Best AV receivers under $1000

The foundation of any home media system is the receiver. And offers on the market are more than preferable, so that the user wonders which of the receivers is the best av receiver under 1000.

These are high-tech and sophisticated devices. They are equipped with a preamplifier and amplifier for processing audio signals and various analog and digital connections for connecting any audio or video source.

The features and performance levels are impeccably high in this price range. From Dolby Atmos to Wi-Fi streaming music to voice-activated, these models have everything a home theater enthusiast will need and appreciate.

The receiver also processes, equalizes, amplifies signals, and also divides the sound into different channels, so that each sound is reproduced from the correct speaker. Also, a mandatory function for each device in this price category is video playback in 4K resolution, as well as scaling low resolution. And all this with HDR support and HDCP 2.2 encoding for compatibility with modern Blue Ray players.

We have prepared a list of the best AV receivers on the market, suitable for any user. However, we present a guide with some basic tips so you can choose the best receiver under 1000 for you.

Speaking of the building of this rating, we decided to ease you the task of choosing the best av receiver under 1000. How did we do that? Quite simply. We grouped the list in accordance with presented brands and picked the best ones in each section.

In addition, it has to be noted that the preference was given to new models, but if the older one is still relevant and deserves attention, then it is presented likewise.

Denon

Denon AVR-X2600H

The unit has an identical chassis design and power supply as its predecessor, made on a rather large W-shaped transformer, in the buffer, there are the same capacities (Nichicon 12000uF / 71V), the proven 32-bit quad-core DSP Cirrus Logic is used as the “brain”, and the amplifiers output sections have the same vertical layout and are made on the same transistors as in Denon models of a higher class. Of course, the 2600th inherited 3D decoders Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, a phono stage for vinyl, all network and multi-room HEOS chips, support for the new Apple AirPlay 2 wireless protocol, improved eco-mode (reduces power consumption during downtime), convenient graphic a step-by-step interface and a bunch of new features for remote monitoring and diagnostics.

What has been added? Of fundamental importance, this is a new board for HDMI switching and video processing. It meets the most modern standards, including HDR / HLG / Dolby Vision, is compatible with a 4K / 60 Hz signal with minimum delays (which is relevant for advanced game consoles) and supports HDCP 2.3 protection, which is likely to be widely used by legal online movie theaters for distribution of films and other video content on premium subscriptions in the highest quality. With the new HDMI-board, the AVR-X2600H also received an “extended” version of the Audio Return Channel (eARC) for object sound formats. Let me remind you that all Denon receivers of the new S series received an HDMI section with similar updates. It produces 105 W/channel.

In the model that pretends to be the best receiver under 1000, you can already use the services of Google Assist and Apple Siri. And with the software update, which will be released later, another feature will become available, for which music lovers using wireless headphones will probably thank. For the first time, the Bluetooth channel in the receiver can be used not only to receive stereo sound from a mobile device but also to “output” it to the headset. In other words, you can listen to any sources connected to the receiver in your wireless headphones at home (and at the same time what comes from the network or is stored on the NAS-storage) without resorting to smartphones or tablets. True, the Denon built-in Bluetooth module, as it turned out, supports only an audio profile with standard codecs - using aptX, and even more so aptX HD did not work when listening.

Connection and initial configuration were completed in just a few minutes and, we believe it will not cause difficulties even for those users who are not familiar with the Denon GUI. Just follow the order, enter all distances accurately, and everything will work out by itself. You only have to tinker with the settings of the subwoofer (running the Audyssey MultiEQ system solves this problem only partially), but there is nothing complicated either. First, just find the best place for the bass machine in the room where it will not excite booming standing waves, and only then start looking for the optimal cutoff frequency and level of bass support.

Denon AVR-X4400H

The Denon AVR-X4400H has a 9.2 configuration and is equipped with decoders for all the most modern surround sound formats. With nine built-in channels for power amplification, this best av receiver under 1000 allows users to build a home theater system for sounding a fairly large room without extra costs.

The first thing to stop is the power of the amplifier. The built-in amplifier produces 165 watts per channel with an impedance of 6 ohms.

Denon AVR-X4400H can process sound in object-oriented 3D-formats Dolby Atmos, DTS: X and Auro 3D, as well as give extra volume to recordings in conventional multi-channel standards. The new DSP processor made using SHARK technology and the proprietary multi-channel processor AL32, provide error-free processing of the audio stream in real-time to get exactly the same sound picture that the director intended when creating the movie. The device’s sound path has the latest 32-bit AK4458VN DACs for all channels.

