There are several good quality AV receivers available to buy online, so it might be challenging to find which one is better than the others. Luckily, you don’t have to look further since we came up with a list of the best high-end receivers for home theater this year.
While less expensive receivers are also available, you should consider purchasing one of the best receivers that exist in the market because it will last longer, and you won’t have issues with the quality.
Consider one of the products presented below, which come from different renowned companies in the field. They are by far the best high-end receivers for home theaters this year.
All these receivers come with the latest technology, multiple connectivity options, stylish designs, and much more, which make them some of the best options you will have for your home theater. Let’s check out these excellent devices with lots of features and functionalities.
Best High-End Receivers for Home Theater Reviews
Comparison Chart
Denon AVR-X8500H Flagship Receiver – 8 HDMI In /3 Out, Powerful 13.2 Channel (150 W/Ch) Amplifier | Dolby Surround Sound | Alexa + HEOS Compatibility
YAMAHA RX-A4A AVENTAGE 7.1-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
Yamaha is one of the best producers in the world when it comes to receivers for home theater. The company manufactures and sells receivers that suit every budget, but the Yamaha Aventage RX-A4A is simply the best you’ll get this year.
As it is part of the Aventage series, the RX-A4A model comes with the highest performance and audio quality for its price range. It also boasts a lot of cool features that make it one of the best high-end receivers for home theater.
Review
With 9.2-ch with support for Dolby ATMOS and DTS: X, 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound layouts, and support for 5.2.4 and 7.2.2 layouts, Yamaha Aventage RX-A4A is an excellent choice.
The RX-A4A model also has a lot of power. It sports 150 Watts per channel, and that should be more than enough for every home theater owner out there for the most impressive experience.
With Yamaha’s new surround, AI-powered technology, the Aventage RX-A4A model can optimize the sound delivery in real-time, thanks to 64-bit accurate EQ, 3D, RSC, and angle measurement via ultra-premium YPAO.
As for the connectivity, RX-A4A, one of the best high-end receivers in 2020, comes with support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Alexa, and Google Assistant, among others. It also sports 7 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs.
This device features 384kHz/32-bit DACs for all seven primary channels. It is in the shape of the superior class ESS SABRE PRO Premier DAC™ ES9026PRO. Every part of this receiver is engineered for high-quality audio performance.
If you would like to engage in wireless audio at home, then you are fortunate as well.
Supporting Yamaha’s MusicCast app, the receiver can wirelessly stream music throughout your house. MusicCast speakers can be installed in up to 9 different rooms of your home.
There’s also built-in support for MusicCast Surround. That might just be the right solution for you if you really need wireless surround speakers. Last but not least, the model’s design is neat. It comes with an elegant aluminum plate that covers the jacks, making it look stylish for every taste you might have.
On the other hand, some people might find the unit quite bulky. This means that you need to make sure you have enough space for this product in your living room or designated place before buying it.
PROS
- Yamaha RX-A4A comes with 9.2 channels
- It sports a high-quality audio performance
- The model comes with AI-backed surround technology
- It comes with many connectivity options and support for music apps
- RX-A4A comes with lots of features for its price range
- It has a stylish design
CONS
- RX-A4A is a huge unit, so you might have enough space in your living room for it
Denon AVR-X8500H Flagship Receiver
Denon is another well-known name in the industry, and the company produces one of the best high-end receivers. Denon manufactures products for every pocket, but we will now focus on the best AV receiver from Denon — Denon AVR-X8500H.
The model is quite expensive, but it comes with dozens of features that will enhance your home theater experience, so you will enjoy this product. Also, since the receiver sports many connectivity options and high-end technologies, it comes as no surprise that it cost that much.
Review
The most significant feature of Denon AVR-X8500H is the impressive 13.2 channels. To get the maximum out of the model’s support for Dolby ATMOS and DTS: X, you should consider either 7.2.6 or 9.2.4 speaker layouts. Also, everything is built-in, so you won’t need additional amplification to achieve those layouts.
Even more, Denon AVR-X8500H is among the few models to come with IMAX Enhanced technology that optimizes images for HDR displays, enhances aspect ratio, and customized surround sound. Besides, the receiver boasts 7 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs.
Whether you’re an audio nerd, who enjoys playing with microphones, audio programs, EQ and such, the Audyssey software will do an outstanding job in only 50% of the time and with a lot less hassle.
