A broad variety of receivers 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 Denon with the high-quality picture and sounding, or Pioneer 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 devices that have 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.
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.
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.
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 a 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 game 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 jack 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.
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, it 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 pleased 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.
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.
Bluetooth is 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.
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.
Six HDMI ports (5 inputs and 1 output) with the HDCP 2.3 protocol and the 4K video, and HD sound support are key features of this best AVR under 500 dollars. Add the immediate playback through eARC, compatibility with any HDMI source with UHD content (Blu-ray, gaming console, etc.), ability to assign any input. The only downside is the absence of height sound support (Atmos, DTS:X).
I especially liked the lagless gaming in 4K. Turning on the HDR has added yet more contrast and shade detail. So it was with Blu-ray movies and Netflix blockbusters. The sound distribution was also accurate. I tuned my Bose system and the Polk subs through the Audyssey MultEq, with slight amendments to the sub-level via the on-screen menu. The latter has a user-friendly interface with intuitive transitions and overall navigation.
The power output of this receiver makes 150W per channel. The powerful DAC enables the full-sound playback of the lossless file formats (WAV, FLAC, ALAC). These files can also be played via Bluetooth and Airplay2.
The AVR-S650H has diverse wireless functionality. I easily streamed 4K content from video apps and music from Spotify and Deezer. With built-in Wi-Fi, a remote app for smartphones and tablets, and voice control techs this receiver can definitely claim the name of the best 4k receiver under 500 dollars.
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 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.
The versatility of the speaker setups and the ability to compensate physical speakers with virtual sound technologies let this receiver perform 3D sound in almost any setting. It has Dolby Atmos or DTS:X within 5:2:2 mode and provides the virtual height sound in the 5.2 and 7.2 modes. It can even create the surround sound out of two speakers with DTS Virtual:X. With that and the high bandwidth HDMI array, it could possibly be the best audio receiver under 500 dollars. Still, the minor shortcomings like the absence of bi-amp configuration (not too important for the home theater purpose) might be a deal-breaker for audiophiles.
The setup is straightforward and takes little time. Once all the wiring is done, the on-screen assistant helps do the necessary steps. The speaker tuning by the automatic tech Audyssey MultEq is quite good; the distance and the function of each speaker were assigned correctly within my 7.2 setup. The sub levels were a bit underpowered, but generally, the sound was balanced and pleasant, set at the medium volume. I’ve found the EQ section in the menu easily and was glad to see plenty of parameters that can be changed.
The receiver doesn’t have physical Zone 2 connections but can output the audio via the wireless HEOS technology. The large bandwidth capacity lets it produce a high-definition sound through any wireless technology (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HEOS).
If you value 4K, height surround, and the wireless surround via the MusicCast, the TSR-7850R might be your best 7.2 receiver under 500 dollars. It’s versatile and easy to use. The back panel has multiple connections, with clear graphic separation and inscriptions. The speaker terminals aren’t gold-plated but make the sturdy binding posts that accept banana plugs. There is a separate section for the phono stage, the coaxial and component AV ports, the optical audio connections. HDMI is represented with five inputs and two outputs, all HDCP 2.2 compliant, one output is enhanced with the ARC function. Zone 2 and subwoofer connections are put separately. On the front panel, there’s a USB input with good passthrough capacity (I played the FLAC files without issues), the headphones jack, and an AUX-in port.
Wireless is also solid. Bluetooth lets stream the Netflix movies in the Full HD, while the 4K content is better played via HDMI. The color gamma is diverse, with BT.2020 tech, and the HDR is represented with the HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10. Wi-Fi works well for the updates.
The receiver supports Atmos and DTS:X. The 3D effect is full while the sound clarity is high. The dialogs are distinct even with the multiple background sound and effects. Together with the Y.P.A.O. auto-calibration, this receiver makes a great middle-level option among the best receivers under 500 dollars.
This receiver doesn’t support surround sound and has no video output connections. So why include it among the best AV receivers under 500 dollars? The reason is the high-quality sound it produces. It works seamlessly as the speaker amp ensuring a clear, full sound with the vast soundstage and deep solid bass. It outputs up to 80W per speaker and accepts the Dolby TrueHD and DSD (11.2 MHz) for high-definition playback. The wireless and AM/FM functionality are diverse. The latter has customizable presets that are easy to activate.
The setup and navigation are straightforward. The speakers connect to solid binding posts, and the subwoofer through the RCA port. There are coaxial and optical connections for audio sources, as well as seven RCA pairs for various sound sources including the phono ports. Other physical connections make the AM/FM antenna jacks and the Ethernet cable plug-in. On the front panel, there is a USB port and headphones jack.
The receiver has integrated streaming apps that work through Wi-Fi. These are Spotify, Pandora, Slacker, TuneIn, and Sirius XM. Besides, it can be connected to smartphones and other devices through Bluetooth for audio playback.
The TX-8140 also supports DLNA and can accept lossless and hi-res sound files through the network. The playback is lagless, and the controls are ample regardless of the type of connection.
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.
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.
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 a 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.
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.
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 playing 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.
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.