Best AV receivers under $500 in 2020

Preview

Title

Sony STR-DH590

Yamaha RX-V683BL

Sony STR-DH790

Sony STR-DN1080

Yamaha R-N303BL

Total output power

725 W

610 W

1015 W

1155 W

200 W

Number of channels

5

7

7

7

2

Output power per channel

90 W

105 W

145 W

165 W

125 W

Signal-to-noise ratio

105 dB

100 dB

106 dB

105 dB

100 dB

Sensitivity

500 mV

200 mV

500 mV

500 mV

500 mV

Impedance

6 ohm

8 ohm

6 -16 ohm

6 ohm

8 ohm

Frequency response

10 Hz - 100 kHz

20 Hz-20 kHz

10 Hz - 100 kHz

10 Hz - 100 kHz

40 Hz - 20 kHz

Bluetooth

Wi-Fi

Surround system class

5.2 channel

7.2 channel

7.2 channel

7.2 channel

2 channel

Dimensions

11.8 x 17 x 5.3 inches

14.9 x 17.1 x 6.8 inches

17 x 11.8 x 5.3 inches

19 x 15 x 8.4 inches

13.4 x 17.2 x 5.5 inches

Weight

16.8 pounds

22 pounds

18.9 pounds

23 pounds

15.9 pounds

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Preview

Title

Sony STR-DH590

Total output power

725 W

Number of channels

5

Output power per channel

90 W

Signal-to-noise ratio

105 dB

Sensitivity

500 mV

Impedance

6 ohm

Frequency response

10 Hz - 100 kHz

Bluetooth

Wi-Fi

Surround system class

5.2 channel

Dimensions

11.8 x 17 x 5.3 inches

Weight

16.8 pounds

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Preview

Title

Yamaha RX-V683BL

Total output power

610 W

Number of channels

7

Output power per channel

105 W

Signal-to-noise ratio

100 dB

Sensitivity

200 mV

Impedance

8 ohm

Frequency response

20 Hz-20 kHz

Bluetooth

Wi-Fi

Surround system class

7.2 channel

Dimensions

14.9 x 17.1 x 6.8 inches

Weight

22 pounds

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Preview

Title

Sony STR-DH790

Total output power

1015 W

Number of channels

7

Output power per channel

145 W

Signal-to-noise ratio

106 dB

Sensitivity

500 mV

Impedance

6 -16 ohm

Frequency response

10 Hz - 100 kHz

Bluetooth

Wi-Fi

Surround system class

7.2 channel

Dimensions

17 x 11.8 x 5.3 inches

Weight

18.9 pounds

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Preview

Title

Sony STR-DN1080

Total output power

1155 W

Number of channels

7

Output power per channel

165 W

Signal-to-noise ratio

105 dB

Sensitivity

500 mV

Impedance

6 ohm

Frequency response

10 Hz - 100 kHz

Bluetooth

Wi-Fi

Surround system class

7.2 channel

Dimensions

19 x 15 x 8.4 inches

Weight

23 pounds

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Preview

Title

Yamaha R-N303BL

Total output power

200 W

Number of channels

2

Output power per channel

125 W

Signal-to-noise ratio

100 dB

Sensitivity

500 mV

Impedance

8 ohm

Frequency response

40 Hz - 20 kHz

Bluetooth

Wi-Fi

Surround system class

2 channel

Dimensions

13.4 x 17.2 x 5.5 inches

Weight

15.9 pounds

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The best AV receivers under $500

A broad variety of technological goods blesses and curses us with a question of choice at the same moment. This problem aggravates with vivid complimentary reviews to each model that highlight only minor flaws that aren’t helpful in terms of making a final choice. Thus, I’ve come up with the idea to create a list to assist you in finding your best AV receiver under 500 dollars. This price allows you to purchase a sturdy model that is able to fulfill your demands.

Receivers in this price range are modern and sophisticated; they include many contemporary technologies but not all, of course. This price range, as seen from my personal testing, comprises affordable models with essential features, such as the Denon AVRX1500 with the high-quality picture and sounding, or the Pioneer SC-LX501 that has the famous MCACC automatic speaker and room calibration system.

