1. Electronics

Discuss in my forum

Home Theater Receivers - 400 to 1,299 Dollars

Midrange Home Theater Receivers - AV Receivers - Surround Sound Receivers

By , About.com Guide

The home theater receiver (also referred to as an AV Receiver) not only provides power to the speakers, but serves as an integrated control center for all of your components, often times providing both audio and video switching. In addition, even moderately priced home theater receivers provide features and quality that just a couple of years ago would have commanded sky high prices. Below is a list of my favorite midrange home theater receivers ($400- $1,299).

For additional Home Theater Receiver suggestions, also check out my listings of Home Theater Receivers - $399 or Less and Home Theater Receivers - $1,300 and Up.

Also, check out my Guide to Home Theater Receivers for everything you need to know before purchasing one.

1. Yamaha Aventage RX-A1020 Network Home Theater Receiver

Yamaha RX-A1020 Home Theater Receiver - Front ViewPhoto (c) Yamaha Corporation, USA - Used with Permission
The Yamaha Aventage RX-A1020 has an abundance of features that can serve your home theater needs receiver for a long time. This receiver is rated to deliver 110wpc (measured with 2-channels driven from 20Hz to 20kHz), and features extensive standard and high-definition Dolby and DTS audio decoding and processing options, as well as Yamaha's own audio processing enhancements, which include the ability to incorporate extra front height channels. The RX-A1020 also has two subwoofer outputs and users also have the option of using either powered speaker outputs or preamp outputs for an additional Zone. The RX-A1020 even provides both 7.1 channel analog inputs and outputs, which are becoming inscreasingly rare on home theater recievers these days.

For video support, the RX-A1020 has eight 3D-compatible HDMI inputs and dual HDMI outputs (parallel) along with 1080p and 4K upscaling via the HQV Vida video processor. In addition, extensive video setting options are provided.

The RX-A1020 is also DLNA certified, which allows wired or wireless (via the optional YWA-10 Wireless Network Adapter) audio streaming from other devices, such as a PC or media server connected in a home network. Extra bonuses include direct iPod/iPhone connection via USB, along with Apple AirPlay, Internet Radio, and HD Radio.

Also, in addition to the provided remote control, the RX-A1020 also be controlled by an iOS, Android, or Kindle Fire device.
Compare Prices - Official Product Page

2. Onkyo TX-NR717 Network Home Theater Receiver

Onkyo TX-NR717 Home Theater ReceiverPhoto (c) Onkyo USA
The THX Select2 Plus Certified TX-NR717 is a 7.2 channel home theater receiver (7 channels plus 2 subwoofer outs) that supplies 110 Watts per channel at .08% THD and features TrueHD/DTS-HD Master Audio decoding and which can be enhanced by Dolby Pro Logic IIz and Audyssey DSX processing.

For video, the TX-NR717 has eight 3D-compatible HDMI inputs with up to 4K upscaling (provided you have a 4K display) using Marvell QDEO processing. Also included is a PC monitor input, iPod/iPhone connectivity, and access to Internet Radio and internet music services (Aupeo!, Pandora, Rhapsody, Spotify, and vTuner). To make getting started easier, the TX-NR717 also incorporates the Audyssey 2EQ automatic speaker setup system.
Compare Prices for the TX-NR717

Also available, the TX-NR818, which adds independent block construction for the preamp and amplifier sections, ISFccc video calibration controls, DTS Neo:X audio processing, 9.2 channel expansion using external amplifiers, Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room correction system, and an activity-based remote control system.
Compare Prices for the TX-NR818

For more information, read my more detailed overview of both receivers

3. Yamaha Aventage RX-A830 3D/Network Home Theater Receiver

Yamaha Aventage RX-A830 Home Theater Receiver - Front ViewPhoto © Yamaha Corporation, USA
The Yamaha Aventage RX-A830 is designed to deliver great audio and video performance, while incorporating an abundant feature set.

Starting with audio, up to a 7.2 channel configuration is provided, and the amplifiers are rated to deliver 100wpc (measured with 2 channels driven from 20-20khz at .09% THD using an 8 ohm load). Audio decoding and processing for all Dolby and DTS formats (except DTS Neo:X). Enhanced audio processing includes Virtual Presence Speakers, providing a more immersive 3D soundfield.

For added audio convenience, Audio Return Channel is supported, along with an updated version of its YPAO speaker setup program (YPAO R.S.C.), which takes off wall sound reflections in consideration.

Video support includes 3D pass-through, and both 1080p and 4K upscaling.

The RX-A830 provides 8 HDMI inputs (including a front mounted MHL-enabled input) and two parrallel HDMI outputs. For added flexibility, a set of 7.2 channel analog audio preamp outputs is provided.

RX-A830 also features network connectivity via Ethernet connection or Wifi via an optional Adapter. Content can streamed from network connected PCs and compatible media servers, as well as from the internet (Vtuner, Pandora, and Rhapsody).

