Guide to choosing a receiver: a step towards high-quality sound, article. Portal “www.hifinews.ru”

An AV receiver is the heart of a home media system, equipment that can connect together all the devices of a modern home: sound amplifier, TV, media player, game console, computer, smartphone and even vinyl player. Modern receivers are equipped with the functions necessary for high-quality listening to music.

So if you think that this device for receiving and transmitting sound is purely for professional “sound engineers,” then you are mistaken. Although techies will definitely appreciate it, they are not the only ones. Audio-video receivers are conventionally classified as Hi-Fi equipment and are designed to decode a multi-channel digital signal. Essentially, this is a multi-channel amplifier that has an expanded set of functionality.

A simple example: you have cable TV, but the sound is absent or very poor, because your TV or home theater “does not see” the scale format or reproduces it incorrectly. The AV receiver easily solves this problem - it copes with any formats. Most AV receivers have Dolby Digital decoders and at least one S/PDIF digital input for connecting sources with digital output, as well as the latest DTS decoders.

At the same time, the track is “read” with unsurpassed sound quality. Some models of receivers, like an equalizer, can imitate a concert hall or stadium. And also create cinema-quality surround sound, it all depends on the model - budget or premium. Moreover, a premium receiver is able to adapt to the surrounding reality and create the ideal sound for a particular room.

Finally, the AV receiver can be used as an audio amplifier. Audio and video transmission is carried out via digital interfaces (for example, HDMI).

AV receivers, as a rule, are also equipped with support for HDR video, which gives the picture rich colors and high contrast while maintaining realistic and natural image quality.

Pioneer VSX-832

Five-channel semiconductor receiver. Works great with most home theater systems, although it has average power ratings. Equipped with a large number of decoders to improve image quality to 4K quality. Power - 130 W per channel. Low resistance (4–16 Ohms), which is responsible for sound purity. Designed to reproduce sound in a wide range - 10–100000 Hz (like most models in the rating). Low harmonic distortion (0.08%) indicates high sound quality and energy saving. There are many connectors: 2 composite, 4 HDMI, coaxial, optical, 2 linear outputs for a subwoofer, headphones, USB. There is Bluetooth, Wi-Fi. Remote control. Weighs 8.6 kg.

Advantages:

1. Excellent sound quality. Detailed, surround sound.
2. Audio decoders for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
3. Lots of manual settings.
4. Automatically turns on/off when you turn on or off the TV.
5. You can update the software.
6. Stable Wi-Fi connection.

Flaws:

1. Does not support dual zone audio.
2. With automatic settings, the sound quality through the microphone does not really satisfy the needs of buyers (you can achieve optimal sound through manual settings).
3. There is a single case of a remote control failure (the service center will replace it).

The price of Pioneer VSX-832 is 29,990 rubles. An inexpensive model with the functions of more expensive AV receivers. Buyers note high sound quality and ease of settings. The model is worthy and deserves the attention of those who do not want to pay more for additional functionality.

Reviews on Yandex.Market

Structure and main parameters

To understand how to choose the right receiver, you need to understand its functional structure:

• A tuner (digital receiver) provides reception of various signals from the air.
• Decoding of digital and pre-amplification of analog signals.
• Switching signals and controlling devices of a home theater complex.
• Outputting the amplified signal to an acoustic system with amplitude-frequency processing and sound correction.

To choose the best receiver for your home theater, you need to take into account its main parameters:

1 - Working with sound involves two standards - an analog and a digital signal, which differ significantly in the processing principle. The use of an analog signal, although considered an outdated technology, is traditionally preserved in most household appliances (especially of a simple quality class), because the output to acoustic speakers is carried out in an analog format.

2 - Digital signal processing is more complex, therefore it is used in equipment of the middle quality class, although there are options for cheap counterfeits with low quality.

Working with the device’s video signal involves two modes:

• Switching analog video signal.
• Decoding digital video signal.

3 - Functional extensions of models differ significantly from different manufacturers and, accordingly, have a large price difference:

• Economy class models have basic functions: signal switching with minimal inputs/outputs, frequency sound adjustments, low-power home theater speakers are connected to a power amplifier.

• Mid-range models are worthy to choose, with sufficient output power and multi-channel sound. As a rule, such models have advanced switching capabilities using digital interfaces and have adjustable presets and audio/video calibrations.

