Best Surround Sound AV Receivers of 2025

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

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Surround sound AV receivers are a must-have for any home theater enthusiast looking to take their audio experience to the next level. These devices act as the central hub for all your audio needs, allowing you to connect multiple devices such as speakers, subwoofers, and gaming consoles. With advanced features such as 4K video pass-through and compatibility with popular streaming services like Spotify and Pandora, these receivers are perfect for those who want a seamless audio experience. Surround sound AV receivers come in a variety of price ranges and feature sets, making it easy to find one that fits your specific needs and budget.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver Cover #TOP 1
Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver
ftb score rating icon 9.8
YAMAHA RX-V385 AV Receiver Cover #TOP 2
YAMAHA RX-V385 AV Receiver
ftb score rating icon 9.7
PyleUsa 1000W Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver Cover #TOP 3
PyleUsa 1000W Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Surround Sound AV Receivers

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

YAMAHA RX-V385 AV Receiver

RX-V385
Black
YAMAHA RX-V385 AV Receiver Cover
YAMAHA RX-V385 5.1-Channel 4K Ultra HD AV Receiver with Bluetooth

The YAMAHA RX-V385 AV Receiver is a 5.1 channel powerful surround sound system with Bluetooth connectivity. It features HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.2 (4 in/1 out), 4K Ultra HD support, HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log gamma, and BT.2020. The YPAO auto calibration technology ensures ideal sound quality, and the Exclusive Yamaha Cinema DSP technology supports playback of HD Audio. The AV receiver delivers transmission of 4K video at 60 frames/second pass-through, and supports HDR Video including Dolby Vision and Hybrid Log Gamma.

What We Like
Powerful 5.1 channel surround sound system
Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming
Supports 4K Ultra HD, HDR10, Dolby vision, hybrid log gamma, and BT.2020
YPAO auto calibration technology ensures ideal sound quality
Supports playback of HD Audio with Exclusive Yamaha Cinema DSP technology
#TOP 3

PyleUsa 1000W Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver

PT696BT.9
Standard
Stadard
PyleUsa 1000W Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver Cover
Pyle 1000W Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver - 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Stereo Amplifier System with 4K Ultra HD, 3D Video & Blu-Ray Video Pass-Through Support, HDMI/MP3/USB/AM/FM Radio, Black

The Pyle Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver is a 5.2-channel hi-fi system that delivers 1000W peak power, perfect for your home entertainment setup. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily stream music from your smartphone or computer without any hassle. The receiver also supports 4K Ultra HD TV, 3D, and Blu-ray video pass-through, allowing you to enjoy high-quality audio and video. It comes with EQ controls for adjusting echo, bass, treble, microphone, and volume settings, giving you full control over your audio experience. The built-in VFD display and AM/FM radio make it easy to navigate and stay connected to your favorite stations. With its compact design and easy-to-use features, the Pyle Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver is the perfect addition to any home theater system.

What We Like
1000W peak power
Bluetooth connectivity
4K Ultra HD TV support
#TOP 4

Pyle PFA540BT Wireless Audio Amplifier

PFA540BT
Black
Pyle PFA540BT Wireless Audio Amplifier Cover
Pyle Wireless Bluetooth Home Audio Amplifier - 100W 5 Channel Home Theater Power Stereo Receiver, Surround Sound w/ HDMI, AUX, FM Antenna, Subwoofer Speaker Input, 12V Adapter - PFA540BT, Black

The Pyle Wireless Audio Amplifier enhances your home entertainment experience with its impressive 100 watts of peak power, delivering clear and high-quality sound. With Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily stream music from your smartphone or tablet without the hassle of wires. The amplifier supports multiple devices through its various inputs, including HDMI and AUX, making it versatile for all your audio needs. Additionally, the front control panel features an LCD display and easy-to-use buttons, allowing you to manage your audio settings effortlessly.

What We Like
High-quality sound reproduction
Bluetooth music streaming
Multiple input options
User-friendly controls

Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver with 8K Ultra HD Audio & Video

AVRS570BT
Black
Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver with 8K Ultra HD Audio & Video Cover
Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver - 8K Ultra HD Audio & Video, Enhanced Gaming Experience, Wireless Streaming via Built-in Bluetooth, (4) 8K HDMI Inputs, Supports eARC, HD Setup Assistant

The Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver offers a high-quality home theater experience with 8K Ultra-HD picture quality and immersive audio. It features (4) HDMI 2.1 8K inputs and (1) HDMI output, supports eARC, and has convenient controls, including built-in Bluetooth and an easy on-screen HD setup assistant. With compatibility for the latest formats, including HDR, HLG, Dolby Vision, and more, and wireless music streaming from popular apps, this receiver is perfect for your entertainment system.