Virtually all types of networking and wireless connectivity you’d ever require are supported by this device. Regarding connectivity, in short, Denon AVR-X8500H supports Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect, Alexa, and HEOS, among others. The multitude of connectivity options offers versatility, making the AVR-X8500H model one of the best high-end receivers in 2020.
This receiver permits IP control for more sophisticated remote-control features. Moreover, it features an RS-232C serial port for connecting to a variety of other control facilities. This receiver is compliant with all major remote control brands, including Crestron, Savant, and AMX.
The application is known as Denon 2016 AVR Remote also provides full control of Denon equipment via your smartphone and tablet devices. It functions fairly smoothly, but it could be the time for an update with a sleeker user interface.
However, remember that you are going to need quite a bit of room to mount this device. This receiver is 482-mm in depth and weighs more than 50 lbs.
PROS
- The model comes with 13.2 channels
- It supports IMAX Enhanced technology
- AVR-X8500H comes with improved audio and video processing
- The receiver sports multiple connectivity options
CONS
- The Denon AVR-X8500H is quite expensive, so it’s only suitable for those with a large budget
- Bulky unit needs quite some space to be installed
Marantz AV Receiver SR8015
Undoubtedly, Marantz AV Receiver SR8015 is among the best high-end receivers for home theater that you will get for both music and movies. Given that Marantz is a popular manufacturer of HiFi gadgets, you will be happy to acquire an AV receiver from the company.
The SR series from Marantz is the high-end range of receivers. Accordingly, you should expect a higher price in comparison to the company’s products from other series. However, if you want one of the best high-end receivers in 2023, you should buy the Marantz AV Receiver SR8015 model.
Review
Marantz AV Receiver SR8015 comes with 11.2 channels with powerful amplifiers for each channel in part. Accordingly, you can install a 7.2.4 speaker layout without requiring additional amplification systems.
Even more, the model supports Auro-3D, which is something rare for a receiver in SR8015’s price range. That means you can also use this AV receiver for 9.2.2 layouts.
As for the power it has, Marantz AV Receiver SR8015 drives 140 Watts per channel, at 8 Ohm, 20 Hz-20 kHz, 0.08% THD, and 2 channels driven. With such power, you will be able to use some powerful speakers.
As it is one of the best high-end receivers from Marantz, the SR8015 model features the Marantz Hyper-Dynamic Amplifier Modules (HDAM technology), which has been continually upgraded by Marantz over the past years. With such technology, the receiver will work flawlessly for both movies and music.
The SR8015 model comes with 8 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs. As for the other connectivity options, the receiver supports Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Google Assistant, Alexa, Spotify Connect, HEOS, and AirPlay.
The receiver is likewise qualified to playback any IMAX Enhanced media you might have. This guarantees that you can experience the highest quality of video and audio material possible.
The excellent Audyssey MultEQ XT32 system is responsible for automatic room correction. It may be less impressive in terms of sound depth than other units, but it’s a lot more convenient to configure because you don’t have to download and execute any computer software on a notebook.
PROS
- SR8015comes with 11.2 channels
- It sports enough power per channel — 140 Watts
- The model comes with Marantz HDAM
- It comes with voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant
- Multiple connectivity options are also available
CONS
- Some might consider that the sound does not have enough depth
Sony STRZA1100ES 7.2-Channel AV Receiver
Sony is undoubtedly one of the most well-known companies in the world. The Japanese-based company focuses on technology and produces many things, from hardware to software and video games. It’s also involved in the music and movie industries, so there’s no surprise that the Sony STRZA1100ES model is among the best high-end receivers for home theater.
The Sony STRZA1100ES receiver is one of Sony’s best AV receivers, too. It comes with a lot of features and high-quality design, and it’s one of the best ones that you will get at its price range. In short, this receiver from Sony is cutting-edge home theater technology with some advanced functions that will boost your experience to the next level.
Review
Sony STRZA1100ES comes with 7.2 channels, multiple connectivity options, and advanced third-party control systems for fully automated entertainment. You can use the Sony STRZA1100ES receiver with several speaker layouts, including 5.1.2, 5.1.4, 7.1.2, and 7.1.4.
The model supports Dolby ATMOS, DTS: X, and Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (DCAC), which ensure a straightforward and precise speaker configuration. Also, the device upscales SD video to HD and UltraHD resolutions, up to 4K.
