Immerse yourself in sound like never before with Dolby Atmos. This cutting-edge audio technology brings a new dimension to your home theater, creating a truly captivating and realistic listening experience.
However, to unlock the full potential of Atmos, you need the right equipment. Choosing from the myriad of options available can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to best atmos receivers.
The receiver is the heart of your audio system, responsible for processing and delivering the immersive soundscape. Finding the best atmos receivers for your needs requires careful consideration of factors like power, features, and connectivity.
This guide helps you navigate the complexities of the market, ensuring you invest in a receiver that delivers quality performance and exceptional value for your money. Weβll provide the information you need to make an informed decision.
IN THIS ARTICLE
Top 10 Best Atmos Receivers Compared
π BEST OVERALL Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio Smart AV Receiver 5.2-Ch HDR10
- Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive audio.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming.
- Personal preset function for saving customized settings.
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer for simulated height effects.
4.5/5
Check Price on Amazon
π₯ 2ND RUNNER UP Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater AV Receiver: 4K HDR
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for immersive audio.
- 4K HDR pass-through with Dolby Vision and HDR10.
- Multiple HDMI and audio connections for versatile connectivity.
- Auto-calibration (D.C.A.C.) for optimized sound.
4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon
οΏ½ BEST VALUE YAMAHA RX-V6A 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCa
- Extensive HDMI 2.1 support (8K/60B, 4K/120AB) with HDCP 2.3 and eARC.
- Wide range of wireless connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect).
- Voice control compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.
- Support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Vision, and HLG.
4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon
Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Ch 8K UHD AVR Home Theater Stereo Receiver
- Excellent 8K and HDR support.
- Comprehensive surround sound format compatibility (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro 3D).
- HEOS multi-room audio integration.
- Multiple HDMI 2.1 ports and flexible connectivity options.
4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon
Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater 8K A/V Receiver: Dolby Atmos
- Excellent 8K and 4K/120 HDMI connectivity (HDMI 2.1).
- Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive audio.
- Wide range of HDR format support (Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG, IMAX Enhanced).
- Seamless integration with Sonos systems.
4.4/5
Check Price on Amazon
Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per Channel
- Dirac Live room correction for optimized audio
- Multiple HDMI 2.1 ports with 8K support and gaming features
- Extensive streaming service support (Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, etc.)
- Sonos integration for seamless multi-room audio
4.6/5
Check Price on Amazon
Onkyo TX-SR393 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver
- Good power output at 155 watts per channel.
- Supports various 4K and HDR formats including Dolby Vision.
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding for immersive audio.
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer and DTS Virtual:X create simulated height effects.
4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon
Onkyo TX-SR3100 5.2-Channel AV Receiver – Dolby Atmos
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer enhances immersion.
- Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
- HDMI 2.1a with 8K for future-proof video.
- AccuEQ room calibration simplifies setup.
4.6/5
Check Price on Amazon
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel
- Supports 8K HDMI and advanced video formats.
- Offers immersive audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support.
- User-friendly on-screen setup guide.
- Multi-room streaming via Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, or Bluetooth.
4.7/5
Check Price on Amazon
Denon AVR-S760H 7.2 Ch AVR – 75 W/Ch (2021 Model)
- Supports 8K video with upscaling.
- Compatible with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS:X.
- Offers gaming-friendly features like VRR, QFT, and ALLM.
- Provides multi-room audio streaming via HEOS.
4.5/5
Check Price on Amazon
Detailed Reviews of the Best Atmos Receivers
Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio Smart AV Receiver 5.2-Ch HDR10 – Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive audio.
This receiver offers a range of modern features, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for immersive audio experiences. Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy streaming from various devices, and the personal preset function is a convenient way to save and recall preferred settings. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer is a plus for those without dedicated height speakers.
The mid-range sound control provides welcome flexibility for adjusting dialogue clarity. Overall, it seems like a solid option for those looking to upgrade their home theater setup. However, potential buyers should verify that the power output meets their speaker system requirements and that the included features are sufficient for their specific needs.
Pros
- Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive audio.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming.
- Personal preset function for saving customized settings.
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer for simulated height effects.
- Mid-range sound control for enhancing dialogue clarity.