It can also be considered the best receiver under 1000 in terms of video, the HDMI connection supports ultra-high definition streams (4K), BT.2020 color space, Pure Color 4: 4: 4 sub-sampling, and 21: 9 pass-through video. It also integrates the latest HDCP 2.2 and Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma standards for end-to-end access. The latter is a development of ARC technology and offers support for DTS: X and Dolby Atmos audio streams via an HDMI cable.

Denon AVR-X4400H uses Audyssey MultEQ XT 32 autocalibration technology. Thanks to this feature, surround effects are enhanced at low listening levels. For a midnight movie, there is Audyssey Dynamic Volume mode which automatically limits level deviations.

The AVR-X4400H supports wireless transmission through a dual-band WiFi controller. It offers a stable and fast network connection for viewing digital content in the best possible conditions. With DLNA support, it will be possible to access files stored on the NAS or a computer connected to the local network. In particular, it is possible to play FLAC, ALAC, and WAV. In addition to radio playback over the Internet, there is access to online music services. So users can connect to Spotify (via Spotify Connect), as well as Tidal and Deezer.

The Denon AVR-X4400H benefits from compatibility with HEOS multiroom technology. Thanks to it, it will be possible to create reading zones by grouping compatible HEOS devices arranged in different rooms of a house or an apartment. The user can listen to the same song in all areas or a different piece in each area. Playback control is easily done from a smartphone or tablet using the free HEOS app.

Marantz

Marantz SR6012

The next device which will be considered in our av receiver under 1000 reviews is Marantz SR6012. It is equipped with 9 amplification channels, with a nominal power of 185 W per channel, which allows you to configure a 7.1.2 or 5.1.4 3D experiment without an external amplifier; with an additional amplifier, the configuration can be extended to 7.1.4, since the Marantz SR6012 offers 11.2 channel processing.

Also, the receiver is equipped with an advanced video section that is fully compatible with the latest HDMI specifications and the HDCP 2.2 standard for the 8 HDMI inputs. With 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, Pure Color 4: 4: 4 downsampling, High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology and 21: 9, 3D and BT.2020 pass-through video capability supported by each input, the Marantz SR6012 is firmly on the test of time. In addition, HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) pass-through for future HDR broadcast content and the Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) will be supported via a firmware update.

With integrated wireless multi-room audio network HEOS technology, the Marantz SR6012 can integrate with other HEOS products to allow you to listen to your favorite music anywhere in the home. You can explore, browse, and play your own music library, and access online music streaming services, and thousands of Internet radios using the free HEOS app, while the Bluetooth and Airplay feature let you stream music directly from any compatible device.

Marantz SR5014

Powerful, rich, and unusually smooth - this is how specialists characterize the Marantz SR5014 AV receiver, presented in this review.

More recently, a new creation of the well-known audio equipment manufacturer, Marantz, has appeared on the market, which immediately attracted the attention of all those who understand what quality music is and follows the latest in this area. We are talking about a 7.2-channel AV receiver that can work with the most relevant three-dimensional sound formats today - model SR5014.

The developers embodied in this model of the home theater receiver the very philosophy of the company - music should sound exactly as they were intended by the performers - with all the expression, mood, and emotions.

Providing powerful Hi-Fi sound, this unit is equipped with discrete amplifiers. Their power is 100 watts per channel. The audio part uses 32-bit digital-to-analog converters, model AK4458. Plus, the device is equipped with a new generation of amplification modules - HDAM, which provides high quality without any distortion and a wide dynamic range during high-resolution audio playback. Moreover, this receiver can operate with a low impedance load, which means that the consumer has the ability to connect to its completely different classes of speakers with a guarantee of impeccable sound quality.

The undoubted merit of the Marantz SR5014 is the technology of virtual ceiling channels implemented in it, which was called Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization. Its essence is to create stunning surround sound without the physical addition of ceiling acoustics. It turns out that a three-dimensional sound field is created without the need for the purchase and installation of upper speakers.

Receiver SR5014 provides support for audio return - eARC, which allows you to transfer all audio information without the slightest loss through a single HDMI cable. This applies to object-oriented formats - Dolby TrueHD and Dolby Atmos, which means that the user can enjoy surround sound in all its glory, keeping other HDMI connectors free.

The receiver implements a special game mode - ALLM, which creates the conditions for more convenient and accurate gameplay, which is very important in modern games, saturated with dynamic scenes and requiring extremely quick reactions from players. True, this applies only to owners of game consoles of the Xbox One family. However, this does not mean at all that other game consoles, for example, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and others, cannot connect to the device. Vinyl fans can enjoy the purity of their favorite records on records by connecting a turntable to the phono input. The device will transmit all, even the most elusive sound nuances such as, for example, the characteristic crunching of a vinyl disc.

