The AV receiver is a crucial piece of equipment when designing a home theatre system. The AV receiver is the nerve center of your home theatre system, handling the distribution of audio and video to the various components.
While 7.1 or 9.2 channel receivers are more common, a 5 channel receiver might be a good choice for those with limited space or a tighter budget.
With all of the features that are typical of a contemporary AV receiver, you can be rest assured that the sound quality will be excellent.
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However, you may pick from a variety of brands and price ranges; the question is, which one is ideal for you?
In this article, we’ll examine several top-tier 5 channel AV receivers, discussing their salient features and specs, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each.
Whether your interests lie in film or music, we have a home theatre receiver that will suit them both.
Denon AVR-S660H
When it comes to home theatre and music, the Denon AVR-S660H stands out as a strong and flexible AV receiver. The AVR-S660H is, first and foremost, a 7.2-channel receiver that allows for 4K UHD video pass-through and HDR support, as well as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D audio format support.
The AVR-S660H stands out due to the use of HEOS technology, which enables the user to stream music from their own collection or from major streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, and Pandora. The HEOS app, designed for both Apple and Google smartphones, allows you to easily manage your music library and streaming preferences on the go.
In addition to its many internal connections, the AVR-S660H has a USB connector for attaching external storage devices and eight HDMI inputs and two outputs. The receiver also features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for cordless connectivity and operation.
The AVR S660H’s -140W per channel amplifier is more than capable of powering even the largest and most demanding speakers. Also included in the receiver is Denon’s state-of-the-art audio processing technology, which allows for things like multi-channel stereo and virtual surround sound settings.
If you want a single AV receiver that can handle your home theatre needs as well as your music streaming needs, the Denon AVR-S660H is a great option. It’s an excellent complement to any home theatre setup thanks to its large variety of functions and capabilities and its sleek, user-friendly design.
The lack of integrated support for AirPlay 2 and eARC is a drawback of the AVR-S660H. You might wish to consider a different model if these are characteristics you require.
Since the AVR-S660H is a middle-tier model in Denon’s lineup, it lacks the high-end features and capabilities of the AVR-X4700H and the AVR-X6700H, such as superior room correction and more potent amplifiers. The AVR-S660H may not have every bell and whistle, but for the vast majority of people, it will be more than enough.
In conclusion, the Denon AVR-S660H is a robust and flexible AV receiver that caters to movie and music lovers both with a wide variety of functions and settings. It’s a great option for anyone wishing to enhance their home entertainment system because to its high quality sound, numerous connections, and built-in HEOS technology.
Yamaha RX-V385
The Yamaha RX-V385 is a 5.1-channel audio/video receiver loaded with options for movie and music lovers alike. The RX-notable V385’s feature is the Yamaha Cinema DSP technology that comes preinstalled in it, allowing for superior audio processing and a more immersive surround sound experience. It also works with both traditional stereo and virtual surround sound configurations for a total of eight possible channels.
The RX-V385’s ability to deliver high-quality sound in a space-saving, cost-effective design is a major selling point. The receiver’s 100W per channel amplifier is more than adequate for driving even the largest and most demanding of speakers. The RX-ability V385’s to pass over 4K UHD video and HDR support ensures the highest possible picture quality when utilised with a suitable TV and source.
The RX-V385 has an abundance of inputs and outputs, including four HDMI and a single output, as well as a USB connector for attaching external storage devices. Additionally, the receiver features Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for wireless audio streaming and management. Yamaha has released an app for both iOS and Android devices called the AV Controller, which allows you to easily adjust your audio and video settings on the go.
The RX-V385 is intended to be used with minimal training thanks to its clear on-screen menus and friendly remote. You may customise the sound to your environment and speakers with the help of the receiver’s automated speaker calibration technology.
The lack of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support hinders the RX-potential V385’s to create a genuinely immersive surround sound experience. Some users may also miss the RX-built-in V385’s support for AirPlay 2 and eARC.
If you want a tiny and reasonably priced AV receiver that can handle both home theatre and music streaming, the Yamaha RX-V385 is a great option. It’s a great option for anyone wishing to update their home theatre due to its high-quality sound, numerous connections, and built-in Yamaha Cinema DSP technology.
To sum up, the Yamaha RX-V385 is an excellent option for individuals seeking a cheap AV receiver that does not sacrifice sound quality. It supports High Dynamic Range (HDR), has 4K UHD video pass-through, and comes with a 100W amplifier per channel. Because of its built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, wirelessly streaming music is a breeze. Mobile operation is made simple with the Yamaha AV Controller app. Though it lacks compatibility for high-end formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X as well as AirPlay 2 and eARC, it is still an excellent buy for the money.
Marantz NR1510
The Marantz NR1510 is a 5.2-channel receiver with built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for wireless streaming as well as compatibility for 4K UHD video pass-through and high dynamic range. The 50W per channel amplifier and cutting-edge audio processing technology are just two of its many impressive features. The latter allows for things like multi-channel stereo and virtual surround sound modes.
