Best Multi Zone AV Receivers of 2025

Jerry Franklin Avatar
Jerry Franklin
Last Updated: Jan 3, 2025

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Multi Zone AV Receivers are a type of audio and video equipment designed to provide high-quality sound and video to multiple rooms or zones within a home or commercial space. These receivers allow users to enjoy different audio and video sources in different areas simultaneously, making them ideal for home theaters, conference rooms, and large living spaces. They come with advanced features such as wireless connectivity, voice control, and support for various audio and video formats. Multi Zone AV Receivers are a great investment for anyone who wants to enjoy high-quality audio and video entertainment throughout their home.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver Cover #TOP 1
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Onkyo TX-NR797 Cover #TOP 2
Onkyo TX-NR797
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver Cover #TOP 3
Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 4 Multi Zone AV Receivers

Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver

AVR-X1700H
Black
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver Cover
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver - 80W/Channel, Advanced 8K HDMI Video w/eARC, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Built-in HEOS, Amazon Alexa Voice Control

The Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver offers high-performance 7-channel amplifier with next-gen movie immersion, advanced 8K HDMI video section, multi-dimensional audio, multi-room, multi-source streaming, versatile connection options, and full voice control. This receiver is perfect for those who want to enjoy Denon sound in movies, games, and music with full 3D audio support, exceptional color, contrast, and clarity, and immersive experience without the height channels. The on-screen quick setup guide and color-coded connections make organizing simple, while the external control and IP control capabilities allow seamless integration with home automation systems.

What We Like
Advanced 8K HDMI video section with 3 dedicated 8K inputs and 1 output
Supports multi-dimensional audio, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
Multi-room, multi-source streaming via Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, or Bluetooth in a different zone
#TOP 2

Onkyo TX-NR797

TX-NR797
Black
Onkyo TX-NR797 Cover
Onkyo TX-NR797 Smart AV 9.2 Channel Receiver with 4K Ultra HD | Dolby Atmos | AirPlay 2 | IMAX Enhanced (2019 Model),Black

The Onkyo Smart AV Receiver is a high-quality 9.2 channel receiver that offers exceptional audio performance and a range of advanced features. With 220 watts per channel, this receiver delivers powerful and immersive sound. It also supports 4K/60p and HDR, ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite movies and shows in stunning detail. The Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback capabilities provide a truly immersive audio experience, with sound coming from all directions. Additionally, the Dolby Atmos height virtualize and DTS virtual:X features enhance the audio even further, creating a lifelike soundstage. The AccuEQ with subwoofer EQ and AccuReflex technologies optimize the sound for your specific room, ensuring that you get the best possible audio quality. With its impressive performance and advanced features, the Onkyo Smart AV Receiver is a great choice for any home theater setup.

What We Like
Powerful 220 watts per channel
Supports 4K/60p and HDR
Immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback

Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver

STRAN1000
Black
Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver Cover
Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater 8K A/V Receiver: Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX, Bluetooth, WiFi, Google Chromecast, Spotify connect, Apple AirPlay, HDMI 2.1

The Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver is an advanced AV receiver with 8K & 4K/120 HDMI connectivity and HDMI 2.1 support, delivering immersive audio with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX, and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping. It also supports leading HDR formats, including Dolby Vision and HDR10, and is compatible with “Works With Sonos” to integrate with your Sonos system. You can stream easily with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Apple AirPlay, and connect to your home's other devices with Google Assistant. The graphical interface makes it easy to set up, while Zone 2 & Zone 3 provides flexible, multi-zone distribution capability.

What We Like
Advanced AV receiver with 8K & 4K/120 HDMI connectivity and HDMI 2.1 support
Delivers immersive audio with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX, and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping
Supports leading HDR formats, including Dolby Vision and HDR10
Compatible with “Works With Sonos” to integrate with your Sonos system
Streams easily with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, and Apple AirPlay
#TOP 4

Pyle PT6000CH.5 Surround Sound Receiver

PT6000CH.5
Pyle PT6000CH.5 Surround Sound Receiver Cover
Pyle PT6000CH.5 4200W 6CH Powered Rack Mount Portable Surround Sound Multi-Zone Audio Home Stereo Receiver Box with RCA, USB, AUX - for Speaker, PA, Theater

The Pyle Surround Sound Receiver offers an impressive Bluetooth connectivity feature, allowing you to stream music wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or computer with ease. With a powerful 4200 watts, this receiver enhances your home theater or PA system, delivering high-quality audio through multiple speakers. You will appreciate the versatility of its nine input options, accommodating various devices like CD players and microphones. Additionally, the voice priority button ensures that announcements can be heard clearly by lowering background music, making it perfect for events or presentations.