• A premium-class device not only has advanced switching and control functionality with auto-calibration and sound adjustment according to the technical parameters of the room, but is also necessarily equipped with digital technology for two-way communication with home theater components. Thus, a home theater TV can be connected in parallel with a projector, and control can be exercised from the receiver.

Denon AVR-X1500H

Seven-channel receiver (7.2) of higher power - 145 W. The receiver connects to most speakers. It features a dual-zone mode: you can connect, for example, a 5.1 AV system in one room, and a 2.1 in another. Supports all the latest formats, there is automatic sound calibration (Audyssey technology). The speakers are configured taking into account the characteristics of the room. Equipped with a large number of connectors, additional HDMI, Phono, and a second subwoofer output.

Advantages:

1. Good sound quality.
2. Auto calibration.
3. You can see which codecs are enabled when playing content.
4. Five HDMI outputs.
5. Modern audio codecs.

Flaws:

1. Some customers find the menu complex and confusing.
2. There are complaints about slow transitions through the menu.
3. There is no stereo mixer for surround.

Denon AVR-X1500H for 30,690 rubles is a good receiver, equipped with modern technologies and codecs, with high-quality sound. In a number of characteristics, the model is superior to the Pioneer VSX-832, but judging by the reviews, there is no need to use all the declared capabilities. It may not be worth paying more for them.

Reviews on Yandex.Market

How to choose an AV receiver? Expert advice

Perhaps the main advice for making the right choice is to adhere to the principle of healthy minimalism. Let's start with the simplest. Look at the back of the AV receiver and ask yourself how many free ports will be left after you've plugged in whatever you're going to plug into the unit. Naturally, in this sense, a receiver can be bought “for growth” - for example, there are two outputs for connecting a subwoofer, but you only have one. If in the future you plan to purchase another subwoofer (equip another room for a home theater, supplement the system with external remote controls, add another AV receiver or amplifier, etc.) - in this case, the additional output or input of the system should be provided. Alas, most often all these additional options remain unclaimed. Why then pay for them? The same can be said about the many built-in additional functions. Sometimes what is offered as part of an AV receiver already “can”, for example, your TV - all these circumstances should not be overlooked.

Home cinema: video comes first

Well, now - in order. The literal translation of the term AV receiver is “audio-video receiver.” To this day, either traditionally or to justify this name, the AV receiver includes an FM radio... The video system of the device is engaged in the fact that, having received a signal from any source, it distributes it to several outputs. Here are some questions to ask yourself: how many video sources do you have at your disposal? How many outputs do you need in your case? What type? That is, how many devices displaying video will be connected to the device? Two or more outputs are required, for example, if in addition to a flat TV panel there is also a projector in the room. Based on experience, in most modern applications no more than two HDMI outputs are sufficient - most often, the main and backup ones.

As for video inputs, in addition to the same HDMI, it’s a good idea to have at least one analogue (RCA, also known as “tulip”, or SCART – “comb”). The analog input is useful, for example, if you want to watch old videotapes - if your VCR is still able to play them, since the lubricant dries out over time...

For the same purposes, the upscaling function is in demand, although different companies have different brand names for this process. It comes down to high-quality recalculation and approximation of low-resolution video for output to a modern, say, FullHD panel - the image in this case looks much more comfortable. In any case, the knowledge that this opportunity exists warms the hearts of many buyers and the upscaling function becomes almost mandatory.

It is worth remembering that the number of options for transmitting a multimedia signal is growing; the same HDMI already has several generations and at least three standard sizes of connectors. If you own, for example, a device with an MHL connector, then sooner or later you may need such a connector in your AV receiver, not to mention many other switching options.

AV receiver - it sounds

To work with sound, the AV receiver includes a system for decoding signals received both from HDMI connectors and from audio digital and analog inputs. Many standards and algorithms for decoding multi-channel signals are used here - DTS, Dolby, etc. And the more of them there are in the system, the better, since it makes sense to strive for maximum compatibility with any new options.

However, the main function of the device is still to amplify these signals and deliver them to the load - that is, to acoustic systems, speakers. Here it is worth remembering how many speakers you have (or in the future) and what is the maximum power provided for each of them. According to all the canons of building a home theater, the optimal minimum is considered to be a set of four identical (precisely identical!) satellites, one, most often horizontal, center channel speaker and a subwoofer responsible for reproducing low frequencies - for such a system you will need a 5.1-channel receiver.