The NR1510’s modest footprint is one of its defining characteristics, making it ideal for cramped quarters. It boasts an intuitive design, with a straightforward on-screen menu and a straightforward remote control.
The NR1510 provides many ports and outputs for external devices, including six HDMI inputs and a single HDMI output, in addition to a USB input for connecting internal and external hard drives. The Marantz 2016 AVR Remote app, which allows for convenient control from your mobile device, is compatible with the receiver and supports major streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, and Pandora.
The NR1510 isn’t perfect because it doesn’t support high-end audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. However, it still provides a solid foundation for a satisfying surround sound experience. However, eARC, a technology that enables high-quality audio transmission through HDMI, is not natively supported by the NR1510.
All things considered, the Marantz NR1510 is a great option for anyone in the market for a compact, yet potent AV receiver that can handle both home theatre and music streaming with ease. It’s an outstanding alternative for anyone wishing to enhance their home entertainment system thanks to its small size, high-quality sound, and flexible connection choices.
Yamaha RX-V4A
The RX-V4A’s ability to decode high-end audio formats like Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and MusicCast Surround stands out. These formats are responsible for creating a genuinely immersive surround sound experience. It also features built-in support for voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, letting you command your AV receiver and other supported smart home devices with your voice alone.
Large and demanding speakers will have no trouble being powered by the RX-125W V4A’s per channel amplifier. When utilised with a 4K UHD TV and an HDR-capable source, the receiver’s support for both of these features ensures the highest possible picture quality.
The RX-V4A features a multitude of inputs and outputs allowing various devices to communicate with one another, including eight HDMI inputs and two outputs and a USB connector for connecting external storage devices. Additionally, the receiver features Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for wireless audio streaming and management. Yamaha has released an app for both iOS and Android devices called the AV Controller, which allows you to easily adjust your audio and video settings on the go.
The audio quality of your movies and music can be improved with the RX-powerful V4A’s audio processing technology, which includes features like multi-channel stereo and virtual surround sound modes.
Without native AirPlay 2 functionality, the RX-V4A may be a dealbreaker for some consumers. The RX-V4A also has inferior sound quality compared to more expensive Yamaha receivers.
When looking for a powerful and flexible AV receiver that can handle both home theatre and music streaming with ease, the Yamaha RX-V4A is a great option. It’s a great option for anyone wishing to enhance their home entertainment system because to its wide range of connectivity choices, high quality sound, and built-in support for voice control.
Onkyo TX-SR393
The Onkyo TX-SR393 is essentially a 7.2-channel receiver that allows for 4K UHD video pass-through and HDR support in addition to Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding.
The TX-SR393’s built-in AccuEQ room calibration technology, which monitors your listening environment and makes adjustments to the sound to make it sound its best, is one of its most notable features. When you do this, your speakers will sound great no matter where you put them.
The TX-SR393 has a tonne of inputs and outputs, including six HDMI inputs and one HDMI output, plus a USB connector for hooking up external storage. Additionally, the receiver features Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for wireless audio streaming and management. The Onkyo Controller app is compatible with both Apple and Google smartphones, allowing you to easily adjust your home theater’s audio and video settings from anywhere.
The TX-SR393 is a high-performance receiver that features a 100W per channel amplifier, more than enough power to drive even the largest and most demanding speakers. Multiple stereo channels and simulated surround sound formats are just two examples of Onkyo’s cutting-edge audio processing technology, which is included into the receiver’s design.
The on-screen menu and remote control of the TX-SR393 are both minimalist and straightforward. It’s also quite tiny, so it won’t take up too much room in tight quarters.
The TX-SR393 is lacking in some respects because to its lack of native support for AirPlay 2 and eARC. You may wish to consider a different model if these are qualities that are crucial to you. Some may also find the TX-SR393 unsuitable because it lacks the power of more expensive Onkyo receivers.
The Onkyo TX-SR393 is a wonderful alternative for anyone in the market for a high-powered, highly flexible AV receiver that will handle both home theatre and music streaming with equal aplomb.
With its high-tech audio processing, plethora of connection choices, and AccuEQ room calibration technology, this receiver is a great pick for anyone wishing to update their home theatre. Its modest size and modern aesthetic make it a wonderful addition to cramped quarters.
Conclusion
If you’re working with a limited budget or limited space, a 5-channel AV receiver may be the best solution for you. This article reviews several different types of receivers, each of which can improve your home theatre experience in various ways. These receivers offer a wide range of features, from in-built room calibration to high-definition video pass-through and high dynamic range support to voice control compatibility.
You can’t go wrong with the Yamaha RX-V385, Marantz NR1510, or Onkyo TX-SR393 if you need a tiny and reasonably priced AV receiver that can handle both home theatre and music streaming. If you’re searching for a powerful and versatile receiver that’s capable of decoding high-end audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, your best bets are the Yamaha RX-V4A and the Denon AVR-S660H.
All of these receivers are excellent choices, but each has their own advantages and disadvantages to consider. Before making a final choice, think about which features and functionalities are most important to you. An excellent 5 channel AV receiver may completely transform your home theatre setup, allowing you to take your listening and viewing pleasure to the next level.