Cons
- Power output specifications not detailed in provided description.
- Limited information on the total number of channels supported beyond 5.1.2.
Sony STR-DH790 7.2-ch Surround Sound Home Theater AV Receiver: 4K HDR – Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for immersive audio.
The STRDH790 receiver offers a compelling home theater experience with support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, delivering immersive surround sound. Its 4K HDR pass-through capabilities, including Dolby Vision and HDR10, ensure compatibility with modern video sources and displays. The inclusion of multiple HDMI inputs and digital/analog audio connections provides versatile connectivity options.
The auto-calibration feature (D.C.A.C.) is a valuable addition, simplifying setup and optimizing audio performance for various room acoustics. Bluetooth connectivity and standby mode enhance usability for streaming music. The low-profile design is also a plus for fitting into tight spaces.
The inclusion of a calibration microphone, FM antenna, and remote is a nice touch, providing everything needed to get started. Overall, a solid receiver that provides lots of value for the price.
Pros
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for immersive audio.
- 4K HDR pass-through with Dolby Vision and HDR10.
- Multiple HDMI and audio connections for versatile connectivity.
- Auto-calibration (D.C.A.C.) for optimized sound.
- Bluetooth connectivity with standby mode.
- Low-profile design for easy placement.
Cons
- Only one HDMI output.
- Might lack power for very large rooms or demanding speaker setups.
YAMAHA RX-V6A 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCa – Extensive HDMI 2.1 support (8K/60B, 4K/120AB) with HDCP 2.3 and eARC.
This AV receiver offers a comprehensive suite of features for home entertainment enthusiasts. With multiple HDMI inputs, including support for 8K/60B and 4K/120AB, it’s well-equipped for modern devices and future-proofed for upcoming technologies. The inclusion of eARC and HDCP 2.3 across all HDMI ports is a welcome addition.
Wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect provide versatile streaming capabilities. Voice control integration with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri further enhances usability. The receiver supports immersive audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, along with video formats like Dolby Vision and HLG.
The YPAO R.S.C. with multipoint aims to optimize audio performance for the listening environment. Overall, this receiver seems feature-rich and capable for a variety of home theater setups.
Pros
- Extensive HDMI 2.1 support (8K/60B, 4K/120AB) with HDCP 2.3 and eARC.
- Wide range of wireless connectivity options (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect).
- Voice control compatibility with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.
- Support for Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Vision, and HLG.
- YPAO R.S.C. with multipoint for audio calibration.
Cons
- The product description is somewhat technical and may be confusing for novice users.
- The number of 8K-compatible HDMI inputs might be limiting for some users with multiple 8K sources.
Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Ch 8K UHD AVR Home Theater Stereo Receiver – Excellent 8K and HDR support.
The Denon AVR-X3800H is a feature-rich 9.4 channel AV receiver designed to deliver a premium home theater experience. With 8K/60Hz pass-through and support for HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and other advanced video formats, it’s well-equipped for modern displays. The receiver boasts comprehensive surround sound format support, including Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, and Auro 3D, as well as virtualized height effects for setups without dedicated height speakers.
Connectivity is excellent, featuring multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, analog/digital inputs, and phono input. Built-in HEOS multi-room functionality adds further versatility by enabling wireless audio streaming throughout the home. The 105W per channel output should be sufficient for most home theater setups.
Pros
- Excellent 8K and HDR support.
- Comprehensive surround sound format compatibility (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X Pro, Auro 3D).
- HEOS multi-room audio integration.
- Multiple HDMI 2.1 ports and flexible connectivity options.
Cons
- High price point.
- May be overkill for smaller rooms or simpler setups.
Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater 8K A/V Receiver: Dolby Atmos – Excellent 8K and 4K/120 HDMI connectivity (HDMI 2.1).
The Sony STR-AN1000 is a 7.2-channel A/V receiver offering a robust set of features for home theater enthusiasts. With 8K and 4K/120 HDMI connectivity, it’s ready for the latest display technologies. The receiver supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, providing immersive sound experiences, further enhanced by Digital Cinema Auto Calibration IX and 360 Spatial Sound Mapping.
