While the home cinema concept may not be as trendy as it once was, there is still a strong demand for high-quality home theater systems. At the core of any effective setup is the audio-video receiver, which serves as a comprehensive control hub for sound amplification and surround sound capabilities. How can you achieve optimal spatial audio with Dolby Atmos, ensure accurate transmission of 4K or 8K video through HDMI, and effectively amplify all six, twelve, or even more channels? Our latest expert review of the top AV receivers for autumn 2024 will provide the guidance you need.
7. Pioneer VSX-535
Scheme – 5.2 | Power – 5 x 80 W | Spatial sound – up to Dolby Atmos | Weight – 8.2 kg
- Pros – good spatial picture considering the price category
- Cons – no DTS:X support
- Verdict: A decent basic option
The Pioneer VSX-535 is an affordable AV receiver from a reputable brand. While it is budget-friendly, it does not compromise on features, making it an excellent choice for a complete home theater setup. It offers five amplification channels with support for Dolby Atmos and Dolby Surround decoding, along with 8K/4K Ultra HD video switching and Dolby Vision compatibility. Additionally, it includes Bluetooth audio streaming, a 3.2.2 power-on option, MCACC Multi-Channel Acoustic Calibration for room optimization, and Pioneer’s Advanced Sound Retriever for enhanced audio quality. The sound is slightly bright yet rich, ensuring an enjoyable listening experience.
6. Denon AVC-S670H
Scheme – 5.2 | Power – 5 x 75 W | Surround sound – up to Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD | Weight – 7.8 kg
- Pros – all sorts of video transmission options, high sound detail
- Cons: slightly lighter bass, no support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- Verdict – Denon continues to impress with the capabilities of its receivers
The Denon AVC-S670H receiver proficiently manages video resolutions up to 8K/HDCP 2.4, while also decoding advanced audio formats such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. It features an integrated HEOS module, facilitating seamless operation in multi-room setups. Additionally, gamers will appreciate its support for variable refresh rate (VRR), quick frame transport (QFT), and auto low latency mode (ALLM). The receiver also includes Airplay 2 and compatibility with Apple Siri for voice control. While there may be some reservations regarding the lowest bass performance, the rich detail across the rest of the frequency range compensates for this shortcoming. The Audyssey EQ room correction performs adequately.
5. Emotiva MR-1L
Scheme – 9.2 | Power – 9 x 85 W | Spatial sound – up to Dolby Atmos, DTS:X | Weight – 15 kg
- Pros: Large-scale and dense sound
- Cons – there are some shortcomings in microdynamics
- Verdict: Excellent value for money
The substantial Emotiva MR-1L AV receiver, weighing in at fifteen kilograms, serves as both a 13.2-channel processor and a 9.2-channel receiver, utilizing class AB amplification. With a power output of 85 W per channel, measured under rigorous standards, it excels in acoustic control. The device produces a remarkably expansive and rich sound that is truly captivating. It supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, along with 4K UHD video featuring HDR and Dolby Vision, and includes an advanced sound correction system tailored to the acoustics of the EMO-Q room, leaving little room for criticism.
4. Onkyo TX-RZ70 B M2
Scheme – 11.2 | Power – 11 x 140 W | Spatial sound – up to Dolby Atmos, DTS:X | Weight – 22 kg
- Pros – incredible power, precise localization
- Cons – adjusted for price – nothing significant
- Verdict: A real mastodon
The Onkyo TX-RZ70 B M2 weighs 22 kg and delivers an impressive 11 x 140 W of power. This AV receiver not only provides substantial power but also ensures exceptionally clear sound with remarkable spatial accuracy, making you feel as though you can reach out and grasp the sound images. It supports video resolutions up to 8K with a bandwidth of 40 Gbps (HDMI 2.1), features 32-bit ESS Sabre chips, and boasts Room Ready certification. Additionally, it includes one of the top room correction systems in its class, Dirac Live Room Correction, along with Dirac Live Bass Control, making it a standout choice.
3. Denon AVC-X6800H
Scheme – 11.4 | Power – 11 x 140 W | Spatial sound – up to Dolby Atmos, DTS:X | Weight – 15.6 kg
- Pros – “Swiss knife” for surround sound
- Cons – high price tag
- Verdict: The device is the leader in its price group
The Denon AVC-X6800H receiver features an 11.4-channel configuration, delivering 140 W of amplification per channel. It supports advanced audio formats such as Auro 3D, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X, while also adhering to the IMAX Enhanced standard. This model is capable of streaming 8K Dolby Vision video, along with HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, and Dynamic HDR. Additionally, it includes gaming functionalities like VRR, QFT, and ALLM. The Dirac Live Room Correction ensures exceptional room calibration, making it challenging to find any faults in the sound quality, especially considering its price range.
2. Anthem MRX 1140 8K
Scheme – 11.2 | Power – 11 x 140 W | Spatial sound – up to Dolby Atmos, DTS:X | Weight – 15.2 kg
- Pros – reference control of the speaker system, perfectly verified localization
- Cons – the price corresponds to the High End level
- Verdict – Anthem Lives Up to Its Title
The Anthem MRX 1140 8K stands out as a formidable contender in the realm of next-generation audio-video receivers. This model is compatible with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats, delivering an impressive output of 11 x 140 W. While the previous version featured HDMI 2.0b switching, this iteration has been upgraded to the HDMI 2.1 (8K) standard. The ARC Genesis auto-calibration system operates with remarkable efficiency, and when it comes to sound localization and the ability to replicate the ambiance of a true cinema environment, this device is unmatched across various price ranges.
1. Storm Audio ISR Fusion 20
Scheme – 16.2 | Power – 16 x 150 W | Spatial sound – up to Dolby Atmos, DTS:X | Weight – 17 kg
- Pros – 16 channels, excellent micro and macro dynamics, stunning resolution
- Cons – none if you agree to such a budget
- Verdict – The Final Point in Designing a Reference Home Theater
Introducing the top-tier contender in our rankings, the Storm Audio ISR Fusion 20 receiver, which comes with a hefty price tag. This remarkable device features sixteen amplification channels, each delivering 150 W, which can be boosted to 500 W under less stringent conditions, while its peak power can soar to an impressive 2.5 kW (ICE Power). The proprietary ISP Elite MK3 platform not only excels in speaker management but also creates an unforgettable reference immersion experience. It supports a variety of formats, including Auro-3D, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and IMAX Enhanced, along with the Dirac Live Active Room Treatment correction system.