workflow.

AV receiver comparison chart: features, specs, and price at a glance

A concise spec roundup helps you weigh channels, power, video readiness, and streaming at a glance.

Core audio: channels, watts, and immersive formats

Channels and processing vary from 7.2 up to 15.4, with some models offering extra processing for future expansion.

Power is listed as watts per channel measured two-channel driven across 20Hz–20kHz for apples-to-apples checks. Denon X1800H is 80W per channel; X3800H hits 105W per channel; flagship models reach 140–150W per channel.

Formats — Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are common. Select models add Auro 3D and IMAX Enhanced for advanced surround.

Video & gaming: HDMI, formats, and projector readiness

Look for HDMI 2.1, 8K passthrough, 4K/120, VRR, and ALLM to support modern consoles and projector screens. Use certified cables to keep bandwidth and signal stable.

Room correction & bass

Room correction tiers include Audyssey MultEQ XT and XT32. Higher models offer Dirac Live and Dirac Bass upgrades for tighter low end.

Bass outputs differ: some units have dual subs, while others (like select Marantz and Denon models) provide four independent subwoofer outputs with smart routing.

Streaming & platform

Streaming ecosystems map to brand: HEOS for Denon/Marantz, MusicCast for Yamaha, Sonos integration on Integra, plus AirPlay 2 and Chromecast on many units.

• Practical tip: pick models with processing headroom and pre‑outs if you plan staged growth.
• Use the price range to narrow choices quickly between turnkey and expandable systems.

Denon AVR‑X1800H vs Denon AVR‑X3800H: budget upgrade vs enthusiast leap

Choosing between a budget-friendly model and an enthusiast-class unit comes down to channels, power, and future growth.

Channels and power: The X1800H supplies 7.2 channels and 80W per channel (two‑channel driven), while the X3800H offers 9.4 amps with 11.4 processing and 105W per channel. That extra headroom helps when you push levels or fill a larger home theater.

Formats and features: Both support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X and include HEOS streaming. The X3800H adds IMAX Enhanced and Auro 3D, more HDMI I/O, and full-channel pre-outs for external amplification as an upgrade path.

Room correction and bass: X1800H uses Audyssey MultEQ XT; X3800H steps up to XT32 and offers optional Dirac Live/Dirac Bass plus four independent subwoofer outputs for smoother low end.

• Price vs performance: X1800H is the cost-effective choice for small to medium rooms.
• Upgrade advice: Pick X3800H if you plan more channels, external amps, or tighter calibration down the road.

Denon AVR‑X6800H vs Denon AVC‑A1H: 11.4 firepower vs 15.4 flagship authority

Deciding between an 11.4 amplifier and a 15.4 flagship depends on how many height channels and how much headroom your room will demand.

Channels and power: The AVC‑X6800H natively drives 11.4 and can process 13.4 with external amps. The AVC‑A1H delivers 15.4 to realize large layouts like 9.4.6. Power per channel is 140W vs 150W (two‑channel driven), giving the A1H extra headroom for bigger home volumes.

Formats and features: Both models support dolby atmos, DTS:X, Auro 3D, and IMAX Enhanced. Each offers Audyssey MultEQ XT32 with optional Dirac Live and Dirac Live Bass for advanced room correction.

Bass and connectivity: Four independent subwoofers, 7-in/3-out HDMI matrices (8K/4K120 ready), and robust pre‑outs make either unit flexible. The A1H’s heavier chassis and large transformer boost current delivery for demanding speaker loads.

• Use case: X6800H suits large enthusiast theaters; A1H suits flagship, multi-zone, or reference systems.
• Price and option: Expect a significant price premium for the A1H; both allow external amplification via pre‑outs as an upgrade path.

Marantz CINEMA 60 vs CINEMA 50 vs CINEMA 40: which warm‑tuned receiver fits your room and budget

If you favor a warm, musical presentation, Marantz’s CINEMA models tailor power and features to room size and budget.

Power and processing tiers

CINEMA 60 is a 7.2 design rated at 100W per channel. It uses discrete amps and HDAM SA‑2 for Marantz’s signature sound.

CINEMA 50 adds nine amps with 11‑channel processing and 110W per channel for bigger layouts.

CINEMA 40 pushes to 125W per channel with upgraded parts and individual amp boards for added headroom.

Room correction, subwoofers and I/O differences

All three include Audyssey for room correction. CINEMA 50 and 40 offer an optional Dirac Live upgrade, with future Dirac Bass planned.

CINEMA 60 has dual parallel subwoofers. CINEMA 50 features four independent subwoofers and smart routing for smoother bass control.

HDMI 2.1 coverage grows with the line: CINEMA 60 mixes 8K and 4K inputs, while CINEMA 50/40 provide multiple 8K inputs and extra HDMI outs. Plan cables and rack depth accordingly.