It also handles a wide range of HDR formats, including Dolby Vision and HDR10. The βWorks With Sonosβ integration is a convenient feature for users invested in the Sonos ecosystem. Wireless streaming options are plentiful, including Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, and AirPlay.
Setup is simplified with a user-friendly graphical interface, and the inclusion of Zone 2 & 3 allows for multi-room audio distribution. Its power consumption is moderate at 240W.
Pros
- Excellent 8K and 4K/120 HDMI connectivity (HDMI 2.1).
- Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for immersive audio.
- Wide range of HDR format support (Dolby Vision, HDR10, HLG, IMAX Enhanced).
- Seamless integration with Sonos systems.
- Multiple wireless streaming options (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, AirPlay).
- Easy setup with graphical user interface.
Cons
- Power output (165W at 6 ohms, 1 kHz, 1ch THD 0.9%) may be limiting for larger rooms or demanding speaker setups.
- The power rating listed might not be suitable for all power standards – ensure compatibility with your region before buying.
Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per Channel – Dirac Live room correction for optimized audio
The Onkyo TX-NR7100 is a feature-rich AV receiver designed for both home theater enthusiasts and gamers. Its key selling point is the Dirac Live room correction, which aims to optimize audio performance based on your specific room acoustics. The receiver boasts extensive connectivity, including multiple HDMI 2.1 ports with 8K support, allowing for future-proofed video capabilities and enhanced gaming experiences with features like VRR, ALLM, and QFT.
It also supports popular streaming services and integrates well with Sonos systems. Bluetooth connectivity is bidirectional, allowing for both streaming to and from the receiver. While it packs a punch in terms of features, the complexity of Dirac Live setup might be daunting for some users.
It’s a solid option for users looking for advanced features and room correction.
Pros
- Dirac Live room correction for optimized audio
- Multiple HDMI 2.1 ports with 8K support and gaming features
- Extensive streaming service support (Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, etc.)
- Sonos integration for seamless multi-room audio
- Bi-directional Bluetooth connectivity with aptX HD support
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support for immersive audio
Cons
- Dirac Live setup can be complex for novice users
- The cost is relatively high
Onkyo TX-SR393 5.2 Channel A/V Receiver – Good power output at 155 watts per channel.
This AV receiver offers a solid set of features for a mid-range home theater setup. With 155 watts per channel, it provides ample power for most listening environments. The support for 4K/60p and HDR formats including Dolby Vision and HDR10 ensures compatibility with modern displays and content.
The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X provides immersive audio capabilities, further enhanced by Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer and DTS Virtual:X for simulated height effects without dedicated overhead speakers. The AccuEQ system with subwoofer EQ and AccuReflex aims to optimize sound based on your room’s acoustics, potentially improving overall audio clarity and balance. It seems like a well-rounded option for those looking to upgrade their home theater sound.
Pros
- Good power output at 155 watts per channel.
- Supports various 4K and HDR formats including Dolby Vision.
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding for immersive audio.
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer and DTS Virtual:X create simulated height effects.
- AccuEQ room correction system for optimized sound.
Cons
- Room correction is not as advanced as some higher-end systems.
- Power output, while sufficient, may not be ideal for very large rooms or demanding speaker setups.
Onkyo TX-SR3100 5.2-Channel AV Receiver – Dolby Atmos – Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer enhances immersion.
This receiver boasts a solid set of features aimed at enhancing the home theater experience. The Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer is a welcome addition for creating a more immersive soundscape without the need for extra speakers. Support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X ensures compatibility with the latest audio formats.
HDMI 2.1a with 8K support future-proofs the receiver for higher resolution content. AccuEQ room calibration simplifies setup and optimizes sound based on your room’s acoustics. Bluetooth connectivity provides convenient wireless streaming from various devices.
The Advanced Music Optimizer attempts to restore compressed audio files, though the effectiveness may vary. Overall, it seems to be a capable receiver for both movies and music.
Pros
- Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer enhances immersion.
- Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
- HDMI 2.1a with 8K for future-proof video.
- AccuEQ room calibration simplifies setup.
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming.
Cons
- Advanced Music Optimizer effectiveness may be limited.
- Potentially complex setup for advanced features.
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel – Supports 8K HDMI and advanced video formats.
