The 10 Best Streaming Receiver, Tested And Researched

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Auris Blume HD Long Range Bluetooth 5.0 Music Receiver
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Overall: Auris Blume HD Long Range Bluetooth 5.0 Music Receiver

This Hi-Fi receiver streams the highest quality audio wirelessly from your phone, tablet, or computer to any home stereo system. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: BluDento True Hi-Fi aptX HD Bluetooth 5.0 Music Receiver

This premium device features CSR8675 streaming technology and supports a range of audio formats, including aptX HD and aptX Low Latency. Read Review

3. Best Space-Saving: iFi Zen Blue V2 HiFi Bluetooth 5.0 Receiver

This receiver has a digital output which allows it to work with anything with a digital input, such as TV's, AV amps and external DACs in your hi-fi set up. Read Review

4. Best Connectivity: Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Stereo Network Streamer

This unit is a stunningly good streamer, delivering the convenience of digital audio without compromising audio quality. Read Review

The streaming receiver is the centerpiece of your home video setup. It’s what allows you to stream all your content from a variety of different sources directly to your TV. Without one, you can’t access any streaming services, apps, or online videos and your viewing experience may be lukewarm at best.

There are many streaming receivers on the market, and they’re not all created equal. Some have better specs than others and some support more features. To help you sort through them all, we've compiled an informative list of some of the best streaming receivers.

Along with the compact and small construction, our winner, the Auris Blume HD Long Range Bluetooth 5.0 Music Receiver, is equipped with a built-in digital-to-analog converter that reproduces the best sound for digital content. If you prefer a more high-tech and high-end model, then no worries, because our list got plenty of them.

