The Best AV Receivers for Amazing Home Theater Sound 2025

Marantz’s Cinema 30 AV receiver represents the pinnacle of Marantz’s dedication to craftsmanship, sonic purity, and thoughtful design. Built for those who demand uncompromising audio performance and full control over their home entertainment system, the Cinema 30 is a flagship centerpiece that’s equally at home in a luxury home theater or a high-end music-focused setup. Please continue to read to see why we crowned this amplifier with our “Best Overall AV Receiver” award!

At its core, the Cinema 30 is a 11.4-channel powerhouse, delivering up to 140 watts per channel with the finesse and musicality Marantz is known for. The secret lies in its meticulously engineered components—like custom HDAM-SA2 (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Modules) and a high-current toroidal transformer—ensuring audio is rendered with exceptional detail and warmth. Whether you’re experiencing an explosive action movie or an intimate acoustic performance, the sound is immersive, layered, and alive with texture. 

The Cinema 30 is engineered to handle object-based surround formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D, and IMAX Enhanced, giving you a full three-dimensional audio experience. With support for up to 11 speaker channels and 4 independent subwoofers (don’t blame us when the neighbors come knocking), it creates an expansive soundstage that surrounds you from every angle, ideal for large or acoustically ambitious rooms.

In terms of connectivity, the Cinema 30 is incredibly versatile. It includes seven HDMI inputs (all HDMI 2.1) and three HDMI outputs, supporting 8K video passthrough, 4K/120Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and VRR—features essential for next-gen gaming and home cinema setups. You’ll also find a full array of digital (optical/coaxial), analog, component, composite, and phono inputs, along with 11.4 channel pre-outs if you prefer using external amplifiers.

Beyond its physical connections, the Cinema 30 offers extensive wireless and streaming capabilities through HEOS Built-in. This includes multi-room audio, support for high-resolution streaming services, and seamless integration with AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, and voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. If this thing could cook, it would make a wonderful companion!

Visually, it embodies Marantz’s new premium aesthetic—featuring a solid aluminum front panel, subtle circular display, and luxurious build quality that looks as refined as it sounds. It’s also available in a bright silver/gold finish if that suits your decor better.

The Marantz Cinema 30 is built for AV enthusiasts who want it all: powerful multi-channel performance, audiophile-grade sound, and full connectivity for every device in the home. It’s not just an AV receiver—it’s the heart of a true cinematic and musical experience.

Pros:

• Audiophile-grade sound
• HDMI 2.1 connectivity
• Strong output
• Lots of input and outputs
• HEOS built-in

Cons:

• Heftier price tag
• Large footprint (and heavy)
• WiFi setup can be a little tricky

The Denon AVR-A1H is not just another AV receiver—it’s the crown jewel of Denon’s legendary lineup and a true statement piece for any home theater enthusiast. With 13 channels of powerful onboard amplification, support for up to 15.4 channels of processing, and uncompromising build quality, the A1H redefines what a flagship receiver can do. And that’s why it grabbed our “Best 13-Channel AV Receiver” award.

Deep inside, AVR-A1H is a high-current 150W per channel amplifier (8 ohms, 2ch driven) designed to drive even the most demanding speaker systems with ease. Whether you're building a 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 Dolby Atmos setup, this receiver can power it all—no external amplifiers required. And if you ever want to go bigger, it supports full 15.4-channel preamp outputs, offering flexibility for the most ambitious surround systems imaginable.

Sound quality is exceptional—seriously, it’s superb. Thanks to Denon’s meticulous engineering, the A1H delivers a rich, dynamic, and highly immersive soundstage. It supports all major immersive audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro-3D, and IMAX Enhanced, so your movie nights feel like cinematic events. It also includes Audyssey MultEQ XT32 for accurate room correction out of the box, and is Dirac Live–ready (license optional) for users who want professional-grade tuning and advanced bass control across four independent subwoofer outputs.

Connectivity is top-tier. You get 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs and 3 HDMI outputs, all supporting 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM, QFT, and HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+. There are also analog and digital audio inputs, phono input, USB, 11.4 channel pre-outs, and balanced XLR outputs—a rarity on AVRs and a true sign of its high-end aspirations.

In terms of smart features, the A1H is fully loaded. It supports HEOS Built-in, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, and works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri for full voice and multi-room control.

The Denon AVR-A1H is the ultimate AV receiver: incredibly powerful, richly featured, and completely future-ready. It’s built for the enthusiast who wants the absolute best in home cinema, with the flexibility to scale and evolve alongside any system. It will literally knock your socks off if you allow it.

