AV Receiver Under $1000 Reviews
Modern AV receivers accept and process audio signals from various external sources (home theaters, DVDs, CDs, etc.) and send them to the connected speakers to provide a listener with a high-quality surround sound. Considering the complexity of the technology, is it possible to find the best AV receiver under $1000?
The list of products below presents the advanced models at a reasonable price. They might not have costly Class G built-in amplifiers or tons of output power for being installed in large halls. Still, they usually support the majority of the latest video formats and have enough inputs and outputs to make various connections with TVs, video players, subs, turntables, etc.
All the models in the post are suitable for setting up a home theater, providing an outstanding viewing experience. They also enhance audio content thanks to surround sound processing. The best AV receivers under $1000 have many audio channels to arrange numerous configurations not online within a room but also around the house. In other words, the user will be able to create a customized home theater with a unique soundstage, fully adapted to the environment.
Denon AVR-X3600H — the best AV receiver under $1000
This device is a 9-channel, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capable receiver with voice control, delivering 105W to each channel into 8 Ohms. It allows hooking up two subs, arranging a 9.2-channel system to ensure a louder sound and smoother frequency response at many listening positions.
The Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) passes through a signal with higher speed and wider bandwidth, providing high-quality audio sent from the TV. The Denon AVR-X3600H fits home theater systems thanks to an IMAX tech that allows tweaking the current video and audio signals to improve the image clarity and reduce unwanted noise. The unit features Dolby Atmos surround option to produce natural audio images despite the speakers’ placement.
The Denon has 8 HDMI inputs, and its 3 outputs with the HDCP 2.3 support make it possible to connect a smart 4K TV, a Blu-ray player, or an external media player (a Roku or a Fire TV) to play 4K HDR content. The appliance captures the main zone and zone 2. Still, it’s possible to run preamp out to an external amplifier to run extra zones for audio. The Audyssey EQ32 auto calibration makes accurate adjustments, considering the room issues.
The receiver’s front panel has a large-sized LCD, rotary input source selector and volume control on its sides, and a series of selectors underneath the screen. The USB inputs and headphone jack are also there for easy and fast access. So don't ignore this model choosing the best home theater receiver under 1000 dollars.
Pros
- The AVR is compatible with Crestron to control all the automated devices in the house via an iPhone or Android mobile device.
- The unit has a phono input for turntables.
Cons
- The receiver has one trigger cable output, meaning the opportunity to control the powers of a single connected device only.
- The Audyssey settings cannot be saved, making it necessary to set an AVR up each time a home theater or acoustic system is used.
Yamaha RX-V685
This 7.2-channel, Wi-Fi capable model has a 4K pass-through and upscaling. The latter enhances low-resolution video up to 4K format. The RX-V685 supports HDR10, BT.2020, HDCP 2.2, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log-Gamma video techs. It also has a virtual DSP for high-quality stereo listening with realistic sound. The Bluetooth capability allows listening to music or watching videos from mobile devices wirelessly and through Bluetooth headphones (however, with noticeable audio latency when the video and sound are not synchronized perfectly).
The unit allows arranging a 5.2-channel setup or 5.2.2-channel system for virtual Dolby Atmos sound. The device features a Zone 2 setup. A listener can watch a TV in the Main Zone while sending a wireless signal from another source to Zone 2. However, in this case, it’s getting impossible to use surround speakers in the Main Zone.
The appliance has the FM/AM input to enjoy the radio, and a built-in moving magnet (MM) phono preamp makes it possible to hook up a turntable. The user also can connect a TV and a projector at a time thanks to the AVR’s 2 HDMI outputs. The manufacturer designed the unit with a MusicCast multi-room audio system to listen to music from any place in the house once the MusicCast speakers are connected.
The device produces a rich sound with outstanding bass quality when a subwoofer is connected. The built-in microphone allows adjusting speakers, considering the room layout. This model has a durable construction with four built-in DACs that remove noise from high-resolution content.
Pros
- The device offers many streaming options.
- The Apple AirPlay function performs flawlessly without losing connection.
- The setup via YPAO calibration is a matter of minutes.
Cons
- With just 90 watts for each of the channels, this model doesn’t fit large rooms.