The power of the corresponding channel of the AV receiver should in no case exceed the maximum power permissible for the speakers connected to it.

Otherwise, even if the AV receiver is turned on at medium volume (according to the position of the control or volume scale), a peak signal can damage one of the speakers. The fact is that the dynamic range of audio tracks of modern blockbusters is large. If now we can barely hear the whisper of the main character, then in the next moment the sound of a well-aimed shot from the hero will be able to disable, for example, the delicate tweeter of one of the satellites...

On the other hand, the power of an AV receiver is a deceptive thing. When the manufacturer proudly writes numbers like 150 watts per channel, it should be remembered that with a power consumption of the entire device of three hundred watts, the indicated maximum power in long-term mode (say, longer than a few seconds) can be produced by at most two sound reinforcement channels, and there are many of them in the system more. In order to produce the maximum “from all weapons”, as a rule, it is precisely the power of the power supply that is not enough - one of the most expensive components of our AV receiver. And in this case, the sound picture of a general interplanetary battle will, to put it mildly, not be so impressive...

Some AV receiver brands have recently begun to take this drawback into account. Such an AV receiver costs much more and, which is significant, weighs much more - but the immersion in sound will be truly complete. Neighbors – don’t feel sorry for them!

Not only cinema

It is worth highlighting separately the moment when a set of satellite speaker systems consists of two full-size floor-standing speakers and two smaller ones. Such “inequality” often reveals the owner’s preferences: in addition to movies, he also likes to listen to classical stereo, or just music. For this purpose, it is worth looking for an AV receiver with “dedicated”, that is, more powerful front channels. Such a device is able to redistribute power and, thus, reproduce a stereo signal more efficiently. But such features are not found often, and mainly in the top products of receiver lines.

In addition, in this case, it is necessary to take into account which sources the music will be played from - for each of them, a separate audio input is required on the back panel of our receiver. In particular, if you have a vinyl disc player in your home audio arsenal, then it makes sense to look for an AV receiver equipped with a preamplifier-corrector for record players (a mandatory attribute for models with a Phono input).

A more uncompromising, and therefore more expensive way out of the situation is to supplement the AV receiver with a stereo amplifier, in which, like in a specialized device, all of the listed components and functions will probably be presented at a higher level. In this case, the floor-standing front speakers are connected to an amplifier, which operates independently when playing stereo music, and when used as a home theater component, receives an audio signal from the AV receiver to one of its inputs.

Your AV receiver needs to be configured

A little about additional functions. A modern AV receiver is capable of offering so many of them that only by trying out the work of each, we can forget that we were actually going to watch a movie... And if we start analyzing everything that is offered in this area, we will lose hope that This text will be read to the end by at least someone. Nevertheless, let's talk about at least a few.

An external microphone for automatic system setup, offered in many top models, is a useful thing, although, in theory, it is used only once in the life of the AV receiver. If the room where it will be located has a complex shape, the listeners, or spectators, are located somehow non-standardly, then this function helps to set up the system, especially if the owner is not prepared for such activities. Otherwise, after spending half an hour, you can try to tune by ear - the result is usually quite satisfactory.

In difficult cases, it is worth turning to specialists, since the built-in auto-calibration system can sometimes also make mistakes, and a one-time visit by a specialist with a measuring microphone is financially more effective than purchasing this microphone for ten minutes of operation. In this case, you should consult with a specialist in advance about choosing a model; you may need to adjust the time delays. By the way, without experience and knowledge, taking on this matter on your own will be a little reckless...

In addition, do not forget that often the audio tracks of different films are recorded differently. Therefore, the presence in the AV receiver of tone controls, equalizer functions and a set of sound correction presets is useful, although they should not be abused.

Content sources – good and varied

Among the interesting and popular functions of modern AV receivers is the ability to play audio and video from USB drives. If you are the owner of a multi-terabyte drive with audio-video materials and films, converted and recorded at different times and in different formats, you should strongly inquire what file formats and memory devices are supported by the device you are purchasing. Oddly enough, in this sense, famous brands often lag behind - this happens as part of the fight against video piracy.

Another source of content is the World Wide Web itself. These include video banks, streaming sources, Internet radio stations and much more. Using the Internet access function can be exciting, but it often becomes necessary for the owner to know, for example, what “flashing” and “DNS configuration options” are. On the other hand, the presence of a WiFi adapter in many cases greatly simplifies the connection of the device to a home computer network - again, it is worth deciding for yourself whether this option is necessary.

