10 Best AV Receivers 2025 in the United States

The Denon AVR-X4800H is a powerful 9.4-channel AV receiver designed for home theater enthusiasts seeking an immersive audio-visual experience. With a power output of 125 watts per channel, it is well-suited for larger spaces, delivering clear and vibrant sound. The inclusion of advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X Pro enhances the listening experience, making it ideal for those wanting surround sound capabilities. Users can also enjoy high-quality 8K video compatibility, supporting the latest formats such as HDR and Dolby Vision, which is great for modern TVs.

One of the standout features is the extensive connectivity options, with 10 HDMI ports that allow for multiple devices, including gaming consoles and Blu-ray players. The built-in HEOS technology enables streaming across multiple rooms, appealing to users who enjoy listening to music throughout their home.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. Its weight of 34.8 pounds may make installation or placement a bit challenging for some users. Additionally, while it offers comprehensive features, newcomers to AV receivers might find the initial setup process complex, despite the on-screen setup assistant. The price point may also be a drawback for those on a tighter budget, as it sits in the premium range. The Denon AVR-X4800H is an excellent choice for serious home theater setups, particularly for users who prioritize high-quality audio and video performance and have the space and budget to match.

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 Denon AVR-S970H is a solid choice for anyone looking to build or upgrade a home theater system, especially in medium-sized rooms. With 7.2 channels and 90 watts per channel, it delivers clear and immersive surround sound that works well with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats for 3D audio experiences. Its 8K/60Hz video pass-through and support for advanced gaming features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) ensure smooth visuals and reduce lag, making it a good pick for gamers with compatible TVs.

Connectivity is strong, featuring six HDMI inputs (three supporting 8K), USB, analog and digital inputs, plus a dedicated phono input for turntables, so you can connect a wide range of devices. Wireless options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HEOS multi-room streaming, letting you easily play music throughout your home via popular services like Spotify and TIDAL. The included Audyssey Room Correction helps tailor the sound to your specific room setup, simplifying the calibration process.

While 90 watts per channel is enough for most medium rooms, power might feel limited in very large spaces or for users wanting extremely high volume levels. Additionally, the user interface, while clear, might take a bit of time to get used to if you’re new to AV receivers. The Denon AVR-S970H balances modern features, good sound quality, and versatile connectivity in a package suitable for home theater enthusiasts who want both great audio and 8K-ready video support.