- The AUX plug is on the front panel only that apparently reduces sound quality.
Denon AVR-X4500H
The 9-channel AVR with 123W per channel and two outputs for subs is remarkable for its ability to support 3D formats (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D) and enhance video and audio via IMAX. That is why we picked it up for our best receiver under $1000 list. The receiver’s Audyssey MultEQ XT32 calibration system can take up to 32 measurements and remembers various settings for each connected device. Besides, this unit is compatible with several control systems to choose from to manage the smart home devices. The AVR is also integrated with the HEOS app to play various streaming services to a receiver.
This model has the AL32 processing to enhance the waveform and restores data lost while digital recording. It reduces noise and makes lows clearer when it deals with subtle musical nuances. The unit has two extra amps for 9-channel processing (for instance, 7.1.2 or 5.1.4) with the ability to expand the system to 11-channel processing using an external 2-channel amp. The AVR-X4500H also allows arranging a 2-channel stereo system in the second zone.
The receiver has eight inputs and three outputs, five RCA terminals, and a phono input to connect a turntable. The AVR-X4500H features durable construction with a metal front panel, gold-plated connectors, and high-quality binding posts for every channel. The AVR’s front panel is not overwhelmed with buttons, having only the 2-line display, crossover and main zone settings, USB port, phono input, buttons to adjust the sub’s on/off, distance, and level.
Pros
- This model can decode lossless files (FLAC, WAV, and ALAC).
- The AVR has Apple AirPlay 2, meaning the option of voice control via Siri.
- The unit provides bright and precise overall sound with clean high levels.
Cons
- The Wi-Fi connection is not stable.
- Despite two internal cooling fans, the AVR gets hot and needs large surrounding space.
Denon AVR-X4400H
Those craving surround sound in multiple zones would rate this device as the best AV receiver under 1000 dollars since it has both Zone 2 and 3 with multiple variations. One can arrange the Main Zone for a 7.1-channel system. Besides, it’s possible to set a 2-channel in Zone 2 and Zone 3 separately or simultaneously, 5.1 channels in the Main Zone and Zone 2 at a time, and 1-channel acoustics in Zones 2 and 3 in parallel.
The device is fitted with the AB amplifier that combines decent efficiency and low distortions. It features the preamplifiers for 11 channels to grow with the setups over the years, but two of them still need an additional stereo amp. Besides, it usually operates not as good as the main AVR. The unit is able to produce 3D 1080p content. I wish it had the IMAX sound tech, like some other devices in this price segment. Still, the receiver supports HDCP 2.2, HDR10, Dolby Vision, and HLG/HDR. It also has Auro-3D onboard to reproduce surround sound in high-resolution audio.
The AVR produces a clean and well-balanced sound that is easy to adjust if the device is connected to the speakers with a higher sensitivity rate. They allow wasting less power to get the speakers to the desired volume.
It is possible to download the app and to control your AVR with a smartphone. The appliance comes with the remote, batteries, mic, and instructions.
Pros
- I was pleasantly surprised by the opportunity to use different sources (except for TVs) for all three zones.
- HEOS multi-room option is present.
- Aluminum-based construction is sturdy enough to ensure low resonance.
Cons
- The appliance lacks the Bluetooth output, meaning no option to connect wireless headphones.
- The device is compatible with Alexa, but its opportunities are limited, allowing the users to regulate volume and to turn the AVR on or off.
Denon AVR-X2600H
In search of the best Atmos receiver under 1000 dollars, consider the Denon AVR-X2600H. This model is a 7-channel device with 95W per channel into 8 Ohms and two subwoofer outputs to boost the volume and frequencies’ balance of the sound environment in the room. So, the unit is designed for a 5.2.2 or 7.2 application, allowing a user to send it a 2-channel or 5.1 input signal. In that case, the AVR simulates extra channels using one of its sound modes.
The implemented HEOS tech allows playing audio in multiple rooms, controlling it via a mobile app, tuning Internet radio, and streaming from music services like Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, etc. Besides, HEOS makes it possible to listen to tracks directly from the smartphone, tablet, or a USB drive. The AVR doesn’t require turning the TV on since it can be also used for stereo listening (for example, one can connect it to a turntable with the TV off).
