Buying Guide for best AV receivers

When it comes to setting up a home theater system, one of the most important components is an audio/visual (AV) receiver. AV receivers provide sound amplification and signal processing for all your connected devices, from TVs and Blu-ray players to streaming boxes like Apple TV or Chromecast. They are also capable of decoding surround sound formats such as Dolby Digital and DTS for immersive cinematic experience in the comfort of your own living room. In this buying guide, we’ll look at some key features to consider when choosing a new AV receiver, as well as providing recommendations for the best models on the market today.

Power Output The power output specification is often used by consumers as an indication of how loud their receiver can get – however this number can be misleading since speakers will require different levels of power depending on their design and sensitivity rating. A more accurate indicator would be to look at ‘total harmonic distortion’ (THD), which tells you what percentage of distortion is added when playing music at maximum volume; generally speaking aim for THD below 1% if possible. Also keep in mind that too much power won’t necessarily make your system louder – instead you should focus on finding a balance between quality components that work together harmoniously rather than simply going with something with lots of wattage but no other features .

Connectivity Options Modern AV receivers come packed with all sorts ports needed to connect various types media sources such as HDMI inputs, optical digital audio connections and even traditional analog inputs if required. Make sure any model you choose has enough available ports so there’s no need for additional adapters or switches down the line; some higher end receivers may include extra features like Ethernet connectivity or Bluetooth support which could come in handy depending on what type setup you’re aiming for . Additionally many modern models allow CEC control over compatible devices via HDMI connections – meaning they only require one remote! Multi-room

Capabilities If you plan on listening multiple rooms simultaneously then it’s worth looking out multi-room playback options offered by certain manufacturers; these allow users stream same audio source throughout house without having invest separate amplifiers each room .

Audio Formats & Decoding Features The ability decode advanced surround sound formats such object based Dolby Atmos , DTS:X etc makes huge difference overall experience compared basic stereo setup; make sure whatever device chosen supports these standards before investing money into expensive speakers expect them perform correctly when hooked up AV receiver . Similarly check supported codecs if intend streaming high resolution files through network connection; FLAC ALAC lossless compression formats become increasingly popular recently due superior fidelity they offer compared standard MP3s AAC files found online services like Spotify Deezer etc .

Price Range & Brand Reputation Finally take into account price range budget before making decision – while top end gear usually delivers impressive performance don’t forget mid-range models represent good value money when compared against entry level alternatives may lack certain features desired use case scenario e g hi res audio compatibility 4K pass through support etc … Regarding brands go reputable manufacturer who specialized making quality equipment years proven track record customers ; companies Denon Yamaha Marantz Onkyo Pioneer typically considered front