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 mid-line home theater receivers ($400- $1,299). Also, check out my Home Theater Receiver Connections Gallery to get more familiar with Home Theater Receivers.
The Onkyo TX-SR705 THX Certified Home Theater Receiver brings high-end audio and video performance, as well as flexibility, to a more affordable price range. With built-in HDMI switching, extensive surround sound processing options, Faroudja video processing, iPOD connectivity, XM and Sirius Satellite Radio Compatibility, and an excellent automatic speaker setup system, the Onkyo TX-SR705 is definitely worth a look and a listen. For additional perspective and deatils, check out both my Product Profile and Photo Gallery Onkyo TX-SR705 THX-Certified 7.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver. Photos (c) Robert Silva - Licensed to About.com
The Pioneer Elite VSX-91TXH is one of the new-generation receivers that incorporates onboard Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD surround decoding. In addition, this receiver has extensive connection capabilities, power to spare, and very flexible audio and video operation. If you are looking for a reciever that integrates flexible audio and video features, as well as delivering great audio performance that will not become "obsolete" in just a few years, then check out the VSX-91TXH. For additional details, check out both my SHORT and FULL Reviews. Also, for a further close-up look and explanation of the connections and functions of the 91TXH, check out my Photo Gallery.
With the TX-SR605, Onkyo has incorporated high-end features in a reasonably priced home theater receiver, such as HDMI 1.3 video and audio capabilities, Internal decoding of Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD, Faroudja DCDi video processing, incorporation of both XM and Sirius satellite radio, and iPOD connection compatibility. If the TX-SR605 delivers what Onkyo promises, the bar would certainly be raised in terms of features and performance per dollar, and would certainly meet the needs of most mainstream home theater consumers. If you are planning to purchase a mid-range home theater receiver, the Onkyo TX-SR605 certainly deserves your attention.
When it comes to Home Theater Receivers, Denon is definitely a brand to check out. The AVR-2308 is a 7.1 channel home theater receiver that features Dolby Digital-EX, DTS, DTS-ES (matrix and discrete), Dolby Pro-Logic IIx, and DTS-Neo:6 processors as well as HDMI and HD-Component video connection switching, multi-zone expandability, Lip-synch adjustment, and XM-Radio compatibility. Also featured is analog to HDMI video conversion and the Audyssey automatic speaker setup system. Rounding out with a full 100WPC across seven channels, the AVR-2308 deserves to be at the heart of any home theater system.
This AV receiver is equipped with Dolby Digital-EX and DTS-ES decoding, HK's Logic 7, and 7-channel direct inputs. In addition, this unit has HDMI switching, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, Dolby Surround Headphone, and enough inputs and outputs for most user needs. Also included: XM Radio compatibility and USB input. Even though its 65WPC may seem modest, its high current design and low distortion (.07% THD) provides more than enough punch for average-sized rooms.
Yamaha's RX-V861 brings many high-end home theater receiver features down to a reasonable price. HDMI switching and upscaling provides extended video quality, as well as providing more efficient connection options. Also, despite additional emphasis on video features, audio performance has not been ingnored. This receiver performs well in both two-channel stereo and full surround sound modes. However, the RX-V861 does lack on-board decoding of the latest surround sound formats, Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD which some competitors are now offering at this same price point. For more details, check out my Short and Full Reviews. In addition, for a close-up look at the connections and features, check out my RX-V861 Photo Gallery
The Marantz SR5001 is a home theater offers loads of features AND great performance. Dolby Prologic IIx processing can expand any two-channel audio source into a full 7.1 channel sound field. The SR5001 also features Dolby Digital EX, DTS-ES, Circle Surround 6.1, HDCD decoding and Dolby Surround Headphone. In addition, this unit also also gives you component video upconversion from standard composite and S-video. Also included: XM Radio Tuner (Subscription Required) and HDMI video switching.
Sony's new ES line of Home Theater Receivers provide flexibility and great audio quality. The STR-DA3200ES is in the mid-range category, but offers practical features for your home theater, such as: 1080pHDMI Switching, analog to HDMI video conversion for composite, S-video, and Component Video input signals, a solid 120 WPC audio output with a .7% THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) level. In addition, the STR-DA3200ES is also XM-Satellite Radio Ready and also offers 2nd Zone capability. Sony has stepped up to the plate on this one, give it a listen.
Despite a modest 40WPC power output, the Harman Kardon AVR147 5.1 Channel Home Theater Receiver provides excellent sound performance in both stereo and surround sound modes. Also, with useful features, such as HDMI switching, iPod connectivity, XM Radio compatibility, and Automatic Speaker setup, the AVR-147 is a good fit for an entry-level home theater system. In addition, the AVR147 User Manual and Quick Setup Guide are one the best I have seen, with easy-to-view diagrams and easy-to-read text explanations. For more details, check out both my Full and Short Reviews and also my Harman Kardon AVR147 Photo Gallery.
With its moderate price and loads of features, HTR-6090 AV receiver is an excellent value. This unit is a 7.1 channel capable receiver that delivers 120WPC (RMS) via high-current amps. Three useful features are: Video Conversion, which allows mixing of Component/S-/composite video inputs/outputs; 1080p compatible HDMI inputs, Second Zone pre-outs (additional amplifier needed), and Audio Delay, for adjusting any DVD lipsynch issues. The HTR-6090 makes a great centerpiece for a home theater system.
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