It supports the 4K UHD via two outputs and has eight HDMI inputs to connect Blu-ray players, game consoles, and other video or audio sources. The TVs display a clear picture with optimal contrast and brightness thanks to the unit’s eARC and the ability to match the latest video and audio formats (Dolby Vision, HDR10, 3D, and BT.2020). The unit is compatible with Bluetooth but requires a transmitter to convert the outgoing signal to Bluetooth.
Pros
- This model turns on automatically when the TV is switched on.
- The unit can handle a 6-Ohm load after calibrating the amp to this level.
- The user interface (Setup Assistant guides) provides the speaker layout’s easy and fast configuration.
- The cardboard tripod is in the package.
Cons
- The video toggled between sources cuts out and takes a couple of seconds to load the other source.
- No IMAX technology to enhance video and audio, depending on the source and content.
Denon AVRX3500H
This 7.2-channel model with the output of 105 watts per channel is capable of decoding DTS-X and Dolby Atmos, HDR, Dolby Digital, and HLG formats. Its inputs are compatible with HTCP2.2. This model allows using HEOS products to manage smart devices all over the house.
The unit has 7 HDMI inputs on the back panel to connect multiple devices (DVDs, Blu-rays, game consoles, etc.) simultaneously. Two HDMI outputs allow sending two independent video signals out. A couple of antennas on the back indicate the device’s Wi-Fi capability. A phono input makes it possible to hook up a turntable. The Audyssey setup has an on-screen display with a step-by-step guide that is comprehensive even for non-tech-savvy users. Besides, all the instructions are very detailed. For example, it notifies the polarity backward when the speakers are hooked up.
The AVR provides a seamless listening experience whether it is about music or movies after proper calibration. A flawless separation between right and left channels reveals good overall engineering that ensures no distortions and mono effects.
Pros
- The screen is large and bright that makes all the information displayed easy to read.
- The signal goes instantly to a TV or projector.
Cons
- While toggling between sources, the device freezes and needs a restart.
- When the unit stays plugged into a socket in the turn-off mode, it can turn on spontaneously.
Yamaha R-N602
Another model that won’t suit movie theater lovers with only one correction — it will most likely not suit rock music fans also. Let’s agree, 80W output power per channel won’t scale up the sound volume a lot, and there are only two channels available to you. So, why is it on this list then? Apart from some drawbacks, this receiver has the lowest total harmonic distortion I know — only 0.04%! The signal-to-noise ratio of 100 dB will also please every music lover, and 0.1W standby power consumption will stop you from worrying whether you turn it off or not. To sum up, if the volume scaling is not that important for you, you will find this receiver a perfect choice to listen to music on a new level.
Pros
- It can connect speakers in another room via Wi-Fi; this system works perfectly and provides great connectivity.
- Even its specifications state 0.1W standby power consumption; my home measurements show just a 0W reading.
Cons
- The smartphone app doesn’t allow you to rename inputs or customize them.
- If you turn off the receiver while listening to Internet radio, the next time you turn it on, you will need to re-select the station, as it won’t remember it.
Onkyo TX-RZ830
The Onkyo TX-RZ830 is an upgraded version of the Onkyo TX-RZ820. The biggest difference is that the manufacturer has implemented Sonos synchronization in the newer model so the receiver can now be a part of Sonos Home Sound System, they also added AccuEQ Advance that is great for speaker calibration precision settings. Overall, I would say that changes are great; however, would you use them a lot to pay more for them? Just think about it once more.
Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A1080
The AVENTAGE RX-A1080 can deliver a quite good sound thanks to the ESS technology, symmetrical amplifier configuration and a rigid chassis. In addition, this Yamaha 7.2-channel network AVR supports 4K Ultra HD resolution, with seven input and two HDMI output connectors fully compatible with the HDCP2.2 standard.
The combination of DTS: X and the Yamaha AV receiver filled my room with a high sound even on high volumes. Of course, this AV receiver supports Bluetooth technology, so it can operate remotely from smartphones and similar devices.
As I mentioned above, this potentially the best a/v receiver under $1000 supports the latest HDMI standards. During the test, due to 4K high-resolution video transmission with 60 FPS, there was no slightest deterioration in image quality.
