An AV Receiver is an excellent addition to your television set-up. They make it possible to have surround sound experience and create a home theater system. Furthermore, you may connect several speakers, cd player, game systems, or music settings to a single surround sound systems. Choosing an AV receiver, however, can be difficult with so many different options and functions to consider. A list of the best AV receivers under $500. This should make it easier for you to decide which option is ideal for your present home entertainment setup.
Yamaha RX-V683BL 7.2-Channel MusicCast AV Receiver with Bluetooth
- Works with Alexa for voice control (Alexa device sold separately)
- 7.2 channel surround sound with Dolby Atmos and DTS: X
- Add Audio in up to 9 additional rooms with music cast
The Yamaha RX-V683BL is the best AV receiver under $500 that connects seven speakers and two subwoofers. It comes with its YPAO automatic calibration system. It’s best to choose high-quality home theater components for minor corrections after initial setup. Note that YPAO used to define speakers as “small” or “large”. In the first case, the YPAO calibration is appropriate for each other. In the second, manual settings and adjustments must be used because the user cannot be sure whether a submarine is loading the stockings or not.
Packed with advanced technologies that rivals can only dream of, the Yamaha RX-V683BL AV receiver is way ahead of the leading bunch. You can effortlessly create a great sound environment, whether in a medium or large space. First of all, the unit supports Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, which simplifies system connections and enables you to enjoy network music and audio streaming services and surround speakers using a remote control. In the absence of a network router, there is a special Wi-Fi direct function that allows you to stream music directly from your smartphone via Airplay, the AV controller app, etc.
In addition to offering a wide range of network functions such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, the AV controller app also allows you to control various functions from your tablets, Android phones, iPods, iPads, and iPhones. You only need to download the application from the Google Play Store or the App Store, depending on the type of smartphone you are using. Simply put, this app simplifies operation and makes everything incredibly easy. For voice control, the AV receiver is also compatible with Alexa, which you need to purchase separately.
Additionally, the home cinema system supports Hybrid Log-Gamma and Dolby Vision, providing smooth tonality, incredible contrast, and rich, vibrant colors. The unit also allows you to add up to nine additional MusicCast rooms, which is nothing short of impressive. There is also an eco mode, which reduces power consumption by around 20%. In terms of cons, it only has one, in our opinion. The only small complaint we have is that it comes with a very cheap and short FM antenna, cheap enough to replace, but cheap enough to have included a better / longer one to begin with. This AVR has a clear and well categorized on-screen menu to properly connect DSP modes to input sources. Buttons can also be used for this purpose. The AVR offers multiple modes, including 7-channel surround and stereo decoder to support Neural: X or Neo: 6 Cinema format audio signals at the touch of a button. If raw audio streaming is required, direct mode can be used.
Yamaha RX-V683BL 7.2-Channel MusicCast AV Receiver with Bluetooth is one of the Best AV Receiver under $500
Denon AVR-S750H Receiver 7.2 Channel (165W x 7) – 4K Ultra HD Home Theater
- UNPRECEDENTED REALISM AND NEW FEATURES – eARC and heightened sound effects with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology. Be it the sound of a...
- MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR NEW 4K ULTRA HD TV with this 7.2 Ch stereo receiver. Featuring HLG, HDR10, BT.2020, Wide Color Gamut & 4:4:4 Pure Color...
- EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS. No Command Center or...
If you’re looking for an AV receiver, then a Denon should always be on your “possible” list. Denon has a long history of making quality audio products and their line of AV receivers is no exception. The AVR-750H sits in the middle of the line from the AVR-S receiver. These models are for those on a lower budget, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice useful features. They come with a number of features that any AV receiver should have on the market today.
The Denon AVR-S750H is a 7.2 channel AV receiver that supports the latest Dolby Atmos “3D” audio technology. Dolby Atmos allows the placement of sound effects in different positions around your room. Up and down. Back to front. You will hear a much more immersive sound experience while watching a movie. With this AV receiver, you can install 5.1.2 speaker layout. This means a “traditional” 5.1 surround sound system, with the addition of two ceiling speakers.