I’ve included the practical advantages and disadvantages of each model, which I’ve discovered during my testing. In addition, I’ve decided that it would be useful to compare old and new versions of the device that has an upgraded version. However, if you’re looking for some specific features, browse only through detailed receiver reviews and pros and cons because models of previous years already comprise all essential features. So, don’t chase for the freshest models, they aren’t necessarily better for sure. Moreover, they’re at least $100 more expensive.

My list of top AV receivers under 500 includes six most popular brands such as Onkyo, Denon, Marantz, Pioneer, Yamaha, and Sony that have already carved their names in the history of electronic product development. Besides, I’ve found the most popular models of these brands and scrutinized them.

Receivers under 500 reviews

Our pick

Sony STRDH590 — the best AV receiver under 500

The best receiver under $500

Upgrade your home entertainment system to work with the latest 4K TVs and HDR picture. Equipped with 4 HDMI inputs, HDCP 2.2 signal handling, and a host of advanced features the DH590 is the perfect combination of high performance video capability and superb Sonic fidelity.

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Read the full review

Sony STRDH590

This black 5.2-channel AV receiver has a sturdy design (11.75 x 17 x 5.25 inches). There are input selection and volume knobs on the front side, which work seamlessly. There are no such network connections as Wi-Fi or Ethernet but provided Bluetooth performs its task without interruptions and problems. At the same time, the receiver supports the AAC codec, which allows you to receive sound from Apple devices at its best for Bluetooth. Unfortunately, the DH790 does not read aptX and Sony LDAC codecs.

Automatic tuning via the microphone doesn’t give the desired sound result. It’s possible to achieve a clear, spacious, and punchy sound only by indulging in the settings and changing almost all parameters. The High Dynamic Range produces a sharp and vibrant image with detailed dark and light elements for a more realistic viewing experience. The latest HDR standards such as HDR 10, HLG, and Dolby Vision are also supported. With 4K pass-through support, the unit makes it easy to transfer the source data to the screen through the receiver without compromising image quality.

Yamaha RX-V683BL

The Yamaha RX-V683BL is the best AV receiver under 500 dollars that allows connecting seven speakers and two subs. It comes with its branded YPAO auto-calibration system. It’s better to pick high-quality components of the home theater system to provide minor corrections after the initial setup. Note that YPAO used to define speakers as “small” or “large”. In the first case, YPAO calibration is appropriate. In the second one, one should use manual settings and adjustments because the user can't know for sure whether a sub takes a load on lows or not.

This AVR has a clear and well-categorized on-screen menu to connect DSP modes to input sources correctly. It’s also possible to use buttons for this purpose. The AVR features several modes, including 7-channel stereo and surround decoder to support Neural: X or Neo:6 Cinema formats with a single press of a button. If transmitting unprocessed audio is required, one can use Straight mode.

The unit has five HDMI ports. Three of them can pass through 4K video signal and the whole range of HDR standards. It can be hooked up to a TV via ARC HDMI connection, but if a TV lacks RCA, it’s possible to use optical cable. ARC connection can glitch (TV sound mutes occasionally or the AVR can’t understand power commands) while making settings the first time, but it all fades away as far as the system works.

Its built-in Zone 2 makes it possible to listen to another content and use another source in two rooms simultaneously. The AVR also has stable Bluetooth capabilities for wireless connections. Besides, one can use the Android app to make adjustments.

The AVR is developed for being a component of the home theater, but it works out not so good when dealing with audio. The zip at highs (that is rather typical for Yamaha’s receivers) can be heard and, since the speakers have already hooked up, the surround sound sometimes disappears while Atmos still expands the front space. However, this phenomenon depends on the speakers’ features. That’s why an acoustics test of the location is recommended before buying speakers.

The unit is also remarkable for its flawless works with such sources as DirecTV STB, HTPC, PS4, and even old PS3 when AVR delivers clear, detailed, and deep sound. It can perform for a long time without overheating. However, to ensure the AVR’s coolness, it’s possible to get a special AV component cooling fan.