What We Like
Features 8K Ultra-HD picture quality for a high-quality home theater experience
Immersive audio with compatibility for the latest formats, including HDR, HLG, Dolby Vision, and more
Convenient controls, including built-in Bluetooth and an easy on-screen HD setup assistant
#TOP 6

Pyle PT796BT 7.1-Channel Amplifier

PT796BT
Standard
Stadard
Pyle PT796BT 7.1-Channel Amplifier Cover
Pyle 7.1-Channel Hi-Fi Bluetooth Stereo Amplifier - 2000 Watt AV Home Theater Speaker Subwoofer Surround Sound Receiver w/Radio, USB, RCA, HDMI, MIC in, Supports 4K UHD TV, 3D, Blu-Ray -PT796BT

The Pyle 7.1 Amplifier enhances your home entertainment experience with its powerful 2000 watts of peak power, providing clear and dynamic audio for your speakers and subwoofers. Its Bluetooth compatibility allows you to effortlessly stream music from your smartphone or tablet, making it easy to enjoy your favorite tracks without the hassle of wires. With support for 4K UHD TVs, you can connect various devices and enjoy stunning video quality along with your audio. Additionally, the built-in EQ controls let you fine-tune the sound to your liking, ensuring that every movie night or music session is just right.

What We Like
Powerful audio output
Bluetooth streaming capability
4K video support
Customizable sound settings
#TOP 7

Pioneer VSX-835 AV Receiver

VSX-835
Black
Pioneer VSX-835 AV Receiver Cover
Pioneer VSX-835 7.2 Channel AV Receiver - IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Atmos and Dolby Surround, 8K/4K Ultra HD Capabilities, and More!

The Pioneer VSX-835 Receiver delivers a cinematic experience right at home. With IMAX Enhanced Mode, you can enjoy stunning 4K HDR visuals and sound, just as the filmmakers intended. The DTS:X technology adapts audio to your existing setup, ensuring you feel surrounded by sound without needing extra speakers. Additionally, Dolby Atmos Music takes your audio experience to new heights, allowing you to enjoy music with spatial elements for a richer listening experience. For gamers, HDMI 2.1a supports high resolutions and refresh rates, providing smooth visuals for fast-paced action games.

What We Like
IMAX Enhanced visuals
Adaptive audio technology
Dolby Atmos music support
High-resolution gaming support
#TOP 8

Pyle 1000W Home Theater Receiver

PT696BT.7
Black
Pyle 1000W Home Theater Receiver Cover
Pyle 1000W Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver - 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Stereo Amplifier System with 4K Ultra HD, 3D Video & Blu-Ray Video Pass-Through Support, HDMI/MP3/USB/AM/FM Radio, Black

The Pyle Home Theater Receiver delivers exceptional audio performance with its impressive 1000W peak power, making it ideal for enhancing your home entertainment experience. With built-in Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily stream music from your smartphone or tablet without any hassle. It also supports 4K Ultra HD, 3D, and Blu-ray video pass-through, allowing you to connect and enjoy high-quality video from various devices. Additionally, the receiver features advanced EQ controls, giving you the ability to customize sound settings for echo, bass, treble, and volume, ensuring you achieve the perfect audio output for any occasion.

What We Like
Powerful 1000W output
Bluetooth streaming capability
4K Ultra HD support
Customizable EQ controls

Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio Smart Receiver

TXNR696M3BMDC
Black
Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio Smart Receiver Cover
Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio Smart Audio and Video Receiver, Sonos Compatible and Dolby Atmos Enabled, 4K Ultra HD and AirPlay 2, Black

The Onkyo TX-NR696 Home Audio Smart Receiver is a versatile audio and video receiver that can join your existing Sonos Home Sound System or start a new one. The AVR is compatible with various streaming services, including Amazon Music, Spotify, TIDAL, and TuneIn, and can be controlled by Google Assistant. It also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS formats for an immersive listening experience and is THX Certified Select, guaranteeing a reference volume level of a commercial theater.

What We Like
Versatile audio and video receiver
Sonos compatible
Supports various streaming services
Immersive listening experience with Dolby Atmos and DTS formats
THX Certified Select for a reference volume level of a commercial theater
#TOP 10

Pyle 1000W Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver

PT696BT.5
Black
Stadard
Pyle 1000W Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver Cover
Pyle 1000W Bluetooth Home Theater Receiver - 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Stereo Amplifier System with 4K Ultra HD, 3D Video & Blu-Ray Video Pass-Through Support, HDMI/MP3/USB/AM/FM Radio, Black

The Pyle Bluetooth Home Theater offers an impressive audio experience with its 1000W peak power, perfect for enhancing your home entertainment setup. Enjoy seamless music streaming thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect effortlessly with devices like smartphones and tablets. It also supports 4K Ultra HD and 3D video pass-through, providing stunning visuals when you connect external devices. Additionally, with its advanced EQ controls, you can customize sound settings for echo, bass, treble, and more, ensuring that your audio matches your preferences perfectly.

What We Like
High peak power output
Easy Bluetooth streaming
4K video support
Customizable sound settings
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a surround sound receiver do?

Put simply, a receiver has two main functions: firstly, it amplifies the sound so it can be fed to your speakers, and secondly, it allows you to select the audio and video you wish to watch. You can use it to switch from a DVD to free-to-air TV, for example, with the touch of a single button.

2. Do you need an AV receiver for 5.1 surround sound?

So do you need a receiver for surround sound? For traditional speakers, a receiver is highly recommended, almost always required. For active Soundbars with wireless or satellite speakers, a receiver is not needed. Passive Soundbars will require the use of a receiver.

Editor's Notes

During our surround sound av receiver research, we found 24 surround sound av receiver products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 34,094 customer reviews through our big data system to write the surround sound av receivers list. We found that most customers choose surround sound av receivers with an average price of $316.01.

The surround sound av receivers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of surround sound av receivers, including Sony, YAMAHA, Pyle, Denon, Pioneer. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

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.