Built-in Bluetooth allows you to remotely play music from your favorite gadget - another interesting feature.

Many AV receivers have the ability to work as a docking station for Apple gadgets. This is a very prestigious feature, but if you don’t have such a gadget and you, for example, are completely satisfied with Android, then it’s better to save on it. The same applies to the wireless protocol for interaction with i-gadgets, AirPlay.

Ready? Let's choose!

Once you have an understanding of what the correct functionality of an AV receiver should be in your particular case, you can choose the appropriate model. It is clear that an exact match with the desired ideal is not easy to find. Here we can propose a certain systematic approach. Pay attention to the top models from different brands. As a rule, lower samples from the same lines become cheaper precisely due to the removal of some of the functions of the system and its components.

In this case, the parameters of the built-in amplifiers often remain unchanged, only the number of amplifiers themselves is reduced. The same applies to other functional features. This is how, taking a tour from complex to simple through the current model range, it will be easier to find exactly what you need.

In conclusion, it is worth saying that a person who purchases such a complex device as an AV receiver is, by definition, already technically advanced in the specialized area and is probably able to choose the device on his own - especially since you have read this guide to the end. And perhaps we shouldn’t limit ourselves so much - a lot of new, perhaps even unknown, device capabilities will certainly make our lives richer and more interesting in the future!

YAMAHA RX-V485

Receiver 5.1 with Cinema DSP 3D processor. The developer has simplified the functionality to the maximum to make an accessible model. But judging by testing data and user reviews, the receiver fully copes with its task. Equipped with the YPAO system for sound calibration taking into account the room configuration. It has a higher power – 165 W. When operating on two channels (80 W each), it provides a minimum level of distortion. It has fewer connectors than the Denon AVR-X1500H - only one subwoofer output, 4 HDMI, but three linear and composite. Weighs less - 7.8 kg.

Advantages:

1. Excellent sound quality.
2. Convenient application for control from a smartphone.
3. Simple settings, clear menu.
4. Compatible with MusicCast 20 and 50 wireless systems.

Flaws:

1. It clicks loudly when turning on/off.
2. Sometimes there may be a slight delay in audio transmission via Bluetooth.
3. You cannot listen to online radio stations from .pls files.

YAMAHA RX-V485 costs 32 thousand rubles. Reliable inexpensive technology. Suitable for users who want to upgrade from standard TV sound at a low price. Buyers are satisfied with the performance of the receiver and recommend it for purchase.

Reviews on Yandex.Market

Onkyo TX-NR686

Seven-channel receiver with a power of 165 W. Delivers 80 watts per channel for 8 ohm speakers, which is enough for most mid-range speakers. In terms of power consumption in standby mode, it has the minimum parameter among the described competitors. Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats, making the sound deeper and more measured. The difference between the receiver is the huge number of connectors: 6 HDMI, 2 each composite, component and optical, 6 linear, coaxial, Phono, headphone output, two for a subwoofer.

Advantages:

1. Great sound.
2. High power.
3. It's easy to understand the settings.
4. Manual adjustment by channels.
5. Application for smartphone.
6. Remembers modes for different inputs and settings when switching: for example, from music to film it automatically changes the mode.

Flaws:

1. Based on a single response, incorrect operation with ARC was noticed.
2. There is a slight delay when operating from the remote control.
3. There are difficulties connecting via Bluetooth.

The price of Onkyo TX-NR686 is 38,900 rubles. It features a reliable assembly, the front panel is made of aluminum. Despite the claimed high power, some buyers note that it sounds even quieter than the earlier model from this manufacturer. The receiver is worthy of attention. Most buyers are satisfied with the sound quality and functionality.

Reviews on Yandex.Market

The best satellite receivers

Let's start with a more complex system in all respects - satellite television. To watch video from orbit you will need not only a TV and receiver, but also a satellite dish. Because of this, the cost of the finished system is high. It is also worth considering that installation and configuration will require certain skills. The main advantage of satellite television is the ability to install it almost anywhere in the world. Yes, you will have to follow several rules, but the result will pleasantly surprise you.

But there is another fly in the ointment - not all channels are free. To access paid resources, you must additionally purchase a card from a local provider. The most popular are Tricolor and NTV+. Of course, these same companies also sell equipment, but its quality and cost raise many complaints.

