10 Best Budget Av Receivers 2026 in the United States

The Denon AVR-X4800H is a robust 9.4-channel home theater receiver that stands out with its 125W per channel power output and extensive connectivity options, making it a suitable choice for those looking to build an immersive home theater experience. It offers impressive 8K video pass-through, supporting advanced formats such as HDR and Dolby Vision, ensuring compatibility with modern TVs and projectors. The audio capabilities are equally impressive, boasting support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and other surround sound technologies to create an enveloping listening experience, especially in larger spaces.

For users who appreciate multi-room setups, the built-in HEOS technology allows for seamless streaming across different rooms using services like Spotify and TIDAL, which is a great plus for audiophiles. Additionally, the easy-to-use on-screen setup assistant simplifies installation, and the Audyssey Room Correction Suite enhances sound quality by tailoring audio output to your room's specific acoustics.

The AVR-X4800H excels in many areas, but it does come with a few drawbacks. Its size and weight (34.8 pounds) may be cumbersome for some users, especially those with limited space. The remote control may not be very intuitive for all users, particularly those who aren’t tech-savvy. Furthermore, while the price point is competitive for its feature set, it may be considered high for budget-conscious consumers.

The Onkyo TX-RZ30 9.2-Channel AV Receiver offers several appealing features for those seeking a budget AV receiver with high-performance capabilities. With 100 Watts per channel, it delivers ample power for a rich and dynamic sound experience. The inclusion of Dirac Live for room calibration ensures that the audio is finely tuned to your specific environment, which is a notable advantage for achieving optimal sound quality.

Additionally, the receiver supports a wide range of audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, which enhances the immersive audio experience by creating a 3D sound environment. Video quality is also a strong point, with IMAX Enhanced and Dolby Vision providing vibrant and lifelike visuals. Connectivity is robust, with eight HDMI ports and built-in Bluetooth, facilitating seamless integration with various devices.

The unit's compatibility with Sonos adds another layer of convenience for users who have or plan to use Sonos speakers. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The Onkyo TX-RZ30 is relatively heavy at 29.1 pounds, which might require a sturdy setup space. While it offers extensive features, its price point might still be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. In summary, the Onkyo TX-RZ30 is a feature-rich AV receiver that provides excellent audio and video performance, making it suitable for home theater enthusiasts looking for a high-quality yet budget-friendly option.

The Denon AVR-X2800H is a solid choice for anyone looking to build a budget-friendly home theater with 7.2 channels and a power output of 95 watts per channel. It supports advanced 3D audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and virtual height effects, enhancing your sound experience even without overhead speakers. It is designed to handle 8K video pass-through and supports the latest HDR formats, making it future-ready for new TVs and streaming devices.

With 8 HDMI ports (including three 8K inputs), plus analog, digital, and phono connections, it can easily connect to multiple devices like Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and turntables. The built-in HEOS streaming and Wi-Fi provide convenient access to popular music services, and Bluetooth enables easy music playback from your phone. Its support for Apple HomeKit adds smart home integration.

The power output is modest, so it is best suited for small to medium-sized rooms rather than large spaces. While it offers room calibration features, it does not have the most advanced automatic setup systems found in higher-end models. Some users might find the interface or setup process a bit complex if they are new to AV receivers. This receiver fits those who want a balance of modern features like 8K support and immersive sound without a high price. It is especially appealing for multi-room audio or wireless streaming around the home and provides strong value with versatile connectivity and sound capabilities.