Sony STR-DH790

It’s not the best home theater receiver under 500 dollars but a good entry-level model for a basic setup. It’s developed to arrange either a 5.2 or 7.2-channel system. One can enable this function on the TV to get it to work.

The unit supports Dolby Atmos to create surround sound environment. It offers 145W per channel. Its total harmonic distortion is low — just 0.9%. Its seven channels (five of them are for speakers and two are for subs) are well-organized on the rear panel. Thus, it makes it possible to bi-amp the pair of front stereo speakers or to use two ceiling speakers to provide rear surround for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

The unit allows HDR pass-through for all devices, including Xbox One X and other consoles. For this purpose, it’s necessary to make the right setting on the receiver and to use a minimum of HDMI 2.0 cables. However, note that it cannot be hooked up to the outdated Xbox 360 or a Nintendo Wii at all.

Connection with a turntable is also possible, but a phono preamp is required since this receiver does not have it on board. If connecting a sub, it’s better to pick self-powered models with both level control and a frequency range control.

In order to save the receiver’s performance, it’s necessary to use at least 6-Ohm speakers. 8-Ohm units are also suitable, but the AVR isn’t compatible with 4-Ohm ones. The AVR comes with four HDMI inputs that support 4K standards and just one HDMI output to hook up one device only — whether its’ a TV or a projector. In addition, a 6.5mm headphone hole is located on the left of the front panel. The toggling between four HDMI inputs works great.

To make the latest formats work, use the newest HDMI 4K HDCP 2.2 cables. Bear in mind that this model lacks banana plug-compatible speaker connectors for every speaker connection, just the front speakers. This AVR comes without component inputs that make it impossible to use old Xbox 360 or a Nintendo Wii.

The receiver has no network connectivity (either Wi-Fi or Ethernet), but it features a built-in Bluetooth adapter that makes DSD and 192/24 audio files sound especially amazing. Moreover, it can work with the AAC codec in order to stream content wirelessly from Apple devices (most of them support that format). Its eARC feature allows producing Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X, or multi-channel LPCM content that cannot be transmitted via ARC.

The receiver provides clear and powerful sound, but, to achieve the best results, it’s better to choose Stereo, Direct or Pure Direct mode rather than All Channel Stereo. Besides, to create a fantastic sound field, it might need to raise the ceiling speakers’ volume. When all settings are done, the AVR produces rich sound to add warmth to musical material and provides flawless bass management.

Sony STRDN1080

For those who, similar to me, are keen on all gadgets being connected and working together – a receiver with Google Home is right up your street. Aside from that, has an inbuilt Chromecast, AirPlay, and Multi Room. I’ve noticed that the DCAC EX calibration has been improved, so now it analyses the exact speaker package configuration and after that makes musical test tones.

Despite having 5 channels, the receiver is able to produce 7-channel surround sound quality. While the DTS:X sound system adapts to the speakers in real time that are connected to the receiver. If you appreciate a high-quality picture, you will be please with 4K HDR compatible with HDCP 2.2. Connections are plenty: 6-inch /2 out HDMI, front USB port, optical digital and analog AV connections.

Yamaha R-N303BL

It has an iron black case (the front panel is plastic) with knobs and buttons. The design is simple, the fastening screws are not masked, but they don’t influence badly on the whole appearance. The display, tuner control knobs, bass/treble buttons, and input selection knobs are located on the front side. The unit has a micro-USB, network port RJ45, tuner antenna inputs, digital optical and coaxial input, and analog inputs.

The Bluetooth works stable. After power-on, the unit quickly starts playing (only the first bars are “swallowed” because the protection relay is activated). The device can be controlled via the Yamaha MusicCast app, which has a Link feature that makes it easy to play one song at the same time in different rooms. The device has 40 preset FM/AM stations.