Regarding the power, Sony ZA1100ES, one of the best high-end receivers for home theater, outputs 120 Watts per channel. That is enough horse-power to use with some powerful speakers. The Sony ZA1100ES model supports the world’s premium home automation systems such as Crestron, Savant, and Control 4.
As for the connectivity options, the receiver comes with an 8-port Ethernet hub that allows users to move from your router connections to other devices. Additionally, it comes with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, among others. Also, it sports 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs.
With all of the outstanding performance, the Sony STRZA1100ES is exceptionally user-friendly. The easy-to-use on-screen walkthrough provides straightforward navigation through the features and settings of the system.
Personalized presets enable one-button access to audio inputs and adjustments. You can set up a preset for nighttime playbacks, such as starting your Blu-ray player, shifting the receiver to the proper input, and turning the volume down. Alternatively, you can create a preset to view concert videos that have the sound selected as you prefer.
PROS
- Sony ZA1100ES comes with enough power to support powerful speakers
- It sports multiple connectivity options
- It comes with multiple remote control options
- The ZA1100ES model supports the latest technologies to improve users’ experience with both movies and music playback
CONS
- The price for the model is slightly higher for the offered features than expected
Marantz AV8805 AV Receiver
As we’ve already mentioned above, Marantz is a popular manufacturer of HiFi gadgets, so its receivers are among the best high-end receivers for home theater. The AV series is a high-quality, professional series from Marantz. The company has over 60 years of innovating and creating audio systems, and you should expect the best imaginable sound quality from Marantz products.
For the Marantz AV8805, you will pay more than other products presented above, but you will also get more features and higher quality for that money. Also, this could be a one-lifetime investment since Marantz’s products are designed to last for years. Accordingly, with one payment, you will experience tons of fun with the AV8805.
Review
The Marantz AV8805 AV model is engineered for home cinema enthusiasts, and it comes with 13.2 channels. You can opt for 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 for the best experience. The model also supports Auro 3d, DTS: X, DTS virtual (up to 13.1), and Dolby ATMOS (up to 7.1.6 or 9.1.4).
The Marantz AV8805 is futuristic, with the newest HDMI and HDCP 2.2 technologies on all of the eight HDMI inputs. The AV8805 features 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color subsampling, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and 21:9 video, 3D, and BT.2020 pitch on all inputs.
The device, which is one of the best high-end receivers for home theater in 2020, is fully compliant with 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc machines, set-top boxes, and many other 4K Ultra HD devices. Also, Marantz AV8805 comes with support for IMAX Enhanced and Auro-3D.
Enjoy the finest home theater experience, thanks to IMAX Enhanced. That is IMAX’s cutting-edge technology program that establishes a new standard for image quality, sound, scaling, and media content. With IMAX, you will get crystal-clear and vibrant images. You will immerse yourself in heart-rendering sound thanks to DTS. You can also view more pictures on the wider displays and enjoy premium content that’s digitally remastered with IMAX.
Other connectivity options are Marantz AV8805 sports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, and voice control over Alexa, among others. This model, one of the best high-end receivers, offers a lot of features and boasts the newest technologies in the field.
PROS
- This is a powerful device with a lot of functions for home theater enthusiasts
- The model comes with multiple connectivity options to cover anyone’s needs
- AV8805 supports the latest standards in the industry
- It comes with a stylish design
CONS
- The Marantz AV8805 is costly, so it’s not suitable for people on a tight budget
- It is a huge unit, so you need plenty of room to install and integrate it into your living room
FINAL VERDICT
Nowadays, technology evolves surprisingly fast. In the world of home entertainment, home theater gadgets became more and more popular. There are products available for every budget, but if you want the best ones available in the market, you should expect to pay a lot of money.
However, the price to quality ratio of our products is more than expected. Additionally, you should expect these to be a lifetime investment, so higher price tags are surely worth it, both in terms of longevity and quality.
The same goes for the best high-end receivers for home theater this year. As you can see, the before-mentioned AV receivers are quite expensive. However, they are the best models available at the moment, and they are engineered to last for years. Accordingly, your investment could be one in a lifetime, and you will not regret your decision.
We cannot say which one of the aforementioned is the best high-end receivers in 2023 you should choose. That depends on your needs and what you expect from your home theater. However, we can state that all those five products mentioned above are the best you will find at the moment, so they should go straight to your shortlist.