10 Best Av Receiver With Pre Outs 2026 in the United States

The Denon AVR-X6800H is a powerful AV receiver designed for serious home theater enthusiasts who want an immersive sound experience. It features 11.4 channels with 140 watts per channel, which means it can drive a large number of speakers for rich, multi-dimensional audio. This makes it suitable for those looking to build or upgrade a premium surround sound system. It supports a wide range of advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D, along with height virtualization technology to create overhead sound effects even without dedicated height speakers.

On the video side, it handles the latest 8K signals and supports popular formats such as Dolby Vision and HDR10+, so it’s well-prepared for future-proofing your setup with high-quality visuals. Connectivity is strong with 10 HDMI inputs, WiFi, Bluetooth, and built-in HEOS for wireless multi-room audio streaming. Gamers will appreciate features like Variable Refresh Rate and Auto Low Latency Mode that help reduce lag and screen tearing.

Denon includes an easy-to-follow on-screen setup guide and uses Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room calibration to fine-tune sound based on your room’s acoustics, which helps simplify the installation and improve audio performance. The user interface relies on push buttons, which is straightforward but may feel a bit traditional compared to some touchscreen or app-based controls. While weighing over 34 pounds and nearly 15 inches deep, it requires substantial space and careful placement. The 140W per channel is moderate for an 11-channel setup, making it ideal for medium to large rooms but possibly less suited to extremely large spaces without additional amplification. This Denon receiver is a strong choice for anyone wanting advanced surround sound with future-ready video and extensive connectivity, especially if room calibration and multi-channel flexibility are valued. It suits home theater lovers seeking a rich, immersive setup, though it might be a bit bulky and complex for casual users.

The Denon AVR-X3800H is a powerful 9.4-channel AV receiver designed for those seeking a premium home theater experience. With an impressive power output of 105W per channel, it delivers robust sound for both movies and music. One of its standout features is its support for 8K video formats, making it an excellent choice for users with the latest TVs. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X ensures an immersive audio experience, especially beneficial for movie enthusiasts who appreciate surround sound.

Connectivity is another strong point. With 9 HDMI 2.1 ports, it easily accommodates multiple devices, including gaming consoles and Blu-ray players. This model also supports various streaming options, like HEOS for multi-room audio, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, making it versatile for different listening preferences. The Audyssey Room Correction Suite is a great addition, helping to optimize sound based on your room's acoustics, which is ideal for less experienced users who want a hassle-free setup.

The AVR-X3800H excels in many areas, but its size and weight (27.6 pounds) may pose challenges for some users in terms of placement and installation. Additionally, while the user interface is designed to be straightforward, non-tech savvy individuals may still find some features overwhelming. Furthermore, it might be more than what casual listeners need, given its advanced features that require a bit of learning to fully harness.

The Onkyo TX-RZ70 is a powerful AV receiver with 11.2 channels and a robust output of 140 watts per channel, making it an excellent choice for home theater enthusiasts looking for high-performance and flexibility in design. Its advanced features, such as Dirac Live Room Calibration and Dirac Bass Control compatibility, ensure precise audio calibration tailored to your room and speaker setup, enhancing the listening experience significantly.

Additionally, the THX and IMAX Enhanced certifications promise superior audio and visual quality, ideal for creating an immersive cinema-like atmosphere at home. The inclusion of studio-grade processing, ESS Sabre DACs, and eARC functionality further boosts its audio capabilities, catering to audiophiles and casual users alike.

On the connectivity front, the TX-RZ70 offers ample options with HDMI and compatibility with popular smart home assistants like Apple HomeKit. It also supports advanced music streaming services, adding convenience for modern users who enjoy streaming their favorite music directly. However, the receiver's weight (55 pounds) and size (17.13 x 18.88 x 7.94 inches) could be drawbacks for those with limited space or who need a more portable solution. The price point might also be a consideration, given its premium features, which could be overkill for users with simpler needs. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Onkyo TX-RZ70 stands out as a top-tier option for those wanting the ultimate home theater experience with flexibility and high-grade performance.