This AV receiver is equipped with a wide range of pre-programmed sound reproduction modes. Most of them use the unique Yamaha digital signal processing technology. However, I cannot say that they are better or worse than any other modes in other non-Yamaha AVR under $1000.
Also, there is a special free AV Controller application used to adjust the digital signal processing parameters according to specified settings for each type of music or movies.
Pros
- Receiver sounds really good due to its really excellent features.
- The FM Tuner from Yamaha receives stations with no issues.
- The Yamaha "AV Controller" app works great and allows you to adjust everything with the help of the phone only.
Cons
- Multi-track files are not working.
- AVR runs too hot.
Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A880
The new Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A880 was upgraded just a little bit comparing to the previous one. The biggest change is an implemented Reflected Sound Control with Multipoint technology. This technology helps you analyze the room’s acoustics so you can tune the system, especially for your room. To add, DSP Effect Normalization adjusts the room acoustics according to the reflected sounds of each Cinema DSP program. One negative thing though, in this model, there are only seven HDMI inputs compared to those eight that the RX-A870 had. Do you need to connect to a lot of equipment? If yes, you'd better choose the previous model rather than go for the upgraded one.
Yamaha Aventage RX-A3080 — Honorable Mention
The 9.2-channel device with 11.2-channel processing is a versatile AVR for all intents and purposes. It supports advanced video and audio formats, features voice control via Alexa, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth capability. It supports the most popular streaming services (Pandora, Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, and many others) and 4K Ultra HD TVs. The AVR provides 150 watts for each of the channels, making the devices powerful enough to use it in large spaces.
The MusicCast multi-room system supports wireless rear-channel speakers to arrange a 5.1-channel setup with multiple placement options. The AI (artificial intelligence) automatically adjusts all sound frequencies in real time. This feature does its job for TV shows and movies, making the sound match a particular scene.
The device is compatible with Control4 and RTI techs to control a full range of smart home devices. Besides, the AVR is integrated with third-party control systems to manage various devices around the house. The branded YPAO sound equalization makes unique angle measurement in addition to other setups, common for many other calibration systems.
The device has 7 inputs and 3 outputs. The latter allows connecting two video sources in one room, and a TV or a projector in another one. The unit can be hooked up to a turntable via a phono input. Besides, the XLR outputs provide a balanced sound produced by an external 2-channel amp (the device is necessary to arrange an 11.2-channel setup).
The AVR has a full-metal chassis with its well-screwed parts that ensure durability. The fifth foot in the middle of the unit’s bottom reduces vibrations to minimize resonance.
Pros
- The ports, inputs, and outputs on the back panel feature logical placement based on the types of the connection.
- The DAB/FM antenna makes it possible to listen to analog radio and enjoy digital audio broadcasting.
Cons
- The cooling fan system might be more efficient since the device generates much heat.
- No MHL input to watch videos from a mobile device on the TV screen.
Denon AVRX4300H
Denon traditionally produces strong amplifiers. The AVRX4300H is not an exception. This product can handle a huge set of music formats. MP3 is very easily perceived by this receiver as well as it can also process high-expansion audio files such as ALAC, FLAC, WAV, and 2.8 / 5.6-MHz DSD. In terms of online broadcasting, the Denon AVRX4300H supports Internet Radio, Spotify Connect, Pandora, Amazon Music, Napster, iHeartRadio, Soundcloud, Tidal, and Deezer.
Another pleasant moment is that Denon has always paid high attention to simplifying the configuration of its products. The AVRX4300H despite the wide range of functions is one of the straightforward receivers for tuning and further work. As soon as you turn it on, it will guide you through the entire configuration step-by-step. The Denon AVRX4300H uses the Audyssey x32 calibration system. As soon as you reach this point, the receiver prompts you to place the microphone in one of eight places in the listening area. The cardboard microphone stand also included in the kit.
The overall calibration process took about 15 minutes. In general, the Denon AVRX4300H is a great receiver, and thanks to 9 amplification channels you have a lot of speaker layout options. The support of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HEOS, Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, and 4K makes this product simply unsurpassed in terms of functionality. Great sound quality will allow this receiver to remain relevant for many years.
Pros
- Optimized ARC feature for television.
- Easy to set up.
- MutliEQ XT32 with "Dynamic Volume" (aligns the sound level in all movies).
