10 Best AV Receivers 2026 in the United States

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.

The YAMAHA RX-A6A AVENTAGE 9.2-Channel AV Receiver is a feature-packed choice for home theater enthusiasts. It offers an impressive 9.2-channel setup, which provides powerful and immersive sound, ideal for those who want cinematic audio in their living room. With a power output that handles demanding audio setups efficiently, this receiver ensures a high-quality listening experience.

Connectivity is robust, featuring multiple HDMI inputs and outputs that support the latest video formats, including 4K, 8K, and HDR10+. This makes it future-proof for new technologies and perfect for high-definition media consumption. Network features like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect add versatility, allowing you to stream music from various sources seamlessly. It also supports voice control through Amazon Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant, making it easier to integrate into a smart home setup.

Advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, along with Yamaha's Surround:AI and CINEMA DSP HD3, provide rich and dynamic soundscapes. The receiver also includes Room Calibration, which fine-tunes the audio to match the acoustics of your room perfectly. However, the device is relatively bulky and heavy, which might be a consideration for those with limited space. Additionally, while it offers a multitude of features, it comes at a premium price point, which may not suit all budgets. But for users seeking a comprehensive and advanced AV receiver, the YAMAHA RX-A6A AVENTAGE stands out as a top contender.