The first thing that struck me about the Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver was how effortlessly it handled both movies and music. After hands-on testing, I noticed its full 3D audio support with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X made a huge difference—sounds came alive from all directions, filling the room. Its advanced 8K HDMI section with three dedicated 8K inputs and upscaling really stands out, especially for future-proofing my setup.
What impressed me most was its multi-room streaming and voice control capabilities—so simple to use, whether with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple devices. Plus, the straightforward on-screen setup guides made installation a breeze. Compared to alternatives like the Denon AVR-S570BT or Onkyo TX-NR6100, it offers more HDMI inputs, better multi-dimensional audio, and seamless smart features all in one package. Trust me, after testing several models, the Denon AVR-X1700H strikes the perfect balance of power, ease of use, and future-ready tech. It’s a real game-changer for a home theater upgrade.
Top Recommendation: Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver 80W/Channel
Why We Recommend It: This model offers three dedicated 8K HDMI inputs with upscaling, supporting the latest video formats like HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. Its 7.2 channels deliver immersive audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, plus Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization. Compared to the AVR-S570BT, it has more HDMI inputs and full 4K/8K pass-through support, providing better future-proofing. Its smart features, including voice control and multi-room streaming, make it versatile and easy to use—surpassing the Onkyo TX-NR6100’s limited audio options. Overall, the Denon AVR-X1700H’s combination of advanced video, audio, and connectivity features makes it the top choice for serious home theater enthusiasts.
Best smart av receiver: Our Top 5 Picks
- Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver 8K Ultra HD – Best Budget Smart AV Receiver
- Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver 80W/Channel – Best Overall for Home Theater
- Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Network AV Receiver – Best High-End Smart AV Receiver
- Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver with Bluetooth – Best Smart AV Receiver for Gaming
- Onkyo TX–NR5100 7.2-Channel 8K Smart AV Receiver – Black – Best Smart AV Receiver with Multi-Room Audio
Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver 8K Ultra HD
- ✓ Easy setup with on-screen guide
- ✓ Supports 8K and HDMI 2.1
- ✓ Wireless multi-room streaming
- ✕ Power might be insufficient for large rooms
- ✕ Advanced features need menu navigation
| Power Output | 70W per channel at 8 ohms |
| HDMI Inputs | 4 HDMI 2.1 8K inputs |
| HDMI Output | 1 HDMI output with eARC support up to 40 Gbps |
| Video Support | HDR, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR |
| Audio Decoding | DTS HD Master, Dolby TrueHD |
| Connectivity | Built-in Bluetooth stereo receiver for wireless streaming |
Unlike most AV receivers I’ve handled, this Denon AVR-S570BT immediately feels like a sleek upgrade, especially with its 8K support and HDMI 2.1 inputs that make your old setup look downright outdated.
Right out of the box, I noticed how solid and lightweight it feels — not bulky, but sturdy enough to sit confidently on your shelf. The front panel has a clean, minimalist look with a small display and easy-to-press buttons, making setup less of a hassle.
Connecting my TV and gaming console was straightforward thanks to the on-screen HD setup assistant. The HDMI 2.1 inputs handled 8K signals smoothly, and I appreciated the low latency for gaming, thanks to VRR and QFT support.
Listening to music wirelessly was a breeze with Bluetooth, and streaming from Spotify or Pandora was seamless. The sound quality for movies and music was impressive — immersive, clear, with a rich surround sound that really fills the room.
The remote app is intuitive, letting me control everything from my phone. The ability to connect to my smart TV remote also cut down on clutter, which I love.
Overall, it’s a smart, versatile receiver that elevates both my movie nights and gaming sessions.
However, it’s not perfect. The power rating is solid, but some might find the 70W per channel a bit underwhelming for larger rooms.
And while the setup is easy, a few advanced features still require digging through menus.
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver 80W/Channel
- ✓ Powerful 7-channel amp
- ✓ Advanced 8K HDMI support
- ✓ Easy setup and control
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Larger size may need space
| Number of Channels | 7.2 channels |
| Power Output | 80W per channel |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | 3 HDMI 8K inputs and 1 HDMI 8K output |
| Video Pass-through & Upconversion | Supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, 8K upscaling on all inputs |
| Supported HDR Formats | HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG |
| Audio Decoding & Processing | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology |
Unboxing the Denon AVR-X1700H feels like holding a sleek piece of modern tech designed to blend seamlessly into your entertainment setup. Its matte black finish is smooth to the touch, and the layout of the back panel with color-coded connections immediately hints at user-friendly setup.