Quick guidance: pick CINEMA 60 for simple 5.2.2/7.2 rooms, CINEMA 50 for flexible 7.1.4 setups with advanced bass options, and CINEMA 40 when you want max power, I/O, and audio quality as an upgrade path.

Best value showdown: Denon AVR‑S760H vs Sony STR‑DH590

When you want the most useful feature set for under $500, these two options make the shortlist.

Price and capability split the choices. The Denon AVR‑S760H lists around $445 and brings 7.2 channels, Dolby Atmos/DTS:X, Bluetooth, and Spotify Connect. It lacks Chromecast and the HEOS app can feel clunky, but the platform offers upgrade room for multi‑channel setups.

The Sony STR‑DH590 is a budget stand‑in at about $263. It targets classic 5.1 layouts with solid 4K passthrough and precise midrange. Its higher two‑channel power spec favors small bookshelf speakers rather than large floorstanders.

• Surround sound: S760H supports height formats; DH590 focuses on traditional 5.1.
• Power & speaker matching: Sony suits bookshelf speakers; Denon handles modest multi‑channel dynamics better.
• HDMI and features: Denon is friendlier for multiple sources; Sony gives straightforward 4K passthrough.

What to choose: pick the Denon if you want Atmos now or later and an expandable foundation. Choose the Sony for the lowest price and a clear, simple path to 5.1 home theater. In either case, spend remaining budget on a good sub or better speakers to lift overall sound.

Wireless surround pick: Yamaha RX‑V4A for cable‑light living rooms

Yamaha’s RX‑V4A is a practical pick when running new speaker wires isn’t an option. Priced around $345, it is a 5.2‑channel unit rated at 80W (two‑channel driven, 6Ω) and it pairs neatly with MusicCast wireless surrounds like the MusicCast 20/50 and Sub 100.

MusicCast simplifies the setup. Pair your surround speakers and Sub 100 over Wi‑Fi, then connect the TV and sources via HDMI for a tidy, cable‑light system. The app gives straightforward streaming and multiroom control so anyone in the home can manage playback.

The trade‑off is deliberate: the RX‑V4A does not decode Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. That aligns with its focus on wireless convenience rather than immersive height formats. Expect solid TV, movie, and casual music sound, though it won’t match the punch of higher‑end Denon or Marantz models.

Design and expandability: the industrial, modern design suits open living spaces, though materials feel budget‑lean. You can add wired speakers later, but remember the 5.2 channel ceiling. Also check HDMI inputs and ARC/eARC compatibility with your TV.

• Ideal use case: apartments and family rooms where running cables is impractical.
• Cable tip: fewer speaker cables, but use short, good‑quality HDMI and power cords for a neat setup.

Sonos‑friendly choice: Integra DRX‑3.3 for seamless multiroom integration

If Sonos already runs your rooms, the Integra DRX‑3.3 makes multiroom control feel native.

The core benefit is clean Sonos integration via the Sonos Connect app so you can stream and control music across wired and wireless zones without swapping speakers.

Specs at a glance: 9.2 channels, 90W per channel (8Ω, two‑channel driven), and support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. That lets you build 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 layouts while keeping Sonos as the control layer.

Price vs features: at $999 the unit carries a premium. That price may make sense if Sonos is central to family listening and you value unified streaming and multiroom playback.

• Setup tip: add the DRX‑3.3 to your Sonos network via the Sonos Connect path, enable HDMI/eARC between TV and unit, then run the internal calibration for room balance.
• Expandability: start with mains and a sub, then add height channels later while Sonos keeps playback simple for non‑technical users.

Performance note: audio is solid but not class‑leading against some Denon options in this price band. Ensure your network is robust to avoid dropouts if heavy streaming is the daily use case.

Bottom line: the DRX‑3.3 is a strong option when Sonos multiroom is a priority. If Sonos integration is not essential, consider reallocating budget to better‑performing alternatives or to stronger speakers and a subwoofer.

Audiophile angle: NAD T 778 design, touchscreen UX, and music‑first sound

NAD’s T 778 takes a music‑first stance, blending refined tuning with a modern touchscreen that changes everyday use.

Design is a standout: the vivid display and intuitive touchscreen simplify navigation and make routine listening faster. That streamlined UX is helpful for both music and home theater sessions.

On paper the unit is 9.2 channels with Dolby Atmos support, and it delivers 110W per channel (two‑channel driven, 8Ω). That power gives clear dynamics and headroom for typical rooms and quality speakers.

Features and tradeoffs matter. Streaming integration is solid but varies by region and firmware. Notably, DTS:X is not supported—check your content mix before committing.