Cons
- The Ogg Vorbis is not supported.
- There is no way to replace the product in case of malfunction. The manufacturer provides endless repairs.
Marantz SR5012
The Marantz SR5012 is a great mid-range home cinema receiver that has enough channels to power the left, right, and center channels. There are also two side and rear surrounds and two subwoofers. Power of 100 watts per channel should be loud enough for most rooms. What I liked the most is that it works great with Alexa. My house is very automated and so I can ask Alexa. It is possible to control the volume and inputs with voice commands.
The amplifier can be used as a pre-amplifier. Thus, if you need more power this can be done very simply.
When the SR5012 is working, the sound is simply great and I could not find any other receiver that works same well, in this price category of course.
I like the Marantz SR5012 and I like the sound that can only be played through class A and B amplifiers. This device will become very hot at high volume levels. Still, this is not a design flaw. It's all about the way the power is supplied to AV receivers of class A-B. A side effect of this flaw is a much higher temperature. Most receivers in the category up to $1000 have class D amplifiers which are much cooler. However, they do not sound as good as this Marantz product.
Pros
- Eight Audyssey channel calibration points.
- It is less heavy than previous Marantz models.
- Has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- Volume control with voice commands.
Cons
- Switching between inputs is painfully slow and forces to go to the on-screen menu (OSD) to simplify setup.
Yamaha AVENTAGE RX-A870BL
Everybody wants great sound, yet nobody wants to get huge electricity bills after buying a receiver. However, with this Yamaha model, you won’t face this issue at all – it consumes only 0.2W in standby mode! I also would like to bring your attention to the fact that while at work it has an output power per channel up to 160W – sounds like a great deal, isn’t it? This model also supports all audio formats possible (including Apple lossless) and has a full set of built-in decoders (all existing Dolby and DTS technologies are there). In combination with a total harmonic distortion of 0.06% and 106 dB signal-to-noise ratio, this model provides great sound with up to 4K upscaling via HDMI. The only thing you may miss is the absence of 3D pass-through.
Pros
- I managed to connect it to my Xbox One X; I have searched a lot for the receiver that actually will be able to handle this!
- Absolutely loved the wireless music function; now I can enjoy music while cooking something in the kitchen next door.
Cons
- The subwoofer gets triggered every time I want to change something in settings. I find this really frustrating sometimes, especially if this happens while I am watching the film.
Marantz SR6012
The Marantz SR6012 has both digital and Internet radio and can recognize most known audio formats including FLAC and Apple lossless. All this is done without loss of quality and the built-in Dolby and DTS decoders can please you with remote control from a smartphone.
This is a 9.2-channel network AV receiver with 11.2-channel processing capability. In addition, there is built-in HEOS wireless multi-room audio technology with the free HEOS app. AVR supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, eight HDMI inputs, front panel USB input, ECO mode, Dolby Vision and HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) pass-through capability, the eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) support. The Dolby Atmos and DTS:X capability are included too. I have used Audyssey MultEQ XT32 setup and room calibration.
For those people who are worried about energy consumption, I can safely say that this model is really good for them. After all, the output power per channel is not so high – only 110W and the total output power of 900W will not be a terrible sentence for your electricity bills. The biggest advantage of this particular AVR is its excellent configuration of sound effects. You can enjoy both Dolby Digital surround sound and Dolby Atmos too. I recommend the Marantz SR6012 to fans of 3D movies who do not want to spend too much money on movie tickets.
Pros
- Tidal and other streaming services use with the highest quality.
- Voice quality in movies is very good.
- HEOS simplifies receiver control for playing Internet radio and other stream sources.
- Sound tuning is quite simple and gives good results.
Cons
- Often additional adjusting of the speaker for better sound.
- Heats up during operation.
- Unreliable packaging.
Marantz SR-6011
If you are the kind of person who pays only for the sound and doesn’t care about something like a sleep timer and three-zone compatibility, this is the best AV receiver under $1000 for you. Even it may seem not very modern in terms of features, it does everything you need from an affordable AV receiver: it has 3D pass-through and HDMI pass-through up to 4K, has all DTS and Dolby family decoders (apart from Dolby Digital Plus), and also can please you with the ability to connect other devices via WiFi and Bluetooth (doubt you will miss IEEE that it lacks).
