10 Best AV Receivers 2026 in the United States

The Sony STRAZ7000ES Premium ES 13.2 CH 8K A/V Receiver stands out with its 13.2 channel configuration, offering an impressive power output of 150W per channel, which is ideal for creating a powerful and immersive home theater experience. Its support for 8K and 4K/120 HDMI connectivity with HDMI 2.1 ensures compatibility with modern high-resolution video formats, making it future-proof for upcoming advancements in video technology.

The receiver supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X audio formats, providing a rich, object-based sound decoding that enhances the surround sound experience significantly. Additionally, with Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, it offers advanced room calibration features that tailor audio output to your specific room setup for optimal sound quality. Connectivity options are robust, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and Apple AirPlay, allowing seamless streaming from multiple sources.

Its network and streaming capabilities are further enhanced by integration with Google Assistant and compatibility with SONOS systems. This makes it versatile for both entertainment and smart home integration. However, it is quite hefty at 55.8 pounds and may require a sturdy setup. Also, its complexity might be overwhelming for users who prefer simpler AV receivers. Given the advanced features and high-quality audio-visual processing, it is best suited for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts who seek top-tier performance and flexibility. Customer reviews averaging 4.0 out of 5 stars reflect that it might not be the best choice for casual users looking for a straightforward setup.

The Onkyo TX-RZ70 AV receiver packs a lot of power with its 11.2 channel configuration and 140 watts per channel, making it a top choice for home theater enthusiasts. It supports multiple subwoofers and offers the flexibility to create discrete audio zones in your home, which is great for customizing your entertainment spaces. The inclusion of Dirac Live Room Calibration ensures that your sound is perfectly adapted to your room’s acoustics, and future firmware updates will enhance bass control, adding to the receiver’s versatility.

Its studio-grade processing, featuring ESS Sabre DACs and THX certification, promises high-quality audio performance across various listening modes like cinema, gaming, and music. The IMAX Enhanced Mode improves the visual and audio experience, bringing a more immersive theater-like feel to your home setup. Connectivity is robust with HDMI, and it seamlessly integrates with Klipsch speakers for optimal sound settings.

The TX-RZ70 also supports a range of streaming apps and smart home assistants, making it convenient for modern users. The advanced features might be overwhelming for users who prefer a simpler setup, and the high power output could lead to higher energy consumption. Additionally, while Dirac Live technologies provide excellent room calibration, some might find the need for firmware updates for full functionality slightly inconvenient.

The Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel AV Receiver is a robust option for home theater enthusiasts. With 120 watts per channel and support for up to 11.2 channels of processing, it delivers powerful and immersive audio performance. Its Dirac Live room calibration feature ensures that your speakers are optimally positioned for balanced sound, which is a big plus for users who want to fine-tune their audio setup without hassle. Additionally, the receiver is THX Certified, meaning it meets rigorous standards for audio quality, ensuring nothing is added or taken away from the source material.

Connectivity is a strong point with HDMI 2.1 support, enabling 8K video processing and discrete zone 2 HDMI switching, making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy different content in various rooms. The built-in streaming services and Bluetooth capabilities make it easy to stream audio from various sources. It also works seamlessly with Sonos systems, allowing for integration into existing Sonos setups. The unit's 4K/120Hz support is great for gamers looking for ultra-fast, sharp motion in their games.

However, it's worth noting that the receiver is somewhat heavy at 37.1 pounds, which might be a consideration for those with limited space or those who frequently rearrange their setup. Additionally, while the Klipsch Optimize Mode is convenient, it’s mainly beneficial for those using Klipsch Reference speakers. This AV receiver is well-suited for those seeking a high-quality, versatile home theater setup with advanced features and robust performance.