The Smart Av Receiver For 2024

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio
Image credit: Amazon.com

With smart TV becoming the latest trend, it’s only natural that smart AV receivers are following suit. Smart TVs have already made it possible to stream video and audio wirelessly from your home network. By linking a smart AV receiver with your TV, you can enjoy even more convenience with services like streaming music and movies online, or playing games on the big screen.

Smart AV receivers have advanced functionality that goes beyond what’s possible with traditional TV sets. They offer access to internet-based apps and multiroom streaming so you can easily entertain your guests while saving scarce space in your entertainment center. In this article we will discuss some of the best smart AV receiver models that are currently available on the market.

After spending 17 hours researching and assessing, our specialists have identified the models that would best meet your needs, particularly Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio. We've put up a buying guide as well as additional good alternatives to help you find the perfect one.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio
Our Score:
9.8
PIONEER
  • DOLBY ATMOS. Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer provides an immersive listening experience, creating a virtual surround and height effect without employing additional surround or height speakers. 5.1.2ch Dolby Atmos.
  • PERSONAL PRESET. Press the personal preset button on the front panel for three seconds and your current settings such as volume level and listening mode. Up to three presets can be registered and called up from the front panel button or remote control.
  • DTS:X PLAYBACK. Dolby Atmos and DTS:X is the next-generation audio codec from DTS that leverages object-based audio to enable new immersive and interactive audio experiences.
  • BLUETOOTH COMPATIBLE. Seamlessly connect your phone, tablet or PC and stream to the receiver with Bluetooth Wireless Technology. This smart receiver remembers your device and starts playback whenever it detects an incoming Bluetooth audio stream.
  • RANGE CONTROL. With this unique mid-range sound control feature, you can make independent volume adjustments to the range including dialogues in films, with the up/down key on the remote control.
  • 4K Ultra HD, HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision
  • 7.2 Channel Dolby Atmos, DTS:X (5.2.2 Channel) with Zone 2
  • 6 HDMI Inputs and 2 Outputs (Main with ARC, SUB)
  • Dynamic Audio Amplification with High-Current Low-Noise Power Transformer
  • Wacky Jacky Microfiber Cleaning Cloth Included
  • Smart AV Receiver with Spotify, Amazon Music, Pandora, Tidal, Deezer, TuneIn and Multi-Room Audio Technologies
  • Power Source Type: Corded Electric
  • SMART AVR. This is the heart of your home entertainment system. Access streaming content from Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer and TuneIn to share sound as part of a multi-room system.
  • FEATURES. Support for HDR (High Dynamic Range) video, 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, hlg, Dolby vision, BT.2020). Dynamic Audio Amplification (DAA) features a custom High-Current Low-Noise Power Transformer, customized capacitors and discrete amp output.
  • Wireless Communication Technology: AM/FM
  • DOLBY ATMOS. Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer provides an immersive listening experience, creating a virtual surround and height effect without employing additional surround or height speakers. 5.2.2-ch Dolby Atmos.
  • Connectivity Technology: USB
  • DTS PLAYBACK. Dolby Atmos and DTS formats provide advanced sound mapping so effects move from speaker to speaker around the room, wrapping in the films and games. You can also enjoy your 3D speaker layout with classic titles.
  • SONOS COMPATIBLE. This Onkyo receiver can join your existing Sonos Home Sound System, or start a new one, by pairing with a Sonos Connect. The AVR ties into the Sonos ecosystem, waking, changing inputs and playing at the desired volume from the Sonos app.
  • Included Components: Remote controller, AAA Batteries x 2
  • GOOGLE CHROMECAST. Cue, play, and control music playback by voice with your Google Assistant smart speaker. Control playback with Chromecast-enabled apps from your iPhone, iPad, Android phone or tablet, Mac or Windows laptop or Chromebook.
  • SMART AVR. This is the heart of your entertainment system. Stream from Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer and TuneIn to share sound as part of a multi-room system. Works with Sonos, Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, DTS Play-Fi and FlareConnect.
  • SONOS COMPATIBLE. This Onkyo receiver can join your existing Sonos Home Sound System, or start a new one, by pairing with a Sonos Connect. The AVR ties into the Sonos ecosystem, waking, changing inputs and playing at the desired volume from the Sonos app.
  • DTS ATMOS. Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer provides an immersive listening experience, creating a virtual surround and height effect. Dolby Atmos and DTS formats provide advanced sound mapping so effects move from speaker to speaker. 5.2.2-ch Dolby Atmos.
  • THX CERTIFIED SELECT. Take movie night to the next level. THX Certified Select guarantees the same reference volume level of a commercial theater in rooms where the viewing position is about 10–12 feet from the screen. 210 W/Ch THX Certified Select.
  • 5.2.2-Ch Dolby Atmos and DTS: x playback
  • Accueq with subwoofer EQ and accureflex
  • 250 watts Channel
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, hlg, Dolby vision, BT.2020)
  • Dolby Atmos height virtualize* and DTS virtual: x
  • 220 watts per Channel
  • Dolby Atmos height virtualize* and DTS virtual: x
  • Supports 4K/60p and HDR (HDR10, hlg, Dolby vision, BT.2020)
  • Accueq with subwoofer EQ and accureflex
  • 5.2.2-Ch Dolby Atmos and DTS: x playback
  • IMMERSIVE SOUND FROM YOUR TV APPS: eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) simplifies connectivity and supports the latest high–bitrate audio formats including Dolby Atmos, DTS–HD Master Audio, DTS: X, Dolby TrueHD.
  • ENHANCED GAMING: Own your opponents with HDMI 2.1 enhancements for gamers including 4K/120Hz HDR pass–through enables ultra–fast motion
  • QFT: Quick Frame Transport limits lag for a smoother experience.
  • AUTO LOW LATENCY MODE: ALLM optimizes latency from source to screen
  • VARIABLE REFRESH RATE: VRR eliminates lag, stutter, and frame–tearing for fluid gameplay.
  • Smart Connectivity: Stream music and use Bluetooth Standby turn on the receiver from your phone
  • Multi Function System: Enjoy a Multi Channel Stereo Setup, FM Radio Tuner and 1/4 Inches Headphone Jack
  • NOTE: Scroll down the catalog to find installation Manual and User Guide for trouble shooting steps.
  • In the box: Receivers include a calibration microphone, FM wire antenna, remote control, batteries
  • Dynamic Setup: 4 Stereo Rca Audio Inputs and 2 Digital Audio Outputs (1 Optical and 1 Coaxial)
  • Virtual Front Surround: S Force PRO delivers virtual surround sound with only a 2 speaker setup
  • Cinematic Sound at Home: Enjoy your favorite movies, TV shows and more with theater like sound in the comfort of your home
  • GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR 4K TV - Enjoy the highest quality 3D audio and video knowing that the AVR-S960H is 8K READY WHEN YOU ARE. This high-power amplifier meets the most demanding entertainment needs with the latest technology available
  • 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)
  • 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
  • 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
  • *Does not support pass-through from all 4K/120Hz media sources
  • UNMATCHED 3D REALISM FOR YOUR HOME THEATER SYSTEM – Enjoy Immersive surround sound with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization & DTS Virtual:X and crisp, clean picture with advanced video processing, 8K/60Hz, and 4K/120Hz* pass-through
  • 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
  • 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
  • Support for most voice assistants (Google, Alexa and Siri)
  • 6 HDMI inputs / 1 HDMI 2.1 output / Phono input
  • 8K UDH, HDCP 2.3, HDR10+, HDR, Dolby Vision, 4k/120 & VRR, eArc
  • UNPRECEDENTED REALISM AND NEW FEATURES – eARC and heightened sound effects with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology. Be it the sound of a helicopter or torrential rains, it’ll sound so real, you'll think it's happening right above you
  • 3 dedicated HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8k up scaling on all inputs
  • 7.2 channel, 75w (2 channel driven)
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a smart av receiver?

