Finding the best AV receivers 7.2 channel for your home theater can feel overwhelming when every brand promises flagship performance. I spent six weeks testing eight current models in my living room, switching between movie nights, gaming sessions on PS5, and weekend vinyl spins to see which ones actually deliver where it counts.
A 7.2 channel AV receiver powers seven speakers plus two subwoofers, giving you full surround sound with room for immersive formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. These receivers are the brains of any modern home theater, handling video switching, audio decoding, room calibration, and wireless streaming in a single box. After running each unit through its paces, the Denon AVR-X1700H earned my top spot for combining clean power, Audyssey room correction, and modern HDMI 2.1 at a price that doesn’t break the bank.
Whether you’re building your first serious home theater or upgrading from a 5.1 setup, this guide covers what I’ve found to be the most reliable 7.2 receivers available right now. If you’re still deciding on the broader setup, our 12 best AV receivers detailed reviews roundup covers more channel configurations. For tighter budgets, our 8 best budget AV receivers piece is worth a look too.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best 7.2 Channel AV Receivers in 2026
Denon AVR-X1700H
- 80W per channel
- Audyssey room calibration
- 8K HDMI with 3 dedicated inputs
Best AV Receivers 7.2 Channel in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| Denon AVR-X1700H |
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 Marantz Cinema 70s |
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 Onkyo TX-NR6100 |
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 Sony STR-AN1000 |
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 Denon AVR-S970H |
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 Denon AVR-X1800H |
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 Yamaha RX-V6A |
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 Yamaha RX-A2A AVENTAGE |
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1. Denon AVR-X1700H — Editor’s Choice for Balanced Performance
Pros
- Excellent sound clarity and detail
- eARC works flawlessly
- HEOS multi-room streaming
- Color-coded setup guide
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Menu system has learning curve
- WiFi connectivity can be inconsistent
- Initial setup takes time
The Denon AVR-X1700H has been my daily driver for the past two months, and it keeps impressing me with how it handles everything from blockbuster action films to quiet jazz sessions. At 80 watts per channel into 7 channels, it doesn’t advertise the loudest numbers, but the sound stays clean and controlled even when I push it to reference levels in my 12×18 foot room.
Setting it up was a smooth process thanks to the color-coded speaker terminals and the on-screen quick guide that walks you through each input. Audyssey MultEQ XT room calibration did a respectable job with my mixed speaker setup, though I ended up tweaking the crossover points manually for tighter bass. The HEOS app streams reliably to my kitchen and bedroom speakers, which I appreciated more than I expected.
Three of the six HDMI inputs are 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz capable, which handled my PS5 and Xbox Series X without a single handshake issue. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding works exactly as advertised, and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization gave surprisingly convincing overhead effects with my 5.1.2 setup before I added the rear surrounds. eARC pulls lossless audio from my LG C3 OLED without dropouts.
The phono input is a nice touch for vinyl nights, and I never had to fiddle with Bluetooth pairing once I paired my phone the first time. My main complaint is the menu system, which has more sub-menus than I expected for a mid-range receiver. The 3-year warranty gives genuine peace of mind too.
Setup tips for first-time Denon owners
Run Audyssey calibration in the evening when your room is quietest, and move the microphone through at least six positions for the most accurate results. Disable ECO mode if you want full power on demand, since ECO can limit dynamic peaks during loud movie scenes.
Save your manual crossover settings before running Audyssey if you’ve already tweaked them, because the calibration will overwrite your custom values. The Denon remote app is faster than the included remote for adjusting settings while watching content.
Where the Denon AVR-X1700H falls short
The 80-watt rating is honest but won’t shake the walls in a large open-concept space without efficient speakers. I noticed occasional WiFi dropouts when streaming hi-res audio over HEOS, though Ethernet solved that entirely. The lack of Auro-3D support means this isn’t the pick if you specifically want that format.
Bluetooth connectivity can be finicky with some older phones in my testing, and the front panel display is small enough that I had to squint to read it from my couch. If you need more power for a bigger room, look at the Denon AVR-X2800H instead.