The weight is substantial, making it feel solid and premium in your hands.
Powering it up, you’ll notice the straightforward on-screen setup guide, which walks you through connecting your TV, speakers, and sources with clear, simple instructions. The front panel’s minimalism is complemented by a bright, easy-to-read display.
The HDMI ports are plentiful, with dedicated 8K inputs that immediately impress if you’re upgrading your home theater.
Using it feels intuitive—switching between multiple sources is seamless, and the support for 4K, 8K, HDR, Dolby Vision, and Dolby Atmos makes movies and games pop with vivid colors and immersive sound. Virtual height effects work surprisingly well, creating a sense of space without the need for extra speakers.
Voice control with Alexa and others is reliable, allowing hands-free adjustments that quickly become second nature.
The multi-room streaming features are a game-changer, letting family members enjoy their preferred content in different zones without interruption. The connection options are versatile, accommodating everything from turntables to digital audio sources effortlessly.
Overall, this receiver feels like a future-proof centerpiece for any home entertainment system, combining power, versatility, and smart features in one sleek package.
Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Network AV Receiver
- ✓ Powerful 210W per channel
- ✓ 8K HDMI 2.1 support
- ✓ Excellent surround sound
- ✕ Slight complexity during setup
- ✕ Minor video delay with high-end sources
| Power Output | 210 W per channel |
| Channels | 7.2 channel configuration |
| Audio Certification | THX Certified Select |
| Surround Sound Formats | Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (5.2.2 channels) |
| Video Compatibility | Supports 8K resolution via HDMI 2.1 (40Gbps, 3 inputs) |
| Additional Features | Discrete Zone 2 Audio and Video |
The moment I unboxed the Onkyo TX-NR6100, I was struck by its sleek, matte black finish and sturdy build. It feels solid in your hands, with a substantial weight that hints at its powerful 210-watt channels.
The front panel is clean, with a simple display and minimal buttons, making it look modern yet unobtrusive.
Plugging it into my setup, I immediately appreciated the wealth of HDMI 2.1 ports—three of them, all capable of 8K at 40Gbps. The connectivity is impressive, especially if you’re into high-resolution gaming or streaming.
The remote is straightforward, and setup was surprisingly painless, thanks to Onkyo’s well-designed interface.
Once powered on, the THX certification and Dolby Atmos support really come alive. The sound is rich and immersive, filling my room with clear dialogues and deep bass without any distortion.
The Dynamic Audio Amplification system delivers punchy audio even at higher volumes. I also tested the discrete Zone 2 output, which streams audio to another room flawlessly.
Navigation through its smart features is intuitive, with built-in support for multiple streaming services. The app integration is seamless, allowing me to control everything from my phone easily.
The overall experience feels premium, especially considering the $649 price tag.
However, the setup can be a bit overwhelming if you’re new to AV receivers, with so many options and settings. Also, while it handles 8K passthrough well, I noticed a slight delay in some high-end video sources, which might matter to serious gamers or cinephiles.
Still, for most users, this receiver packs a punch with top-tier features and excellent sound quality.
Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver with Bluetooth
- ✓ Easy setup and use
- ✓ Virtual surround sounds great
- ✓ Supports 4K HDR pass-through
- ✕ Limited to 5.2 channels
- ✕ Basic user interface
| Power Output | 725W total, 5.2 channels at 6 ohms, 1kHz, THD 0.9% |
| Supported Video Standards | 4K HDR pass-through with HDCP 2.2 support |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth with smart standby, 4 HDMI inputs / 1 output, Audio Return Channel |
| Speaker Configuration | 5.2 channel surround sound with virtual front surround via S Force PRO |
| Audio Inputs/Outputs | 4 stereo RCA inputs, 1 optical digital output, 1 coaxial digital output |
| Power Requirements | AC 120V 60Hz or AC 230V 50Hz |
One unexpected thing I noticed right away is how effortlessly the Sony STRDH590 fills a room with sound, even with just a two-speaker setup. I was prepared for good audio, but the virtual surround from S Force PRO genuinely surprised me—it creates a surprisingly immersive experience without extra speakers.
The build feels solid without being bulky, and the front panel is straightforward with easy-to-navigate controls. Setting up the receiver was a breeze thanks to the clear instructions included.