• Layout flexibility: suits 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 setups that balance stereo music and immersive formats.
• Audience fit: ideal for listeners who put audio quality and elegant design ahead of a feature checklist.
• Budget note: $3,499 places it in premium territory—consider allocating budget to better speakers and a sub for the best returns.

Decision tip: audition the T 778 if possible to confirm you prefer its sound signature and touchscreen workflow. NAD’s reputation for reliable firmware and support helps justify the premium for serious listeners.

Gaming features that matter: VRR, 4K/120, eARC, and input lag considerations

For competitive play, prioritize low input lag and full 4K/120 support so your actions match the screen.

Next‑gen console setup

If your TV has limited HDMI 2.1 ports, connect the console directly to the TV for the lowest input lag. Use eARC to send uncompressed game and streaming audio back to your receiver.

Go through the receiver only when it has multiple certified HDMI 2.1 inputs and proven low‑latency passthrough. Denon and Marantz models often include 4K/120 and VRR support; Marantz recommends console→TV with eARC when ports are tight.

Projector screens and cabling tips

Long HDMI runs to projector screens need certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cables. For runs over 10m, consider fiber HDMI to preserve 4K/120 stability and bandwidth.

• Route cables away from power cords and label each source.
• Verify each HDMI port’s capabilities before final wiring.
• Keep firmware updated on TV and receiver to fix early hdmi 2.1 bugs.

Test with 4K/120 patterns, check the variable refresh rate overlay, and confirm audio lip‑sync. That ensures your home system delivers smooth refresh rate benefits, low lag, and clean sound for current content.

Room correction face‑off: Audyssey MultEQ XT/XT32 vs Dirac Live and Dirac Bass

Room acoustics shape what you actually hear more than raw power or channel count. Audyssey gives set‑and‑forget ease (XT and finer XT32). Dirac Live focuses on frequency and time‑domain fixes for deeper results.

When to upgrade and which mic to use

Upgrade to Dirac Live when your listening area has multiple seats, complex reflections, or 2–4 subs to tame. Check that your receiver supports a Dirac license first — models like Denon X3800H, AVC‑X6800H and Marantz CINEMA 50/40 can accept it.

Use a calibrated mic such as MiniDSP UMIK‑1 for better measurement accuracy. Take sweeps from several positions, keep the mic at ear height, and cut ambient noise during tests.

• Avoid heavy correction above 500–700Hz unless a problem exists; focus on bass for biggest audible gains.
• Time‑align and level‑match multiple subs (four independent outs help) before final correction.
• Validate with familiar movies and music to confirm improvements in bass tightness and dialogue.

Fine‑tune target curves (a mild bass shelf often helps) and re‑run calibration after major furniture, speaker, or layout changes to keep audio in your home optimized. This option yields the most consistent listening across seats and content.

Subwoofer strategy: 2 vs 4 independent sub outs and bass management

How you place and tune subwoofers has a bigger impact on perceived bass than raw power. Independent sub outputs let you control delay, level, and EQ for each unit. That capability smooths bass across seats and reduces boom.

Two‑sub patterns: place subs at opposing wall midpoints or in front‑corner pairs. These simple layouts cancel strong axial modes and work well in many living rooms.

Quad‑sub patterns and workflow

Four‑sub strategies place units at wall midpoints or corners to spread modal coverage. Larger rooms benefit most from quad layouts because they distribute low energy more evenly.

• Level‑match each sub and verify polarity.
• Set a common crossover for the speakers and subs.
• Run room correction to integrate subs with your main speakers and system.

Practical tips: use a tape or laser measure to set delays close before automated EQ. Check the calibration app’s graphs at key seats to confirm smoothness. Models with four independent sub outs (for example the Denon AVR‑X3800H, AVC‑X6800H, and Marantz CINEMA 50) give the granularity needed for the best long‑term flexibility.

Channel planning: 5.1, 7.1.2, 5.1.4, 7.1.4, and 9.1.2 with height speakers

Start your channel plan by matching common layouts to room size and listening distance. A 5.1 layout covers basics and works well in small living rooms.

Move to 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 when you want height speakers for Dolby Atmos immersion without a large footprint. Larger rooms benefit from 7.1.4 or 9.1.2 for fuller envelopment.

Map layouts to hardware: pick a unit with enough processing and amps. For example, the AVR‑X3800H processes 11.4 channels to support 7.1.4 with external amplifiers. Marantz CINEMA 50 handles 11‑channel processing with nine internal amps. Entry models like the AVR‑X1800H and AVR‑S760H support up to 7.2 and are fine for 5.1.2/7.1.2 starts.

Height speakers impact how sound moves above listeners. Verify mounting angles, ceiling clearance, and weight ratings for in‑ceiling or angled modules.

Consider projector screens and speaker sightlines. Confirm screen height and ceiling clearance so height speaker angles aren’t blocked by the screen or trim.