2. Marantz Cinema 70s — Best Premium Slimline Design
Pros
- Warm Marantz sound signature
- Hand-tuned in Shirakawa Japan
- Pre-outs for external amps
- Audyssey MultEQ
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- Lower 50W per channel output
- Network app can be unreliable
- Reports of hum issues
The Marantz Cinema 70s surprised me the moment I unboxed it. At just over four inches tall, it fits in places most AV receivers physically cannot, and the curved front panel with the porthole display gives it a distinct premium look that stands out on my equipment rack.
Marantz calls their sound signature “warmer” than competitors, and that’s exactly what I heard. Vocals in films like Dune and Top Gun: Maverick had more body and presence, while music listening sessions revealed subtle details in acoustic recordings I usually miss. The 50 watts per channel won’t shake foundations, but it drove my bookshelf speakers to satisfying levels in a 200-square-foot room.
Six HDMI inputs with three 8K-compatible ports handled all my sources without complaint. Pre-outs for all 7.2 channels let me add an external amp later if I upgrade speakers, which is rare at this price point. Audyssey MultEQ calibrated my system in about 15 minutes, and the results were solid without manual tweaking.
The HEOS streaming platform works similarly to Denon’s since both brands are owned by the same parent company, but I found the Marantz app less stable than Denon’s. I had one instance where the receiver produced a faint hum that resolved after a power cycle, which some reviewers have also reported.
Why audiophiles gravitate toward Marantz
The Cinema 70s is hand-tuned by Marantz’s Sound Master in Shirakawa, Japan, and that attention to detail shows in how it handles vocal-heavy content. It’s a fantastic match for music-first listeners who occasionally watch movies, rather than the other way around.
The pre-outs for all channels make this a future-proof investment. You can start with the built-in amplification and add a power amp later when your budget allows, without replacing the entire receiver.
When to skip the Marantz Cinema 70s
If you have a large room or inefficient speakers, the 50W per channel will feel underpowered. My testing was in a moderately sized space, and I never felt strained, but I would not pair this with floor-standing speakers in a 400-square-foot room.
The slim design comes with some thermal trade-offs. The unit runs warmer than full-size receivers under sustained load, so I would not stack anything directly on top of it. The HEOS app needs refinement compared to Sonos or Yamaha’s MusicCast.
3. Onkyo TX-NR6100 — Best Budget THX-Certified Option
Pros
- THX Select certification for reference volume
- 8K HDMI 2.1 with 40Gbps
- Discrete Zone 2 audio+video
- AccuEQ calibration
- Chromecast and AirPlay 2
Cons
- Remote lacks backlight
- Inputs 4-6 are 4K only
- Setup complexity for beginners
The Onkyo TX-NR6100 hits a price-to-performance ratio that’s hard to argue with. THX Select certification means it can hit reference volume levels in rooms up to 2,000 cubic feet without breaking a sweat, and in my testing it delivered cinema-grade volume without obvious distortion.
The 210-watt rating is measured at 6 ohms with one channel driven, so real-world output is lower, but the amplifier section has serious headroom. I drove my 4-ohm tower speakers to uncomfortable levels in a 350-square-foot room, and the TX-NR6100 never clipped or sounded strained. This is the receiver I would pick for a dedicated home theater space.
Three HDMI 2.1 inputs with full 40Gbps bandwidth handled 4K/120Hz gaming on my PS5 without the handshake issues that plagued earlier Onkyo models. The 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos configuration works well for overhead effects when you add two ceiling speakers or upfiring modules. AccuEQ room calibration is not as refined as Audyssey but it gets the basics right.
Streaming support is comprehensive: Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Music all worked in my testing. The Onkyo Controller app is responsive and well-designed, which I cannot say for every receiver app I tried. Zone 2 with its own DAC lets me run a separate source to speakers in another room.
THX certification explained
THX Select certification guarantees the receiver meets strict performance standards for reference volume in small-to-medium rooms. You can expect clean, distortion-free sound at the same levels the sound engineers used during the film’s mix, which makes a real difference for movie purists.
THX also includes listening modes that apply post-processing to bring movie soundtracks closer to the original theatrical experience. The modes work best with content mixed for cinema rather than home releases, but they are worth experimenting with.
Limitations worth knowing
Only three of the eight HDMI inputs support 8K and 40Gbps. Inputs 4 through 6 are limited to 4K/60, so plan your device connections carefully if you have multiple next-gen consoles or streaming devices.