What We Like
Bluetooth streaming capability
High power output
Multiple input options
Voice priority feature
Buying Guide Image

Sorting Out the Multi Zone AV Receivers That Are Right for You

Choosing the right multi-zone AV receiver can be a challenging task, especially if you're not sure what to look for. There are several factors to consider when making your decision, including the number of zones, the audio and video capabilities, and the overall cost. In this article, we'll break down the key considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Number of Zones

The first thing to consider when choosing a multi-zone AV receiver is the number of zones. AV receivers are designed to distribute audio and video signals to multiple areas, or zones, within a home or commercial space. The number of zones will determine the number of TVs, speakers, and other devices that can be connected to the receiver.

If you only need to connect one or two TVs and a few speakers, a receiver with two or three zones will be sufficient. However, if you need to connect multiple TVs and speakers, or if you want to have the option to expand in the future, a receiver with four or more zones would be a better choice.

Audio and Video Capabilities

The next factor to consider when choosing a multi-zone AV receiver is the audio and video capabilities. AV receivers come in a range of different sizes and styles, and they offer a variety of audio and video features. Some of the most common features to look for include HDMI inputs and outputs, surround sound capabilities, and support for high-resolution audio formats.

It's important to choose a receiver that has the audio and video capabilities you need to support your current setup, as well as any future expansion. For example, if you want to connect multiple TVs and speakers, you'll need a receiver with multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, as well as support for surround sound.

Cost

The final factor to consider when choosing a multi-zone AV receiver is the overall cost. AV receivers can vary greatly in price, depending on the number of zones, the audio and video capabilities, and the brand. It's important to balance the initial cost of the receiver with the long-term cost of ownership, including any additional speakers, TVs, or other equipment you may need to purchase.

In general, multi-zone AV receivers with more zones, advanced audio and video capabilities, and a well-known brand will be more expensive. However, these receivers are also likely to offer the best performance and the most flexibility for expansion.

Conclusion

Choosing the right multi-zone AV receiver involves balancing several factors, including the number of zones, the audio and video capabilities, and the overall cost. By considering these factors carefully, you can make an informed decision and choose a receiver that will meet your needs and provide reliable performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do dual zone receivers work?

Dual zone receivers have a zone 2 feature that allows them to send a second source signal to a separate audio system in another location. This means you can watch a DVD in the main zone while others listen to a CD in zone 2 simultaneously.

2. How do I control my AV receiver from another room?

To control your AV receiver from another room, you can use an IR Extender. If your receiver doesn't have a Remote Control In or Room to Room In, you can connect an IR Extender to it using an IR Emitter. The IR Emitter sticks to the front panel of the receiver where the Remote IR Sensor is located, allowing you to control the receiver remotely.

3. Why do receivers have 2 subwoofer outputs?

Receivers have 2 subwoofer outputs to accommodate stereo bass for dedicated 2-channel systems. Using dual subwoofers in a 2-channel setup helps preserve stereo bass cues and prevents the soundstage from collapsing, especially when using small bookshelf monitors with limited bass extension.

4. How do I connect my receiver to multiple rooms?

To connect your receiver to multiple rooms, you can use a multi-zone/single-source setup. Many home theater receivers have a Speaker A/B switch, allowing you to connect a second set of speakers. Simply place the additional speakers in another room and install speaker wires leading to the receiver's Speaker B terminals.

5. What are the disadvantages of multistage amplifiers?

Multistage amplifiers have a few disadvantages. Transformer coupling, which is commonly used in multistage amplifiers, can be expensive and bulky. At radio frequencies, winding inductances and distributed capacitors can introduce reverse frequency distortion. Additionally, multistage amplifiers tend to produce 'hum' in the circuit.

6. What are the advantages of multistage amplifiers?

Multistage amplifiers offer flexibility within input and output impedance and provide higher gain. They can be used to amplify extremely weak signals to usable levels. Additionally, distortion can be reduced by changing the signal within stages, making multistage amplifiers versatile and effective in various applications.

Editor's Notes

During our multi zone av receiver research, we found 25 multi zone av receiver products and shortlisted 4 quality products. We collected and analyzed 9,587 customer reviews through our big data system to write the multi zone av receivers list. We found that most customers choose multi zone av receivers with an average price of $344.18.

The multi zone av receivers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of multi zone av receivers, including Denon, Onkyo, Sony, Pyle. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 298 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Written by
Jerry Franklin Avatar

Jerry Franklin's persistent curiosity and research inspire a love of writing how technical things work and help him build a wealth of knowledge in computer equipment and other electronic tools. He has always enjoyed great pleasure in taking all things apart and researching how to put them together again since his childhood.