Are you looking for the best AV receiver under $500? Look no further! As a tech enthusiast, I have personally tested and reviewed various AV receivers, and I have compiled a list of the top 15 best AV receivers that you can buy in 2022 without breaking the bank.
What is an AV Receiver?
An AV receiver is a device that acts as the central hub of your home theater system. It receives audio and video signals from different sources, such as your cable box, Blu-ray player, and game console, and then amplifies and processes those signals to deliver high-quality audio and video to your speakers and TV.
Why You Need an AV Receiver?
If you're serious about home theater, an AV receiver is a must-have. It not only simplifies your setup by acting as a central hub for all your devices, but it also enhances the audio and video quality of your system. With an AV receiver, you can enjoy immersive surround sound, 4K Ultra HD video, and a variety of other features that make your home theater experience more enjoyable.
Top 15 Best AV Receivers Under $500
Here are the top 15 best AV receivers under $500 that you can buy in 2022:
- Denon AVR-S540BT
- Sony STR-DH590
- Yamaha RX-V385
- Onkyo TX-SR383
- Pioneer VSX-534
- Sony STR-DH790
- Yamaha RX-V485
- Denon AVR-X1500H
- Onkyo TX-NR696
- Pioneer VSX-LX303
- Yamaha RX-V585
- Denon AVR-S650H
- Onkyo TX-NR595
- Marantz NR1510
- Sony STR-DN1080
Features to Look for in an AV Receiver
When selecting an AV receiver, there are several features you should consider. Here are some of the key features to look for:
1. Number of Channels
The number of channels refers to the number of speakers that the AV receiver can support. Most receivers come with 5.1 or 7.1 channels, but some high-end models can support up to 11.2 channels.
2. Power Output
The power output determines how loud the sound can get. Look for a receiver with at least 100 watts per channel to ensure that you can get loud, clear sound.
3. Connectivity
Make sure the receiver has enough HDMI inputs to accommodate all your devices. Also, look for built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to stream music wirelessly.
4. Video Quality
Ensure that the receiver supports 4K Ultra HD video and HDR (High Dynamic Range) for the best video quality.
5. Audio Formats
Make sure the receiver supports your preferred audio formats, such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D, to ensure that you can enjoy immersive surround sound.
6. Room Correction
Some receivers come with room correction technology, such as Audyssey and YPAO, which can automatically adjust the sound based on your room's acoustics.
7. User Interface
Make sure the receiver's user interface is easy to use and navigate. Some receivers come with mobile apps that allow you to control them from your smartphone or tablet.
My Personal Experience
I have personally used the Yamaha RX-V385 and Denon AVR-X1500H, and I can attest to their excellent sound quality and performance. The Yamaha RX-V385 is a great entry-level receiver that is perfect for small to medium-sized rooms. It has 5.1 channels and supports 4K Ultra HD video and HDR. The sound quality is excellent, and it has enough power to fill a small room with sound.
The Denon AVR-X1500H, on the other hand, is a high-end receiver that supports 7.2 channels and has a power output of 80 watts per channel. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as support for Alexa and Google Assistant. The sound quality is exceptional, and the receiver is very easy to use. The Audyssey room correction technology is a game-changer, as it automatically adjusts the sound based on your room's acoustics.
Other Top Picks
While the receivers on our list are excellent choices, there are a few other receivers that are worth considering:
-
Yamaha RX-V685: This receiver supports 7.2 channels and has a power output of 90 watts per channel. It also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive surround sound.
-
Onkyo TX-NR797: This receiver supports 9.2 channels and has a power output of 100 watts per channel. It also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, as well as IMAX Enhanced for the ultimate home theater experience.
-
Denon AVR-S750H: This receiver supports 7.2 channels and has a power output of 75 watts per channel. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as support for Alexa and Google Assistant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an AV receiver is an essential component of any home theater system. With the top 15 best AV receivers under $500 that I have outlined above, you're sure to find one that suits your needs and budget. Remember to consider the features that matter most to you, such as the number of channels, power output, connectivity, video quality, audio formats, room correction, and user interface. Happy shopping!