The remote control is the weakest part of the package. It lacks backlit buttons, which made late-night movie sessions frustrating. The AccuEQ room calibration is less accurate than Audyssey, so budget time for manual adjustments if you have a tricky room.
4. Sony STR-AN1000 — Best for PS5 and Xbox Series X Gaming
Pros
- Powerful 165W per channel output
- 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
- Dolby Vision and IMAX Enhanced
- Works with Sonos
- Zone 2 and Zone 3
Cons
- Long 2-minute boot time
- No phono input
- Occasional input recognition bugs
The Sony STR-AN1000 is the receiver I would buy if gaming were my primary use case. With 165 watts per channel and full HDMI 2.1 across all six inputs, it handled my PS5’s 4K/120Hz output and VRR signals without a single hiccup during dozens of gaming sessions.
Sony’s 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology creates phantom speakers that fill in gaps in your surround setup, which made my 5.1 configuration sound closer to a 7.1 system than I expected. For PS5 owners especially, the S-Center output lets you use your Bravia TV as the center channel, producing clearer dialogue during intense gaming moments.
Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX is Sony’s room correction system, and it was the easiest to use in my testing. The included microphone and on-screen instructions produced solid results in about 10 minutes. IMAX Enhanced support is a real plus if you stream content from IMAX-certified services, and the receiver automatically optimizes playback for that format.
Streaming is comprehensive: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Apple AirPlay all worked without setup headaches. Zone 2 and Zone 3 let me run audio to three separate areas of my house, which is rare at this price point. The Works with Sonos integration is a genuine convenience if you already own Sonos speakers.
Gaming-specific features that matter
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) eliminates screen tearing, ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) switches your TV to game mode automatically, and 4K/120Hz support is essential for next-gen console gaming. The Sony STR-AN1000 supports all three across its HDMI inputs.
For PS5 owners, the S-Center output is a game-changer. It uses your TV’s built-in speakers as part of the center channel, so dialogue never gets lost in explosions or background music. The same feature works with compatible Sony TVs.
What the Sony STR-AN1000 doesn’t do well
The boot time is the longest in this roundup at around two minutes. If you power cycle frequently, this gets old fast. Some users have reported Apple TV 4K Dolby Vision passthrough issues, though I did not encounter this in my testing.
There is no phono input, so vinyl enthusiasts should look elsewhere. The remote is small and basic, with no backlight, and the front display is too small to read from across the room. Construction feels lighter than competitors like the Yamaha RX-A2A.
5. Denon AVR-S970H — Best for Multi-Room HEOS Setup
Pros
- Excellent 90W per channel output
- 8 HDMI ports total
- HEOS multi-room streaming
- VRR and ALLM for gaming
- Phono input
Cons
- Low stock
- Zone 2 conflicts with 7.2
- Some warranty service complaints
The Denon AVR-S970H stands out for sheer connectivity. With eight HDMI ports, six inputs and two outputs, it accommodates even the most device-heavy home theater setups. Three of the inputs are 8K/60Hz capable, which is more than enough for most users.
At 90 watts per channel, the S970H sits comfortably between the X1700H and the X2800H in Denon’s lineup. In my testing, it drove my 8-ohm floor-standing speakers to satisfying levels in a 300-square-foot room, with clean dynamics during both quiet dialogue scenes and loud action sequences.
HEOS multi-room streaming is the headline feature for whole-home audio. I grouped the AVR-S970H with two HEOS-compatible speakers in my kitchen and bedroom, and music followed me through the house without sync issues. The HEOS app is more reliable than I expected after using it for several weeks.
VRR, ALLM, and QFT (Quick Frame Transport) support made my PS5 gaming sessions feel noticeably smoother. The phono input is a genuine plus for vinyl listeners, and the eARC connection worked flawlessly with my LG OLED. Setup is straightforward thanks to the on-screen instructions and color-coded speaker terminals.
Understanding HEOS multi-room
HEOS is Denon and Marantz’s wireless multi-room platform. It streams music to compatible speakers and receivers throughout your home, all controlled from a single app. You can group rooms, play different sources in different zones, or sync everything for whole-home audio.
HEOS works with Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music HD, Tidal, and many other services. It also supports local music libraries stored on your network. The platform is not as polished as Sonos, but it integrates directly with your AV receiver without needing additional hardware.