Pros:

• Superb sound quality
• Lots of inputs and outputs
• Room correction included
• Audiophile-grade design

Cons:

• High price point
• Could require professional setup
• Heavy and bulky

Looking for a killer 11-channel AV receiver? We might have the perfect solution for you. The Marantz Cinema 40 is a powerhouse AV receiver designed for enthusiasts who demand premium performance, immersive sound, and future-ready connectivity—all wrapped in a beautifully refined chassis. As one of the few receivers to offer 11 channels of amplification, the Cinema 40 is a true flagship in its class, capable of driving full 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos or DTS:X systems with ease and elegance. These are just a few reasons why this Marantz was crowned with our “Best 11-Channel AV Receiver” title.

The Cinema 40 delivers a robust 125 watts per channel (8 ohms, 2 channels driven), providing clean, dynamic power that can fill large rooms with stunning detail and authority. Whether you're playing a quiet instrumental piece or a high-octane action movie, the amplifier's clarity and control shine through. Marantz’s signature HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Modules) ensure musical warmth, precision imaging, and breathtaking realism in both movies and music.

This receiver is built for the most ambitious home theater setups. With 11.4 channels of processing and four independent subwoofer outputs, the Cinema 40 provides exceptional flexibility in speaker layout and bass management. And if you want to go beyond 11 speakers, it can process up to 13.4 channels when paired with external amplification.

Connectivity is top-tier. The Cinema 40 includes 7 HDMI 2.1 inputs and 3 HDMI outputs, all supporting 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and eARC. You also get a full array of digital and analog inputs, including optical, coaxial, composite, component, and even a phono input for turntables. Its 11.4 channel pre-outs and balanced XLR outputs make it ideal for advanced or external amp configurations.

For room correction, the Cinema 40 includes Audyssey MultEQ XT32 out of the box, and is Dirac Live–ready if you want to upgrade to studio-grade calibration. Music and smart home users will love HEOS Built-in, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, and voice assistant support via Alexa, Google, and Siri.

For those who prefer a more traditional finish, the Cinema 40 is also available in black.

At the end of the day, the Marantz Cinema 40 is the ultimate 11-channel receiver for those who want flagship power, audiophile finesse, and wide system compatibility—all without jumping into the world of separates. It’s a masterclass in what a home theater receiver can be. We believe you’ll agree.

Pros:

• Superb sound quality
• Full HDMI 2.1 support
• Advanced room correction
• HEOS built-in
• Premium build quality

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Large and heavy
• No Auro-3D or DTS: X Pro

The Marantz Cinema 50 is a high-performance 9.4-channel AV receiver that delivers the perfect blend of refined sound, modern processing power, and premium build quality. Whether you're designing a full-fledged Dolby Atmos home theater or looking to elevate music listening to audiophile levels, this receiver is built to impress in both form and function. Please continue reading to see why the Cinema 50 took our “Best 9-Channel AV Receiver” crown!

The Cinema 50 offers 9 channels of amplification, delivering a clean and dynamic 110 watts per channel (8 ohms, 2 channels driven). That gives you the flexibility to run immersive 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 speaker layouts right out of the box—no external amps required. And if you’re planning to grow, it supports processing for up to 11.4 channels, allowing you to expand with additional amplification down the road. Marantz did their very best to future-proof your system—you never know what your next setup might be, but chances are high the Cinema 50 will be at the heart of it.

Marantz is famous for its musical warmth and detail, and the Cinema 50 proudly carries that legacy. Inside, you’ll find HDAM (Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Modules) and high-quality DACs that deliver rich, full-bodied sound across both movies and music. Dialogue is crisp, bass is deep yet controlled, and the surround field feels spacious and lifelike—whether you're watching a blockbuster or spinning a jazz vinyl.

Connectivity is another major strength. The Cinema 50 features 6 HDMI 2.1 inputs and 3 outputs, all supporting 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and more. You also get analog inputs, coaxial and optical digital, a phono input for turntables, dual subwoofer outputs (x2 pairs for 4 total), 11.4 channel pre-outs, and USB for music playback.

Streaming and control are covered with HEOS Built-in, giving you wireless access to services like Spotify, TIDAL, Amazon Music, and internet radio. It’s also compatible with AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri for voice control and whole-home audio.

To top it off, the Cinema 50 supports both Audyssey MultEQ XT32 and optional Dirac Live (license sold separately), giving you professional-grade room correction.

If a brighter finished would better match aesthetics, the Cinema 50 is available in a beautiful silver/gold finish, as well.

Marantz’s Cinema 50 is a fantastic 9-channel receiver that balances power, elegance, and versatility. It’s a future-ready centerpiece for serious home theaters and discerning listeners who want performance without compromise.