The versatility of speaker configurations and the ability to compensate for physical speakers with virtual sound technologies allow this receiver to produce 3D sound in almost any environment. It has Dolby Atmos or DTS: X in 5: 2: 2 mode and provides virtual tone sound in 5.2 and 7.2 modes. You can even create surround sound from two speakers with DTS Virtual: X. With that and the high-bandwidth HDMI network, it could possibly be the best audio receiver under $ 500. Still, the minor shortcomings, like the Lack of a two-amp setup (not too important for home theater) could be a deal breaker for audiophiles.
If you have a 4K TV and want to support 4K content, you will be fine with this device. There is full support for 4K / 60p video and all current HDR standards: HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision. HDCP 2.3 is also present on all ports, which could be helpful in securing your purchase. You can also use this receiver to play stereo sound in another room. Either the same sound is played in the main room or it is different. To connect, you will need to use two of the rear speaker connections.
If you are immersed in the world of voice activated technology, you will be happy to know that you can control this device with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Apple AirPlay 2 is also available for streaming content from your Apple devices, as well as for voice control. This is one of the Best AV Receivers under $500
Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater AV Receiver: 4K HDR, Dolby Atmos & Bluetooth Black
- CINEMATIC SOUND AT HOME: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home
- BREATHTAKING AUDIO: Dolby Atmos and DTS:X deliver multi-dimensional and object-based surround sound
- STUNNING 4K QUALITY: 4K HDR pass through with support for Dolby Vision, HDR10, and Hybrid Log Gamma provides greater and clearer color, contrast, and...
The Sony STR-DH790 supports full 4K video streaming and has all the necessary specifications to play 4K video through your home theater system. If you have an HDR TV, it supports HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision streams. This model powers 7.2 speaker channels and supports DTS: X and Dolby Atmos (5.1.2 speaker arrangement). It comes with the ability to set speaker levels through the digital cinema auto-calibration feature. All you need to do is place the included microphone where your main home theater chair is, and it will calculate the appropriate levels for your room.
The best $500 receiver unit enables HDR streaming for all devices, including game consoles. For this, it is necessary to make the correct configuration on the receiver and use a minimum of HDMI 2.0 cables. However, keep in mind that you cannot connect to the outdated Xbox 360 or Nintendo Wii at all. Connection with a vinyl turntable is also possible, but a phono preamp is required as this receiver does not have it on board. If you are connecting a subwoofer, it is better to choose independent models with level control and frequency range control.
To maintain receiver performance, it is necessary to use speakers with surround sound capabilities of at least 6 ohms. 8 ohm units are also suitable, but the AVR is not compatible with 4 ohms. The AVR comes with four HDMI inputs that are compliant with 4K standards for audio and video signals and a single HDMI output for connecting a single device, be it a TV or a projector. A 6.5mm headphone jack is also located to the front panel’s left. Switching between four HDMI inputs works fine. To run the latest formats, please use the latest 4K HDCP 2.2 HDMI cables. Note that this model does not have banana plug compatible speaker connectors for each speaker connection, only the front speakers. This is one of the Best AV Receivers under $2000
YAMAHA RX-V4A 5.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
- HDMI with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (4 in / 1 out)
- 4K60, 4K120AB and 8K60B HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3 and eARC (4 in/1 out)
- Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz/5 GHz, AirPlay 2, MusicPlay (iOS and Android) and Spotify Connect
This A/V receiver with 5.2 channels and 80 watts per channel will change the way you listening to music and watch. The RX-V4A, which costs less than $500, comes with a slew of features that combine to offer a one-of-a-kind and powerful home theater experience.
The YAMAHA RX-V4A has four on-scene buttons that allow you to program music and FM stations. It also has preset inputs, sound field programs, HDMI output power, music boosters, auto low latency mode and other features. You can assign inputs to specific sources like a USB drive, an internet radio station, or a music on your computer. The Yamaha RX-V4A produces unrivaled sound when used in stereo. Its revolutionary sound generation technology combines sound field data with digital signal processing to recreate performance halls and music clubs in the comfort of your own home.