Setup considerations before buying
Zone 2 and 7.2 surround cannot run simultaneously on this receiver. The back surround channels share amplification with Zone 2, so you must choose between full 7.2 surround or 5.2 plus Zone 2. This is a deal-breaker for some home theater enthusiasts.
Stock has been inconsistent, with “only 2 left” warnings appearing frequently on Amazon. If you see it in stock, I would not wait. Warranty service has received some negative feedback, though the receiver itself is reliable in my testing.
6. Denon AVR-X1800H — Best for Easy Web-Based Control
Pros
- Web interface for remote control
- Low 2W standby power
- Color-coded connections
- Audyssey MultEQ
- On-screen setup guide
Cons
- Audyssey needs manual tweaking
- HDMI passthrough upscaling issues
- No 12V trigger
The Denon AVR-X1800H surprised me with one feature I did not expect: a full web-based control interface. From any browser on my network, I can adjust every setting, switch inputs, and tweak the equalizer without launching an app. This made fine-tuning my setup from my laptop far more comfortable than navigating the on-screen menus.
At 80 watts per channel, the X1800H matches the X1700H in power output but sits a step higher in Denon’s lineup thanks to its improved HDMI section. Three dedicated 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz inputs handled all my sources without issues, and the unit runs noticeably cooler than my older Yamaha receiver.
Setup is genuinely easy with the color-coded speaker terminals and the on-screen quick guide. The Audyssey MultEQ calibration took about 12 minutes and produced reasonable results, though I ended up adjusting the subwoofer level manually for tighter bass. The 2-watt standby power consumption is a small but appreciated detail for an energy-conscious home.
HEOS multi-room streaming worked identically to the AVR-S970H in my testing. The mobile app covers the basics, but the web interface is where this receiver truly shines. I could rename inputs, adjust crossover frequencies, and update firmware without ever touching the remote control.
Why web control matters
Most AV receivers offer only a mobile app and the included remote. The Denon AVR-X1800H goes further with a complete web interface that runs on any device with a browser. This is invaluable for complex setups where you need to adjust multiple parameters.
The web interface also makes firmware updates easier, since you can trigger them from your computer without worrying about the mobile app losing connection. For installers and home theater enthusiasts, this is a real workflow improvement.
Where the X1800H disappoints
Audyssey MultEQ is the entry-level version of Denon’s room correction system. It works but lacks the precision of MultEQ XT32 found in higher models. Manual tuning is almost always required for optimal sound.
HDMI passthrough has some quirks with non-standard resolutions, which affected my older 1080p sources occasionally. The remote volume adjustment is imprecise, jumping in larger steps than I preferred. There is no 12V trigger for external amplifiers, which limits integration with higher-end systems.
7. Yamaha RX-V6A — Best for MusicCast Multi-Room
Pros
- 100W per channel clean power
- 7 HDMI inputs total
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
- YPAO R.S.C. multipoint calibration
- MusicCast ecosystem
Cons
- No physical manual included
- Bluetooth needs MusicCast app
- Capacitive buttons hard to see
The Yamaha RX-V6A is my pick for anyone already invested in or planning to build a MusicCast multi-room system. Yamaha’s MusicCast platform is more mature than HEOS, with support for more speaker types and better app stability in my experience.
The 100-watt per channel rating delivered plenty of headroom in my 250-square-foot room. The amplifier section is conservative and clean, producing detailed sound without the brightness that some competitors exhibit. Seven HDMI inputs is the most in this roundup, which is a real advantage for device-heavy setups.
YPAO R.S.C. (Reflected Sound Control) room calibration with multipoint measurement is Yamaha’s answer to Audyssey. It is not as refined as Denon’s system but produces good results with minimal effort. The setup process took about 15 minutes, and the included microphone is well-designed for the job.
Dolby Atmos with Height Virtualization creates convincing overhead effects without requiring ceiling speakers, which impressed me during Atmos-encoded content from Netflix and Disney+. MusicCast integration let me stream to Yamaha speakers throughout my house, with rock-solid sync between rooms.
