Choosing the right AV receiver 72 in 2026 means balancing power, features, and ease of use. The Denon AVR-X1700H stands out for its high performance and user-friendly setup, making it ideal for most home theaters. The Onkyo TX-NR6100 offers remarkable power and THX certification, perfect for larger rooms and audiophiles. Meanwhile, the Denon AVR-S670H provides excellent 8K support but with some complexity, suited for tech-savvy users. Each of these picks balances different priorities—whether it’s raw power, ease of use, or future-proofing—so your choice hinges on your specific needs and room size.
Get audio and creator gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The Denon AVR-X1700H offers a solid balance of high-end audio formats and easy setup for most users.
- The Onkyo TX-NR6100 excels in power and future-proof 8K HDMI support, ideal for large rooms and demanding setups.
- The Denon AVR-S670H supports advanced 8K video but may be complex for beginners.
- The Sony STRDH590 is a budget-friendly option with virtual surround sound but lacks advanced calibration features.
- Choosing the right receiver depends on your room size, audio/video needs, and technical comfort level.
| Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver, 8K UHD HDMI, 75W x 5 |  | Best Overall for Versatility and Future-Ready Features | Channels: 5.2 | Power Output: 75W x 5 | Video Support: 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel, Built-in HEOS |  | Best for Power and Ease of Use in Larger Rooms | Channels: 7.2 | Power per channel: 80W | HDMI inputs: 3 8K inputs | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver – 8K Ultra HD Audio & Video |  | Best Budget-Friendly 8K Support | Channels: 5.2 | HDMI Inputs: 4 HDMI 2.1 | HDMI Output: 1 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver |  | Best Budget for Basic Home Theater Setup | Channels: 5.2 | Power Output: 725W | Supported Video: 4K HDR, HDCP 2.2 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified Network AV Receiver – Black |  | Best for High Power and Future-Ready Connectivity | Power: 210W per channel | Channels: 7.2 | Certification: THX Certified Select | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| av receiver 72 | Channels | Connectivity |
|---|---|---|
| Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Channel Ho | 5.2 | HDMI ARC/eARC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel A | 7.2 | Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth |
| Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel A | 5.2 | — |
| Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surr | 5.2 | Bluetooth, HDMI |
| Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel TH | 7.2 | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver, 8K UHD HDMI, 75W x 5
The Denon AVR-S670H stands out for supporting 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video pass-through, making it a top choice for those wanting high-quality visuals. It’s equipped with Dolby TrueHD and DTS Neo:6 for immersive surround sound, and its seamless HDMI ARC/eARC connectivity simplifies setup. Multi-room streaming via HEOS and voice control compatibility with Alexa enhance its convenience. However, its 75W per channel might fall short for very large rooms or demanding audio setups, and the complex setup process can challenge beginners.
Pros:- Supports advanced 8K video formats for high-quality visuals
- Multi-room streaming with HEOS
- Seamless voice control compatibility
Cons:- Complex setup for beginners
- Limited to 75W per channel, potentially insufficient for large rooms
Best for: Home theater enthusiasts seeking a future-proof, feature-rich receiver
Not ideal for: Complete beginners or users needing high wattage for large spaces
- Channels:5.2
- Power Output:75W x 5
- Video Support:8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR
- Connectivity:HDMI ARC/eARC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- Voice Control:Alexa, other major voice assistants
Our verdict“A versatile choice that balances advanced features with a moderate power output, best suited for tech-savvy users.”
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel, Built-in HEOS
The Denon AVR-X1700H offers 7.2 channels with 80W per channel, making it ideal for larger spaces requiring more volume and power. It supports 8K HDMI, Dolby Atmos, and DTS:X, providing a premium audio-visual experience. Setup is straightforward thanks to on-screen guides and color-coded connections, and multi-room streaming is built-in. Its main tradeoff is the limited number of HDMI inputs—only three 8K-capable ports—and some features might be overwhelming for casual users. Still, it’s a reliable, powerful option for demanding home theaters.
Pros:- Supports advanced 8K HDMI video and high-quality audio formats
- Easy setup with on-screen guide and color-coded connections
- Built-in multi-room streaming support
Cons:- Limited HDMI inputs for extensive device connection
- Features may require some technical understanding
Best for: Larger rooms and users wanting high power with straightforward setup
Not ideal for: Users with many devices needing numerous HDMI inputs or beginners seeking simplicity
- Channels:7.2
- Power per channel:80W
- HDMI inputs:3 8K inputs
- HDMI output:1
- Supports:8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth
Our verdict“A high-power, user-friendly receiver for those with larger spaces and demanding audio needs.”
Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Receiver – 8K Ultra HD Audio & Video
The Denon AVR-S570BT provides essential 8K Ultra HD support with Dolby TrueHD and DTS HD Master, all packaged in a budget-friendly design. It offers four HDMI 2.1 inputs, making it suitable for gamers and users with multiple devices. Its Bluetooth capability adds convenience for wireless music streaming. However, with only 5.2 channels and no built-in Wi-Fi, it’s less suited for large or multi-zone setups. Its lower power output and lack of advanced calibration features mean it’s best for smaller rooms or casual setups.
Pros:- Supports 8K Ultra HD and HDR formats for high-quality video
- Multiple HDMI 2.1 inputs suitable for gaming
- Built-in Bluetooth for wireless streaming
Cons:- Limited to 5.2 channels
- No built-in Wi-Fi for network streaming
- Lower power output may be insufficient for large rooms
Best for: Budget-conscious users wanting 8K support without complex features
Not ideal for: Large rooms or users seeking extensive multi-zone audio
- Channels:5.2
- HDMI Inputs:4 HDMI 2.1
- HDMI Output:1
- Power:70W x 5
- Supports:8K Ultra HD, HDR, Dolby Vision
Our verdict“An affordable 8K-compatible receiver for smaller setups and casual users.”
Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surround Sound Home Theater Receiver
The Sony STRDH590 offers a straightforward home theater experience with 5.2 channels and a power output of 725W. It supports 4K HDR and HDCP 2.2, ensuring compatibility with current media standards. Its Bluetooth connectivity and multiple HDMI inputs make it versatile enough for most casual users. The main limitation is the virtual surround sound feature, which doesn’t match dedicated surround setups—making it better suited for smaller rooms or secondary systems. Its lack of advanced calibration features could also impact sound quality in more demanding environments.
Pros:- Supports 4K HDR and HDCP 2.2 for high-quality video
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming
- Multiple HDMI inputs for device versatility
Cons:- Limited detailed specifications
- No advanced calibration features
- Virtual surround sound less precise
Best for: Budget-conscious users seeking basic surround sound
Not ideal for: Enthusiasts wanting advanced calibration or larger room setups
- Channels:5.2
- Power Output:725W
- Supported Video:4K HDR, HDCP 2.2
- HDMI Ports:4 in / 1 out
- Connectivity:Bluetooth, HDMI
Our verdict“A solid, affordable choice for casual home theater use with basic features.”
Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified Network AV Receiver – Black
The Onkyo TX-NR6100 is a powerhouse, with 210W per channel and THX Certified Select audio quality. It supports 8K HDMI 2.1 with 40Gbps bandwidth, making it extremely future-proof. Its support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, combined with discrete Zone 2 capabilities, makes it ideal for demanding multi-zone setups. The main drawback is its potentially complex setup process, which could intimidate less experienced users. Its high price might also be a barrier for casual buyers, but for large or multi-purpose spaces, this receiver delivers exceptional performance.
Pros:- High-quality THX Certified audio
- Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
- 8K HDMI 2.1 with 40Gbps bandwidth
- Discrete Zone 2 audio and video
Cons:- Potentially complex setup
- Price may be prohibitive for some
Best for: Large rooms, multi-zone systems, and audiophiles demanding power
Not ideal for: Casual users or those with limited technical experience
- Power:210W per channel
- Channels:7.2
- Certification:THX Certified Select
- HDMI:8K with HDMI 2.1 40Gbps
- Zone 2:Discrete Zone 2 Audio and Video
Our verdict“An excellent choice for large, demanding setups needing top-tier power and future-proof HDMI support.”
