An AV receiver is the ultimate solution to enjoy the most immersive audio experience at home. Whether you’re looking for a 5.1 model for the living room or a more sophisticated version for a private home theater, there’s a wide range of AVRs to suit every need. To help you make the right choice, we’ve selected the best AV receivers of 2025 for you in this comparison.
5-channel AV receivers
5.1 and 5.2 channel AV receivers are an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable, high-performance system without the need for an overly complex installation. With five channels of power, these receivers can recreate an immersive sound experience that’s ideal for a small living room or bedroom. They can power a speaker pack that includes three front speakers (two side speakers and a center speaker) and two surround speakers. On certain AVRs, the channels dedicated to surround sound effects can be assigned to the Atmos channels to provide a vertical dimension with compatible Dolby Atmos and DTS:X tracks.
Yamaha RX-V4A
The most affordable model from the Japanese manufacturer, the Yamaha RX-V4A AV receiver is still powerful, delivering 80W into 6 ohms in hi-fi conditions (2 channels powered). This makes it ideal for powering a 5.2-channel satellite or compact speaker package (5 speakers and 1 or 2 subwoofers). This Yamaha AVR supports Dolby and DTS tracks, and offers numerous DSPs for an immersive experience with all content. What’s more, its Virtual Presence Speaker technology enables it to create a surround-sound ambience without dedicated speakers at the rear, making wiring easier. It is also possible to distribute a stereo stream to all the system’s speakers, for an optimal experience with all programs.
The Yamaha RX-V4A receiver’s four HDMI inputs and one HDMI output meet the HDMI 2.1 standard, ensuring support for 120Hz 4K and 8K 60Hz streams. It’s also compatible with VRR, ALLM, QFT and QMS gaming technologies, as well as HDR10+ and Dolby Vision standards, so you can get the full potential of your sources. Finally, streaming is possible through AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, or via the main online music platforms (Spotify, Qobuz, Deezer, etc.) and web radios.
Onkyo TX-SR3100
The Onkyo TX-SR3100 AV receiver is a 5.2-channel model with the advantage of supporting Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats as part of a 3.2.2-channel installation. It therefore adds a vertical dimension by reproducing vertical effects, either with a pair of speakers per reflection, or with ceiling speakers. Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer and DTS Virtual X technologies are also present to enjoy 3D surround sound whatever the speaker configuration. Last but not least, microphone-based acoustic calibration ensures an optimized experience for the listening room.
HDMI 2.1 certified, the Onkyo TX-SR3100 receiver supports 120Hz 4K and 60Hz 8K, VRR, ALLM and QFT gaming standards, as well as Dolby Vision and HDR10+ streams to get the most out of all your sources. Finally, music streaming is possible via Bluetooth.
JBL MA310
The JBL MA310 AV receiver has a 5.2-channel configuration with a power of 60 watts per channel into 8 ohms, providing an energetic soundtrack reproduction. It offers Dolby and DTS compatibility with support for variants such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master Audio, which ensures a precise soundstage for both physical sources and streaming. The video section features four HDMI 2.1 inputs and an ARC output compatible with UHD 4K at 60 frames per second and HDR10. EZ Set EQ calibration uses the smartphone’s microphone to adapt the sound to the room. The JBL MA310 has a wide range of connectors with two RCA inputs, an optical input, a coaxial input, two subwoofer outputs and a Bluetooth receiver. This makes it an ideal solution for a versatile cinema installation.
7-channel AV receivers
7-channel AV receivers offer greater sound immersion by adding two rear surround speakers or two Atmos speakers to the traditional 5.1 configuration. This gain in spatial imaging envelops the listener and accentuates motion effects, particularly for films mixed in Dolby Atmos or DTS:X. Ideal for medium-sized to large rooms, a 7-channel receiver represents an excellent compromise between performance and flexibility, with the possibility of upgrading to more advanced configurations by adding vertical-effect speakers.
Marantz Cinema 70S
Unique in its category, the Marantz Cinema 70S AV receiver has the advantage of a slim format, just 10.9cm thick. This means it fits neatly into any cabinet or alongside your TV. This 7.2-channel model is capable of delivering up to 50 watts in hi-fi conditions, perfect for a medium-sized living room or bedroom. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatible, it can be used to add a vertical channel to a 5.2.2-channel system. The Audyssey MultEQ calibration system optimizes the performance of each speaker, while the Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Audyssey Dynamic Volume treatments allow you to temporarily limit the dynamic range, so you can enjoy night-time sessions without disturbing the neighbors.