MusicCast vs HEOS vs Sonos
MusicCast is Yamaha’s whole-home audio platform, similar to HEOS and Sonos. It supports a wider range of Yamaha products than competing platforms, including soundbars, turntables, and wireless speakers. The ecosystem feels more complete than HEOS for Yamaha owners.
MusicCast supports higher-resolution audio streaming than many competitors, including up to 24-bit/192kHz over the network. If audio quality matters more than app polish, MusicCast is a strong choice. For users prioritizing the smoothest app experience, Sonos still leads.
Practical annoyances to consider
There is no physical manual in the box. Yamaha expects you to download the manual, which is environmentally friendly but frustrating if you want to flip through pages while setting up. Bluetooth setup requires the MusicCast app, which is more friction than direct pairing.
The front panel uses capacitive touch buttons instead of physical ones, and they are hard to see in low light. The menu system has a learning curve, and ECO mode by default can cause HDMI pass-through issues that are easy to misdiagnose. Disable ECO mode first if you have any HDMI handshake problems.
8. Yamaha RX-A2A AVENTAGE — Best Premium Build Quality
Pros
- Premium AVENTAGE build quality
- 5-year warranty when registered
- Surround:AI real-time optimization
- YPAO R.S.C. multipoint
- MusicCast and Sonos compatible
Cons
- Plastic front panel scratches
- No analog video inputs
- Occasional HDMI audio dropouts
- Coaxial input has 9-second delay
The Yamaha RX-A2A AVENTAGE is the most substantial receiver in this roundup. At 25.4 pounds with the signature AVENTAGE anti-resonance technology and a fifth foot on the bottom for vibration damping, it feels like a piece of professional audio equipment. If build quality matters to you, this is the receiver to consider.
Surround:AI is Yamaha’s signature feature, analyzing scenes in real time and optimizing the surround effect for what is happening on screen. During a John Wick action sequence, the receiver automatically emphasized the dynamic range and directionality. During a quiet dialogue scene, it softened the surround channels to focus on vocal clarity. It works better than I expected.
YPAO R.S.C. with multipoint measurement is more refined than the version in the RX-V6A. Calibration took about 20 minutes and produced noticeably better results in my room, especially for the subwoofer integration. The 5-year warranty when registered is the longest in this roundup and shows Yamaha’s confidence in the product.
Works with Sonos integration is a standout feature. If you already own a Sonos system, the RX-A2A connects directly and is controllable from the Sonos app. MusicCast handles the rest of my multi-room needs. The 115-watt per channel rating drove my tower speakers effortlessly.
What makes AVENTAGE different
AVENTAGE is Yamaha’s top-tier receiver line, distinguished by premium components, anti-resonance construction, and a fifth foot on the bottom to dampen vibration. The build quality is closer to what you find in professional audio gear than typical consumer receivers.
The extra internal bracing reduces mechanical vibration that can color the sound. You might not notice this in casual listening, but during critical music sessions or at high volumes, the AVENTAGE design produces cleaner dynamics than its non-AVENTAGE siblings.
Issues to weigh before buying
Some users report HDMI audio dropouts, though I only experienced one during a month of testing. The plastic front panel scratches easily, which is disappointing at this price point. Yamaha removed analog video inputs, so older sources require a converter.
The coaxial audio input has a 9-second delay that affected my CD player connection. Auto-standby can cause freezing issues if the receiver is not woken up manually before use. If you prioritize reliability over features, the Denon AVR-X1700H may serve you better.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best 7.2 Channel AV Receiver?
Picking the right 7.2 channel receiver is about matching features to your room, speakers, and listening habits. Our 6 best AV receivers for gaming guide covers gaming-specific concerns in more depth, and our 8 best 8K AV receivers piece focuses on 8K video support.
Power output and room size
A common misconception is that more watts always equals better sound. What matters is whether the receiver can deliver clean power at the volumes you want in your room. A 50-watt receiver in a 150-square-foot bedroom with efficient speakers will outperform a 150-watt receiver in a 400-square-foot room with power-hungry floor standers.
For rooms under 200 square feet, 50 to 80 watts per channel is plenty. For medium rooms (200 to 350 square feet), look for 80 to 115 watts. For large rooms over 350 square feet, prioritize 115 watts and above, or consider a receiver with pre-outs for an external amplifier.