Marantz M-CR611

The setup process is really quick; the M-CR611 model has the frontal panel display that helps with this, and with navigating around the various inputs and browsing music libraries. A remote control is included, but I don’t use it, so I can’t say anything specific about it.

The M-CR611 will be a good bargain for those who are looking for a receiver to boost the sounding of their old CD disks. It is equipped with a CD player that supports all popular formats from MP3 to lossless. An AM/FM tuner will be a pleasant addition to this receiver. But don't dwell on CD player because wireless streaming is not an issue as well. The users will have at their disposal Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay wireless connection.

Two optical digital inputs can be used to hook up set to Blu-ray, DVD player, etc. While USB port will be useful for those who want just to connect phone or tablet directly to the receiver in order to playback music and charge the device at the same time.

The most important – the sound is clear and well-defined. No part of the frequency range feels too prominent or overlooked.

Denon DRA-800H

The Denon DRA-800H design is classic, measuring 13.35 x 17.09 x 5.94 inches. The Hi-Fi functionality is chiefly notable due to the treble, bass, and channel balance controls, which are placed under the display. There are five HDMI inputs and one ARC compatible HDMI output on the backside of the unit. This is much more convenient than using the receiver’s front panel display, which is limited to 16 symbols.

Due to Ethernet and Wi-Fi network interfaces, the Denon receiver supports various music services. The HEOS App also can be used, which is easily installed on every smartphone or tablet and is regarded as a smart music streaming technology. If you have a smart speaker that uses Alexa or Google Assistant, you can control the receiver using speech commands. The sound is smooth, the bass is punchy, and the soundstage is good and wide. Even though there is no dedicated EQ mode for soundtracks, dialogs are quite naturally separated from the background. When listening via Bluetooth, the Denon DRA-800H sound doesn’t become unclear due to the compression caused by such a kind of signal transmission.

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Yamaha RX-V485

This receiver has a straightforward design that is common for the receivers within this price range. It’s still a bit bulky but noticeably shorter than other models. A power button and a headphone jack are on the left of the front panel. In the center of it, there are the controls to adjust the radio settings, toggle between inputs, programming, etc. An aux port and a USB port are also there. The volume dial is on the right.

In general, it’s great that this AVR’s design provides direct shortcuts to the most frequently used inputs without spinning dial back and forward. The receiver is partly made of plastic and has brushed metal below.

This receiver comes with Cinema DSP 3D software to deliver the acoustics of numerous concert halls and to mimic height and surround speakers in a 5.1 system.

The unit is able to deliver 80W of output power per channel and extremely low THD — 0.09%. The unit is compatible with the Yamaha’s MusicCast speakers for surround sound. The AVR is designed to build a 2.1 or a 5.1-channel system. The receiver supports 4K HDR, Dolby Audio, and Dolby Vision to ensure a high-quality picture. You can add one or two subs, but they can be just turned on or off. No separate subwoofer level settings are developed.

This model has many chances to become the best AV receiver under $500 because it produces loud and rich sounds without significant distortion even at high volumes. The upper frequencies might seem a bit limited, but they couldn’t be better taking into account the AVR’s price. Note that this model comes with standard Yamaha DACs that cannot provide absolute clarity (the high-end models are fitted with more advanced ESS Sabre DACs).

The unit has four HDMI inputs and one HDMI output on its rear panel. This means that in the case of buying a new gaming console, it will be necessary to spend money on extra HDMI switch.

It also comes with the video inputs, and even a video output to connect older devices that don’t support HDMI. The device features wireless connectivity when allowing streaming content via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Apple’s AirPlay.

The AVR allows arranging a 3-channel system in Zone 1 and a 2-channel setup in Zone 2. This provides the same content for different rooms and the opportunity to regulate volume separately.

Onkyo TX-NR575

This device can become the best receiver under 500 dollars due to its ability to create a 7.2-channel system. Besides, it has a good output power of 135W per channel (enough to feed two separate sets of speakers.) and a harmonic distortion ratio of 1%. Such characteristics allow its Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoders to develop three-dimensional sound even within a 5.2.2-channel configuration. However, it’s better to add some more speakers to ensure the best sound. One can also use a pair of additional channels for stereo in Zone 2 or with a view to connect front speakers.