Our Top Picks

  • STUNNING HIGH QUALITY AUDIO: Featuring the latest Bluetooth 5.0 and support for Qulacomm aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, aptX and AAC decoding, bluMe HD adds high definition Bluetooth to any home stereo system.
  • DIGITAL & ANALOG CONNECTIVITY: bluMe HD provides ultimate compatibility with your stereo equipment with Analog RCA and Digital Optical SPIDIF outputs. Also compatible with AUX inputs with included RCA to AUX cable.
  • BEST-IN-CLASS SOUND: Built-in true Hi-Fi 384kHz/32-bit upsampling Audiophile Digital to Analogue Converter DAC allows bluMe HD to decode and play audio files in all their lossless glory.
  • UPGRADE YOUR EXISTING STEREO SYSTEM: bluMe HD is a premium Hi-Fi Bluetooth adapter that streams the highest quality audio wirelessly from your phone, tablet or computer to any home stereo system. Easy setup, connects in seconds.
  • LONG RANGE BLUETOOTH: Employs special circuitry and precision-tuned antenna to extend the wireless range to up to 100+ feet, providing glitch-free performance that works through multiple walls.
TOP Choice #2 BluDento True Hi-Fi aptX HD Bluetooth 5.0 Music Receiver
Our Score:
9.5
BluDento
  • ✅ Rediscover Your Old Speakers: BluDento BLT-HD is HiFi Bluetooth DAC Receiver supports aptX HD which can stream high quality music from Bluetooth enabled cellphone, pc or tablet to any of your home stereo systems. Plug and Play, super easy to use.
  • ✅ Bluetooth Version 5.0: BluDento Bluetooth DAC is featuring Bluetooth v5.0 CSR8675 chipset which is a premium solution delivering high quality wireless audio performance and supporting for aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, aptX, AAC and SBC decoding.
  • ✅ Flexible Output Connectivity: Supports both analog ( L/R RCA / 3.5MM AUX ) and digital ( Optical TOSLINK + SPDIF Coaxial ) outputs, provides wide compatibility with your existing stereo equipment.
  • ✅ Audiophile Grade DAC: Features TI PCM5102A DAC which is a high performance 32bit / 384kHz PCM data, 2CH audio D/A converter targeted for audiophile grade portable applications, a high level that will satisfy the most demanding audio enthusiasts. 2.1VRMS MAX RCA output level.
  • ✅ Enhanced Long Range: Utilizing CLASS 1 Bluetooth technology and designed with external gain antenna. BluDento Bluetooth DAC Receiver can achieve a range of up to 100ft. Kindly be noted that Operation Range can be affected by many factors such as physical obstructions like walls, metal obstacles. And also depended on Bluetooth source devices.
TOP Choice #3 iFi Zen Blue V2 HiFi Bluetooth 5.0 Receiver
Our Score:
9.4
IFi
  • ✅ UPGRADED - The latest version of the ZEN Blue, featuring an updated Jitter Clock with over 20dB performance and an improved aerial with 80% more reach.
  • ✅ HIGH RESOLUTION AUDIO - With CD quality aptX HD AAC Bluetooth up to 24 bits / 192 kbps you will experience higher quality audio than standard Bluetooth Without the drop in quality your music will have better definition and clarity
  • ✅ DIGITAL OUTPUT - Use the optical and coaxial or SPDIF connections to connect to anything with a built in DAC and corresponding digital input; your TV, an AV amp or external DAC in your hi-fi set-up
  • ✅ EASY BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY - The latest Qualcomm 5100 series Bluetooth (only input) DAC supports Bluetooth 5.0TM in all current and future formats such as AAC, aptX, aptX HD, LDAC, HWA Codec. Easily stream your favorite music in CD quality to your system from your smart phone, laptop, DAP, or any device that transmits Bluetooth. Control your music with your favorite music app, sit back and relax
  • ✅ ANALOG OUTPUT - For an easy upgrade connect via single-ended RCA to an amp or active speakers or via 4.4mm output to amp / speakers with a balanced output
4 Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Stereo Network Streamer
Our Score:
9.2
Cambridge Audio
  • ✓ STUNNING SOUND QUALITY - The convenience of digital audio without compromising audio quality. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2) lets you enjoy the effortless accessibility of digital audio and also appreciate the sonic excellence that Cambridge delivers.
  • ✓ POWER TO TRANSFORM YOUR DIGITAL EXPERIENCE - Dual Wolfson WM8740 DACs (premium digital to analogue converters) give music more detail and warmth. Hear musical nuances that you’ve never noticed in songs that you’ve listened to a thousand times.
  • ✓ ADVANCED UNSAMPLING FOR CLEANER AUDIO – Cambridge Audio’s advanced Adapted Time Filter 2 (ATF2) technology upsamples all incoming digital audio sources into a 24-bit/384kHz signal, which helps resolve very fine detail.
  • ✓ WIRED OR WIRELESS CONNECTIVITY - Via wired (Ethernet) or wireless (WiFi dongle), connect to your home network for Internet Radio, online music services, AirPlay, and music libraries stored on your computer.
  • ✓ MUSIC ANY WAY YOU WANT IT – With the CXN (V2) network streamer, pick from the sources you use daily – Spotify, Google Play, Pandora, Apple AirPlay 2, or other internet radio channels.
  • BRILLIANT WIRELESS AUDIO: Featuring support for the state-of-the-art Sony LDAC audio codec, Qualcomm aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, aptX and AAC decoding, bluMe Pro adds the highest quality Bluetooth audio to any home stereo system.
  • VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY & EXTENDED WIRELESS RANGE: Featuring Analog RCA and both Digital output options - Digital Optical and Digital Coaxial, bluMe Pro is designed ultimate compatibility with audio systems of all types, for true high resolution audio. Utilizes special circuitry and external gain antenna to extend the wireless range to up to 30meters / 100+ feet, providing glitch-free performance that works through multiple walls.
  • AUDIOPHILE QUALITY DIGITAL SOUND: Employs a very high performance audiophile-grade ESS Sabre upsampling 32-bit/384kHz digital-to-analogue converter (DAC) that allows bluMe Pro to decode audio files and provide a lossless audio experience. bluMe Pro Also adopts a high-performance Cirrus Logic digital audio conversion chip that efficiently encodes the Bluetooth audio signal to high quality digital optical & coaxial signal outputs.
  • MODERNIZE YOUR GOOD OLD HIFI STEREO: bluMe Pro is an audiophile quality premium HiFi Bluetooth audio adapter that adds high definition Bluetooth connectivity to any vintage home stereo system, AV receiver or powered speakers. Simple setup, connect bluMe Pro in seconds to your music system and stream Hi-Res audio wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet or computer.
  • PREMIUM ALUMINUM DESIGN WITH OLED DISPLAY: Encased in premium anodized aluminum housing, the sleek and compact bluMe Pro is a premium product that also encomposes a 1.3-inch OLED screen that intuitively displays information like Bluetooth connection status, audio codec, sampling rate, song name and more. *Please note: This device is not a transmitter.
6 Yamaha R-N602 Network Hi-Fi Receiver
Our Score:
9.0
Yamaha Audio
  • Works with Alexa for voice control (Alexa device sold separately)
  • DSD 2.8 MHz / 5.6 MHz, FLAC / WAV / AIFF 192 kHz / 24 bit, Apple Lossless 96 kHz / 24 bit playback
