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10 Best Am Fm Stereo Receivers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Denon AVR-X1800H 7.2 Channel AV Stereo Receiver - 80W/Channel, Wireless Streaming via Built-in HEOS, WiFi, & Bluetooth, Supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, & Home Automation Systems

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,285
Connectivity Options
Built-in Features
Brand Reputation and Reviews

Most important from
940 reviews

Connectivity Options
Handles PS5 at 4k/120hz without any glitches, proving its capability with modern gaming consoles.
Built-in Features
Easy to set up and use, making it accessible even for those new to AV receivers.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Sound quality is superb, living up to the high expectations set by previous Denon AVRs.

The Denon AVR-X1800H is a robust 7.2 channel AV receiver that shines in delivering high-quality audio and video, making it a great choice for home theater enthusiasts. With 80 watts per channel, it fills small to medium rooms with impressive sound, supporting advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for an immersive experience. Its 8K HDMI capabilities are another standout feature, allowing for seamless connection to modern TVs and gaming consoles, along with impressive upscaling for all inputs.

The built-in HEOS system enables wireless streaming throughout your home, and compatibility with voice control systems like Alexa and Siri adds convenience for tech-savvy users. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The Denon AVR-X1800H might be more complex for those unfamiliar with setting up AV receivers, despite its user-friendly on-screen setup guide.

While it offers great features, some users may find the size (19 pounds and larger dimensions) a bit cumbersome, especially for smaller setups. Additionally, the receiver supports a range of streaming services, but it may require a stable Wi-Fi connection for optimal performance. In conclusion, the Denon AVR-X1800H is an excellent choice for users looking for a powerful and feature-rich receiver, but it may require a bit of patience to fully harness its capabilities.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,285
Connectivity Options
Built-in Features
Brand Reputation and Reviews

Most important from
940 reviews

Connectivity Options
Handles PS5 at 4k/120hz without any glitches, proving its capability with modern gaming consoles.
Built-in Features
Easy to set up and use, making it accessible even for those new to AV receivers.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
Sound quality is superb, living up to the high expectations set by previous Denon AVRs.
#2

Denon AVR-S570BT AV Receiver 5.2 Channel 8K Ultra HD Audio & Video, Stereo Receivers, Denon AVR Wireless Streaming Bluetooth, (4) 8K HDMI Inputs, eARC, HD Setup Assistant

Rating
9.1
Output Power
Connectivity Options
Display and Controls

Most important from
1550 reviews

Output Power
The receiver delivers impressive power and clarity, easily driving a 5.1 surround system with robust sound that fills medium-sized rooms.
Connectivity Options
The inclusion of Bluetooth streaming works seamlessly with smartphones, making wireless music playback effortless.
Display and Controls
Remote control and on-screen menus offer efficient, intuitive management of most functions without overwhelming front panel buttons.
Build Quality
The build quality is solid and compact, fitting neatly into typical home entertainment setups.

The Denon AVR-S570BT is a versatile AV receiver that excels in both audio and video performance, making it a strong choice for users who want a modern stereo receiver with added home theater features. It provides 70 watts of power per channel across five channels, suitable for filling a medium-sized room with clear, robust sound. It supports advanced surround sound formats like DTS HD Master and Dolby TrueHD, which can enhance your music and movie experience beyond basic stereo setups.

Its connectivity is a standout strength: four HDMI 2.1 inputs support 8K video, ideal for future-proofing your system, along with Bluetooth streaming that lets you easily play music wirelessly from phones or streaming apps like Spotify. The inclusion of eARC ensures high-quality sound when paired with compatible TVs. The unit offers convenient control options, including smart TV remote compatibility and a mobile app, making it user-friendly even for those who are not tech-savvy. The setup assistant on-screen helps guide you through connections and sound optimization, a nice touch for beginners.

The receiver is designed more for home theater than pure stereo use, lacking a traditional AM/FM tuner and potentially being more complex than needed if simple stereo listening is your primary goal. While it has preset station support through Bluetooth apps, it does not focus on radio presets. Its solid and compact build fits well into typical home entertainment spaces. This receiver is a great pick if you're looking for a stereo receiver that also handles modern home theater demands, with strong power, excellent connectivity, and helpful setup features. If your primary need is a traditional AM/FM radio experience, this model might not fully meet that requirement.