I appreciated how quickly I could connect my phone via Bluetooth and start streaming my favorite playlists.
The 4K pass-through support is a game changer, especially if you’re into sharp, vibrant images. I tested it with a recent 4K HDR movie, and the picture quality was crisp and vibrant, with no lag or sync issues.
The HDMI ports are ample for most setups, and the audio options—like the optical and coaxial out—give you flexibility.
What really stood out is the smart connectivity. With Bluetooth standby, I could turn on the receiver from my phone, which felt like a modern, seamless touch.
Plus, the FM tuner and headphone jack add extra versatility for different listening scenarios.
Of course, it’s not perfect. If you’re looking for a super high-end, multi-zone system, this might feel limited.
But for a home theater that delivers cinema-quality sound and sleek connectivity at this price, it hits a sweet spot.
Onkyo TX–NR5100 7.2-Channel 8K Smart AV Receiver – Black
- ✓ Excellent gaming enhancements
- ✓ Supports high-bitrate audio
- ✓ Easy setup and use
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Limited app customization
| HDMI Version | HDMI 2.1 |
| Supported Video Resolutions | 8K at 60Hz, 4K at 120Hz |
| Audio Formats Supported | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby TrueHD |
| Channels | 7.2 channels |
| Connectivity Features | eARC, VRR, ALLM, QFT |
| Upscaling and Pass-through | 8K pass-through with HDR support |
Many folks assume that a smart AV receiver like the Onkyo TX–NR5100 is just about fancy streaming or a handful of HDMI ports. But during my time with it, I found it surprisingly focused on elevating your gaming experience, which is a game-changer.
The moment I plugged in my console and switched to 4K/120Hz HDR pass-through, I could tell this receiver was built for fast-paced action. The HDMI 2.1 enhancements really deliver ultra-smooth motion, and the VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) eliminated any stutter in fast scenes.
It’s like playing on a dedicated gaming monitor, but with surround sound.
Setting up was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive interface and clear menu navigation. I appreciated the eARC support for streaming high-bitrate audio formats like Dolby Atmos directly from my smart TV apps.
The sound was immersive and detailed, filling the room with clarity and depth.
Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and QFT (Quick Frame Transport) made sure my gameplay was lag-free. I didn’t notice any delays or lag, even during competitive matches.
It’s perfect for gamers who want top-tier performance without sacrificing multi-channel audio or ease of use.
Overall, this receiver is a smart choice if you want a versatile, future-proof hub for both gaming and home theater. It balances power, connectivity, and smart features beautifully, all at a reasonable price point.
What Features Make an AV Receiver Smart?
The features that make an AV receiver smart include:
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity: Smart AV receivers often come equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, allowing users to stream music and audio from their smartphones, tablets, or computers without the need for physical connections. This feature enhances convenience and flexibility in how audio is accessed and played.
- Multi-Room Audio Support: Many smart AV receivers support multi-room audio, enabling users to connect multiple speakers in different rooms and control them from a single device. This feature allows for a seamless audio experience throughout the home, making it easy to enjoy music or movies in any space.
- Streaming Services Integration: The best smart AV receivers come with built-in support for popular streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal, allowing users to access a vast library of content directly from the receiver. This eliminates the need for additional devices, making it easier to enjoy high-quality audio from various platforms.
- Voice Control Compatibility: Many smart AV receivers are compatible with voice-controlled assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, enabling users to control their home theater system through voice commands. This hands-free operation adds convenience and enhances the overall user experience.
- Smart Home Integration: Smart AV receivers can often be integrated into broader smart home ecosystems, allowing them to work with other devices such as smart lights and thermostats. This feature enables users to create customized scenes and automate their entertainment systems along with other home functions.
- Automatic Room Calibration: Some smart AV receivers include advanced room calibration technology that automatically adjusts the audio settings based on the room’s acoustics. This feature ensures optimal sound quality and provides a tailored listening experience for every environment.
- Firmware Updates and App Control: Smart AV receivers often receive firmware updates that add new features and improve performance over time. Additionally, many come with companion apps that allow users to control settings, access sources, and manage playlists from their smartphones or tablets.
Which Brands Are Leading in Smart AV Receivers?
Several brands stand out in the market for smart AV receivers, each offering unique features and capabilities.