• Pre‑wire extra runs and cable paths now to avoid rework later.
• When the processor powers fewer channels than it handles, plan an external amp for heights or front L/R.
• After install, run room correction and verify trims, delays, and levels match physical placement.

Growth plan: even if you start with 5.1.2, pre‑wire for 7.1.4. That saves labor and keeps your home system ready as content and needs evolve. Also prioritize streaming platforms that carry Dolby Atmos so your channel planning matches available source material.

Speaker matching: bookshelf speakers, surround speakers, and power per channel

Start speaker matching by lining up speaker efficiency with the amplifier’s realistic power output.

Match power per channel to speaker sensitivity and impedance. Use the spec for two‑channel driven watts as your baseline when sizing gear for your home and room.

For budget systems like the Sony STR‑DH590, pick efficient bookshelf speakers or satellites so the speaker stays controlled and clear. Add a capable subwoofer to handle low end.

Surround speakers should share timbre with your fronts. Compact on‑wall or bookshelf surrounds work well where space is tight. Toe‑in fronts and ear‑height surrounds improve detail and dialog.

• Prefer discrete amp designs (for example Marantz HDAM SA‑2) or higher current delivery for better control at loud levels.
• Use per channel power ratings (two‑channel driven) for real capability comparisons.
• Plan for growth: choose pre‑outs if you may add an external amp for less efficient speakers later.
• Test with familiar tracks and movie scenes to check tonal balance and dynamics in your room.

Price point tiers: budget, midrange, and high‑end receivers worth your money

Deciding how much to spend shapes the features and long‑term value of any home theater system.

Budget covers essential surround and HDMI basics. Typical options include the Sony STR‑DH590 (~$263) for simple 5.1 setups and the Denon AVR‑S760H (~$445) for entry Atmos and extra streaming features. These models keep price low while covering core content needs.

Midrange is the sweet spot for immersive formats and upgrades. The Denon AVR‑X3800H (~$1,649) adds 11.4 processing, XT32, and optional Dirac. The Integra DRX‑3.3 (~$999) is a Sonos‑friendly option for multiroom convenience.

High‑end targets larger rooms and more channels. Consider Marantz CINEMA 50/40 and Denon AVC‑X6800H or AVC‑A1H for powerful amps, multiple sub outs, and expanded I/O for future growth.

• Advice: avoid paying for unused features; allocate funds to better speakers or an extra sub if your content demands it.
• Feature checklist: confirm hdmi inputs, eARC output, sub outs, and processing headroom for your planned system.
• System costs: include installation, cabling, calibration tools, and potential external amps in your total budget.

Design, setup, and upgrade paths: pre‑outs, external amps, and future‑proofing

Design choices and expansion ports determine how long a home theater system stays useful. Pick models with full pre‑outs, a strong power supply, and clear front‑panel displays so upgrades are simple.

Make sure your cables, streaming, and calibration app workflow are ready

Setup begins with firmware updates and labeling HDMI inputs. Run the guided setup wizards from Marantz or Denon and confirm speaker wiring using test tones.

Use Ultra High Speed HDMI for 8K/4K120. For long projector screens, consider fiber HDMI to preserve signal over distance. Choose quality speaker cables with secure terminations to avoid contact issues.

Align streaming with your home ecosystem: HEOS, MusicCast, or Sonos. Verify multiroom needs and voice assistant compatibility before finalizing the setup.

• Calibration apps: install Audyssey MultEQ Editor or Dirac Live, learn mic placement, and save profiles for different seating layouts.
• External amps: take advantage of pre‑outs (for example AVR‑X3800H and CINEMA 50) to offload front L/R or height channels when you upgrade speakers.
• Cooling & power: allow ventilation clearance, consider a quiet fan in closed cabinets, and size a power conditioner for stable performance.

Finally, document your wiring map, input list, and calibration notes. That makes future changes fast and ensures any upgrade is plug‑and‑play.

Conclusion

Focus on layouts and real listening habits to pick the right system for your home.

Match room size, speaker layout, and content use to a unit that balances channels, HDMI features, and calibration strength. Take advantage of processing headroom—like 11‑channel processing—to grow from 5.1.2 to 7.1.4 without swapping cores.

Sound quality improves most from careful room correction and multi‑sub integration, not raw wattage alone. For value, choose the Denon AVR‑S760H or Sony STR‑DH590 for budget builds; move to the AVR‑X3800H for long‑term expandability.

Pick Marantz CINEMA 50, Denon AVC‑X6800H, or AVC‑A1H for large, reference systems. Plan cables, power, and ventilation early to avoid bottlenecks when adding sources or displays.

Finally, evaluate streaming ecosystems and app UX since they shape daily listening. With the right choice today, your home system can take advantage of new formats and evolve gracefully as content and gear advance. strong,