The RXA-830 also incorporates Apple Airplay, and wireless Bluetooth can be added with an optional adapter.

If you are looking a receiver that just about everything you need, and is priced less than $900, definitely put the Yamaha Aventage RX-A830 on your shopping list.
Compare Prices

Looking for something that still provides most of the RX-A830's features, but priced a little less, also check out the Yamaha Aventage RX-A730, which has slightly lower rated power output of 90wpc, a more basic YPAO speaker setup system, a smaller number of HDMI inputs (6), and the elimination of the second HDMI output and there is no 7 channel analog audio premap output option.
Compare Prices for the RX-A730.

4. Denon AVR-3313CI 3D Network Home Theater Receiver

The AVR-3313CI is a 7.2 channel home theater receiver (7 channels plus 2 subwoofer outs) that deliver 125 Watts into each of 7 channels at .08% THD. Audio decoding and processing options include Dolby TrueHD/DTS-HD Master Audio and both Dolby Pro Logic IIz and Audyssey DSX. The AVR-3313CI also features a dedicated phono turntable input a set of 7.2 channel analog audio outputs, as well as preamp audio output options for both Zone 2 and Zone 3 systems. In addition, to make speaker setup easier, the 3313 also includes Audyssey MultEQ XT.

On the video side, the AVR-3313CI has 7 3D pass through HDMI inputs and three HDMI outputs with analog to HDMI video conversion and up to 1080p or 4K upscaling for all other video source signals. Composite, component, and HDMI video output options for a Zone 2 system are provided.

However, the big emphasis is the inclusion of iPod/iPhone connectivity, internet radio, and Apple Airplay compatibility, which adds more flexibility for accessing content from a variety of network and online sources.
Compare Prices

If the AVR-3313CI is not in your budget, also check out the lower-priced Denon AVR-2313CI, which has the core features of the 3313, but has a lower 105 wpc channel output, no 7 channel analog preamp outputs, no dedicated phono input, no AM or HD radio section, no Zone 3 pre-out option, and one less HDMI input and output. Compare Prices for the Denon AVR-2313CI.

5. Marantz SR5007 3D/Network Home Theater Receiver

Marantz SR5007 Home Theater ReceiverPhoto © D&M Holdings
The Marantz SR5007 might be a great choice for your home theater setup. First off, besides the unusual front panel styling, this receiver is 3D and Audio Return Channel-enabled, and provides a seven channel configuration, two subwoofer outputs, Dolby Pro Logic IIz front height channel processing, and analog to HDMI video conversion and 1080p upscaling. Another feature I personally like is the inclusion of a set of 5.1/7.1 channel analog audio inputs and preamp outputs, which is becoming more rare these days, even on some higher-end receivers.

Besides audio and video, the SR5007 also provides media player and networking functions with USB ports, Windows 7 and DLNA certification, and internet access to music streaming services, such as Pandora, Rhapsody, and vTuner. Apple AirPlay compatibility is also provided, so you can stream music from your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch as well as from iTunes libraries.
Compare Prices

Also available, the step-up SR6007, which provides a slightly higher power output (110 wpc vs 100 wpc on SR5007) adds another HDMI output (for a total of 2), is upgradeable via installer to the MultEQ XT Pro automatic speaker setup and room correction system, and has a dedicated phono turntable input connection. Compare Prices for Marantz SR6007.

NOTE: While both receivers provide an FM tuner, neither provides an AM tuner.

6. Harman Kardon AVR2700 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver

Photo of Harman Kardon AVR3700 3D/Network 7.2 Channel Home Theater ReceiverImage © Harman Kardon
The Harman Kardon AVR2700 is designed to be a central hub for your home theater system. First up, it provides up to a 7.1 channel configuration, supported by 100 wpc amplification (measured from 20Hz to 20kHz, 2 channels drive at 8 ohms, .07 THD), and decoding and processing for most Dolby and DTS surround sound formats. Video support includes 3D pass-through, 1080p and 4K upscaling, and 8 HDMI inputs.

Added features include multi-zone capability, vTuner Internet Radio, Apple AirPlay, DLNA compatibility. The AVR2700 is definitely worth consideration.
Compare Prices for the AVR2700 - Official Product Page

Also available, the AVR3700, which has an increased power output of 125 watts-per-channel, and also adds built-in Wi-Fi for more convenient internet and network connectivity, two HDMI outputs, and a second subwoofer output.
Compare Prices for the AVR3700 - Official Product Page.