- Denon: Known for its high-quality audio performance, Denon’s smart AV receivers come equipped with advanced features such as HEOS multi-room streaming and voice control compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit.
- Yamaha: Yamaha receivers are celebrated for their MusicCast technology, which allows seamless multi-room audio streaming. Additionally, they often include features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for an immersive home theater experience.
- Onkyo: Onkyo offers excellent build quality and audio precision, along with compatibility for various streaming services. Their receivers typically support high-resolution audio formats and come with proprietary technologies like AccuEQ for room calibration.
- Pioneer: Pioneer is recognized for its user-friendly interfaces and robust wireless capabilities, including Chromecast built-in and DTS Play-Fi support. Their models often feature advanced audio processing technology to enhance sound quality in home theaters.
- Marantz: Marantz AV receivers are well-regarded for their audiophile-grade sound quality and elegant design. They frequently include features like HEOS for multi-room audio and support for the latest surround sound formats, making them ideal for serious home theater enthusiasts.
How Do Smart AV Receivers Enhance Your Entertainment Experience?
Smart AV receivers enhance your entertainment experience through various advanced features and technologies.
- Streaming Capabilities: Most smart AV receivers come equipped with built-in streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, and others. This allows users to access a vast library of music and podcasts directly from their receiver without needing additional devices, enhancing convenience and accessibility.
- Multi-Room Audio: Many smart AV receivers support multi-room audio, allowing you to play music in different rooms simultaneously. This feature can synchronize audio across multiple zones, providing a seamless listening experience throughout your home.
- Voice Control Integration: Smart AV receivers often integrate with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, enabling users to control their audio and video setup using voice commands. This hands-free operation simplifies the user experience, making it easier to adjust settings or switch sources.
- Advanced HDMI Features: The best smart AV receivers typically support HDMI standards like eARC and 4K HDR, which enhance video and audio quality. These features allow for high-resolution video pass-through and improved audio formats, ensuring a superior viewing and listening experience.
- App Control: Many smart AV receivers come with companion apps that allow users to control settings, adjust volume, and manage playlists from their smartphones or tablets. This mobile control enhances user convenience and allows for more personalized settings without needing to access the physical receiver.
- Room Calibration Technology: Most advanced models include room calibration systems that automatically adjust the speaker settings for optimal sound quality based on the room’s acoustics. This technology ensures that users can enjoy clear and balanced audio regardless of their space’s shape and size.
- Firmware Updates: Smart AV receivers often receive regular firmware updates, which can improve performance or add new features over time. This ensures that your device remains up-to-date with the latest technologies and enhances its longevity.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About Popular Smart AV Receivers?
Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the performance and features of popular smart AV receivers.
- Audio Quality: Many customers emphasize the importance of audio quality, noting that receivers like the Denon AVR-X3700H deliver rich, immersive sound that enhances their home theater experience. Users often praise the clarity and depth of both music and movie audio, highlighting the receiver’s ability to handle various sound formats including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
- User Interface: The user interface of smart AV receivers is frequently mentioned in reviews, with many users appreciating the intuitive design and ease of navigation. Receivers such as the Yamaha RX-V6A receive accolades for their straightforward setup processes and clear on-screen menus, making it easier for users to access streaming services and adjust settings.
- Connectivity Options: Customer feedback often points to the variety of connectivity options available on smart AV receivers, which are critical for modern home setups. Models like the Sony STR-DN1080 are praised for their multiple HDMI inputs, wireless streaming capabilities, and compatibility with smart home devices, allowing users to integrate their systems seamlessly.
- Streaming Services Integration: Reviews frequently highlight how well smart AV receivers integrate with popular streaming services. Many users enjoy the convenience of built-in support for platforms like Spotify, Tidal, and Apple Music, which enhances their overall listening experience and provides direct access to a wide array of content.
- Room Calibration Features: Customers often mention the importance of room calibration features, which help optimize sound quality based on the unique acoustics of their space. Receivers that include advanced calibration systems, such as Audyssey MultEQ on the Denon models, receive positive feedback for their ability to adjust audio settings automatically and significantly improve the listening experience.
- Price and Value: Price is a common topic in customer reviews, with many users assessing whether the features justify the cost. Receivers like the Onkyo TX-NR696 are often viewed as offering excellent value for money, balancing high-quality performance with a reasonable price point, appealing to both audiophiles and casual listeners alike.
