How to Choose a Home Theater Receiver

Multifunctional Home Theater Receiver is a major component stereos. In one case AV (audio-visual) decoder device combined functions of the amplifier and switch. Through him, you are connecting with the management of the entire set of home audio and video equipment.

To make maximum use of all the possibilities the cinema after the purchase, pay attention to the types of equipment, connectors, number of channels, power, audio decoders and the ability to connect to mobile devices.

Manufacturers offer two basic types of such devices - the usual AV or combo DVD. Budget home theater kits are usually supplied with the models of the first species. Combined versions are more common within large home theaters. Structurally, they are combined in one housing the DVD player and AV receiver. Benefits of such combinations:

  • reduced number of wires;
  • ease of connection;
  • equipment management convenience.

input options

As another technique, the receiver has a front panel with controls and all connectors are usually located on the back side. Their abundance may initially be difficult, but the connection method is intuitive. With instruction can accurately determine the function of each connector. Among them, there are compounds such embodiments:

  • multiple HDMI inputs, which provide a comprehensive signal transmission of audio video and control commands;
  • component audio and video connectors (RCA) connector for three color-coded, are not inferior to the first signal quality;
  • a similar input on two tulip red and white;
  • under the same input one connector yellow;
  • input to the fiber optic connection;
  • SCART connector to transmit an analog signal;
  • one-component input for S-Video Broadcast signal.

In the selection of AV amplifier count all the audio and video devices to select the unit with the appropriate number of connectors.

It is important to pay attention to the HDMI contacts. Ideally, they should be enough to connect:

  • DVD player, it Bly Ray analogue;
  • TV receiver, a multimedia projector;
  • game boxes.

Number of audio inputs depends on the configuration of the speaker system, which can support multiple channels.

Multi-channel and power

Modern acoustic multi-channel system. From this characteristic it depends on the quality stereo sound, by which an effect of presence. It denoted by a combination of numbers, for example, in the embodiment of minimum 5 or 5.1. Number 5 indicates the number of speakers, and 1 - subwoofers.

The AV system is integrated power amplifiers. Usually, the more of them the better. But also keep in mind that excessive or insufficient power can badly affect the perception of acoustics. Pick up power based on floor space and features of the connected equipment.

For a room area of ​​20 squares configuration will suffice 5.1 with about 100 watts each column. For a more spacious premises and work together with players Bly Ray 5.1 some models will not be enough, it will take at least seven speakers (7.1). To equip a large room under the cinema is necessary to take a multi-channel model that will provide surround sound.

sound decoders

AV amplifier must support all existing standards. On this depends the quality of the acoustic effect of surround sound. Otherwise, playback and sound perception will be worse than the original version, and the signal correction decoders require the use of external devices.

Minimum requirement - Support for the two main standards DTS and Dolby Digital, which are typically used when recording video.

additional Features

Manufacturers AV amplifiers built into the possibility of equipment to maintain connectivity with mobile devices that can work with the home theater. These include:

  • computers, laptops;
  • tablets;
  • smartphones;
  • photo and video cameras.

There are several types of standards and compounds that provide content sharing between the AV receiver and the listed equipment.

DlnaSet of standards to support wired and wireless transfer of content
Wi-FiThe wireless data transmission, installed on most mobile devices
EthernetStandards that provide packet data coverage for computer networks
Internet radioTechnology packet of audio data for broadcast publishing
AirPlayWireless streaming of media content on the Apple iPhone and iPad
Smartphone controlApp to communicate with operating systems iOS and Android

Supports 3D and 4k

If the theater is used for viewing three-dimensional video, you need to amplifier supports 3D signals. And with the availability of 4K Pass-Through function can play movies in the new standard quality Ultra HD (4k) with high resolution.

Top Receivers

To select the receiver function of good quality, look at the recommendations of experts along with user reviews. Source for the choice would be a review of this technique. All models in the ranking of 2019 have positive feedback and are the manufacturers with a long track record.

Denon AVR-3100W

Home Theater Receiver Denon AVR-3100W

Seven-channel version with two subwoofers are connected. Designed by a famous Japanese manufacturer of electronics for domestic use and professional use.

It focused on demanding connoisseurs of high-quality acoustics. It supports all current audio formats. It has significant power - on one channel to 135 watts.

By the significant benefits include:

  • easy setup, management;
  • a full set of connections with mobile devices functions;
  • low price.

User comments entirely positive, shortcomings were noted.

Onkyo TX-NR737

Onkyo TX-NR737

The model is released under the Japanese brand that specializes in the development of home theater. Configured to quality seven-channel surround reproduction. For a good supply of bass provided by connecting a subwoofer pair. A high capacity per channel.

Pros:

  • support UltraHD standard;
  • wide wireless connectivity;
  • 2 HDMI connector.


Of cons mentioned problems with the coordination of the control channels and the bass.

Pioneer Elite VSX-80

Pioneer Elite VSX-80

Is a new line of amplifiers under the popular South Korean brand. Equipped with settings for seven channels connecting two subwoofers. Slightly inferior rivals in power, which does not affect the acoustic effect.

Advantages:

  • the presence of the full range of decoders for high-grade audio playback of any format;
  • HDMI connectors for 3D, as well as the standard high definition 4k;
  • It can work with many mobile devices.

Judging by the reviews and testimonials, there are no serious flaws.

Yamaha RX-V777BT

Yamaha RX-V777BT

Powerful seven-channel receiver is a popular Japanese brand. According to the operating parameters of the most tech model in the RX series. Provides high quality acoustics, expressed surround sound.

Benefits:

  • It supports wireless transmission of content over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
  • It provides the ability to play 3D, 4k;
  • The original technology allows you to place all the speakers in a single line without compromising the sound.

The main disadvantages associated with disabilities transmission of sound effects during gameplay.

These models belong to the middle price segment, but even they are impressive. For tight budgets, the best choice would be to receivers configuration settings 5.1, plus they are better adapted to the standard area of ​​urban apartments.