7. Pioneer VSX-1023-K Network Home Theater Receiver

Pioneer VSX-1023 Home Theater Receiver - Front ViewPhoto © Pioneer Electronics, USA
The Pioneer VSX-1023-K 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver features solid audio and video features, as well as incorporating cutting edge functions for today's digital content sources. On the audio side this receiver is rated at 80wpc (measured from 20Hz to 20kHz with 2 channels driven at 8 0hms) and includes Dolby TrueHD/DTS-HD decoding and Dolby Pro Logic IIz amd wide surround audio processing. Also, both Audio Return Channel and an HDMI standby pass-through feature (which allows audio and video signals connected via HDMI to pass through the receiver even when the receiver is in standby mode) are included . On the video side, the VSX-1023-K features 1080p upscaling and 4K pass-through via HDMI ver1.4a connections. Also, an MHL-compatible HDMI input is also provided.

However, there is more to the VSX-1023's story. This receiver features iTunes and Apple AirPlay functions, and can also take advantage of Pioneer's Air Jam Apps for added control and management of music content. Content stored on iPods, iPhones, and iPads can be accessed from the front mounted USB input. In addition, VSX-1023 has an Ethernet connection which allows access to both internet radio and DLNA features, such as enabling access to media files stored on your PC and media servers. The VSX-1023 can even be controlled using Apple and some Android devices via Pioneer's iControlAV2 Apps.
Official Product Page - Compare Prices

Also available: The VSX-1123-K, which adds more output power (90 wpc), a more advanced version of Pioneer's MCACC speaker setup system, DTS Neo:X processing, 4K upscaling, video adjustments (detail, sharpness, brightness, contrast, hue, chroma, black level), 3D noise reduction, and WiFi connectivity via USB adapter (AS-WL300),
Official Product Page - Compare Prices

8. Denon AVR-1913 3D/Network Home Theater Receiver

The Denon AVR-1913 falls right in that sweet spot between budget-priced and midrange home theater receivers. As a result, it offers an affordable package of features without breaking the bank. To start off, the AVR-1913 has a 7.1 Channel configuration with a 90WPCx7 output that is perfect for small or medium-size rooms. Also, the AVR-1913 incorporates Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio decoding and Dolby ProLogic IIz processing. For video, the AVR-1913 has six 3D-compatible HDMI inputs, with analog to HDMI conversion and 1080p upscaling. Additional bonuses include the Audyssey MultEQ automatic speaker setup system, Apple AirPlay, Direct iPod/iPhone/iPad connection via USB, Internet Radio, and DLNA supported audio and photo streaming from network connected devices (such as PCs and NAS drives). Resting in the $550 price range, the Denon AVR-1913 is definitely worth consideration.
Compare Prices

9. NAD T748 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver

NAD T748 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver - Front View w/Included AccessoriesPhoto (c) Robert Silva Licensed to About.com
Behind its uncluttered front panel, the NAD T748 home theater receiver provides either 5.1 or 7.1 channel speaker setup configuration options, four HDMI inputs with 3D pass-through, analog to HDMI video conversion (however, there is no video upscaling), Dolby TrueHD/DTS-HD Master Audio decoding, iPod connectivity, and NAD's own EARS surround processing and automatic speaker calibration system. A nice added touch is the inclusion of two internal cooling fans.
Review and Photo Profile - Official Product Page

10. Onkyo TX-NR525 5.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver

Onkyo TX-NR525 5.2 Channel Network Home Theater ReceiverImage provided by Onkyo, USA
The Onkyo TX-NR525 packs in both solid audio features and internet streaming access for a very reasonable price. First off, the Onkyo TX-NR525 features a 5 channel speaker configuration with up to two subwoofers, and is rated at 80 Watts-per-Channel (measured at 8 ohms, from 20Hz to 20kHz, at .7% THD with two channels driven). This is enough power for small or medium size room.

On the rest of the audio side, the TX-SR525 provides Dolby TrueHD/DTS-Master Audio decoding, as well as Audio Return Channel.

On the video side the TX-NR525 incorporates both 3D and 4K pass-through switching (no analog-to-HDMI video conversion or video upscaling). There are also six HDMI inputs with InstaPrevue switching.

The TX-NR525 also has a front panel USB port for accessing audio content from iPod/iPhone or USB flash drives, as well as DLNA network connectivity and Internet Radio access ( Aupeo!, Pandora, Spotify, and more) via built-in Ethernet port or the Onkyo UWF-1 Wireless USB Adapter. Wireless Bluetooth capability can also be added via the optional Onkyo UBT-1 adapter.

To guide you along in getting the most of your speaker setup, the TX-NR525 also provides Audyssey MultEQ speaker setup system, along with Audyssey's Dynamic Volume, and Dynamic EQ audio enhancements.
Compare Prices for the Onkyo TX-NR525.

Also Available - The TX-NR626: Added features include 7.2 channel configuration Dolby ProLogic IIz processing, an MHL-compatble HDMI input (allows direct access to 1080p video and 7.1 audio from compatible Smartphones or other devices), two HDMI outputs (parallel), Marvell QDEO up to 4K video processing and scaling, and, for vinyl record fans, a dedicated phono input.
Compare Prices for the Onkyo TX-NR626.

©2013 About.com. All rights reserved.