Even a single glance at the rear panel of the receiver will be enough to draw a conclusion about the enormous commutative possibilities. The main advantages from the point of view of switching, it is important to note the presence of eight HDMI-inputs. The receiver is capable of processing high-definition video 4K / 60Hz, with support for dynamic brightness expansion - HDR 10 and BT.2020.

The device supports Dolby Vision and the new HLG technology, which today is the most advanced option for transmitting HDR images. Without going into the technical details of this technology, its essence is to transfer standard and dynamically extended ranges together. This feature provides image playback both on ordinary screens that simply ignore it, and on HLG-compatible ones. As a result, the brightness, clarity, and excellent visibility of images will be ensured both in the lightest, almost illuminated areas, and in the darkest. And all this with a wonderful richness of flowers.

Marantz SR5012

Marantz SR-5012 is a 7.2 channel model. The SR-5012 is equipped with Hyper Dynamic Amplifier Module (HDAM) power modules. These modules allow higher electrical voltages; they contribute to the musicality of this amplifier thanks to a better coherence of the sound stage. The set develops a very comfortable power up to 180 watts per channel (peak). This comfortably powers the majority of home theater speaker packs.

The Marantz SR-5012 also supports the latest standards in video and audio. Compatible with multichannel audio formats Dolby Atmos and DTS: X, it allows the installation of a home theater 5.2.2.

Audyssey MultEQ XT autocalibration technology is also supported by this Marantz SR-5012. Also, SR-5012 is compatible with the Audyssey MultEQ Editor application which gives access to Audyssey acoustic measurement results.

The video abilities are also good. There are UHD-4K 60Hz video streams, Pure Color 4: 4: 4 sub-sampling, and BT.2020 color space are supported. High Dynamic Range (HDR) support is effective with Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) technology. Such technologies allow you to enjoy an extended dynamic range. Clearly: the light areas and dark areas of the images will be more readable with more detail for a result close to that of the human eye.

Yamaha

Yamaha RX-A880

The 7.2-channel AV receiver that supports the latest networking features to create amazing audio-visual experiences is presented here. The AV receiver is equipped with a fully discrete power amplifier to minimize distortion and use independent clean power sources for analog and digital circuits.

The receiver is equipped with 384 kHz / 32-bit premium DACs - also with independent power supplies - for reproducing without noise absolutely all audio signals from high-resolution sources.

To control the volume, a new high-quality IC with high sound quality is used, and large radiators suppress vibration. Any part of this AV receiver is focused exclusively on the highest possible sound quality. Support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X takes you from everyday life to an extraordinary experience. They provide stunningly rich and realistic surround sound, positioning, and moving individual sounds to any virtual point in your room, not excluding the sound objects moving above your head—experience stunningly realistic motion and immersive video footage right here in your home theater room. Power per channel is 100 W (8 Ohms).

We note the support of the most advanced video formats and on all HDMI ports. The component is not only able to work with video with 4K resolution and 60p 4: 4: 4 parameters, but also supports the HDCP copyright protection protocol for the latest version 2.2. This means that the Yamaha RX-A880 is fully ready to showcase Ultra HD Blu-ray discs, the appearance of which (as well as players for playing them) is expected in the near future. Compliance with these requirements of all HDMI ports of the receiver ensures that there are no problems in the future when there are several similar sources in the cinema system. Moreover, this is not about the receiver’s ability to only switch such a signal - the Yamaha RX-A880 can scale the video to 4K resolution, and if necessary, first convert analog signals from composite or component video inputs to digital form.

The receiver is equipped with a very good multimedia player that can not only play audio files from DLNA servers on the network and from external USB drives but also stream music from the Internet through the popular services vTuner, Spotify, and others. All popular audio encoding formats are supported - WAV and FLAC with parameters up to 24 bit / 192 kHz, as well as ALAC with parameters up to 24 bit / 96 kHz. The receiver is also able to decode the DSD stream received via HDMI, via USB or via LAN \ Wi-Fi.

Yamaha RX-V685

Yamaha RX-V685 is equipped with many ports for connection, including slightly outdated analog RCA audio inputs, as well as composite and component video input. The equipment has five HDMI inputs, three of which are located on the rear panel and support HDCP 2.2 protection technology for 4K and HDR components. The other two, as well as the ARC port, are located on the front, for easy connection to a TV. With channel 7.2, you can use several speaker configurations, including 7.1, 5.1.2, with an additional zone or a single 5.1 for the front speakers, which can be easily coordinated using the settings.

