If you’re searching for an AV receiver 72, you’re likely balancing power, features, and value. The Denon AVR-X1700H stands out as the best overall choice for its balanced performance and smart features, while the Onkyo TX-NR6100 offers robust power and THX certification for home theater enthusiasts. The main challenge in this category is finding a model that offers enough channels and HDMI support without overpaying. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each option, including strengths and tradeoffs.
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Key Takeaways
- Models like the Denon AVR-X1700H deliver strong multi-channel power with built-in smart features, making them versatile for most users.
- The Onkyo TX-NR6100’s THX certification is a key differentiator for those prioritizing certified sound quality and immersive audio.
- Budget options like the Sony STRDH590 provide reliable sound but lack advanced features needed for future-proofing.
- More premium models like the Denon AVR-S670H balance 8K support with moderate price increases, appealing to enthusiasts seeking high-end features.
- Channel count and HDMI support are often tradeoffs—more channels typically mean higher costs and complexity.
| Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver – 8K Ultra HD Audio & Video |  | Best Overall for Versatile Home Theater Setups | Channels: 5.2 | Power: 70W x 5 | HDMI Inputs: 4 HDMI 2.1 8K inputs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver |  | Best for Entry-Level Home Theater Enthusiasts | Channels: 5.2 | Power Output: 725W total | Supported Video: 4K HDR, HDCP 2.2 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel, Built-in HEOS |  | Best for Future-Proof 7.2 Setup with Multi-Room Streaming | Power: 80W per channel | Channels: 7.2 | HDMI Inputs: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified Network AV Receiver – Black |  | Best for High-Power 7.2 Home Theater with Gaming Features | Power: 210W per channel | Channels: 7.2 | HDMI Ports: 8 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver, 8K UHD HDMI, 75W x 5 |  | Best for Future-Ready Home Theater Enthusiasts | Channels: 5.2 | Power per channel: 75W | Video resolution support: 8K/60Hz & 4K/120Hz pass-through | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| av receiver 72 | Channels | Power | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel A | 5.2 | 70W x 5 | — |
| Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surr | 5.2 | — | Bluetooth, HDMI |
| Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel A | 7.2 | 80W per channel | — |
| Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel TH | 7.2 | 210W per channel | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Channel Ho | 5.2 | — | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS, Alexa compatibility |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver – 8K Ultra HD Audio & Video
The Denon AVR-S570BT stands out as a well-rounded choice for those seeking a straightforward yet capable home theater receiver. Its support for 8K HDMI inputs and HDR formats ensures future-proof video quality, comparable to more advanced options like the Onkyo TX-NR6100, but at a more accessible price point. However, its 70W per channel limits its ability to fill very large rooms or drive high-end speakers at loud volumes, unlike the Onkyo TX-NR6100‘s 210W per channel. While it offers Bluetooth streaming and an easy setup, its lack of built-in Wi-Fi and limited power may be drawbacks for users wanting a fully integrated smart home experience or substantial room coverage. This receiver makes the most sense for those who want a reliable, future-ready device without the premium price or power requirements of high-end models.
Pros:- Supports 8K HDMI inputs for sharp video quality
- Immersive surround sound with Dolby and DTS formats
- Bluetooth streaming for wireless audio
Cons:- Limited to 70W per channel, may struggle in large rooms
- No built-in Wi-Fi for streaming services
Best for: Small to medium-sized living rooms where users want 8K support without complex features
Not ideal for: Large, open spaces or users requiring high-volume sound or integrated smart home features
- Channels:5.2
- Power:70W x 5
- HDMI Inputs:4 HDMI 2.1 8K inputs
- HDMI Output:1 HDMI output
- eARC:up to 40 Gbps
- Supports:HDR, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, VRR, QFT, ALLM
Our verdict“A versatile and future-ready choice perfect for smaller spaces and straightforward setups.”
Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver
The Sony STRDH590 offers a straightforward approach for those new to home theater audio, supporting 4K HDR video and virtual surround sound, which makes it suitable for casual viewers. Its 725W total power is impressive on paper, but since it’s a 5.2 setup, the per-channel wattage is lower than models like the Denon AVR-X1700H, which supports more advanced multi-channel audio formats. The Sony’s setup process is relatively simple, but the limited detailed specifications and absence of Wi-Fi restrict its appeal for those wanting smart features or multi-room streaming. The built-in Bluetooth is useful, but the lack of network streaming limits flexibility. This model is best for users who prioritize basic surround sound and straightforward operation over advanced features or expansion options.