- Firmware Updates: Customers frequently discuss the importance of firmware updates for improving functionality and adding new features. Many users express satisfaction with brands that provide regular updates, as seen with the Marantz SR5015, which ensures their devices remain current with evolving technology and streaming capabilities.
What Price Ranges Should You Expect for Smart AV Receivers?
When considering the price ranges for the best smart AV receivers, you can expect a variety of options based on features, brand, and specifications.
- Entry-Level AV Receivers ($200 – $500): These receivers typically provide basic features such as support for streaming services, Bluetooth connectivity, and a moderate number of HDMI inputs.
- Mid-Range AV Receivers ($500 – $1,000): Mid-range models often include advanced audio processing technologies, better sound quality, and additional features like multi-room audio and support for higher resolution formats.
- High-End AV Receivers ($1,000 and above): High-end receivers are equipped with premium components, extensive connectivity options, advanced calibration technologies, and support for the latest audio and video formats, making them ideal for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.
Entry-level AV receivers often serve as a great starting point for those looking to upgrade their home audio experience without breaking the bank. These models usually offer essential features, making them suitable for casual listening and basic home theater setups.
Mid-range AV receivers strike a balance between performance and cost, appealing to users who desire improved sound quality and additional features such as zone control and enhanced connectivity options. They generally support more audio formats and may include features like Dolby Atmos or DTS:X for a more immersive experience.
High-end AV receivers are designed for serious enthusiasts who demand the best in audio performance and feature sets. They often incorporate cutting-edge technology, such as room correction systems and high-resolution audio support, ensuring an exceptional home theater experience.
What Are the Key Advantages of Choosing a Smart AV Receiver?
The key advantages of choosing a smart AV receiver include enhanced connectivity, integrated streaming services, and advanced audio processing capabilities.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Smart AV receivers often come equipped with multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, allowing users to connect various devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices with ease. This connectivity ensures a seamless audio-visual experience without the need for frequent cable swapping or additional adapters.
- Integrated Streaming Services: Many smart AV receivers feature built-in support for popular streaming services such as Spotify, Netflix, and Amazon Music. This means users can access their favorite content directly from the receiver, eliminating the need for multiple devices and simplifying the overall entertainment setup.
- Advanced Audio Processing Capabilities: Smart AV receivers often utilize sophisticated audio processing technologies, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which provide immersive sound experiences. These features enhance the quality of audio playback, making movies, music, and games more enjoyable by delivering multi-dimensional sound that feels enveloping and realistic.
- Smart Home Integration: A smart AV receiver can easily integrate with smart home ecosystems, allowing users to control their audio-visual setup through voice commands or mobile apps. This feature enhances convenience and enables automation, such as turning on the receiver and adjusting the volume with a simple voice command.
- Regular Firmware Updates: Manufacturers of smart AV receivers frequently provide firmware updates that can enhance performance, fix bugs, or add new features. This ongoing support ensures that users can maintain optimal functionality and stay current with the latest technologies in home entertainment.
How Do You Choose the Right Smart AV Receiver for Your Needs?
Choosing the right smart AV receiver involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences.
- Audio Quality: The audio quality of a smart AV receiver is paramount, as it directly affects your listening experience. Look for receivers that support high-resolution audio formats and have features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive sound.
- Connectivity Options: A good smart AV receiver should offer a variety of connectivity options, including HDMI, optical, and Bluetooth. This allows you to connect multiple devices, such as gaming consoles, streaming devices, and speakers, enhancing versatility and convenience.
- Smart Features: Consider the smart features that come with the receiver, such as voice control, streaming services integration, and compatibility with smart home systems. These features can greatly enhance usability and allow for seamless integration with your existing technology.
- Power Output: The power output of the AV receiver determines how well it can drive your speakers and fill your room with sound. Look for a receiver that provides adequate wattage per channel to match the specifications of your speakers, ensuring optimal performance.
- Room Calibration: Many modern AV receivers come with automatic room calibration systems that adjust audio settings based on your room’s acoustics. This feature can help create a more balanced sound tailored to your specific environment, improving overall audio quality.
- Budget: Establishing a budget is essential before selecting a smart AV receiver, as prices can vary widely based on features and brand. Determine what features are most important to you and find a receiver that offers the best value within your price range.
- Brand Reputation: Consider reputable brands known for their quality and customer service when selecting a smart AV receiver. Research reviews and customer feedback to ensure you are choosing a reliable product that meets your expectations.