Of the six HDMI inputs on this AVR, three are HDMI 2.1 compatible to support 120Hz 4K and 8K 60 fps, as well as VRR, ALLM, QFT gaming functions. These are perfect for PC games or latest-generation consoles such as the PS5 and Xbox X Series. Other inputs are 4K HDR compatible (Dolby Vision, HDR10+ and HLG), perfect for a network player or Blu-ray player, for example. Last but not least, the Heos system provides access to streaming services (Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music, Deezer, etc.), web radios, music shared via DLNA, as well as AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth streaming. Thanks to its compatibility with voice assistants, this receiver can be easily controlled vocally, and with its remote control.
Yamaha RX-V6A
The Yamaha RX-V6A AV receiver delivers 100 watts per channel in stereo, and can drive up to 7 speakers and two subwoofers, whether in a 7.2-channel configuration or in a 5.2.2-channel Atmos system. Like all of the brand’s AVRs, it features numerous sound enhancement systems to adapt the reproduction to the program being viewed, distribute a stereo program over 7 speakers, or simulate surround sound in headphones. MusicCast not only allows you to add a pair of wireless surround speakers (Yamaha MusicCast 20 and Yamaha MusicCast 50), but also to enjoy online music services, web radios and streaming.
Yamaha’s seven-channel networked AV receiver comes to your kit rack boasting a gorgeous all-new design philosophy and seven-input/one-output HDMI stage that’s ready for advanced gaming consoles and the 8K video sources of the future. And while implementing an array of smart features, including allowing its MusicCast multiroom speakers to be used as wireless surrounds, Yamaha hasn’t turned attention away from performance. Propelled by revised high slew-rate amplification and proprietary Cinema DSP, the RX-V6A crafts spacious, detailed and immersive soundfields with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X sources, while applying upmixing polish to stereo and multichannel material. This is a brilliant, forward-thinking addition to the brand’s AVR fleet.
Eisa
Denon AVR-S770H
A true bestseller, the Denon AVR-S770H AV receiver is capable of delivering up to 75 watts in stereo to power a 7.2 or 5.2.2 channel speaker pack. It benefits from numerous virtualization technologies such as DTS Neural:X or Dolby Height Virtualization to exploit all the speakers in the system, whatever the original mix of the program being viewed. Naturally, Dolby Atmos DTS/X formats are also decoded for a three-dimensional experience with all programs.
This comprehensive AV receiver is 8K and 4K compatible, and supports ALLM and VRR gaming functions, as well as HDR10+ and Dolby Vision programs. Audio streaming includes Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 and access to the main online music services.
JBL MA7100HP
Certainly one of the most visually appealing AVRs on the market, the JBL MA7100HP stands out from any other model with its modern design, available in black or white. The front panel features a large color display that can show information such as the selected source, volume, audio format and album art when streaming music. Streaming is possible via AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect or Roon.
In terms of performance, the JBL MA7100HP AV receiver impresses with its 7.2 channels delivering 175W per channel into 4 ohms, enabling it to efficiently power any speaker. Its high-efficiency class D amplification ensures an energetic, high-impact reproduction of the soundtracks to films, TV series and video games. Finally, it supports HDMI 2.1 with 4K 120 fps and 8K 60 fps on three of its six HDMI inputs.
9-channel AV receivers
9-channel AV receivers go far beyond 7-channel models, offering even more spectacular immersion. Thanks to the addition of two extra speakers, generally used for height or rear surround effects, they provide more detailed spatial imaging and a more realistic sound bubble. These receivers are also often more powerful and feature more extensive connectivity, with more analog and digital inputs to centralize all audio and video sources. Whether you need to connect a Blu-ray player, a turntable, a game console or a network player, these AVRs offer greater flexibility for a comprehensive, upgradeable home theater installation.
Pioneer VSX-LX305: 9.2 channels
Versatile and very powerful (170W/ch into 8 ohms), the Pioneer VSX-LX305 AV receiver can efficiently power a 9.2, 7.2.2 or 5.2.4 channel system. It supports the various variants of DTS and Dolby formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Thanks to Dolby Atmos Height and DTS Virtual:X surround technology, it can create virtually spatialized sound with 2.1, 5.1, 7.1 or 9.1 speaker configurations, even from stereo programs. Last but not least, this AV receiver features Dirac Live calibration technology for highly precise speaker adjustment.