Power is rated at 90 watts per 8-ohm channel, which is slightly lower than some competitors. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support collaboration with Cinema DSP 3D, Dolby TrueHD, and DTS Master Audio. There is support for high resolution with a frequency of 24 bit / 192 kHz for WAV, FLAC and ALAC files. The RX-V685 also supports 4K HDR video playback at 60 frames per second, including HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log-Gamma for HDR broadcasting. Amazon Alexa smart assistant support is available for voice control.

The receiver can automatically detect the sources connected to the HDMI inputs and mark them accordingly. There are also no particular disadvantages with wireless audio streaming.

Yamaha has adapted two fairly convenient applications for its A / V receivers, including the AV Controller application for deeper tuning - from volume control to selecting a DSP source, and its own MusicCast application.

Bluetooth is the easiest way to stream wirelessly. Although I noticed a few freezes during long sessions, it does not pose any serious problems in general. The MusicCast app allows you to use many other Wi-Fi transfer methods, including Apple AirPlay, Internet radio, streaming apps like Deezer and Tidal, as well as Spotify Connect.

Yamaha RX-V685 is configured relatively easily thanks to its own, built-in sound optimizer YPAO. You can connect to a TV through an ARC HDMI connection. If your TV does not have ARC, you can connect via HDMI. Sound, in this case, will pass through the optical cable. Honestly, if your TV does not have ARC, then it's time to change it.

Once the speakers and sound sources are connected, I recommend that you configure the YPAO system in automatic mode. I connected several different speakers to the RX-V685, including Focal's Sib Evo Dolby Atmos, which required only minor adjustments after the initial setup. YPAO automatically determined the size of the speakers, evaluating them as “small” and set the levels at a frequency of 80 Hz. It is quite simple to set these parameters or adjust individual speaker levels in manual mode.

Onkyo

Onkyo TX-NR696

The Onkyo TX-NR696 AV receiver is a model equipped with a wide range of the most advanced technologies. This unit is able to become the heart of an extraordinary audio/video system designed for watching movies and listening to music.

The front panel looks pretty attractive. It is made of plastic but well disguised as metal. However, the large handles give you confidence when turning, and the build quality seems solid.

There are still many buttons on the panel, and probably the manufacturer is convinced that you can make all the settings through these buttons on the receiver itself. This is what makes the TX-NR696 more technical and more complex at the same time. For example, other brands allow you to switch between inputs through the dial, and on the NR696, there is a row of twelve buttons under the display for this. It is also unusual that there are two separate knobs that allow you to adjust the listening modes and tone controls, with two separate buttons for more choice. For example, you can select one of the “Film” or “Music” modes using the button with the rotary knob under it to go through the stereo, All Channel Stereo, Direct, etc. modes. One thing is certain: if you lose the remote control, you can still configure the receiver the way you want.

Onkyo TX-NR696 has a 7-channel configuration. Its output stages are made on discrete elements and are ready to provide significant current to the load. This makes the unit harmonious with acoustics, whose impedance is 4 ohms. Special technology with zero phase shift provides transparent sound and a natural soundstage.

Onkyo TX-NR696 is equipped with decoders for all major surround sound formats, including Dolby Atmos / DTS:X. Support for the latter is possible in configuration 5.2.2, and if desired, a 3D sound system can be implemented using the Dolby Height Virtualizer and DTS Virtual: X virtual modes.

The device has seven HDMI inputs and two outputs, with support for 4K video, Dolby Vision and HDR10. Among the inputs for connecting external signal sources, we can note the connectors of the built-in phono corrector for the MM pickup of the vinyl player. The AV receiver is equipped with an AKM4458 DAC with 32 bit / 384 kHz parameters.

This model has the most advanced functionality for network streaming (via Ethernet or Wi-Fi), based on a separate SoC processor. Onkyo TX-NR696 can play music from available network devices or online resources. In addition, this model has built-in Chromecast and Google Assistant, support for multi-room technologies DTS Play-Fi, Sonos, and FireConnect. For direct connection of mobile gadgets, Bluetooth and AirPlay2 are provided. There is an Onkyo TX-NR696 and a USB connector for external drives with music files. The unit supports High-Resolution audio playback with 24 bit / 192 kHz and DTS 11.2 MHz parameters.

Onkyo TX-NR686

The Onkyo TX-NR686 is compatible with the latest multichannel audio technologies like other receivers in this best av receiver under 1000 comparison, including Dolby Atmos and DTS: X. Thanks to its powerful DSPs and support for upmix Dolby Surround and DTS Neural: X technologies, this amp can, from stereo or 5.1 signals, perform a distribution of sound over 7 speakers, or even when they are present on 5 classic speakers and 2 "Atmos". The receiver produces 165 watts per channel and there should be no problem getting a significant volume even with very demanding speakers.