Pros
- Great upmixing! I have managed to upmix the 7.2 stuff to 7.2.4.
- Volume scaling. I can adjust the volume in several ways, when it is loud you won’t usually notice the sound quality, however, when I put the volume down to 15, I was amazed that I could still hear dialogs!
Cons
- The remote is quite slow, and it takes patience to get used to it.
- On the main menu, there are things that are on remote, no extra features or so. It is not a disadvantage, however, I would like a menu to be more diverse than that.
-
Denon AVR-X3500H
- Denon
- | 1000
- 20
-
Marantz SR5013
- Marantz
- | 1000
- 4
-
Onkyo TX-NR828
- Onkyo
- | 1000
- 123
-
Yamaha RX-V2085
- Yamaha
- | 1000
- 4
-
Denon AVR-X1600H
- Denon
- | 600
- 18
-
Yamaha RX-A880
- Yamaha
- | 900
- 17
-
Marantz MM7025
- Marantz
- | 800
- 26
-
Pioneer VSX-LX103
- Pioneer
- | 600
- 19
-
Pioneer VSX-LX503
- Pioneer
- | 600
- 22
-
Sony STR-ZA810ES
- Sony
- | 600
- 11
-
Yamaha RX-V675
- Yamaha
- | 600
- 757
-
Denon AVR-X4400H
- Denon
- | 800
- 67
-
Yamaha R-N803BL
- Yamaha
- | 800
- 22
-
Yamaha RX-V685BL
- Yamaha
- | 600
- 50
-
Marantz SR5012
- Marantz
- | 700
- 31
-
Marantz NR1606
- Marantz
- | 600
- 50
-
Marantz NR1607
- Marantz
- | 600
- 61
-
Marantz SR6011
- Marantz
- | 1000
- 23
-
Yamaha RX-V681BL
- Yamaha
- | 600
- 283
-
Yamaha RX-V677
- Yamaha
- | 600
- 572
-
Denon AVR-X3400H
- Denon
- | 600
- 74
-
Denon AVRX4400H
- Denon
- | 800
- 74
-
Onkyo TX-RZ710
- Onkyo
- | 600
- 70
-
Yamaha RX-A780
- Yamaha
- | 700
- 19
-
Yamaha RX-V671
- Yamaha
- | 600
- 255
-
Yamaha R-N602
- Yamaha
- | 600
- 26
-
Marantz SR6010
- Marantz
- | 1000
- 33
-
Sony STR-DN1060
- Sony
- | 600
- 148
-
Marantz SR5011
- Marantz
- | 900
- 39
-
Yamaha RX-A870BL
- Yamaha
- | 900
- 32
-
Onkyo TX-RZ610
- Onkyo
- | 900
- 60
-
Onkyo TX-NR757
- Onkyo
- | 700
- 82
-
Sony STR-DN1040
- Sony
- | 600
- 335
-
Onkyo TX-NR747
- Onkyo
- | 700
- 111
-
Denon AVR-X4100W
- Denon
- | 900
- 51
-
Sony STR-DN1050
- Sony
- | 600
- 258
-
Yamaha RX-A680
- Yamaha
- | 600
-
Denon AVR-X2200W
- Denon
- | 600
-
Onkyo TX-NR809
- Onkyo
- | 600
-
Yamaha RX-A660
- Yamaha
- | 500
-
Denon AVR-S900W
- Denon
- | 600
-
Sony STR-ZA1100ES
- Sony
- | 1000
-
Yamaha RX-V781
- Yamaha
- | 900
-
Yamaha RX-A670
- Yamaha
- | 600
-
Yamaha RX-A760
- Yamaha
- | 800
-
Sony STR-DN840
- Sony
- | 600
-
Onkyo TX-RZ740
- Onkyo
- | 800
-
Onkyo TX-NR797
- Onkyo
- | 700
-
Yamaha TSR-7850
- Yamaha
- | 700
-
Onkyo TX-NR696
- Onkyo
- | 600
-
Denon AVR-X1100W
- Denon
- | 1000
-
Denon AVR-S500BT
- Denon
- | 800
Popular receiver comparisons
