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10 Best AV Receivers 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Onkyo TX-RZ70 11.2-Channel AV Receiver - 140 Watts Per Channel, Dirac Live Out of Box, Works with Sonos Certified, THX Certified and More

The Onkyo TX-RZ70 AV receiver packs a lot of power with its 11.2 channel configuration and 140 watts per channel, making it a top choice for home theater enthusiasts. It supports multiple subwoofers and offers the flexibility to create discrete audio zones in your home, which is great for customizing your entertainment spaces. The inclusion of Dirac Live Room Calibration ensures that your sound is perfectly adapted to your room’s acoustics, and future firmware updates will enhance bass control, adding to the receiver’s versatility.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,312
Channels
Power Output
Connectivity

Most important from
706 reviews

Channels
Very powerful and solidly built, a perfect centerpiece for a 7.2.4 home theater setup.
Power Output
Upgrading from older models like the Onkyo TX-SR876 or Denon x4200w is definitely worth it, with no need for external amplifiers for rear surrounds.
Connectivity
Dual bass outputs eliminate the need for splitters, perfect for setups with multiple subwoofers or additional bass equipment.
Audio Formats
The sound stage is vastly superior, creating an immersive 'bubble' of audio that makes movies sound better than in theaters.
Room Calibration
Dirac Live room correction, once tweaked, delivers incredible sound quality, making music and movies sound better than ever.
#2
9.4 score

Sony STRAZ7000ES Premium ES 13.2 CH 8K A/V Receiver

The Sony STRAZ7000ES Premium ES 13.2 CH 8K A/V Receiver stands out with its 13.2 channel configuration, offering an impressive power output of 150W per channel, which is ideal for creating a powerful and immersive home theater experience. Its support for 8K and 4K/120 HDMI connectivity with HDMI 2.1 ensures compatibility with modern high-resolution video formats, making it future-proof for upcoming advancements in video technology.

Rating
9.4
Channels
Power Output
Connectivity

Most important from
82 reviews

Channels
Neural X upmixing of 2-channel stereo music is impressive, maintaining high-frequency instrumentation and vocals across a 7.2.4 speaker system.
Power Output
The receiver has range and power for days, delivering exceptional sound quality.
Connectivity
Picture in Picture mode is great, and the ease of use with Sony Bravia 9 as a center channel speaker is a standout feature.
Audio Formats
Dolby Atmos performance is exceptional, especially with properly mixed and engineered content.
Room Calibration
Setup and calibration are easy, with an intuitive on-screen UI and web browser.
#3
9.4 score

Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Ch 8K UHD AVR Home Theater Stereo Receiver, (105W X 9) Built-in Bluetooth Wi-Fi & HEOS Multi-Room Streaming Dolby Atmos DTS:X IMAX Enhanced & Auro 3D

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a powerful 9.4-channel AV receiver with an impressive 105W per channel output. This makes it suitable for users looking for a robust home theater experience. It supports a wide array of audio formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D, providing immersive 3D audio that can elevate your viewing experience. Additionally, it features Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X for enhancing legacy content, ensuring all your media benefits from its capabilities.

Rating
9.4
Power Output
Connectivity
Audio Formats

Most important from
1078 reviews

Power Output
Handles lower volumes perfectly in a theater setting, with a recommendation to keep the powered sub at 30% for a balanced sound.
Connectivity
Feature-rich and future-proof with ample 8K HDMI (2.1) connections, multiple digital inputs, and support for all major audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
Audio Formats
Feature-rich and future-proof with ample 8K HDMI (2.1) connections, multiple digital inputs, and support for all major audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
Network Features
Can be paired with a second unit for a multi-room or whole house audio experience, adding to its versatility.
Room Calibration
Setup is a breeze with the on-screen prompts and Audyssey calibration process, making it easy to balance speakers and fine-tune audio.

Top 10 Best AV Receivers 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Onkyo TX-RZ70 11.2-Channel AV Receiver - 140 Watts Per Channel, Dirac Live Out of Box, Works with Sonos Certified, THX Certified and More

Channels: 11.2
Power Output: 140 Watts
Connectivity: HDMI
Video Processing: IMAX Enhanced Mode
Network Features: Supports streaming apps, smart assistants
Room Calibration: Dirac Live Calibration

Chosen by 1312 this week

Sony STRAZ7000ES Premium ES 13.2 CH 8K A/V Receiver

Channels: 13.2
Power Output: 150W per channel
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast, Spotify
Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
Video Processing: 8K, 4K/120
Network and Streaming: Google Assistant, SONOS compatibility
Room Calibration: Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX

Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Ch 8K UHD AVR Home Theater Stereo Receiver, (105W X 9) Built-in Bluetooth Wi-Fi & HEOS Multi-Room Streaming Dolby Atmos DTS:X IMAX Enhanced & Auro 3D

Channels: 9.4
Power Output: 105W per channel
Connectivity: HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS
Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced
Video Processing: 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDR10+, HLG
Network Features: Wi-Fi, HEOS multi-room streaming
Room Calibration: Audyssey Room Correction Suite