  • Music Cast wireless multi room audio support, built in Bluetooth, Wi Fi, Wireless Direct, Airplay, Pandora, Rhapsody, Spotify, SiriusXM Internet Radio music streaming services
  • Digital audio inputs for TV or Blu ray Disc players along with a Phono input (MM)
  • Front panel USB connection for digital docking with iPod / iPhone and USB flash drives. Continuously Variable Loudness Control
  • Top ART sound quality design with high quality parts and Pure Direct for greater sound purity
7 Denon DRA-800H 2-Channel Stereo Network Receiver
Our Score:
8.8
Denon
  • HI-RES AUDIO PLAYBACK – Listen to your favorite tracks stored on a memory device via the USB port on the front panel, or through network sources. Also, connect your turntable to the speakers or amp via the integrated phono input and MM equalizer
  • HIGH-PERFORMANCE DISCRETE 2-CHANNEL AMP – Feel the power & hear every audio detail with this ultra-stylish & powerful receiver (100W per channel at 8 ohms) that offers greater stability with a wide range of speakers & delivers balanced sound each time.
  • ENJOY MULTI-ROOM STREAMING – Built-in HEOS technology allows you to playback music through any popular streaming service such as Pandora, Spotify, Amazon Prime Music and others via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or AirPlay 2 in one room and more simultaneously
  • ADVANCED HDMI VIDEO SECTION FOR A STUNNING CINEMATIC EXPERIENCE – Features full 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub sampling, HDR10, HLG, and BT.2020 pass-through. Watch your favorite movies & shows with exceptional color, clarity and contrast.
  • VOICE CONTROL COMPATIBILITY WITH ALL MAJOR VOICE AGENTS – Change audio tracks, control volume, switch inputs, and play & pause music with your voice. Just command Alexa, Siri, and other leading voice agents or any smart home automation systems
  • With its 100-year legacy & Japanese precision technology, Denon BRINGS PURITY OF SOUND AND JOY TO YOUR LIVES. Immerse yourself in multi-dimensional audio & sensational surround sound with this amplifier for an unmatched home theater & entertainment system
  • EXPERT SOUND ENGINEERING – Denon’s experience in designing award-winning amplifiers and their use of Hi-Fi parts, custom resistors, audio grade capacitors, a double differential DAC circuit and analog preamp circuits deliver a superior sound experience
8 Marantz M-CR612 Network CD Receiver
Our Score:
8.7
Marantz
  • BLUETOOTH, Wi-Fi & AIRPLAY 2 ENABLED STREAMING – Listen to your favorite tracks on Pandora, Spotify or SiriusXM, watch videos on YouTube or Netflix, or simply tune in to any Internal Radio Station from around the world to enjoy unlimited hours of playback
  • ALL NEW VOICE-SUPPORT FUNCTIONALITY – Just say the commands out loud to any major voice agent including AMAZON ALEXA, GOOGLE ASSISTANT OR APPLE SIRI and play music, change tracks, turn the volume up or switch inputs hands-free
  • MULTI-ROOM CONNECTIVITY WITH HEOS – The Digital Audio Amplifier technology allows you to configure a pair of speakers in one room or two sets of speakers in two separate rooms with independent volume control
  • FULL OF FEATURES, YET SO EASY TO USE – Start using this player the moment you unbox it. Simply plug it to an audio source and enjoy full dynamic range digital audio playback of your favorite movies and TV shows
  • UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY – This Network CD Player includes 2 Optical Digital Inputs to connect your set-top box, Blu-Ray, DVD Player & more so you can enjoy full dynamic range digital audio playback through various sources
  • ONE-STOP SOLUTION FOR TODAY'S DIGITAL MUSIC NEEDS – An all-in-one audio receiver (60W x 2 or 30W x 4 channels), disc player for WMA/MP3 (CD-R/RW), AM/FM Tuner, & network streamer. Enjoy Hi-Fi LISTENING WITH EXCEPTIONAL AUDIO DETAILING
9 Marantz NR1510 UHD AV Receiver
Our Score:
7.3
Marantz
  • This 5 CHANNEL DISCRETE POWER AMPLIFIER (50W per channel) boasts 6 HDMI inputs and 1 output, full HDCP 2.2 support for copy protection - a must-buy for your home entertainment and speaker system
  • HANDS-FREE OPERATIONS – Command your favorite voice control agent - Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple Siri - to STREAM UNLIMITED MUSIC using popular services like Spotify, TuneIn, Netflix and more via Built-in HEOS, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
  • At 4-inches tall, this 5.2 channel stereo receiver is A COMPLETE HOME ENTERTAINMENT BOX LOADED WITH FEATURES. Connect all your audio sources, enjoy wireless streaming, plug your USB drives or play vinyls using the MM phono preamp – it’s got it all
  • EASY-TO-UNDERSTAND & USER-FRIENDLY SETUP ASSISTANT comes with an ADVANCED GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE that guides you through the step-by-step process and connects all your audio sources to the stereo amplifier receiver
  • ULL COMPATIBILITY WITH 4K ULTRA HD TV – Featuring 60Hz full-rate content, pure color sub-sampling, BT.2020, HDR, HLG, eARC & Dolby Vision, enjoy an IMPACTFUL HOME THEATER EXPERIENCE with EXCEPTIONAL PICTURE QUALITY & A THRILLING SURROUND SOUND
  • MULTI-ROOM AUDIO TECHNOLOGY – With the HEOS Home Entertainment App, play the same song in every room, or a different one in each room. Connect all your HEOS speakers to the app and get full control everywhere in your home
  • EXTEND THE REACH OF YOUR MUSIC to any room in the house via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2 or Bluetooth with HEOS MULTI-ROOM WIRELESS SPEAKERS like the Denon Home series, without any extra hardware. Get Hi-Fi audio around your home with Pandora, Spotify, TuneIn & more
  • FULL VOICE CONTROL COMPATIBILITY WITH ALEXA, and other major voice agents like Siri, so you can adjust the volume, change tracks & switch inputs absolutely hands-free. Seamlessly integrates with popular home automation systems for remote monitoring
  • CONNECT WITH ANY HD/ULTRA HD TV, SUBWOOFER, BLU-RAY PLAYER & TURNTABLE FOR INCREDIBLE STEREO SOUND – USB, 8 HDMI ports (6 In/ 2 Out) with HDCP 2.3 processing, Digital In, Phono input & Network support with a range of wireless connections
  • GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR 4K TV – Enjoy the highest quality 3D audio and video knowing that the AVR-X2700H is 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier meets the most demanding entertainment needs with the latest technology available
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz pass-through
  • AWARD-WINNING ON-SCREEN SETUP ASSISTANT provides simple, clear instructions to connect your TV, & Audyssey MultEQ XT (with 2 preset options) that accurately calibrates all speakers in your home setup & tunes the AVR for an optimal listening experience
  • ENJOY THE MOST ADVANCED VIDEO TECHNOLOGY AVAILABLE with Dynamic HDR and HDR10+. This 7.2 channel receiver delivers clarity, contrast & color, & Quick Media Switching eliminates video delay
  • Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • NEXT GEN GAMING – Enjoy a smooth, lag-free gaming experience with spectacular imaging, reduced lag & frame tearing with 4K/120Hz pass-through, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