The AVR has a solid design with the dedicated source buttons on its front panel. It comes with six HDMI ports on its rear panel that features pass-through of the latest 4K standards, HDR10, and Dolby Vision.

It’s possible to manage all the unit’s multiroom and network functions via remote control and user-friendly Full-HD on-screen menu. However, for this purpose, one can download the branded Onkyo Remote app for mobile devices. Or use the Onkyo Controller app to change the volume, input, and even turn the unit on and off from the other room (on the same Wi-Fi network).

This model is fitted with the AccuEQ system for auto-calibration. It performs hassle-free and there’s no need to use Quick Menu additionally in order to adjust the volume.

This home theater receiver features the Dynamic Audio Amplification tech and authentic Vector Linear Shape Circuitry scheme to eliminate noises that usually appear while digital-analog transformation. That’s why the unit sounds transparent, coherent, and clear. The tones become richer and the trebles are more saturated. Its dynamics are variable that makes the unit good for both watching movies and listening to music, including content that comes from the network services. When listening to CDs with Dolby TrueHD tracks, the dramatically increased breadth of sound can be heard.

The sound is still great when listening to the Internet radio or via Bluetooth, but the unit realizes its full potential when reproducing Hi-Res records from a network server. Besides, the Onkyo TX-NR575 features gapless reproduction to enjoy a holistic vision of musical material.

Note that the home theater system drops the back channels or the height channels to send power to the game room, but when you turn the Zone 2 power off, the back channels or height come back on. If it matters, it’s possible to activate Zone 2 out through RCA channels out to a second sound system without losing back channels. The pass-through works in mini player mode.

The unit still lacks CEC, that’s why it’s necessary to switch off the PS4, for example, every time the receiver is turned on to watch TV, even if the receiver starts with cable/sat input on.

Denon AVRS940H

The unit is designed to set up to 7.2-channel surround sound. It surprisingly boasts eight HDMI inputs and two outputs followed by ARC support. All the HDMI ports are able to accept HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision HDR. Besides, the AVR can upscale video quality up to 4K. It works without glitches with a connected Apple 4K TV and 4K UHD Blu-ray players, as well as with older video sources.

This model is remarkable for its ability to stream content from all the most popular streaming services. One can use the HEOS app to pick a platform and regulate its basic functions. The unit comes with Bluetooth to play audio from mobile devices.

It has Audyssey MultEQ auto-calibration to optimize sound performance and supports such advanced formats as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X to create immersive sound space. Its built-in microphone for the speaker setup allows achieving audiophile perfection. The AVR has dual-band Wi-Fi to support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz channels. Dolby Atmos features the newest object-based coding to distribute sound correctly anywhere in the 3D space.

The AVR is able to produce great sound within a simple 5.1-channel set-up in Zone 1 and a pair of speakers in Zone 2 even without Atmos speakers. The sound stays clear and detailed when connecting either Playstation (3 and 4) or a Blu-ray player. It delivers 90W of power to each channel that is good to set the acoustic system in a medium room.

Denon AVRX1500

I can name it the best home theater receiver under 500 judging by its performance with my LG Oled 55" TV via ARC HDMI. I’m used to connecting a TV and a projector in one room and play different content on a second zone screen thanks to three HDMI outputs. The sound is crisp and clear as you expect to have in more pricey models. Besides, it doesn’t have any voice latency or lagging issues. This stereo receiver is capable of delivering outstanding clarity, contrast, and color reproduction on 4K Ultra HD TV with support for HDR10, Hybrid Log Gamma, BT. 2020, wide color range, 4: 4: 4 sub-sampling of pure colors, and Dolby vision.