The best av receiver under 500 has cinema DSP 3D technology for movies, games, and music. HDR (High Dynamic Range) video offers unrivaled contrast, vivid colors, and a rich and smooth tone, providing you a full, high-definition movie and gaming experience with excellent and natural display quality. It uses a single updated cable to provide end-to-end 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz and a high refresh rate for easy HDMI integration. With a 60Hz refresh rate, the 8K gives a super immersive viewing experience with high-speed, smooth, and sharp video viewing at this price point. This is one of the Best AV Receivers under $500 in 2023.
Sony STRDN1080 7.2 Channel Dolby Atmos Wi-Fi Network AV Audio Component Receiver
- CINEMATIC SOUND AT HOME: Enjoy your favorite TV shows & movies, stream your favorite music and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your...
- PHANTOM SURROUND SETTING: Experience 7 channel surround sound with only a 5 channel speaker setup. Chrome cast built in is present
- ADVANCED AUDIO: DTS: X object based surrounds sound adapts to your speaker configuration in real time
What makes the Sony STR-DN1080 one of the most affordable AV receivers on the market? Let’s look at the product’s features, benefits, and specifications to figure out why.
The STR-distinctive DN1080’s design maintains the front panel simple by arranging all buttons in a single line. On the front, there are two large knobs (for inputs and outputs and volume), a mic calibration input, a phone input, a USB input, and a standby button. If you want a receiver that is simple to use and av receiver supports both AirPlay (but not AirPlay 2) and Google Chromecast built-in wireless streaming. It even optimises sound in the room where you set it up using virtual speaker relocation technology for better gaming features.
Sony STR-DN1080 adjusts speaker frequencies flawlessly with a perfect blend of virtual speaker relocation and auto-calibration technology. Without any delays, the most appropriate sound field is given. The 4K quality of this AV receiver is steady. The STR-DN1080 makes your watching experience incredibly immersive and delightful by allowing data to pass through the device without affecting image quality.
This home theater amplifier also includes a 165-watt power output, seven channels, HDR support, six HDMI inputs, two HDMI outputs, easy Bluetooth connectivity, HDCP 2.2 compatibility, support for high-resolution audio formats from music streaming services, and more. This device’s powerful sound output deserves special praise. Sony STR-DN1080 provides genuine, detailed sound effects with admirable energy and authority. There’s also a lot of low-end depth and texture to be found in this home theater sound. This AV receiver enables HDR signal pass-through, which dramatically improves image contrast and brightness. It greatly increases the picture detail by adding exceptional shadow and highlight detail, bringing colours to life at this price points. This is the best av receiver under $1000.
Onkyo TX-NR595 Smart AV Receiver Works with Sonos
- SONOS COMPATIBLE. This Onkyo receiver can join your existing Sonos Home Sound System, or start a new one, by pairing with a Sonos Connect. The AVR...
- SMART AVR. This is the heart of your home entertainment system. Access streaming content from Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer and TuneIn...
- DTS PLAYBACK. Dolby Atmos and DTS formats provide advanced sound mapping so effects move from speaker to speaker around the room, wrapping in the...
The Onkyo TX-NR595 7.2 channel AV receiver meets all of the current 4K/60p video requirements. HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG, BT.2020, and HDCP 2.2 are all available, so viewing the latest 4K material on your TV should be no problem. This receiver includes 6 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs for connecting your gadgets. This is more than the majority of people in this price range, so it could be a significant factor for you.
DTS:X and Dolby Atmos object-enabled audio soundtracks are also supported by the TX-NR595. This model’s built-in amplification allows you to set up an immersive surround sound setup up to 5.2.2. This is achieved by the use of two height or elevation speakers. You can also use the two primary upmixing formats – Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X – if you have height speakers. Standard 5.1 and 7.1 mixes will be expanded in these settings, allowing you to hear audio formatsfrom your additional elevation speakers.
DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization are also new features for this surround sound receiver. This is for folks who don’t have access to height speakers. These sound modes are designed to give the impression of hearing sound from above, even if you only have a typical 5.1/7.1 speaker setup.
There are numerous network connectivity choices available. Onkyo is known for cramming a lot of features into their receivers. Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity are all available. These provide you access to Spotify®, Amazon Music, TIDAL, DEEZER, and Pandora®, among other services. The Onkyo controller app is in charge of everything. If you already own these technologies, you can use them with AirPlay 2 and Sonos Connect. This receiver features DTS Play-Fi and FlareConnect technology for multi-room wireless audio.
To assist you achieve the finest sound in your room, Onkyo offers the AccuEQ and AccuReflex technologies. AccuEQ will determine the appropriate volumes, distance, and crossover frequencies for all of the speaker size in your space. You may then leave it to set the EQ for the speakers or do it yourself. AccuReflex is designed for Dolby Atmos users who have upfiring height speakers. The phase of these speakers will be aligned with the front speakers. This should help to ensure that your room has a clear sound. This is the best theater receiver under $500.
Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver
- Cinematic Sound at Home: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home.NOTE: Scroll down the...
- Virtual Front Surround: S Force PRO delivers virtual surround sound with only a 2 speaker setup
- Smart Connectivity: Stream music and use Bluetooth Standby turn on the receiver from your phone
If sound quality is important to you, the Sony STR-DH590 is an excellent choice. In terms of sound quality, the STR-DH590 is a great amplifier; nine entry-level A/V receivers sound this well.
T includes inbuilt DSD decoding, Dolby TrueHD, ARC, Bluetooth audio streaming, DTH-SD Master Audio decoding, 3D over HDMI, HDMI 2.0b, and HDCP 2.2, as well as 3D over HDMI, HDMI 2.0b, and HDCP 2.2. It has a power rating of up to 145 watts per channel at 6 ohms. One optical digital audio input, one digital coaxial input, two subwoofer pre-outs, four stereo audio ins, and an FM antenna input are all included on the back panel.
S-Force PRO Front Surround technology is supported by the DH590, allowing virtual surround sound to be produced with only two real speakers. A glass-epoxy circuit board is integrated within the power amplifier to help reduce vibration and distortion, resulting in perceived premier power from each amplifier. You can not only use Bluetooth to connect to the receiver and play music, but you can also turn it on directly from your associated device.
The STR-DH590 supports HDR10, 3D Dolby Vision, and HLG and can pass over a whole 4K/60p 4:4:4 signal. The DH590 can pass through 4K/24p HDR with the HDMI input set to normal mode when extreme signals are displayed from the Sony playing device.
Pioneer Elite VSX-LX104 7.2-ch Network AV Receiver
- Dolby Atmos/Dolby Surround Upmixing: The VSX-LX104 is compatible with 5.2.2ch configuration of the latest theater sound platform, Dolby Atmos.
- DTS:X/DTS Neural:X Upmixing: DTS:X is the next-generation audio codec from DTS that leverages object-based audio to enable new immersive and...
- Next Generation Video Standard Ready: The VSX-LX104 supports pass-through for HDR10, HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma), and Dolby Vision signals.
The Pioneer Elite VSX-LX104 7.2-Ch AV receiver comes with most of the capabilities you’d expect from a modern receiver. This receiver has ample power for most home theatre speakers, with 7 channels at 80 watts per channel (8 Ohms, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.08 percent THD, 2 Channels Driven FTC).
You might want to look a little higher up the ladder if you know your speakers need a little more oomph. You can connect a 5.1.2 system to a Dolby Atmos speaker arrangement if you choose to do so. Two height or elevation speakers are included. You can choose between Dolby Surround and DTS Neural:X upmixing modes if you add two height speakers. These will give a conventional stereo or 5.1 surround sound mix a fake Dolby Atmos effect.