A Simple Way To Choose The best streaming receiver For You

Would you like to know how to select the best streaming receiver to purchase in 2024? We have a straightforward solution for you. First, consider your own requirements. For instance, should you need something that could be used during workouts, look for products that are made of high-quality materials and are resistant to water.

Consider the price range next. Some people prefer low prices, while others prefer to invest additional money on better quality items, so weigh both choices once making a decision.

Eventually, reading reviews is a simple way to select the best streaming receiver to buy. Please read our research below before purchasing anything and follow that guide to select your best streaming receiver.

Multi-zone Audio Feature

Some models of amplifier-receivers support the ability to use one or more speakers in a different room. Some receivers can support multiple zones while others allow you to play different sources simultaneously in two rooms. One person may enjoy surround sound in their living room while another can listen to music through the speakers connected to the receiver. If you want to enjoy a great audio experience in your bedroom and living room, but don't have the budget to purchase two speakers systems or amplifiers to achieve it, this feature will be a huge help.

Interface

If you don't know how to use your high-tech receiver, it is useless. A well-designed receiver panel that is easy to navigate can make the difference between having high quality sound and picture quality or having your costly system go stale because it's difficult to get on. It's important that you use the receiver display panel to navigate and learn all functions. A graphical interface is the screen that allows users to set up the receiver and operate it. The viewer must display song information and album art when AirPlay is used.