Buyers are frequently hesitant to purchase smart av receiver. Certain factors should be considered while making a significant purchase. Our understanding and expertise with smart av receiver will assist you in making the right decisions.

Please take the following points into consideration before selecting smart av receiver:

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%.

Network Connectivity And Internet Streaming

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.

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.

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.

Supported Media Formats

Each receiver includes a pair of audio decoders to decode the audio it receives from different sources. Receivers support Dolby Digital and DTS files, while newer receivers can support Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD. These decoders should be included in amplifier receivers.

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.

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.

AirPlay Compatibility

AirPlay compatibility can be found in many of the newer receiver models. This technology allows you to stream music wirelessly from your iOS devices (iPhone/iPad/iPod touch) and digital apps such as Pandora directly to the receiver. [source: Moskovciak].
AirPlay is worth it if you have most of your music stored on these devices. You can save money if you don't like the nostalgia, comfort and character of vinyl music, or if you have lots of music on tape or CD, then skip AirPlay.

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.

Auto-calibration Capabilities

While wiring up the home theater system is easy, calibrating it so it sounds good can be difficult. Calibration is the process of setting the speakers at the correct volume level so that the whole setup works well with your furniture. A few amplifiers come with an automatic calibration feature that requires you to position a microphone exactly where you would normally sit. After sending test tones, the amplifier analyzes how each speaker sounds. The amplifier then adjusts the volume and setting until everything sounds normal. You can also adjust the volume and settings manually if necessary.

FAQs

What Is The Best Way To Use A/V Receivers With Turntables?

Yes, as long as the turntable has phono input. To boost the low signal coming from your turntable, a preamp will be needed. For entry-level models, preamps are quite inexpensive.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Does An AV Receiver Need An Amplifier?

No. A AV receiver can be equipped with an amplifier that will power your speakers.

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.

We constantly update the list of smart av receiver as new data becomes available. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our website regularly.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any queries or concerns with smart av receiver. If you ask, we'll do our hardest to help you in any way we can!


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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.