To appeal to cinephiles and gamers alike, the Pioneer VSX-LX305 AVR boasts 7 HDMI inputs (including 6 compatible with 4K 120 fps and 8K 60 fps) and two HDMI 2.1 outputs. ALLM, VRR and QFT gaming functions are supported, as well as HDR10 and Dolby Vision for optimal viewing. Other highlights include compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant voice assistants, the integration of numerous streaming services such as Amazon Music HD, Deezer, Spotify and Tidal, AirPlay 2 and Chromecast streaming, as well as DTS Play:Fi and Sonos multi-room. This makes it a true multimedia center.
Denon AVC-X3800H: 9.4 channels
Denon’s best-selling AVC-X3800H AV receiver is a 9.4-channel model for connecting up to four subwoofers, with separate settings for each. Designed for a large living room or private cinema, it can be used to create a 9.4, 7.4.2 or 5.4.4-channel system, with support for three-dimensional Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Auro 3D tracks. Equipped with the very best spatialization technologies, it ensures a consistently immersive and realistic cinema experience thanks to IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Height Virtualization, Dolby Surround and DTS Virtual:X processing.
This Denon receiver shines with its extensive connectivity, with numerous RCA, optical and coaxial inputs for combining all the sources of an audio and video system. Its pre-out section lets you connect one or more power amplifiers, extending the configuration to 11.4 channels. Finally, its HDMI ports are certified HDMI 2.1 for 120Hz 4K and 8K compatibility, while the three HDMI outputs are perfect for connecting multiple screens and/or projectors.
AV receivers with more than 10 channels
AV receiver with over 10 channels offer the ultimate in sound immersion by adding multiple speakers and several vertical channels to the sound effects. With dedicated surround, lateral and vertical channels, they recreate a realistic 3D environment, enveloping the listener in the heart of the action. Depending on their configuration, these AVRs can handle 2, 4 or 6 channels dedicated to vertical effects, offering more precise spatial imaging and enhanced realism.
Yamaha Aventage RX-A8A: 11.2 channels
The flagship of the Japanese manufacturer’s AV receiver range, the Yamaha Aventage RX-A8A is an 11.2-channel model capable of developing up to 150 watts per channel in hi-fi conditions (2 channels powered). It supports the latest multichannel audio standards, including Auro 3D, DTS:X and Dolby Atmos. Thanks to its 11.2 amplified channels, it adapts to all configurations to create 5.2.6 or 7.2.4 channel 3D audio systems. Surround effects can be reproduced using a pair of Yamaha MusicCast wireless speakers, limiting the number of cables in the room.
The Yamaha Aventage RX-A8A AV receiver also supports the latest video standards thanks to its HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs. These are compatible with 4K UHD streams up to 120 fps and 8K 60 fps. VRR, ALLM, QFT and QMS gaming features are also included for an optimal gaming experience. Finally, the multi-room Yamaha MusicCast ecosystem provides access to streaming services, shared tracks on the local network and AirPlay or Bluetooth streaming.
Anthem MRX 1140 8K: 11.2 channels
Anthem AV receivers are acclaimed by users and the specialist press alike for their superior performance in both stereo and home theater configurations. The Anthem MRX 1140 8K tops the Canadian manufacturer’s range, with the option of decoding multichannel streams and preamplifying them over 15.2 channels, or amplifying them over 11.2 channels. It supports the majority of audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and DTS:X Pro. What’s more, this AVR boasts ARC (Anthem Room Correction) calibration technology, enabling precise calibration of speakers and/or the listening room. You can adjust every parameter, from bass and treble to the receiver’s overall sound reproduction, for a listening experience that’s perfectly tailored to your preferences.
The Anthem MRX 1140 8K AVR features seven HDMI inputs and three outputs, all compliant with HDMI 2.1. They support 4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, as well as VRR and ALLM gaming functions. Finally, music streaming is possible through AirPlay 2, Chromecast and Bluetooth, or via Roon and Spotify.
Denon AVC-A10H: 13.4 channels
The Denon AVC-A10H AV receiver is sure to an impressive experience in any dedicated home theater or large living room, thanks to its 13.4 channels and high power output of up to 150W per channel. Entirely created in the brand’s Japanese workshops using carefully selected components, including nine DACs, this AVR ensures efficient spatialization of effects on the various channels and precise reproduction of the slightest nuances of music. To optimize performance, it incorporates Audyssey MultEQ XT 32 calibration and is compatible with Dirac Live Room Correction technology (optional license).