Sony STR-DN1080

The 7.2 AV receiver supports all audio formats, including Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, Dolby Pro Logic II and DTS Neo: 6. They provide deep detail and surround. It has high power ratings: 165 W at 6 Ohms and 130 at 8 Ohms. According to these characteristics, the model is suitable for any speakers. The receiver provides almost the same number of outputs with the exception of Phono. Like the Onkyo TX-NR686, it supports 4K.

Advantages:

1. Excellent sound quality.
2. Intuitive settings.
3. Pairing with a smartphone.
4. The picture via HDMI is excellent, the colors are rich and contrasting.

Flaws:

1. There is no HDMI port on the front panel.
2. Some customers notice a squeaking sound during standby mode.
3. Non-Russian menu.

The price of Sony STR-DN1080 is 40 thousand rubles. Users agree that this is an excellent receiver that fully justifies its price. It provides sound even better than in a movie theater. But there are some shortcomings in the software, some of which can be solved by updating the firmware.

Reviews on Yandex.Market

FAQ

Which is better, AV receiver or sound card?

The best thing is both. The fact is that these devices have different purposes. The sound card expands the audio capabilities of the computer, and the receiver amplifies the sound, provides spatial sound and combines audio devices into a single system. Therefore, nothing prevents you from connecting a sound card to the input of the AV receiver along with other audio sources.

Which is better, AV receiver or amplifier?

An amplifier is one of the components of the receiver, which, in addition to sound amplification, performs the functions of a tuner, switcher and decoder. Often, the element base in highly specialized devices is better than in universal ones, and interference from additional components does not affect the operation of the amplifier itself. Therefore, if you are not interested in additional functionality, but need the capabilities of the amplifier, then it is better to take it.

Arcam FMJ AVR390

The manufacturer has developed this model for true connoisseurs of realistic sound. This is a solid, high-quality 7.1 receiver with a respectable weight of 15.7 kg. Purity and sound quality are guaranteed by a low harmonic distortion coefficient (0.02%). The indicator is maintained throughout the entire frequency range. The power of the front channels is 80 W, the central and rear channels are 60 W each. Equipped with 7 connectors and 3 HDMI outputs. There are 7 screw terminals for connecting acoustics. Dirac Live technology is used to adapt to the room configuration. It analyzes sound systems itself and creates a profile for each channel.

Advantages:

1. Good sound quality.
2. Automatic setup of multi-channel sound.
3. Supports all audio formats.
4. Very high video quality.
5. Convenient control via the application.

Flaws:

1. No phono stage.
2. The screen is not very informative.

The receiver shows amazing results. It can correct even the most linear acoustics. Suitable for both home cinema and listening to music. It has the best sound tuning system today (Dirac). The only negative for connoisseurs is the lack of a background corrector for vinyl playback.

Reviews on Yandex.Market

The best digital receivers

At the beginning of 2021, Norway announced that it would completely stop using analogue radio broadcasting in favor of digital. The case, it would seem, is far from us, but very indicative, because the process of transition to “digital” in television is happening in our country at the moment. New technology allows you to transmit higher quality images over a greater distance. It would seem that there are only advantages, but not all homes today have modern TVs with DVB T2 support. Fortunately, the problem is solved very simply - by purchasing an external receiver, the cost of which is very low. The only thing worth remembering is that you need a decimeter antenna, but you almost certainly already have one.

Denon AVC-X8500H

The 13.2 receiver is equipped with HEOS technology, which provides wireless audio playback. Each amplifier can deliver up to 150 watts of power per channel. The peak power of the front channels reaches 280 W. Sound quality is provided by AKM AK4490EQ chips. Equipped with a large number of connectors. In addition to those available on Arcam FMJ AVR390, there are additional 2 triggers, Phono. It weighs even more - 23.3 kg.

Advantages:

1. Top model for true connoisseurs.
2. Amazing sound with any speaker system.
3. Virtually no distortion.
4. Easy to connect any sources (thanks to a special diagnostic program).
5. Available in black and silver colors.

Flaws:

1. Some experts note a slight excess of high frequencies.
2. No manual adjustment (only automatic).

Denon AVC-X8500H for 265 thousand rubles is the first 13-channel receiver released in 2021. Experts agree that this model is the leader of 2021 in terms of functionality and equipment.

Reviews on Yandex.Market