Rating
9.1
Output Power
Connectivity Options
Display and Controls

Most important from
1550 reviews

Output Power
The receiver delivers impressive power and clarity, easily driving a 5.1 surround system with robust sound that fills medium-sized rooms.
Connectivity Options
The inclusion of Bluetooth streaming works seamlessly with smartphones, making wireless music playback effortless.
Display and Controls
Remote control and on-screen menus offer efficient, intuitive management of most functions without overwhelming front panel buttons.
Build Quality
The build quality is solid and compact, fitting neatly into typical home entertainment setups.
#3

YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver with Bluetooth

Rating
8.5
Connectivity Options
Build Quality

Most important from
3123 reviews

Connectivity Options
New HDMI cables are required to handle the larger bandwidth of 4K video. If your cables are old, upgrading them is necessary.
Build Quality
The replacement of old spring clips with screw and cap posts for rear/side speakers is a welcome improvement.

The YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver is a versatile choice for those seeking robust surround sound and modern connectivity options. With its 5.1-channel surround sound setup, it offers an immersive audio experience, enhanced by support for Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD for high-quality audio output. The inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity adds convenience, enabling wireless streaming from tablets and smartphones. With 4 HDMI ports supporting 4K Ultra HD, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and BT.2020, it caters well to modern high-definition video needs, making it suitable for a home theater setup.

YAMAHA's YPAO auto-calibration technology is a standout feature, which helps in optimizing sound settings based on your room environment, a boon for those who want optimal audio with minimal manual adjustments.

The build quality is sturdy, and the device is reasonably compact and lightweight at 16.3 pounds, making it practical for various living spaces. The control interface, managed through an IR remote, and the display, are user-friendly, though some users might miss having more advanced on-device controls or a more extensive display panel. This receiver ranks highly in audio component receivers, indicating strong customer satisfaction.

Rating
8.5
Connectivity Options
Build Quality

Most important from
3123 reviews

Connectivity Options
New HDMI cables are required to handle the larger bandwidth of 4K video. If your cables are old, upgrading them is necessary.
Build Quality
The replacement of old spring clips with screw and cap posts for rear/side speakers is a welcome improvement.

Buying Guide for the Best Am Fm Stereo Receivers

Choosing the right AM/FM stereo receiver can greatly enhance your audio experience, whether you're listening to music, talk shows, or sports broadcasts. The key is to understand the various specifications and features that can impact performance and usability. By focusing on these aspects, you can find a receiver that best fits your needs and preferences.
Tuner SensitivityTuner sensitivity refers to the receiver's ability to pick up weak radio signals. This is important if you live in an area with poor reception or if you want to listen to distant stations. Sensitivity is usually measured in microvolts (µV). Lower values indicate better sensitivity. If you live in a rural area or have trouble getting clear signals, look for a receiver with high sensitivity (lower µV). In urban areas with strong signals, sensitivity is less critical.
Frequency ResponseFrequency response measures the range of frequencies a receiver can reproduce, typically given in Hertz (Hz). A wider frequency response means the receiver can handle a broader range of sounds, from deep bass to high treble. For most users, a standard range of 20 Hz to 20 kHz is sufficient, as this covers the typical human hearing range. If you're an audiophile or have specific audio preferences, you might look for a receiver with an extended frequency response.
Output PowerOutput power, measured in watts per channel (WPC), indicates how much power the receiver can deliver to your speakers. This affects the volume and clarity of the sound. For small rooms or casual listening, 20-50 WPC is usually adequate. For larger rooms or more immersive experiences, you might want 50-100 WPC or more. Consider your room size and listening habits when choosing the right output power.
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) measures the amount of distortion a receiver adds to the audio signal, expressed as a percentage. Lower THD values mean cleaner, more accurate sound. For most listeners, a THD of 0.1% or lower is ideal. If you're very particular about sound quality, look for receivers with even lower THD values.
Connectivity OptionsConnectivity options determine how you can connect other devices to your receiver. Common options include Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB ports, and auxiliary inputs. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are great for wireless streaming from smartphones or computers. USB ports can be useful for playing music from flash drives. Auxiliary inputs allow you to connect older devices. Consider what devices you plan to use with your receiver and choose one with the appropriate connectivity options.
Preset StationsPreset stations allow you to save your favorite radio stations for quick access. This feature is convenient if you frequently switch between different stations. The number of presets can vary, with some receivers offering 10 and others offering 30 or more. Think about how many stations you regularly listen to and choose a receiver that can accommodate them.
Display and ControlsThe display and controls affect how easy it is to use the receiver. Look for a clear, easy-to-read display and intuitive controls. Some receivers have advanced displays with more information, while others keep it simple. Consider your preference for simplicity versus having more detailed information at a glance.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the materials and construction of the receiver. A well-built receiver will be more durable and may offer better sound quality. Look for receivers with solid construction and high-quality materials. If you plan to use the receiver frequently or in a demanding environment, prioritize build quality to ensure longevity.

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