Like all latest-generation Denon receivers, the Denon AVC-A10H is HDMI 2.1-certified for support of 120Hz 4K, 60Hz 8K streams, as well as gaming functions. Hi-Res streaming is possible up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD 5.6 MHz, with access to network-shared tracks, web radios and numerous online music services.
Denon AVC-A1H: 15.4 channels
A truly outstanding model, the Denon AVC-A1H AV receiver features 15-channel amplification and can drive 8 subwoofers (4 RCA and 4 XLR outputs). Designed for the most comprehensive installations, it can power a speaker system with up to 9.4.6 channels in Dolby Atmos, DTS:X or Auro 3D. Its power transformer is the largest ever used by Denon, and it is combined with multiple capacitors for exceptional dynamics and a very high power handling of 150W per channel into 8 ohms (2 channels powered). It is therefore capable of maintaining a very high volume throughout a film, even with multiple demanding cinema speakers.
In terms of connectivity, the Denon AVC-A1H offers everything you’d expect from a latest-generation high-end AV receiver. Its seven HDMI inputs are all certified HDMI 2.1, the three HDMI outputs enable multiple screens and zones, while the audio section includes numerous RCA, optical, coaxial and even balanced XLR and phono inputs. Last but not least, Heos streaming is included, making this a true multimedia center that’s equally suited to stereo music listening and multichannel soundtrack reproduction.
How to choose your AV receiver
How many channels for a AV receiver?
The number of channels on an AV receiver determines the number of speakers it can power to create an immersive sound experience. For a small room or low-budget setup, a 5-channel AVR is often sufficient, offering a classic 5.1 layout with five speakers and a subwoofer. If you want a more immersive experience, 7-channel amps are ideal for adding rear surround speakers or a pair of Atmos speakers, while 9-channel amps allow you to integrate vertical-effect speakers or even more complex configurations, ideal for 3D audio formats such as Dolby Atmos. Finally, receivers with over 10 channels are the ultimate solution for dedicated home theaters and discerning cinephiles. While the choice is determined above all by the size of the room and the level of immersion required, more channels ensure more precise spatial imaging and a more enveloping sound.
Why choose a Dolby Atmos or DTS:X receiver?
Opt for a Dolby Atmos or DTS:X-compatible AVR, and you’ll enjoy three-dimensional sound immersion that’s far more realistic than simple surround sound. Unlike traditional formats that broadcast sound on a horizontal plane, these technologies add a vertical dimension, recreating sound effects from above, such as falling rain or a plane flying overhead. This brings added realism to films, TV series and video games.
What’s the point of AV receivers with HDMI 2.1?
AV receivers equipped with HDMI 2.1 ports offer many advantages, especially for gamers. Thanks to this standard, AVRs support higher resolutions, such as 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz, guaranteeing compatibility with tomorrow’s audiovisual equipment. For gamers, HDMI 2.1 incorporates essential technologies such as VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) to eliminate tearing, ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) which automatically reduces latency during gaming, and QFT (Quick Frame Transport) which improves image fluidity by reducing display delay. As a result, these receivers are more evolutive and versatile, ensuring an optimal visual experience for movies, TV series and gaming.
What is automatic receiver calibration?
AV receiver automatic calibration is a function that automatically adjusts audio parameters according to room acoustics and speaker layout. Using a microphone supplied with the AVR, the system analyzes the sound response in the listening environment and optimizes settings such as speaker distance, sound level, bass management and equalization. Each brand offers its own system, such as Audyssey MultEQ from Denon and Marantz, YPAO from Yamaha, Dirac Live from certain premium models, or MCACC from Pioneer. This calibration provides a more balanced, immersive sound, without the need for complex manual adjustments.
Can an AV receiver be used to listen to music?
Yes, an AV receiver can be used to listen to music. However, compared with a dedicated hi-fi amp, it often favors dynamics and power to the detriment of nuance and timbre finesse. That said, modern AVRs can be excellent all-round alternatives, not least thanks to their connected functions. Many models integrate a network player for easy access to high-resolution streaming services. Yamaha offers MusicCast, Denon and Marantz integrate HEOS, while Pioneer and Onkyo support DTS Play:Fi, providing multi-room listening and smooth management of music libraries. For mixed home theater and music use, these receivers remain excellent solutions.
What is Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X upmixing?
Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X upmixing are technologies that convert a conventional audio track (stereo or multichannel) into more immersive sound by using all the available speakers in a home theater system. Dolby Surround analyzes the audio signal and intelligently distributes sound effects to the surround and vertical-effect speakers, even if the original source is not encoded in Dolby Atmos. This creates a sense of space and enhanced immersion. DTS Neural:X uses the same principle, adapting a non-DTS:X track to take advantage of a multi-channel system, including ceiling or effects speakers. These technologies are particularly useful for enhancing content that is not natively mixed in 3D, such as certain films, series or video games, to maximize the enveloping effect of a home theater system.
How to connect an AV receiver to a TV
To connect an AV receiver to a TV, the simplest and most effective method is to use an HDMI cable via the ARC (Audio Return Channel) or eARC port on your TV and receiver. In this way, you can directly retrieve the sound of programs viewed on the TV, whether from external sources connected to the TV or from streaming services. If your TV doesn’t have ARC/eARC, you can use an optical cable (Toslink) to transmit sound to the receiver, but this solution doesn’t allow you to enjoy 3D audio formats such as Dolby Atmos. Finally, for external sources such as a console or Blu-ray player, it’s best to connect them directly to the AVR via HDMI, which will then send the image to the TV via its main HDMI output.
In this guide, we’ve put together a selection of the best AV receivers of 2025 for an immersive experience at home. You can also choose from the many other AVRs on Son-Vidéo.com. For even more convenience, you can refine your search using the filters to select only those models that match your needs or budget.
Frequently asked questions about AV receivers
The right power depends mainly on the listening distance and the sensitivity of the speakers. A larger room requires more power reserve. The desired volume level also plays an important role. It is also important to note that the front speakers (left, center, and right) generally require the most power, as 80% of the signal passes through these channels. Some AV receivers therefore offer additional power for these channels.
The size of the room is more important than the speakers’ power rating. It is not necessary to adhere strictly to these figures. The priority is to achieve a sufficient sound level without distortion.
Sensitivity indicates the volume obtained for one watt at a distance of one meter. The higher it is, the less power the AVR needs to supply. This makes it possible to predict whether the system will be able to fill the room with sound effortlessly.
The power rating for a home theater amplifier is almost always measured in stereo mode, with only two active channels. When all channels are operating simultaneously, the actual power available per channel decreases because the power supply must spread its power across all channels. For demanding installations, it is advisable to add an external power amplifier to lighten the load on certain channels and ensure a more comfortable range.
A more powerful AVR poses no danger if the volume remains reasonable. Damage mainly occurs when a receiver that isn’t powerful enough causes distortion. A well-controlled AVR provides a clean signal that protects the drivers.
A receiver that is too weak can cause distortion at high volume. This results in an agressive and tiring sound. At moderate volume, it can still deliver good results.
It depends on the power supply capacity of the AVR. Lower impedance requires more current. If the AV receiver overheats or goes into protection mode, the combination is not suitable.
A stereo hi-fi amplifier optimizes two channels for music. An AV receiver handles more channels and provides both audio and video decoding.
AV receivers can function properly in stereo. High-end models offer sound quality close to hi-fi. Hi-fi amplifiers often provide a more accurate music listening experience.
The room needs to be quiet during the measurements. The microphone must be placed at ear-level and at the listening position. Checking things manually after calibration often improves the result.
The source sends a signal that is already decoded. The AVR then receives a stereo or multi-channel stream without metadata. You must change the source’s audio settings to obtain the desired format.
Bitstream mode allows the receiver to decode the formats. PCM mode performs decoding from the source. Ideally, it is preferable to leave the decoding work to the receiver, so it’s best for the source to send Bitstream.
Traditional surround sound creates a sound field that surrounds the listener with lateral and rear effects. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X go further by adding a vertical dimension to position sounds above the viewer. To enjoy these, you need a compatible AV receiver and ceiling-mounted speakers or up-firing speaker modules capable of reproducing the vertical channel.
If your AVR isn’t compatible with HDMI 2.1, it is best to use the television’s eARC feature. Simply connect the console to the TV or projector to enjoy 120Hz 4K and functions such as VRR, then send sound to the AV receiver via eARC.
Excessive heat is often caused by poor ventilation, as the AV receiver has difficulty dissipating hot air. You should therefore clear the space around the device and check that the ventilation grilles are not blocked. If the protection continues to be triggered despite good air circulation, the problem may be caused by the load imposed by the speakers: an impedance that is too low results in excessive current demand.
They allow you to connect a separate power amplifier. This improves the performance of demanding speakers (with multiple and/or large drivers) that require a lot of power. This is useful for upgrading your system or reducing the load on your AV receiver.
