High end AV receivers offer the latest audio and video processing technology to provide superior performance. They're also packed with the most features such as PC networking, multi-room capability, HD Radio, and multiple HDMI inputs/outputs with 1080p upconversion. If you're an audiophile seeking the ultimate audio receiver for your home theater, here are five of the best ranging from $1500 - $5500.
The Denon AVR-5308CI is a surprisingly good value, nearly matching the company’s top-of-the-line AVP-A1HDCI in terms of features and performance but at a much lower price. This THX Ultra 2 certified receiver is an audio and video powerhouse, featuring seven power amplifiers for incredible audio performance and a built-in Silicon Optix HQV Realta processor for superb video processing. This receiver is feature-packed with decoding for Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio, built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet for streaming music, and an HD Radio tuner. 6 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs are included, and all analog sources are upconverted to 1080p. If you’re seeking the ultimate AV receiver for your home theater, the Denon AVR-5308CI is hard to beat.
Yamaha’s flagship RX-Z11 delivers benchmark performance all around. The receiver is extremely versatile and customizable; multichannel performance is unsurpassed, and the audio (11.2 channels) and video can be distributed to multiple rooms. Additionally, the receiver is THX Ultra2 Plus certified and features THX volume control technology that automatically adjusts front-to-back speaker level relationship as you turn the volume level down. The RX-Z11 is packed with 5 HDMI inputs and 2 HDMI outputs, upconverting all sources to 1080p. While it can’t quite match the Denon 5308CI when it comes to features, the Yamaha’s feature set still impresses with an Ethernet port for PC networking, front and rear USB ports, and a built-in HD Radio tuner. It also decodes the latest HD audio soundtracks including Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio. We should mention that if you’re looking to save some money and don’t need 11.2 channels or THX Ultra 2 certification, the Yamaha RX-Z7 also offers terrific performance for a lot less money.
One of the best values in high-end receivers, the Onkyo TX-SR906 packs the performance and features found on much more expensive receivers. This THX Ultra 2 Certified receiver delivers an impressive 145 WPC and includes the Silicon Optix Reon-VX HQV video processor for upconverting analog sources to 1080p. The Onkyo is absolutely feature packed with 4 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, a built-in HD Radio tuner, an Ethernet port for streaming music from your PC and a front-panel USB port. It also supports decoding for the newer high-resolution soundtracks including Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio and features the THX volume control technology found on the more expensive RX-Z11. While the TX-SR906 can’t quite match the audio or video performance of the Denon AVR-5308CI or Yamaha RX-Z11, it comes fairly close and sells for thousands less. It’s also easier to setup and calibrate because of the Audyssey Laboratories' MultEQ technology. If you’re looking to save even more money, the Onkyo TX-SR876 offers similar performance but is slightly less powerful (140 watts per channel) and lacks networking features.
The Yamaha RX-V3900 is another high-end receiver that packs a ton of value and features for the money. While this receiver can’t match the raw power of the Onkyo TX-SR906, it delivers superb richness, clarity, and detail. When it comes to features, this receiver truly stands out. It includes 4 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs with 1080p upconversion, built-in HD Radio with iTunes tagging, Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding, and multi-room capability. Networking features are some of the best we’ve seen – there are Ethernet and USB ports for streaming from a PC, Internet Radio, and the Rhapsody subscription service. The Yamaha YPAO system provides easy setup and calibration. If you’re looking for a high-end AV receiver in this price range, the Yamaha RX-V3900 should be at the top of your list.
The AVR-4308CI delivers a powerful, pristine, and totally engaging home theater experience. But that's just the beginning of what this remarkable receiver can do. Its cutting-edge features let you enjoy high-end Denon audio/video performance with the latest digital entertainment sources. You get versatile HDMI switching, wireless PC networking, a built-in HD Radio tuner, and flexible multi-room A/V options. This home entertainment powerhouse even includes Dolby True HD and DTS-HD Master Audio decoding to provide superior surround sound performance with upcoming high-def disc players and discs.