Pros:- Supports 4K HDR and HDCP 2.2 for high-quality video
- Virtual surround sound enhances cinematic experience
- Multiple HDMI inputs for versatile connectivity
Cons:- Limited to 5.2 channels, less flexible for expansion
- No Wi-Fi or smart home integration
Best for: Beginners or casual home theater users seeking simple, effective surround sound
Not ideal for: Audiophiles or tech-savvy users wanting integrated streaming and future-proof features
- Channels:5.2
- Power Output:725W total
- Supported Video:4K HDR, HDCP 2.2
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, HDMI
- HDMI Ports:4
- Speaker Compatibility:Television, Speakers
Our verdict“A solid, easy-to-use receiver suited for newcomers building a basic home theater system.”
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel, Built-in HEOS
The Denon AVR-X1700H offers a compelling package for those wanting 7.2 channels, Dolby Atmos, and multi-room streaming with built-in HEOS, making it ideal for expanding and upgrading home theaters. Its support for 8K and 4K/120Hz pass-through puts it ahead of many competitors like the Sony STRDH590, which lacks advanced multi-dimensional audio and multi-room features. However, its setup complexity can be daunting for beginners, and the higher price might deter budget-conscious buyers. The 80W per channel output provides enough power for most rooms, but larger spaces might require more amplification. It’s best suited for users seeking a flexible, high-performance receiver with smart home compatibility.
Pros:- Supports 8K and 4K/120Hz for high-end gaming and future-proofing
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive multi-dimensional sound
- Built-in HEOS for multi-room wireless streaming
Cons:- Complex setup for those unfamiliar with AV systems
- Relatively high cost compared to simpler models
Best for: Home theater enthusiasts wanting multi-room audio and advanced video support
Not ideal for: Users with limited technical skills or small budgets who prefer simple plug-and-play solutions
- Power:80W per channel
- Channels:7.2
- HDMI Inputs:6
- Supports:8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, Dolby Vision, eARC
- Built-in:HEOS for streaming
- Voice Control:Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Josh.ai
Our verdict“A feature-rich, future-proof option for serious home theater builders who want multi-room flexibility.”
Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified Network AV Receiver – Black
The Onkyo TX-NR6100 combines THX certification with 8K HDMI 2.1 support and high power output, making it suitable for large rooms and demanding audio environments. Its 210W per channel significantly surpasses the Denon AVR-S570BT, providing ample headroom for dynamic sound at high volumes. Its HDMI features, including VRR and ALLM, are tailored for gamers seeking smooth gameplay. While its power and capabilities are impressive, the setup is more complex, and its size may be challenging for smaller spaces. Compared to models like the Sony STRDH590, it provides much higher power but at a substantially higher price point and size. This receiver is ideal for those who prioritize sound power, future-proof video support, and gaming enhancements in a large room.
Pros:- High 210W per channel delivers powerful sound
- Supports 8K at 60Hz and HDMI 2.1 for future compatibility
- THX certification guarantees high-quality sound performance
Cons:- Heavy and large, requiring significant space
- Complex setup may be daunting for novices
Best for: Large living rooms or game rooms needing high power and advanced HDMI features
Not ideal for: Small spaces or users seeking simple, plug-and-play AV receivers
- Power:210W per channel
- Channels:7.2
- HDMI Ports:8
- Supported Video:8K at 60Hz, 4K at 120Hz
- Features:THX Certified, VRR, ALLM
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Our verdict“The ideal choice for large spaces and gamers looking for power, advanced HDMI features, and high-fidelity sound.”
Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver, 8K UHD HDMI, 75W x 5
The Denon AVR-S670H stands out for its ability to handle 8K video pass-through and upscaling, making it a strong choice for those planning a future-proof setup. Compared with the Denon AVR-S570BT, it supports higher video resolutions and advanced HDR formats like Dolby Vision and HDR10+, which can significantly enhance visual quality. However, its setup process can be more complex, especially for beginners who may find the menu navigation daunting. The 75W per channel power limits might also mean it needs additional amplification for larger, more demanding speakers. Nonetheless, its seamless voice control and multi-room capabilities make it suitable for users seeking integrated, flexible home entertainment.
Pros:- Supports 8K video pass-through and upscaling for cutting-edge visual quality
- High-quality surround sound with Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD decoding
- Voice control compatibility with Alexa and other assistants
- Multi-room music streaming via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Cons:- Setup process can be complex and intimidating for newcomers
- Limited to 75W per channel, possibly requiring additional amplification for larger speakers
Best for: Tech-savvy users who want a versatile, future-proof receiver with extensive connectivity options.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those with straightforward setups who prefer plug-and-play simplicity without advanced features.