The Denon AVR-X1700H is a 7-channel receiver designed for home theater enthusiasts. It offers advanced features like 8K HDMI support, ensuring compatibility with the latest video technologies. The receiver supports various audio formats, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, providing an immersive audio experience.
The on-screen setup guide simplifies the initial configuration process, making it user-friendly even for beginners. With multi-room streaming capabilities and voice control compatibility, this receiver integrates seamlessly into a modern smart home. The unit provides ample connectivity options for various audio sources, including a phono input for turntables.
Overall, it’s a well-rounded receiver with a focus on future-proofing and ease of use.
Pros
- Supports 8K HDMI and advanced video formats.
- Offers immersive audio with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support.
- User-friendly on-screen setup guide.
- Multi-room streaming via Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, or Bluetooth.
- Voice control compatibility with Alexa and other voice assistants.
- Versatile connectivity options, including a phono input.
Cons
- Only 3 dedicated 8K HDMI inputs may be limiting for some users.
- The number of pre-outs is limited to 2 subwoofers.
Denon AVR-S760H 7.2 Ch AVR – 75 W/Ch (2021 Model) – Supports 8K video with upscaling.
The Denon AVR-S760H is a 7.2 channel receiver that offers a range of features for both home theater enthusiasts and gamers. It boasts 8K video support, including upscaling capabilities, and handles the latest 3D audio formats like Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization. The receiver’s HDMI section is well-equipped with support for various HDR formats and features designed to reduce lag during gaming.
Wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi, Airplay, and Bluetooth allows for multi-room audio streaming through the HEOS ecosystem. Voice control compatibility with major voice assistants provides hands-free operation. The AVR-S760H seems like a solid mid-range receiver, particularly appealing to those looking for future-proofing with 8K support.
Pros
- Supports 8K video with upscaling.
- Compatible with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and DTS:X.
- Offers gaming-friendly features like VRR, QFT, and ALLM.
- Provides multi-room audio streaming via HEOS.
- Voice control compatibility with Alexa and other assistants.
- Comprehensive HDMI support including HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision.
Cons
- Limited number of dedicated 8K HDMI inputs (3).
- HEOS ecosystem might be a lock-in for some users.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Best Atmos Receivers
Understanding Dolby Atmos and Immersive Audio
Dolby Atmos is a revolutionary audio technology that adds height channels to traditional surround sound, creating a more immersive and realistic listening experience. When selecting the best atmos receivers, it’s crucial to understand that the receiver’s ability to decode and process Dolby Atmos (and often DTS:X, a competing format) is paramount. The receiver should also have enough channels to support your desired speaker configuration, such as 5.1.2 or 7.1.4, where the last number represents the number of height speakers.
Key Features to Consider in atmos receivers
Beyond Dolby Atmos support, several other features influence the overall performance and usability of an atmos receiver. Consider HDMI 2.1 connectivity for 8K video pass-through and gaming features like VRR and ALLM. Look for receivers with robust room correction systems (e.g., Dirac Live, YPAO, AccuEQ) to optimize sound based on your room’s acoustics. Wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay are also important for streaming music and integrating with smart home ecosystems. Power output per channel is also a factor depending on your speaker sensitivity and room size.
Choosing the Right Channels and Power
The number of channels supported by an atmos receiver determines the complexity of your surround sound setup. A 5.2.4 receiver can handle five traditional surround speakers, two subwoofers, and four height speakers. Consider your room size and desired level of immersion when choosing the number of channels. Power output is also crucial; higher wattage per channel is generally better for larger rooms and speakers that require more power to perform optimally. Ensure the receiver has enough power to drive your speakers without distortion.
Connectivity and Future-Proofing
Connectivity is a vital aspect of any atmos receiver. Multiple HDMI inputs and outputs are necessary to connect various devices like Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. Look for receivers with HDMI 2.1 to support 8K video and advanced gaming features. Wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay are essential for streaming music. Also, consider features like phono inputs for connecting turntables and pre-outs for adding external amplifiers. Choosing a receiver with eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) ensures high-quality audio transmission from your TV.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Atmos Receivers
What is Dolby Atmos and why is it important in a receiver?