Denon AVR-X2800H 7.2 Ch Stereo Receiver - 8K UHD Home Theater AVR (95W X 7), Wireless Streaming via Built-in HEOS, Wi-Fi, Dolby Atmos, DTS Neural:X & DTS:X Surround Sound, Bluetooth Amplifier

Channels: 7.2 Channel
Power Output: 95W per channel
Connectivity: 8 HDMI ports, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS Neural:X, DTS:X
Video Processing: 8K/60Hz pass-through, HDR10+, Dolby Vision
Network Features: HEOS, wireless streaming, multi-room audio
Room Calibration: Audyssey Room Correction Suite

Denon AVR-S970H 8K Ultra HD 7.2 Channel (90W X 7) AV Home Audio Receiver, Built for Gaming, Music Streaming, 3D Audio & Video, Alexa + HEOS, Black, Bluetooth Amplifier

Channels: 7.2 channels
Power Output: 90 watts per channel
Connectivity: 6 HDMI, USB, analog, digital, Wi-Fi
Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
Video Processing: 8K/60Hz pass-through, VRR, ALLM
Network and Streaming: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS, Spotify, TIDAL
Room Calibration: Audyssey Room Correction

Marantz Cinema 60 7.2-Ch Receiver (100W X 7) - 4K/120 and 8K Home Theater Receiver, Built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi & HEOS Multi-Room, Supports Dolby Atmos & DTS:X

Channels: 7.2
Power Output: 100W per channel
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS, HDMI, USB
Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Height Virtualization
Video Processing: 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDR, VRR, ALLM
Network Features: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS, voice control
Room Calibration: Audyssey MultEQ XT32

Sony STRAZ5000ES Premium ES 11.2 CH 8K A/V Receiver

Channels: 11.2 channel
Power Output: 130 watts per channel
Connectivity: 7 HDMI, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast
Audio Formats: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
Video Processing: 8K, 4K/120Hz HDMI 2.1 inputs
Network and Streaming: Wi-Fi, Chromecast, AirPlay, Spotify
Room Calibration: Sony Digital Cinema Auto Calibration
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Buying Guide for the Best AV Receivers

Choosing the right AV receiver can significantly enhance your home entertainment experience. An AV receiver acts as the hub for your home theater system, connecting and managing audio and video sources to deliver high-quality sound and visuals. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs.
ChannelsChannels refer to the number of speakers the AV receiver can support. This is important because it determines the surround sound experience you can achieve. Common configurations include 5.1, 7.1, and 9.1 channels. A 5.1 system includes five speakers and one subwoofer, suitable for smaller rooms. A 7.1 system adds two more speakers for a more immersive experience, ideal for medium-sized rooms. A 9.1 system includes additional height or ceiling speakers for a truly enveloping sound, perfect for larger spaces. Choose the number of channels based on the size of your room and your desire for surround sound immersion.
Power OutputPower output, measured in watts per channel, indicates how much power the receiver can deliver to each speaker. This is important for achieving clear and dynamic sound, especially at higher volumes. Lower power output (50-100 watts per channel) is sufficient for small to medium rooms and casual listening. Higher power output (100-200 watts per channel) is better for larger rooms and more demanding audio setups. Consider your room size and listening habits when choosing the power output.
ConnectivityConnectivity options determine how many and what types of devices you can connect to your AV receiver. This includes HDMI inputs and outputs, optical and coaxial digital inputs, and analog inputs. HDMI is crucial for high-definition video and audio, so look for multiple HDMI ports if you have several devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. Optical and coaxial inputs are useful for older devices. Ensure the receiver has enough ports to accommodate all your current and future devices.
Audio FormatsSupport for various audio formats ensures compatibility with different types of soundtracks and audio sources. Important formats include Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Dolby TrueHD. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X provide immersive, three-dimensional sound, ideal for modern home theaters. Dolby TrueHD offers high-definition audio for a more detailed sound experience. Choose a receiver that supports the audio formats you plan to use for the best sound quality.
Video ProcessingVideo processing capabilities affect the quality of the video signal passed through the receiver. Features like 4K upscaling, HDR (High Dynamic Range) support, and HDMI 2.1 compatibility are important for modern home theaters. 4K upscaling improves the resolution of lower-quality video sources, while HDR enhances color and contrast. HDMI 2.1 supports higher frame rates and resolutions, making it future-proof for upcoming technologies. Select a receiver with video processing features that match your display and video sources.
Network and StreamingNetwork and streaming capabilities allow you to access online content and stream music directly to your AV receiver. Features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and built-in streaming services (e.g., Spotify, Pandora) are important for convenience and versatility. Wi-Fi enables wireless connectivity to your home network, while Bluetooth allows easy pairing with mobile devices. Built-in streaming services provide direct access to music and podcasts. Consider how you plan to use your receiver and choose one with the appropriate network and streaming features.
Room CalibrationRoom calibration technology helps optimize the sound based on your room's acoustics. This is important for achieving the best audio performance in your specific environment. Features like Audyssey, YPAO, and MCACC use microphones and software to analyze your room and adjust the sound settings accordingly. If you want the best possible sound quality tailored to your room, look for a receiver with advanced room calibration features.

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