Calibration is made by the patented Onkyo AccuEQ technology. The procedure is really quick and can be done in one go. Competitive systems often require several measurements, each time moving the microphone. One may fear a less effective result. Speaker installation is facilitated by the built-in AccuEQ autocalibration system, which allows fine-tuning of cutoff frequencies from 40 to 200 Hz.

The HDMI controller of the Onkyo TX-NR686 amp is certified Ultra HD 4K and HDCP 2.2. It is thus compatible with absolutely all video streams, SD, HD, 3D, and 4K. Dolby Vision, HLG or HDR10 HDR metadata is supported and an Ultra HD Blu-ray player or any Ultra HD video player can be associated with this amp.

The highlight of the Onkyo TX-NR686 is its support for audio streaming technologies from online music services, or from audio files shared on a home network. The presence of a Google Chromecast module allows the amp to be driven by many mobile applications and the Google Chrome browser. Google Play Music, Deezer, Spotify, Qobuz, Tidal or TuneIn can be listened to (subscriptions required) without any loss of quality. We also take advantage of a second protocol with similar features, the DTS Play: Fi, present on many products of different brands.

Convenient and easy-to-use, the Onkyo TX-NR696 offers a host of advanced processing modes (DSP, Advanced Music Optimizer, Direct Mode, Pure Audio Mode, Dual Bass Function) and comfort features such as the InstaPrevue or Hybrid StandBy. The latter allows you to use the HDMI and Ethernet functions of your amp, even when it is in standby and distinguishes it among other best av receivers under 1000.

Multiroom management of several Onkyo broadcasters (amplifiers, wireless speakers, etc.) is possible thanks to the Onkyo FlareConnect technology. Obviously, AirPlay transmission from an iPhone or iPad is integrated. Finally, a Bluetooth controller will be useful for listening wirelessly and without a home network, from a smartphone or computer.

Sony

Sony STR-DN1080

Sony's STR-DN1080 receiver is equipped, according to the company, with all the technologies inherent in a modern AV receiver: it supports 4K HDR, has video scaling, accepts Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound formats, and is also capable of working with high-resolution audio and DSD without conversion. The receiver delivers 165 watts of power to each of the seven channels. The Phantom Surround Back feature allows you to simulate the 7.1.2 configuration by adding a pair of virtual speakers. And Wireless Surround technology allows you to physically connect compatible wireless speakers to the receiver that takes over the function of the rear channels. Bluetooth audio is transmitted using LDAC.

Workmanship does not raise any questions. Everything sits tight, hangs nothing, does not stagger, and looks impressive and stylish. The design is classic, rigorous, and concise. There is nothing superfluous. Everything is just the most necessary. On the left is a recessed power button with LED, a headphone jack, a calibration microphone jack, and a USB input. For the entire time I use the receiver, I sometimes use only the volume wheel and the USB connector. I used the calibration microphone several times when I moved the speakers and chose the optimal speaker layout for me. The thing is necessary, it works, and I recommend it to use it for the initial setup! I do not use all other control buttons as I control it from the remote control.

On the right are the volume control and input wheel. With it, you can switch between connected devices. Above the row are the buttons for switching the operating mode of the front speakers, Bluetooth, buttons for selecting the sound mode, controlling the second zone, the brightness of the display backlight, and Pure Direct. I do not use any of this since the same operations can be done using the remote control without getting up off the couch.

On the rear panel, there are as many as 6 HDMI inputs for connecting devices and 2 HDMI outputs for outputting images to a TV, monitor, or projector. Although each HDMI input is signed, according to the instructions, it doesn’t matter which device will be connected to which connector, this is only a recommendation. But, there is one caveat. The SA-CD / CD and BD-DVD inputs provide higher sound quality. For this reason, consider this moment when connecting and select the priority devices for you.

The “HDMI TV OUT A” output supports ARC, and my receiver is remarkably controlled from the TV remote control and turns on / off with the TV.

In my opinion, the acoustics connection terminals are somewhat close to each other, which makes connection difficult. But since this is not done often, in principle, I can not call it a disadvantage. Using the receiver, you can maximally build a surround sound system 7.2 or 5.1.2 (5.2.2) with one or two subwoofers and two tops for Dolby Atmos. Also, using the Phantom Surround Back function, you can get seven channels from a 5-channel system, and get 7.1.2 from 5.1.2. The essence of the function is that with the help of special sound processing algorithms and the correct placement of acoustics, a pair of virtual rear speakers is added.