Pros:

• Superb sound quality
• Advanced room correction built-in
• Full HDMI 2.1 support
• Lots of inputs and outputs
• HEOS built-in

Cons:

• Heftier price point
• Large, heavy chassis

If you’ve been looking high and low for a killer 7-channel AV receiver to complement your speakers, you gotta check out the Yamaha RX-V6A. It is a smart, sleek, and surprisingly powerful AV receiver that delivers an ideal blend of performance, modern features, and value—making it a top contender for anyone shopping in the 7-channel category. Whether you're a movie lover, casual gamer, or music enthusiast, the RX-V6A is built to give your entertainment setup a major upgrade without breaking the bank. These are just a few reasons why this AV receiver grabbed our “Best 7-Channel AV Receiver” this year.

With 7.2 channels of amplification and up to 100 watts per channel, the RX-V6A has the muscle to drive a full surround sound system with ease. It supports immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, bringing height and dimension to your favorite content. Add in Yamaha’s Cinema DSP 3D processing, and the result is a spacious, cinematic sound field that feels far bigger than the room itself.

One of the biggest reasons the RX-V6A stands out is its future-ready HDMI support. It features 7 HDMI inputs and 1 output, with several upgraded to HDMI 2.1 via firmware—delivering 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz support, along with VRR, ALLM, and QFT for next-gen gaming consoles. It’s an excellent choice for gamers who want smooth, responsive performance paired with immersive audio.

Beyond HDMI, the RX-V6A includes plenty of additional inputs and outputs to cover your gear. You’ll find digital optical and coaxial, analog RCA, a phono input for turntables, and pre-outs for dual subwoofers (let’s knock some pictures off the walls!). Wireless connectivity is equally impressive, with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and MusicCast built in. MusicCast allows for multi-room streaming and integration with other Yamaha wireless speakers, while voice control compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant adds even more convenience.

Room tuning is handled by Yamaha’s YPAO room correction system, which helps tailor the sound to your environment for the best possible performance. Don’t use the out-of-the-box settings—get it tailored for your exact space.

Yamaha’s RX-V6A delivers premium features—like immersive surround sound, HDMI 2.1 support, and extensive connectivity—at a great price point. It’s a perfect choice for users building a modern 7.2 home theater system that can handle movies, music, and gaming with equal flair.

Pros:

• Great sound quality
• Tons of inputs and outputs
• Voice assistant control
• YPAO room correction

Cons:

• HDMI 2.1 not supported on all HDMI inputs
• Room correction is basic

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a powerhouse AV receiver that strikes a rare balance between cutting-edge features, flexible system expansion, and premium audio performance—all at a price that makes it one of the best values in the high-performance category. If you're looking to build a serious home theater system that can evolve over time, this 9.4-channel receiver should be high on your list. It’s no wonder that this receiver was able to snag our “Best AV Receiver Under $2000” this model year—it’s truly a standout!

At the heart of the X3800H is a robust amplifier section delivering 105 watts per channel (8 ohms, 2 channels driven). That’s more than enough to drive dynamic and immersive Dolby Atmos or DTS:X speaker layouts, including 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 right out of the box. And with support for 11.4 channel processing, you can expand even further using external amplification for full 7.1.4 Atmos setups. Pretty neat, huh?

Denon’s signature sound is present and accounted for: clean, detailed, and impactful across the entire frequency range. Whether you're watching an action-packed blockbuster or listening to a high-resolution indie recording, the X3800H delivers precision. Its support for Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, IMAX Enhanced, and Auro-3D adds to its high-end versatility.

Where the AVR-X3800H really excels is connectivity. It features 6 HDMI 2.1 inputs and 3 HDMI outputs, all supporting 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM, QFT, and eARC—ideal for gamers, streamers, and videophiles alike. You'll also find a wide range of analog, digital, and legacy inputs, including 11.4 channel pre-outs for full system customization and 4 subwoofer outputs, each independently adjustable and EQ-capable.

On the room correction side, you get Audyssey MultEQ XT32 included, which provides solid automatic calibration for your space. And if you want to go further, the X3800H is Dirac Live–ready, giving you access to one of the most advanced room tuning systems available (license sold separately). For a truly immersive experience, you must correct for the imperfections that nearly every room will introduce to your theater system.

Smart features? Absolutely. The AVR-X3800H supports HEOS multi-room streaming, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, and works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri for hands-free control.

Denon’s AVR-X3800H is a feature-packed, high-performing AV receiver that gives you elite performance and scalability under $2000—making it a standout option for folks serious about home theater.

