If you like to fully immerse yourself in your favorite movies and sitcoms, you'll need a great home theater audio video amp. Since the market is currently flooded with them, finding the right model can take some time. Don't panic! In addition to offering plenty of helpful tips, our buying guide also features a comparison of the best home theater audio video amplifiers.
Here is our commitment, to make sure that we provide the best user experience and content quality:
You can support us by using our links to make your purchases (at no extra cost to you)! This sometimes earns us a commission which allows us to remain independent. More about us
Our selection
"Exceptional picture clarity and powerfully immersive sound are the promises of this home theater audio video amplifier. Without a doubt, the most elaborate creation in…"
"If you can make do with the minimum for your home theater, this 4K-compatible 2.1 amp will meet your expectations. Sure, this device is basic,…"
"Of course, the AVC-X3700H takes over some of the functions of its predecessor the AVR-3500H. But strictly speaking, it is the first 8K compatible Denon…"
"Thanks to Direct Energy amplification, the Pioneer VSX831 Black develops 130 W per channel over 5 channels. Its 6 HMDI 2.0 inputs are HDCP 2.2…"
Exceptional picture clarity and powerfully immersive sound are the promises of this home theater audio video amplifier. Without a doubt, the most elaborate creation in the Yamaha catalog.
599 £ on BoulangerThis home theater audio video amplifier has everything you need to enjoy your favorite movies, music and games. Indeed, the device is equipped with an Ethernet port, a Wi-Fi controller, as well as a two-way Bluetooth system thanks to which you can send the sound decoded by the amp to wireless headphones. Of course, it can also receive music from a connected device like a computer or smartphone.
Thanks to its 4K (120 Hz) and 8K (80 Hz) HDMI connections, the Yamaha RX-V6A can stream UHD images and upscale to 4K. In addition, it's compatible with VRR, ALLM, QMS and QFT, which are very popular with gamers. So whether you like PlayStation 5 or Xbox X-Series, you can plug them into this amp. It supports all audio and video formats and supports up to 7 speakers and 2 subwoofers, or 5.2.2 channels in an Atmos configuration.
If you can make do with the minimum for your home theater, this 4K-compatible 2.1 amp will meet your expectations. Sure, this device is basic, but it's still pretty good for its price range.
608 £ on DartyThe Onkyo TXL20D White has nothing to do with the power monsters offered by Yamaha. It does have a lot to offer in terms of sound quality and 4K video upscaling. With a simple but effective design, this home theater audio video amplifier has 5 HDMI inputs that feed the compact and floorstanding speakers of your home theater system. It also offers 3 analog line inputs (RCA), 1 coaxial input and 1 optical audio input for your TV, video projector or video game console.
Although of classic design, the Onkyo TXL20D White has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing it to stream music that is played on a smartphone or computer. These tunes can also be streamed to compatible speakers in your home using FireConnect technology. Of course, you'll have full control of this amp, but also of your music library thanks to an application you can download from the store.
Of course, the AVC-X3700H takes over some of the functions of its predecessor the AVR-3500H. But strictly speaking, it is the first 8K compatible Denon home theater amplifier with HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs (HDCP2.3) and HDMI to 8K upscaling.
2 240 £ on DartyLet's just say it right away: the AVC-WX3700H is the Rolls Royce of home theater audio-video amplifiers. Indeed, this model can do almost anything, starting with latency-free streaming of 4K or 8K video. But since there are only a few 8K videos, the amp proposes to upscale the HMDI source to UHD 8K. While its 8K input provides 8K/60 Hz and 4K/120 Hz video transfer, its HDMI inputs support 4:4:4 Pure Color sampling, BT.202 color space in Pass through, and VRR, QFT, ALLM and QMS.
The Denon AVC-X3700H supports 9 channels of amplification with dual output for subwoofers that you can configure as 7.2.2 or 5.2.4 depending on your preference. To note, this Denon amp leverages Dolby Atmos Height, DTS Virtual:XTM, DTS Virtual:X and IMAX sound virtualization technologies. With the free Heos app, you have full control of this home theater amp from your smartphone.