If you don’t have any height speakers, what should you do? DTS Virtual:X or the newer Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology sound options are still available. These will attempt to replicate the experience of height speakers, but in a regular 5.1 or 7.1 configuration. Plus, there’s a stereo mix!
Of course, if you utilise Sonos Connect, Apple AirPlay 2, or DTS Play-Fi, you can have multi-room audio. Full pass-through compatibility for 4K UHD (60p/4:4:4/24-bit), Wide Color Gamut (BT.2020), and HDCP 2.2 is included, as one would expect from a modern AV receiver.
HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG are all supported, so you shouldn’t have any problems using your existing HDR hardware. On the back, there are 6 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs. This is a little more than others in this price category, so it may be enough to convince you to purchase this model.
Onkyo TX-SR494 AV Receiver with 4K Ultra HD
- 160 watts per channel
- Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, BT.2020)
- 5.2.2-ch Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback
For a terrific listening experience, the Onkyo TX-SR494 is an excellent pick. From the simple Bluetooth wireless streaming to the astounding pleasures of the DTS: X and Dolby ATMOS soundtracks, the Onkyo TX-SR494 A/V receiver delivers great sound for a cheap receiver.
For maximum surround sound, it employs Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. It’s a 4K receiver with Bluetooth, so it’s fairly comparable to the prior option. The only significant difference is that it’s a 5.2 channel, which limits the number of speakers you can connect. This one is also a lot quicker to set up, and it has AccuEQ Room Calibration for the microphone, which works brilliantly. The Onkyo brand is known for its excellence, and this receiver is no exception. The sound quality is comparable to receivers costing twice as much.
The receiver is compatible with TVs and Ultra HD sources thanks to HDCP 2.2 technology. When employing consistent HDR-encoded video or 4K TVs, HDR compatibility allows for increased visual contrast and brightness. It supports 4k/60p and 3D video pass-through for videos. The HDMI standby pass-through feature allows you to access all HDMI-connected devices without turning on the receiver. This is the best budget av receiver in 2023.
Pyle PT694BT 5.2-Channel Hi-Fi Bluetooth Stereo Amplifier
- 5.2 Channel: The Pyle 5.2 Channel hi fi Home theater receiver is Perfect for Your Home Entertainment system; Gives you 1000 watts peak Power to be...
- Bluetooth compatible: The Professional Integrated high Powered stereo receiver is equipped with Bluetooth wireless music streaming; Works with...
- 4K UHD TV Support: The AV digital amp box is equipped with 4K Ultra HD TV, 3D and Blu ray video pass through support with dedicated RCA subwoofer...
The Pyle 5.2 Channel hi-fi Home theater receiver provides 1000 watts of peak power for 4-16 ohms impedance speakers and subwoofers, allowing you to enjoy high-quality amplified audio with your home entertainment system. For hassle-free wireless streaming, the finest AV receiver under $500 is Bluetooth compatible, working with today’s latest devices such as Smartphones, iPhones, iPads, and laptops. It also has 4K UHD TV capability, as well as 3D and Blu-ray video.
Pyle’s 5.2 channel hi-fi home theater receiver is ideal for your home theater setup. It provides 1000 watts of peak power for 4-16 ohm impedance speakers and subwoofers, allowing you to enjoy high-quality amplified audio. With a 4K Ultra HD TV, 3D, and Blu-ray video, the AV digital amp box is the ideal choice for all of your home entertainment demands. This Hi-Fi Bluetooth stereo amplifier with 5.2 channels is ideal for bringing your home theater to life! It produces crystal clear sound and a dramatic bass response with 1000 watts of power, making it the ideal way to enjoy all of your favorite movies and TV shows.
Furthermore, modern digital DSP sound processing technology assures the highest possible audio quality, while the LCD display and AM/FM radio make it simple to keep track of all your listening options. This amplifier is designed to ensure long-term durability with a front panel control center and inbuilt over-current, short-circuit, and over-voltage protection.