Power

Power is not simply another term for volume, it's also measured in Watts. This also affects the receiver's ability deliver dynamic and detailed sound. A high-wattage receiver produces better sound quality, regardless of the volume.

Inputs And Outputs

This is because the device has more outputs and inputs than it can handle. A receiver might accept audio signals from a television via the input, and then send them via an out to speakers. There should be enough outputs and inputs for all your equipment. You can also have a few more in case of expansion.

Total Harmonic Distortion

THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) is the measurement of how much distortion the sound produces. THD can be measured as a percentage. It is the amount of deviation from the original signal. THD is a measure of distortion. The higher the THD the more beneficial. THD is a norm in most receiver amplifiers, and it should be below 0.1%.

Calibration

Audio-video beginners will find it difficult to set up an entertainment system in their home.
Automatic speaker calibration is an option on many receivers that makes it easier to calibrate the speakers. The receiver sends test sounds to each speaker and subwoofer, and monitors the sound with a microphone. This allows it to determine the size of the speaker, to measure distance between the speaker and the listener, and to check that the connections are correct. This technology is compatible with surround sound as well as traditional 2-channel home entertainment systems.

Network Connectivity

Some receivers come with both wired or wireless network support. You can either connect them to your router using an Ethernet cable, or Wi-Fi. You can stream media from any device connected to the same network, such as laptops and smartphones. AirPlay will only work with Apple devices. It is not compatible with other AV receivers. If you live in a house where everyone uses Apple devices, make sure that the model supports AirPlay.

FAQs

What Is The Difference Between An AV Receiver And An Amplifier?

An integrated amplifier that includes a preamplifier as well as a power amp in one box is called an AV receiver. It is also known as a receiver. It could be called an amplifier.
A receiver can be described as an integrated amplifier and a tuner that receives AM/FM radio signal. Technically speaking, an AV amplifier should not be used if it doesn't include a tuner. An AV receiver can be used, but it is still a common term.

What Is The Difference Between A Stereo Receiver And A Surround Sound Receiver?

Stereo receivers have two channels, and can be used to play stereo audio. Surround sound receivers have five channels or more and can connect to surround sound speakers.
To get surround sound, most people desire surround sound speakers. Stereo amplifiers can be used to enhance the sound quality in your home.

Is An A/V Receiver Good For Gaming?

You might find it possible, particularly if surround sound is important for immersive gaming. Before you purchase, make sure it supports the most recent standards, such as Dolby Atmos (one of the newer HDMI standards), and HDR compatibility. You can also find features like Auto Low Latency Mode and Variable Refresh rate support on the Denon AVRX4700H. While an A/V receiver doesn't need to be used for gaming, it is a great addition if surround sound is important.

Which A/V Receivers Are Better For Music Or Movies?

No. Music can reveal more about sound quality and character than movies soundtracks. Those who listen to music may prefer one brand over another.

Does An AV Receiver Improve Video Quality?

Advanced video processing abilities can be found in some AV receivers that improve image quality. The best performance is only possible with high-end, expensive models.
Even if your receiver is not high-end, modern televisions are equipped with excellent video processing algorithms, which will produce a stunning picture, regardless of source.

What Is The Difference Between 5.2 And 7.2 Receivers?

Five surround sound speakers can be connected to a 5.2 receiver, as well as two subwoofers. For the surround sound speakers, there are five options: front left, front right and center.
Seven channels are available for surround sound speakers, and two subwoofer channels. A 7.2 receiver can handle both. The 7.2 speaker arrangement is identical to a standard 5.1 setup, with two additional surround sound speakers at the back and one more in the back.

What Is Upconverting In An AV Receiver?

You connect the player to the receiver with one type of connection and expect that the receiver will output the video using another type.
You might, for example, connect an analog DVD player to the receiver and ask it to transmit this via HDMI.
Only the most expensive receivers are capable of upconverting different video inputs to HDMI output. You will need to transmit the component video signal through a component attached to the receiver if the receiver is unable to upconvert.

Conclusion

We hope this blog has provided you with useful information about selecting the best streaming receiver to buy. If you're still unsure, consider why you're purchasing a product in the first place.

Here you can select the Cambridge Audio Azur 851N Hi-Fi All-in-One Receiver if you are unable to select one of the available items above. Consider whether any of our suggestions aided you in deciding which products to purchase. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time!


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.