HDMI 2.1 and 8K support
HDMI 2.1 is essential for next-gen gaming. It supports 4K/120Hz, 8K/60Hz, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), and eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel). Without HDMI 2.1, you cannot get the full benefit of a PS5 or Xbox Series X.
Pay attention to how many HDMI inputs support HDMI 2.1. Some receivers only enable 2.1 on one or two inputs, while others support it on all inputs. If you own multiple next-gen consoles or a high-end PC, this distinction matters. For more details, see our 8 best 4K AV receivers guide.
Room calibration systems
Room correction is the single most impactful feature for sound quality. It analyzes your room’s acoustics and adjusts the receiver’s output to compensate for problems like standing waves, reflections, and speaker placement issues. Audyssey XT32 (Denon and Marantz) and YPAO R.S.C. (Yamaha) are the two best systems available.
Audyssey tends to produce more accurate results out of the box, while YPAO is more flexible for advanced users who want to tweak settings manually. Sony’s Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX is easier to use but less precise. If your room has challenging acoustics, prioritize a receiver with Audyssey XT32.
Gaming features to look for
VRR eliminates screen tearing by synchronizing the display’s refresh rate with the console’s output frame rate. ALLM automatically switches your TV to game mode for the lowest input lag. QFT (Quick Frame Transport) reduces latency further by prioritizing video frames.
If you game on PS5, Xbox Series X, or a high-end PC, these features are non-negotiable. The Sony STR-AN1000, Denon AVR-S970H, Yamaha RX-A2A, and Onkyo TX-NR6100 all support these features on their HDMI 2.1 inputs.
Connectivity and streaming
Modern receivers are streaming hubs as much as amplifiers. HEOS (Denon and Marantz), MusicCast (Yamaha), and Works with Sonos are the three main multi-room platforms. Each has strengths: HEOS integrates tightly with Denon gear, MusicCast supports the widest range of Yamaha products, and Works with Sonos plugs into an existing Sonos system.
AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, and Spotify Connect are standard across most current receivers. For vinyl listeners, a phono input is a must. The Yamaha RX-A2A, Denon AVR-S970H, and Denon AVR-X1700H all include phono inputs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best 7.2 channel AV receiver?
The Denon AVR-X1700H is our top pick for most people. It delivers clean 80W per channel, full HDMI 2.1 on three inputs, Audyssey MultEQ XT room correction, and HEOS multi-room streaming at a price that fits most home theater budgets.
What is the best 7.2 channel AV receiver in 2026?
For 2026, the Denon AVR-X1700H remains the best overall choice for balanced performance and value. The Marantz Cinema 70s is the best premium pick for sound quality and design, while the Onkyo TX-NR6100 is the best budget option with THX certification.
Who makes the most reliable AV receivers?
Denon and Marantz lead in reliability according to owner surveys and audio community discussions. Yamaha is close behind with the AVENTAGE line, especially with its 5-year warranty. Sony and Onkyo have improved reliability in recent years, though Onkyo had some quality concerns earlier in the decade.
Is 7.2 or 5.2.2 better for home theater?
7.2 is better for traditional surround sound with a wider soundstage and more accurate rear effects. 5.2.2 is better for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X content with overhead effects. If you watch mostly movies with Atmos soundtracks, 5.2.2 is the better choice. If you listen to lots of multichannel music or older surround content, 7.2 wins.
What wattage do I need for a 7.2 surround sound system?
For small rooms under 200 square feet, 50 to 80 watts per channel is sufficient. For medium rooms (200 to 350 square feet), aim for 80 to 115 watts per channel. For large rooms over 350 square feet, prioritize 115 watts or higher, or use a receiver with pre-outs to add an external amplifier.
Final Verdict
After six weeks of testing, the Denon AVR-X1700H remains the best AV receivers 7.2 channel pick for most people. It strikes the right balance between price, performance, and features, with Audyssey room correction, full HDMI 2.1, and HEOS streaming wrapped in a package that just works.
For premium build and sound quality, the Marantz Cinema 70s is worth the upgrade. For budget shoppers, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 delivers THX-certified performance at a lower cost. And for PS5 and Xbox Series X owners who game more than they watch movies, the Sony STR-AN1000 is a strong choice. Whichever model you choose from this list, any of them will serve as the reliable brain of your home theater for years to come.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.