Pros:

• Great sound quality
• Advanced room correction
• Full HDMI 2.1 support
• Lots of inputs and outputs
• HEOS built-in

Cons:

• Heftier price tag
• Bulky and heavy

If you have been on the hunt for a great AV receiver that didn’t require you remortgaging the house, the Denon AVR-S970H hits a sweet spot in the world of AV receivers—it’s powerful enough to anchor a thrilling home theater system, packed with next-gen features for gamers and movie buffs, and priced comfortably. If you’re building a modern entertainment setup without diving into flagship territory, this receiver is a true standout. And this standout took World Wide Stereo’s “Best AV Receiver Under $1000” for this model year!

The AVR-S970H offers 7.2 channels of amplification, delivering up to 90 watts per channel (8 ohms, 2 channels driven). That’s plenty of clean power for medium-to-large rooms, whether you’re setting up a full Dolby Atmos 5.1.2 system or a more traditional 7.1 surround layout. Thanks to Denon’s robust internal engineering and high-current amplification, the sound is dynamic and rich—perfect for action-packed movies, live sports, or your favorite music playlists.

Where the S970H really flexes is in its connectivity and format support. It includes six HDMI inputs, all supporting HDMI 2.1 with features like 4K/120Hz, 8K passthrough, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), ALLM, and Quick Frame Transport (QFT). That makes it ideal for gamers who want low-latency, high-frame-rate support from next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Add to that two HDMI outputs, including one with eARC, and you’re fully covered for both current and future display setups.

Beyond HDMI, you’ll find plenty of legacy connections: analog audio, composite video, digital optical and coaxial inputs, and a phono input for turntables. There’s also USB for music playback (you would think more receivers would have this!), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and HEOS Built-in—Denon’s powerful streaming platform for multi-room audio and app-based control.

Room calibration is handled by Audyssey MultEQ, which auto-adjusts speaker levels, distances, and room response to get the best sound out of your space. And with support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG, you’re getting a complete modern feature set.

Denon’s AVR-S970H brings premium features—like HDMI 2.1 gaming, immersive surround sound, and versatile streaming—to an approachable price point. It’s a smart, capable centerpiece for anyone looking to build a future-ready home theater without overspending. What are you waiting for—it’s time for the upgrade!

Pros:

• Superb value
• 7.2 performance
• Great for gamers and movie enthusiasts
• Built-in HEOS
• Lots of inputs and outputs
• Audyssey MultEQ built-in

Cons:

• MultEQ is a tad basic
• No preamp mode

The Sony STR-AZ1000ES is a feature-rich 7.2-channel AV receiver that blends high-performance audio with smart convenience—perfect for home theater enthusiasts who want immersive sound without giving up everyday simplicity. With solid power, cutting-edge HDMI capabilities, and a thoughtfully engineered design, the AZ1000ES is a fantastic choice for both movie lovers and music fans.

One of the standout features is its “Works with Sonos” certification, making it a rare Sony receiver that natively integrates with a Sonos Port. This means your receiver can automatically power on, switch to the correct input, and sync volume with your Sonos system—all directly from the Sonos app. No manual input switching, no extra remotes—just seamless control. It’s a perfect solution for those who love Sonos for music and want that same ease of use in their home theater setup.

Power-wise, the AZ1000ES delivers 100 watts per channel (8 ohms, 2 channels driven), with clean, punchy amplification that brings action scenes to life and adds warmth and clarity to vocals and music. Sony’s proprietary Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX (D.C.A.C. IX) ensures your system sounds great no matter the room, fine-tuning speaker distances, levels, and phase with impressive accuracy.

This receiver is fully outfitted for next-gen home entertainment. It supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and IMAX Enhanced, giving you cinematic 3D audio at home. You’ll find 6 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs, all with HDMI 2.1 support, including 8K passthrough, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and HDR10+/Dolby Vision compatibility. Whether you're watching a blockbuster or gaming on a PlayStation 5, the AZ1000ES delivers smooth, detailed video and dynamic sound.

In addition to HDMI and Sonos, you get flexible connections: optical and coaxial digital audio, analog inputs, dual subwoofer outputs, and Bluetooth, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and AirPlay 2 for easy wireless streaming.

The Sony STR-AZ1000ES is a refined receiver that doesn’t overcomplicate things—it delivers cinematic surround, audiophile-friendly sound, and intuitive operation. And if you're already living the Sonos lifestyle, its built-in Sonos compatibility brings everything together into one easy, great-sounding system.

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality
• Works with Sonos Port
• Full HDMI 2.1 support
• Included room correction

Cons:

• Higher price point
• No WiFi streaming apps built-in
• No DTS:X Pro or Auro-3D support

Sony’s STR-DH590 is a compact and affordable AV receiver that punches well above its price tag, offering solid surround sound performance, user-friendly features, and everything you need to power a great home theater experience on a budget. Whether you're stepping into your first 5.1 system or setting up a secondary room, the DH590 is a smart, reliable choice.