Onkyo TX-RZ810

I assume that the main benefit of this receiver is that it connects very quickly and easily to both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and the Chromecast functions without lags. Also, I use the Onkyo Controller App on my smartphone to keep an eye on it. Many aspects (such as zone controls) are quicker and easier to perform through the app. I also adore the Apple AirPlay for playing music directly from my iPhone, which saves time. However, I should point out that I’ve had a few problems getting the Bluetooth music from Alexa, but it somehow corrected itself after a while. I also use a Harmony remote and it works perfectly.

The user can find two HDMI outputs and eight HDMI input ports — seven are placed on the back and single input on the face panel. The receiver is remarkable for its complete set of wireless connection for audio streaming, it has built-in Chromecast, AirPlay, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, support for TuneIn, Spotify, Pandora, Deezer, and Tindel.

Onkyo TX-RZ830 − a newer version of TX-RZ810

A new Onkyo TX-RZ830 model has a plethora of music streaming options, such as a built-in Google Chromecast, which differs it from the previous models. I control playback via voice through my Google Assistant, get to Amazon Music via the Onkyo Music Control App; the likes of Tidal, TuneIn, Deezer, and Spotify are accessible from the Onkyo Controller that provides local and DLNA streaming. Moreover, there are two Hi-Res, multi-room streaming platforms: DTS Play-Fi and Onkyo’s own FlareConnect that give access to networked files and various music streaming services.

Onkyo TX-NR787

When thinking of the best audio receiver under 500 dollars, bear in mind the Onkyo TX-NR787 that is able to deliver 100W of power to each of 9 channels. Such parameters are quite enough for the home theater system subject to efficient speakers in a medium-sized room

While hooking speakers up to the AVR, one should monitor the correct polarity. The back panel features terminals for both stripped wire and banana plug connections that take a minute to plug/unplug the receiver. This model has user-friendly on-screen GUI that makes navigation a breeze, but it is difficult to read textual information sometimes.

The AVR comes with the AccuEQ Advance calibration system. It allows using upward-firing height speakers and making them producing clear sound because it can compensate for the distance that speakers need to deliver an audio signal to a receiver. The auto-calibration via AccuEQ Advance helps boost the high frequencies and thin out the lower mids.

This unit has AirPlay and Chromecast, and they work well when streaming music from mobile devices. In addition, Chromecast supports video streaming. In general, the Onkyo TX-NR787’s performance has no serious blemishes. The sound is clear and detailed, rich and powerful. Its highs are too bright sometimes but only high-end models are able to make them perfect.

This unit is designed to set up to 7.2-channel systems. Besides, when switching to the Dolby Surround mode, it’s possible to listen to all movies on 7.1.2 configuration (all 9 channels) but not only Atmos encoded movies. The AVR allows arranging Zone 2 and one can set a 7.1-channel system in Zone 1 and 2.1-channel acoustics in Zone 2 sync that will play via AirPlay in sync. It can pass through 3D from 3D Blu-ray player to a 3D compatible TV.

Marantz NR1609 − a newer version of NR1608

The new slim version, Marantz NR1609, has less than half the height of traditional AV receivers but still has powerful and clear sound quality. Also, it works better with Alexa. In general, it is a 7-channel receiver that produces 50W per each channel.

The NR1609 has ARC output, seven HDMI inputs on the rear panel, and one — on the front. The inputs support HDCP 2.2, 4K Ultra HD 60Hz video, 4:4:4 Pure Color sub-sampling, Dolby Vision, HLG, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and BT.2020 pass-through. This receiver is compatible with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay, being able to playback the majority of popular formats.

Marantz NR1608

Slim 7.2-channel network audio-video receivers with built-in multiroom wireless HEOS audio technology with a free app, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Dolby Atomos and DTS:X, eight HDMI inputs and one output. The initial Audyssey speaker level setup works great; the Wi-Fi firmware update goes perfectly. However, Alexa has flaws; mainly, it doesn’t work no matter how hard I try. I’m concerned only about the HDMI CEC that works on the shutdown but not on the startup. The NR1608 is a proper AV entertainer with an attractive form factor. It can impress with action movies and has an inherent stereophony that also offers nice High-Res audio. 5.1.2 Atmos is more effective in smaller listening areas.