How We Picked
Our selection process focused on a mix of performance, features, and user experience, emphasizing models that support 72 channels or configurations in 2026. We prioritized products with robust audio formats, future-proof HDMI support, and connectivity options that suit varying levels of technical expertise. Price, brand reputation, and ease of setup also played roles in our evaluations. The goal was to identify receivers that deliver powerful sound, clear visuals, and good value for different types of home theater enthusiasts.
| av receiver 72 | Connectivity |
|---|---|
| Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Channel Ho | HDMI ARC/eARC, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
| Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel A | Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth |
| Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel A | — |
| Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel Surr | Bluetooth, HDMI |
| Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel TH | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Av Receiver 72
Selecting the right AV receiver 72 entails understanding your room size, preferred audio formats, and future connectivity needs. The key is balancing power, features, and ease of setup based on your specific environment. Whether you prioritize high power for large spaces, advanced HDMI support for gaming and 8K content, or simple plug-and-play operation, this guide will help clarify those choices.
Power and Channel Configuration
The number of channels and wattage determine how well your system can fill your room with sound. If you have a large space or want immersive surround sound, opting for a 7.2 or higher configuration with at least 80W per channel is wise. For smaller rooms, 5.2 channels with 70-75W may suffice, but ensure your system can handle the acoustics of your space.
Video Support and HDMI Features
8K support is increasingly important for future-proofing, especially if you plan to upgrade your display or gaming setup. Look for HDMI 2.1 compatibility with at least 40Gbps bandwidth for seamless 8K/120Hz pass-through. Additional features like HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and VRR can elevate your visual experience, so prioritize receivers with these capabilities if you want the latest in video technology.
Ease of Setup and Connectivity
Ease of installation varies widely. Models like the Denon AVR-X1700H feature on-screen guides and color-coded connections, making setup more accessible. Voice control and multi-room streaming are increasingly standard, but check if the receiver supports your preferred voice assistant or streaming platforms. For those less familiar with home theater wiring, simpler models may be more appropriate, even if they lack some advanced features.
Power Output and Room Size
Power output per channel influences how loud and clear your system will sound. Larger rooms or open-plan spaces benefit from higher wattage and more channels, like the Onkyo TX-NR6100. Smaller rooms or casual setups may do well with less power, such as the Denon AVR-S570BT or Sony STRDH590. Always match your receiver’s power to your space for optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between 5.2 and 7.2 channel receivers?
The primary difference lies in the number of speakers they can support. A 5.2 channel receiver supports five main speakers and two subwoofers, suitable for smaller or medium-sized rooms. A 7.2 channel receiver, like the Denon AVR-X1700H, supports more speakers, which can create a more immersive surround sound experience, especially in larger rooms. The extra channels also provide more flexibility for advanced setups.
Is 8K HDMI support necessary for my AV receiver?
While not an immediate necessity, 8K HDMI support is increasingly relevant if you plan to upgrade your display or use high-resolution gaming consoles and media players. It offers better future-proofing, allowing for higher bandwidth and improved video quality. However, if your current setup is focused on 4K content, you may not need 8K support right now, but it’s a smart feature to consider for long-term use.
How important is power output when choosing an AV receiver?
Power output determines how loud and clear your audio will be, especially in larger or open spaces. Higher wattage per channel provides more headroom for dynamic sound effects and volume levels without distortion. For small rooms, lower power models may suffice, but for larger rooms or demanding audio formats, investing in a receiver with higher wattage, like the Onkyo TX-NR6100, ensures better sound quality and volume levels.
Should I prioritize HDMI inputs or audio formats?
This depends on your device setup. If you have multiple gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, or streaming devices, prioritize models with ample HDMI inputs, especially HDMI 2.1 for 8K support. If high-quality surround sound and immersive audio are your focus, look for receivers supporting Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and other advanced formats. Ideally, a balance of both features aligns with most home theater needs.
Are THX-certified receivers worth the extra investment?
THX certification, like that of the Onkyo TX-NR6100, guarantees a certain standard of audio quality and calibration, which can improve overall sound accuracy and consistency. If you’re building a high-end or multi-zone system, THX certification can be valuable. For casual or smaller setups, non-certified models may suffice, but for demanding environments, the certification can be a worthwhile feature.
Conclusion
For users seeking a versatile, future-proof option with balanced features, the Denon AVR-X1700H is the best fit. Large-room owners or those with demanding audio needs will find the Onkyo TX-NR6100 excels in power and connectivity. Budget-conscious buyers aiming for 8K support without complexity should consider the Denon AVR-S570BT. Casual users or those new to home theater setups can opt for the Sony STRDH590 for straightforward performance. Your choice hinges on your room size, technical comfort, and desired features—match accordingly for the best experience.
Fall Picks
fall essentials
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