With 5.2 channels of amplification and 145 watts per channel (at 6 ohms, 1kHz, 1ch driven), the DH590 brings movies, music, and games to life with surprising impact. It supports popular surround sound formats like Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, delivering rich, high-resolution audio that makes action scenes feel thrilling and dialogue clear and precise. You’ll get the full cinematic effect with support for front, center, and surround speakers, plus up to two subwoofers for balanced low-end rumble.

The DH590’s 4 HDMI inputs and 1 HDMI output give you plenty of connectivity for your gear. You can easily hook up a Blu-ray player, game console, streaming box, and cable or satellite receiver—all with 4K passthrough support. It’s compatible with HDCP 2.2, HDR10, and Dolby Vision, ensuring you get the best out of your 4K Ultra HD content.

Beyond HDMI, you'll find digital optical, coaxial, and analog RCA inputs, so legacy devices like CD players or older game systems are covered, too. There’s even Bluetooth built-in, allowing you to wirelessly stream music from your smartphone or tablet directly to the receiver. It’s a great way to enjoy playlists, podcasts, or casual listening without switching sources.

Sony includes its Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (DCAC) system to make setup quick and painless. Just connect the included microphone, run the auto calibration, and your speaker levels and distances will be adjusted for the best performance in your room.

The STR-DH590 may not have advanced streaming features or network capabilities, but that’s part of its charm—it focuses on what matters most: clean, powerful audio, dependable video switching, and simplicity. For anyone looking to create a capable and affordable home theater system, the Sony STR-DH590 delivers an excellent foundation without unnecessary complexity or cost. We’re confident that you’ll agree!

Pros:

• Great sound quality
• User-friendly setup
• Affordable price point
• Room correction included

Cons:

• No network or streaming capability
• No Dolby Atmos
• Limited inputs
• No HDMI 2.1 support

Gamers (and home theater enthusiasts), rejoice! Why? Because Sony offers an incredible AV receiver to make your games (and movies) look their very best. The Sony STR-AZ5000ES is a powerhouse AV receiver built for serious next-gen gamers and alike. As part of Sony’s premium ES (Elevated Standard) series, it blends muscular audio performance, cutting-edge video support, and installer-friendly features into a sleek and modern package that’s ready for just about anything you throw at it. Perhaps you can see why it took our “Best AV Receiver for Gaming” title?

Under the hood, the STR-AZ5000ES offers 11.2 channels of amplification, delivering clear, dynamic power to a full surround sound setup—including immersive height channels for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Sony’s proprietary Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX (D.C.A.C. IX—not a set of letters you’d use on Wheel of Fortune, huh?) ensures every speaker is time-aligned and acoustically optimized to your room, creating a rich, 360-degree listening experience that’s great for games, movies, and music.

Where this receiver really shines is in its gaming feature set. With four HDMI 2.1 inputs and two HDMI 2.1 outputs, the AZ5000ES supports 4K/120Hz, 8K passthrough, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), and QFT (Quick Frame Transport)—all must-haves for serious console and PC gamers. The result? Ultra-smooth motion, minimal input lag, and lightning-fast responsiveness during gameplay. Whether you're exploring open worlds on a PS5 or competing in high-stakes online matches, this receiver ensures your visuals and audio stay in perfect sync. Heck, maybe you’ll even see a stat boost in your favorite first person shooter game.

Connectivity is another strong point. The AZ5000ES includes a total of six HDMI inputs (four of them HDMI 2.1) and two outputs, one of which supports eARC, allowing lossless audio from your TV apps to flow back into the system. You'll also find multiple analog audio inputs, coaxial and optical digital audio, a phono input for turntables, USB, and 12V triggers for automation. There are preamp outputs for all 11 channels, making it easy to integrate with external amplifiers for even more power and flexibility.

On top of all this, it includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, and works with Google Assistant and Alexa, making it a modern smart audio hub. Custom integrators will appreciate support for IP control, RS-232, and advanced room tuning via web interface.

Sony’s STR-AZ5000ES is a premium AVR that excels in performance, connectivity, and gaming readiness, ideal for those building a future-proof, high-end home entertainment system.

Pros:

• Excellent gaming support
• Lots of inputs and outputs
• Great streaming connectivity
• Lots of installer features to calibrate the system with

Cons:

• Premium price tag
• No Dirac Live/Audyssey support
• Has a couple fewer HDMI ports than others
• On the heavier side