Best AV Receiver Under $500 Buying Guide
Channels
The majority of people are curious in how many channels a specific AV receiver offers. Despite the fact that a lot of people misinterpret statistics and believe that a higher value always equates to something being better. Let’s now go into the specifics.
Remember that every AV receiver offers a standard set of 5.1 surround speakers with six active channels in light of this. A subwoofer, two surround speakers on the left and right, two in the front, two in the middle, and two are placed there altogether. It is the most popular configuration and a good one, so it might meet most of the needs of the typical user.
Moreover, a 7.1-channel AV receiver may reproduce sound through the rear speaker, creating the impression that the entire room is being engulfed in sound. A 7.1-channel soundtrack function is another thing to keep in mind with streaming services. Hence, a 7.1-channel system will assist you in producing an increased sound that is high quality and more expansive.
Power
Power is one of the main acoustic characteristics of the AV receiver. While assessing this parameter, you should take into account the size of the room that the device will be used in and, consequently, the speaker system’s power. It’s crucial with such systems to have a power reserve, or to increase the receiver’s power over that of the speakers.
First off, you can avoid using volume limitations and reduce distortion. Second, the reserve will be adequate for a bigger place if you need to buy speakers with more power. The system’s overall volume (i.e., the intensity of the sound pressure produced) will depend on the speakers’ sensitivity as well as the strength of the amplifier and speakers. As a result, the same receiver may sound different when played through several speakers at the same volume.
An amplification power of roughly 50 W for a room measuring 30 square meters (respectively, average power per 1 sq.m. should be about 1.5 W). You may determine the rough amount of power you require by knowing the size of your room. As a result, avoid looking for a receiver that must be more potent than other versions. Based on the size of your space, your spending limit, and your acoustics, make your choice.
Inputs and Outputs
The receiver is used in very different ways by each individual. Subwoofers, speakers, projectors, and other devices can all be connected to it in order to experiment. Let’s take a look at receivers since they always have a large number of inputs and outputs, which makes them highly practical to utilize.
I want to talk to you about HDMI, which is the most important and popular connector in the world. It will assist you in connecting Blu-ray and Extended Ultra HD Blu-ray players, PlayStation and Xbox, media streamers, and many other items. Receivers typically have at least one output and four or five HDMI inputs. Yet this already hinges on the particular model.
On many devices, having USB is always a significant benefit. Because it enables you to play any music from a flash drive or other devices that are USB compatible, it is therefore only welcomed in AV receivers. Moreover, 99% of all receivers allow users to connect to the Internet using an Ethernet cable connected to the receiver’s built-in port. Coaxial and optical connection types are obviously worth mentioning. Connect audio from DVD players, Blu-ray players, and 4K Ultra HD TVs with their assistance.
Extra Features
Extra features have always been a huge benefit, particularly for receivers. You can substantially simplify usage and avoid wasting extra time on particular tasks because of the additional features offered by the manufacturer. For instance, it’s great if the receiver can be connected to Bluetooth because it allows for the wireless connection of many other devices, which is highly practical.
A Wi-Fi connection is a definite bonus because it gives you access to music from well-known services like Apple Music, SoundCloud, Spotify, and others right away. As a result, having the option to listen online substantially streamlines your work and saves you time. Of course, you can also “liven up” your house with music or podcasts using a single remote control or mobile app if you use wireless multi-room music. Users really enjoy this function because it prevents unnecessary hassle and saves time and effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of AV receiver is most reliable?
It is challenging to provide a clear response to this query without upsetting any of the manufacturers. Currently, a number of businesses (Denon, Marantz, Yamaha, Sony, etc.) offer trustworthy and high-quality products. But it all depends on the particular model.
Do more expensive receivers sound better?
No, not always. The receiver model determines this. There are high-end gadgets with plenty of intriguing capabilities, but they fall short when compared to a standard mid-range receiver. As a result, even a pricey purchase cannot ensure that the receiver will sound better than other others (and even less expensive ones).