- Channels:5.2
- Power per channel:75W
- Video resolution support:8K/60Hz & 4K/120Hz pass-through
- HDR formats:HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR
- HDMI features:ARC/eARC, 8K upscaling, HDCP 2.3
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS, Alexa compatibility
Our verdict“This receiver is best suited for users who prioritize future-proofing and advanced connectivity over simplicity.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on their performance, build quality, feature set, and value for a 7.2 channel configuration. Priority was given to models offering reliable audio output, sufficient HDMI inputs for multiple devices, and future-proof features like 8K support. Ease of setup, user interface, and brand reputation also played roles in the ranking. The goal was to identify options that deliver solid audio and video experiences without unnecessary complexity or cost, ensuring a balanced selection for different buyer needs.| av receiver 72 | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel A | — |
| Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surr | Bluetooth, HDMI |
| Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel A | — |
| Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel TH | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Channel Ho | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS, Alexa compatibility |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Av Receiver 72
Choosing the right AV receiver 72 involves understanding several key factors that influence performance, usability, and longevity. Beyond basic specs, it’s important to consider how features align with your home setup, future needs, and budget. Making the right tradeoffs can ensure you get a receiver that enhances your entertainment system without overpaying or ending up with features you won’t use.Channel Count and Power Output
For a 7.2 setup, your receiver needs enough channels to support multiple speakers and subwoofers. A higher power output per channel ensures clear sound at higher volumes, especially in larger rooms. However, more power often comes with increased cost and complexity. Focus on models that balance sufficient power with efficiency to match your room size and listening preferences.
HDMI and Video Support
Modern AV receivers should support at least 8K HDMI inputs and outputs, offering compatibility with the latest home theater devices. Look for models with multiple HDMI ports to connect multiple sources, and ensure they support features like HDCP 2.3 for copy protection. Beware of models with limited HDMI inputs, which can force you to disconnect devices or buy additional switches.
Audio Quality and Certification
Sound clarity and immersive experience depend on the receiver’s internal DACs, amplification, and sound processing. Certifications like THX indicate a level of sound quality and reliability, especially for home theater setups. Consider models with advanced room calibration and surround sound processing to maximize audio fidelity.
Smart Features and User Interface
Ease of setup and control significantly impact your overall satisfaction. Look for receivers with intuitive apps, voice control compatibility, and easy calibration tools. Overly complex interfaces can frustrate users, especially beginners. A well-designed menu system and reliable app support make a big difference in daily use.
Future-Proofing and Additional Features
Investing in features like 8K video support, HDMI 2.1, eARC, and multiple streaming options can extend the life of your receiver. Consider your future plans—if you plan to upgrade your display or add smart home integration, prioritize models that support these advancements. Skipping these features might save money initially but could lead to costly upgrades later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 8K support necessary in an AV receiver 72 today?
While 8K support isn’t essential for everyone now, it provides a level of future-proofing as devices and content evolve. If you plan to upgrade your TV or projector soon, choosing a receiver with 8K HDMI support can save you from replacing it later. For those with standard 4K setups, it’s a nice-to-have feature rather than a must-have today.
How many HDMI inputs should I look for in an AV receiver 72?
Generally, aim for at least 4 to 6 HDMI inputs to accommodate multiple sources like gaming consoles, streaming devices, and Blu-ray players. More inputs offer flexibility as your setup grows, but excessive ports often come with added complexity and cost. Choose a model where the number and placement of HDMI ports match your current and future device lineup.
Are higher channel counts always better for home theater?
Not necessarily. While more channels can deliver more immersive surround sound, they also increase complexity and cost. For most home theaters, a 7.2 setup strikes a good balance between sound depth and manageability. Overbuilding with extra channels might not provide noticeable benefits unless you have a large, dedicated room and a high-end speaker system.
Should I prioritize smart features or sound quality?
Ideally, you want a model that balances both. Good sound quality is fundamental, but smart features like app control, voice compatibility, and easy calibration make daily use more convenient. If you primarily watch movies and listen to music, prioritize sound quality; if you’re tech-savvy and want seamless control, smart features should also play a key role.
Is THX certification worth paying extra for?
THX certification can be a sign of rigorous audio standards and reliable performance, especially in larger or dedicated home theaters. However, not all high-quality receivers are THX-certified, and many non-certified models also deliver excellent sound. Consider it a bonus rather than a requirement—your overall audio experience depends more on internal components and speaker setup.
Conclusion
For buyers seeking the best overall balance of features, performance, and value, the Denon AVR-X1700H makes a compelling choice. Those prioritizing high-end audio and future-proofing might favor the Onkyo TX-NR6100, especially with its THX certification. Beginners will appreciate the straightforward setup of models like the Sony STRDH590, while enthusiasts upgrading their home theater should consider premium options like the Denon AVR-S670H. Ultimately, your ideal pick depends on your room size, device lineup, and how much you’re willing to invest in future upgrades.
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