10 Best Airplay Receivers 2025 in the United States

The Denon AVR-X2800H is a solid choice for anyone looking to build or upgrade a home theater setup with AirPlay and multi-room streaming capabilities. It supports 7.2 channel surround sound with 95 watts per channel, offering clear and immersive audio including advanced 3D sound formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. Its sound quality is impressive, especially with room calibration features that help tailor audio to your space.

In terms of connectivity, it has plenty of HDMI ports (6 inputs, 2 outputs) including three that handle the latest 8K video, making it future-proof for high-resolution TVs and devices. Wireless options are robust, with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HEOS technology for streaming music from popular services and extending sound throughout multiple rooms easily. The setup process is user-friendly thanks to an on-screen guide and automatic speaker calibration, which is great if you want to avoid complex manual adjustments. Compatibility is broad, supporting various video formats and devices, plus Apple HomeKit control adds convenience for iOS users.

On the downside, while the power output is enough for most home environments, it’s not the highest in its class, so extremely large rooms or very demanding speakers might need more powerful gear. The design is practical and well-built but not especially compact or stylish compared to some competitors. If you want a feature-rich, reliable receiver that balances modern streaming and home theater needs without overwhelming complexity, the Denon AVR-X2800H fits well.

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel AV Receiver is a powerful and versatile option for anyone looking to enhance their home audio setup. With 120 watts per channel and THX certification, it promises excellent audio quality, making it ideal for both music lovers and movie enthusiasts. The inclusion of Dirac Live Room Correction technology means that you can fine-tune the sound to fit your room's acoustics perfectly, which is a standout feature for audiophiles. Additionally, the Klipsch Optimize Mode further tailors the audio experience when paired with Klipsch speakers.

For gaming enthusiasts, the receiver offers an ultimate 4K gaming experience, ensuring top-notch audio-visual performance for your games. The receiver supports a robust set of connectivity options including 8 HDMI ports, Bluetooth, and app control, providing flexibility for various devices. Its multi-room capability allows you to enjoy high-quality audio throughout your home, though it might require a bit of setup. Ease of use is bolstered by its compatibility with Sonos, making it easier to integrate into existing smart home systems.

However, the unit is quite hefty at 37.1 pounds and may require a sturdy shelf or cabinet. While it boasts an array of advanced features, its power consumption is relatively high, particularly in operating mode at 850 W. Users who prioritize energy efficiency might find this a drawback. All things considered, the Onkyo TX-RZ50 is a solid choice for those looking for a high-performance, feature-rich AV receiver that excels in audio quality and connectivity, suitable for both entertainment and gaming purposes.

The Marantz Cinema 60 7.2-Ch Receiver stands out as an impressive choice for home theater enthusiasts looking for an airplay receiver that delivers high-quality audio and video. Its audio quality is particularly commendable, supporting both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which create an immersive 3D surround sound experience. Additionally, its 100W power output per channel ensures rich and powerful audio performance, making it suitable for larger rooms and detailed soundscapes.

Connectivity options are a strong point, with a generous eight HDMI ports (including three 8K UHD inputs) that allow seamless integration with various devices like TVs, Blu-ray players, and gaming consoles. The built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and HEOS multi-room capabilities further enhance its versatility, making music streaming easy via platforms like Spotify and Pandora. Setting up the receiver is straightforward, thanks to the Audyssey MultEQ XT32, which simplifies room acoustic correction. The graphical interface is user-friendly, catering to those who may not be tech-savvy.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The receiver is relatively heavy, weighing about 29.8 pounds, which could be a concern during installation. While it supports a wide range of audio formats, the reliance on voice control compatibility may not appeal to everyone, especially if users prefer traditional remote operation. Another potential issue is the price point; while it offers advanced features, budget-conscious buyers may find it on the pricier side compared to simpler models. Additionally, while its performance is top-notch, it might be overkill for casual users who just need basic audio enhancements.

The Marantz Cinema 60 7.2-Ch Receiver is an excellent choice for serious movie and music lovers seeking an airplay receiver with robust features and high audio fidelity. It's best suited for those looking to create a sophisticated home theater setup rather than casual listeners.