While soundbars provide an improvement over built-in TV speakers, a wired and calibrated surround sound system is still the best. If you want cinematic audio, a solid AV receiver is essential.
AV receivers have multiple functions, with the most critical being powering your home theater speakers. In addition, a receiver can be utilized as a connection hub for all your AV components, from streaming devices and Blu-ray players to game consoles, provided they can connect to your TV with an HDMI cable. If you can connect it to your TV, you can connect it to an AV receiver.
Not all receivers are created equal, and some are more suitable for music, while others are better for movies. This is why we have compiled a list of the best AV receivers to help you decide which models best suit your wants and needs.
Marantz SR8015
The best well-rounded AV receiver
Pros
- Excellent features for music as well as movies
- Supports up to 11.2 surround sound
- Support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, HDR, and many other formats
- 8K video support
- 140W per channel
Cons
- May be too much for those looking for something simpler
Marantz ensures an impressive array of AV technologies in the SR8015 to fit any home theater environment. With exceptional audio features encompassing Dolby, DTS:X, DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, Auro 3D, plus the ability to connect a turntable for vinyl playback or stream from Spotify, Tidal, Pandora, and other sources, the receiver stands as a versatile option. It also offers voice command feature compatibility with Alexa,
Google Assistant, and Siri, as well as multiroom setups through HEOS. The receiver is also compatible with hi-res audio files and lossless formats up to 24-bit/192 kHz, with streaming capability from a USB or network storage drive. The 11.2 channel system can operate in 7.2.4 or 9.2.2 configurations. There is 140 watts of output per channel,
and the Audyssey MultEQ XT32 support helps with room-correction technology to compensate for acoustics indoors. On the video front, the SR8015 includes 8K video at 60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDR support, and HDMI-eARC. With several HDMI inputs and outputs, the receiver also includes useful add-ons like Variable Refresh Rate and Auto Low Latency Mode for gamers.
Marantz SR8015
The best well-rounded AV receiver
