Why it's best: The VSX-1122-K is an excellent choice due to its combination of outstanding performance, long feature list, connectivity, and overall value for money. Pioneer's top-spec non-Elite receiver offers extras such as Apple AirPlay and built-in video processing, making it more appealing for everyday home entertainment use.
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Why it's a best pick: Onkyo receivers are traditionally feature-heavy, even with more affordable options. The 7.2-channel TX-NR616 boasts network connectivity, Marvell Qdeo 4K upscaling, and even THX certification while maintaining plenty of connectivity options and outstanding performance.
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Why it's a best pick: If you can justify spending extra money for better performance, Denon's midrange AVR-3312CI is an excellent choice for the price. This 7.2-channel receiver puts out up to 125 watts per channel, and comes with extra features such as Apple AirPlay, online content streaming, and video processing.
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Why it's a best pick: The AVR-1912 improves upon some of the shortcomings of the otherwise well-received AVR-1911, adding extra HDMI ports and updating the on-screen interface slightly. Built-in Apple AirPlay is a nice touch, but the AVR-1912 is ultimately outperformed by the Onkyo TX-NR609 for less money.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: While the Pioneer VSX-1021-K comes with a long list of features, there are some inexplicable steps back from its predecessor. This receiver pairs Pioneer's reputation for excellent sound quality with built-in Apple AirPlay, and adds modern features like standby pass-through and support for audio return channel. Wi-Fi is still not standard, and Pioneer's proprietary dongle to add this capability is priced to compete with high-end routers (in other words, unreasonable).... Read Full Review
Amazon.com$429.99
Hi thanks for the detailed reviews I am trying to decide between the Onkyo TX-NR609 Receiver and Denon AVR-1912 Receiver and am wondering 2 things does owning the Apple TV solve the Airplay to Iphone/Ipad problem for the Onkyo model? also I am wondering how recent your review is and if there are updated versions for 2012 for the Denon and Onkyo.
Thanks for your time
Both the Onkyo TX-NR609 and Denon AVR-1912 are excellent AV receivers. The Onkyo features THX certification, and the Denon has built-in AirPlay. If you already have an Apple TV, there's no need to consider an AV receiver for built-in AirPlay. The Apple TV can take care of that function just as well, since it's equipped with its own WiFi connection.
The 2012 models have started hitting the shelves, so the leftover 2011 models are now being sold with heavy discounts. If you want to save yourself some cash, go ahead and pick up either the Onkyo or the Denon. If you're set on buying a 2012 model, stay tuned - we'll have reviews of those up soon.
Our 2002 RCA AV Receiver may have died. or maybe reparable... not audiophiles just need decent sound for our cable tv and dvd player. Worth getting fixed or time to buy a new one?
I'm trying to decide on an AV receiver. I was wondering where you would place the Yamaha RX-A700 in your list of top 5 receivers.
I'm looking for an entry or mid-leverl receiver for home theater and for classical music. What'sd the best choice for a unit that has a phono input?
The simple answer is yes; I've used Onkyo receivers with my high speakers for decades.
I have high end equipment such as B&W 802 speakers, T + A preamp/processor, Oppo blue ray player 83 (soon to purchase Oppo 95), etc. Dealers have always told me to not buy a receiver for my high end stuff. Isn't there an AV receiver (cost does not bother me) that is suitable for my equipment. As a senior, I am getting tired of having so many components and if I can buy a great AV receiver to take their place, I will do so. Thank you.
NAD - T-785 HD - Home Theater Receiver is one Receiver that is sure to do the job. Onkyo TX-NR 5008 is another, Denon AVR 5308 is another....
shall I go on?
do you rate sony recievers like the strdh810
Sony is ok for a small system in my opinion, but there are much better choices out there, depending on what you want to do.
Excuse my simple question but can one use a 5.1 or 7.1 receiver with less than the number of speakers ? (for example, 3 speakers with either system)
Thanx in advance...
You may use as few or many as you want or need to up to 5 speakers + sub on the 5.1 and up to 7 speakers plus sub on 7.1. Alot of people use their AV receiver for listening to stereo music. The beauty of using a surround sound receiver is that you can use a sub too, and you can play around with all of your different sound fields.
Are you aware of continuing issues with Pioneer receivers of not recording stero sound and the remote control periodically not working? I have had two Pioner Receivers including the VSX abd the new SC-25 and both still have these issues. when you contact Pioneer they say they are working on fixes. They have been working on these fixes for over four months and still counting.
Just discovered this website; I will be back. The 9/1/2008 comment missed the point. No reviewers can satisfy everyone. It’s unlikely every receiver, regardless of price has been reviewed in any given year. Some judgment calls have to be made. Receivers span an enormous price range. So “best overall” has to have some criterion. As an audiophile for 25 years with speaker cables that, in today’s prices, likely would cost what the AVR-3808CI list for, my limited knowledge would agree. This is a superb piece of audio equipment. Providing readers with an alternate less expensive product with reasonable sound quality should be appreciated, not denigrated. Not everyone is prepared to spend $1,135to $1,800.
After months of research and going for “hands on” at stores, I’ve purchased a Samsung LN 52a650 HD TV. That’s two out of two “Best of” I agree with. This TV’s video can only be described as “wow”. It’s mentioned here because the point of both high end audio and “high end” video is how well they involve you in the experience of sound (likely music) and sight (likely movies).
Because you are comparing a $1800 Denon to a $800 Onkyo!!! COME ON!!!!!!!!! Lets compare apples to apples. This is the first and only time I will consult your web site. It is bogus! You have lost all credibility with me! Mike
This is why they included this text before ...
Best AV Receiver OverallBy Jeff
Our picks for best AV receiver overall aren't the absolute best money can buy, but these high-end and upper midrange models deliver excellent audio and video quality and cutting-edge features. With multiple HDMI inputs, 1080p upconversion, and support for all the latest HD audio soundtracks including Dolby HD and DTS-HD Master Audio, these 7.1 receivers are ideal for watching Blu-ray movies and other HD material. Here are the best AV receivers overall factoring in performance, features, ease of use, and value.
Thanks for the feedback. The Onkyo 806 is actually very comparable to the Denon in terms of power, features and functionality, even though it does not perform as well overall. However, the Onkyo is more affordable and delivers a lot of bang for the buck. Also, the Denon 3808 is widely available online for under $1200.