Dolby Atmos is an immersive audio technology that adds height channels to traditional surround sound, creating a more realistic and three-dimensional listening experience. It’s important in a receiver because it allows you to experience movies, music, and games with greater depth and detail. A receiver with Dolby Atmos decoding capability is essential for anyone seeking a truly immersive home theater experience, as it unlocks the full potential of Atmos-encoded content. The best atmos receivers will all feature this.
How many channels do I need in an atmos receiver?
The number of channels you need depends on your desired speaker setup and room size. A 5.1.2 setup (five surround speakers, one subwoofer, and two height speakers) is a good starting point for smaller rooms. Larger rooms may benefit from a 7.1.4 or even a 9.2.4 setup for a more immersive experience. Consider your budget and the physical limitations of your room when deciding on the number of channels. The best atmos receivers offer a range of channel configurations.
What is HDMI 2.1 and why is it important?
HDMI 2.1 is the latest version of the HDMI standard, offering significant bandwidth improvements that enable 8K video at 60Hz and 4K video at 120Hz. It also supports features like VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), which are beneficial for gaming. An atmos receiver with HDMI 2.1 is important for future-proofing your setup and ensuring compatibility with the latest TVs and gaming consoles. It allows you to enjoy the highest possible video and audio quality.
What is room correction and why is it important?
Room correction is a feature that uses microphones and sophisticated algorithms to analyze the acoustics of your room and automatically adjust the receiver’s settings to optimize sound quality. Different rooms have different acoustic properties, which can negatively impact the sound. Room correction systems like Dirac Live, YPAO, and AccuEQ help to compensate for these imperfections, resulting in a more balanced and accurate soundstage. Many best atmos receivers include this feature.
What are the benefits of wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth?
Wireless connectivity options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth provide convenient ways to stream music and other audio content from your smartphones, tablets, and computers to your atmos receiver. Wi-Fi allows for higher-quality streaming and integration with multi-room audio systems, while Bluetooth offers a quick and easy way to connect devices without needing a network connection. These features enhance the versatility and usability of your receiver.
What is eARC and how does it improve audio quality?
eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) is an advanced version of ARC (Audio Return Channel) that allows you to transmit high-quality audio, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, from your TV back to your receiver through a single HDMI cable. This simplifies the setup and eliminates the need for separate audio cables. eARC ensures that you’re getting the best possible audio quality from streaming services and other sources connected to your TV. The best atmos receivers will feature eARC.
What is the difference between Dolby Atmos and DTS:X?
Dolby Atmos and DTS:X are both object-based surround sound technologies that create immersive audio experiences. While they both add height channels, they differ in their implementation and decoding algorithms. Dolby Atmos is more widely supported, while DTS:X offers greater flexibility in speaker placement. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and the specific features of the receiver and content. However, many receivers support both formats.
What is multi-room audio and how does it work with atmos receivers?
Multi-room audio allows you to stream music to multiple speakers throughout your home simultaneously. Some atmos receivers support multi-room audio systems like HEOS, Sonos, or AirPlay 2, which allow you to create a whole-house audio experience controlled from your smartphone or tablet. This feature enhances the versatility of your receiver and allows you to enjoy music in every room of your home.
What is the importance of power output (watts per channel) in an atmos receiver?
The power output (watts per channel) of an atmos receiver determines how much power it can deliver to your speakers. Higher wattage per channel is generally better for larger rooms and speakers that require more power to perform optimally. It’s important to choose a receiver with enough power to drive your speakers without distortion, ensuring a clear and dynamic sound. Consider your speaker’s sensitivity and impedance when selecting a receiver with adequate power.
How do I choose the best atmos receiver for my budget?
Choosing the best atmos receiver for your budget involves balancing the features you need with the price you’re willing to pay. Start by identifying your must-have features, such as Dolby Atmos support, HDMI 2.1, room correction, and wireless connectivity. Then, compare different models within your budget range, paying attention to the number of channels, power output, and connectivity options. Reading reviews and comparing specifications can help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
The Pioneer VSX-534 Home Audio Smart AV Receiver 5.2-Ch HDR10 this receiver appears to be a feature-rich option for those looking to enhance their home audio experience. consider this model if you value wireless connectivity, customizable sound profiles and immersive audio codecs but check complete technical specifications before making a purchase.