Thanks to Direct Energy amplification, the Pioneer VSX831 Black develops 130 W per channel over 5 channels. Its 6 HMDI 2.0 inputs are HDCP 2.2 compliant and allow 4K transfer of video signals in upscaling and pass-through.
2 040 £ on DartyAny specific needs?
The best home theater audio video amp in 2021
The best entry-level audio video amp
The best high-end home theater audio video amp
The best 6.2 home theater audio video amp
Your guide :
Rate this buying guide :By rating this buying guide, you are helping us to reward our best writers. Thank you!
| THE BEST | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
8/10 |
8/10 |
9/10 |
9/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Yamaha RX-V6A
|
Onkyo TXL20D White
|
Denon AVC-X3700H
|
Pioneer VSX831 Black
|
|
Exceptional picture clarity and powerfully immersive sound are the promises of this home theater audio video amplifier. Without a doubt, the most elaborate creation in the Yamaha catalog.
|
If you can make do with the minimum for your home theater, this 4K-compatible 2.1 amp will meet your expectations. Sure, this device is basic, but it's still pretty good for its price range.
|
Of course, the AVC-X3700H takes over some of the functions of its predecessor the AVR-3500H. But strictly speaking, it is the first 8K compatible Denon home theater amplifier with HDMI 2.1 inputs and outputs (HDCP2.3) and HDMI to 8K upscaling.
|
Thanks to Direct Energy amplification, the Pioneer VSX831 Black develops 130 W per channel over 5 channels. Its 6 HMDI 2.0 inputs are HDCP 2.2 compliant and allow 4K transfer of video signals in upscaling and pass-through.
|
|
|
Power
|
7 x 100W
|
2 x 85 W
|
7 x 180W
|
5 x 135 W
|
|
Installation
|
7.2
|
2.1
|
9.2
|
6.2
|
|
Connectics
|
HDMI 2.1 (1 in, 1 out), USB, Ethernet
|
4 RCA, 2 digital inputs, 1 line out, 5 HMDI
|
HDMI 2.1 (7 inputs, 3 outputs), USB, Ethernet, Smart Connector Trigger, 1 RS-232 home automation
|
6 HDMI, 1 USB, 1 HDCP, 1 coaxial, 1 optical, 2 video-composite
|
|
Control application
|
MusicCast
|
Onkyo Controller
|
Heos
|
iControlAV5
|
|
Product benefits
|
Supports Alexa and Google Assistant.
|
This product embeds a DAB and FM RDS tuner function.
|
Connected, this amp supports Alexa and Google Assistant.
|
This amp features an AM/FM RDS tuner with about 40 preset stations.
|
Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!
We spend thousands of hours each year studying the major specialized websites, analyzing products of hundreds of brands and reading user feedback to advise you on the best products.
We are a product review company with a single mission: to simplify your buying decisions. Our research and testing helps millions of people every year find the best products for their personal needs and budget.
To support us you can: use our links to make your purchases (which often earns us a small commission), share our articles on social networks, or recommend our site on your blog. Thanks in advance for your support!
Expressed in watts (W), the power output is THE criterion to consider before any purchase attempt. Generally, it varies from 20 to 1000 W. If your multimedia room is not very spacious (less than 6 m²), you should choose an audio-video amplifier with a minimum of 70 W. On the other hand, if the room dedicated to home cinema is large, prefer an amplification whose output power turns around 150 to 200 W.
It is more interesting to get an audio video amplifier for home cinema that you can connect to many speakers, a TV, an internet box, a video game console and even to mobile devices. Today, the standard is the HDMI input which exists in several versions:
- HDMI 1.3 and 1.4: these are the basic versions found on most home theater amplifiers. They ensure a smooth and fast transfer of high resolution sounds and HD images.
- HDMI 2.0: more recent, this input ensures the transfer of images in HDR and 4K.
The audio video amp for home theater must be able to decode all audio file formats that exist. Among the new surround audio formats is Dolby Atmos, which produces a 3D ambience of sound. The device must also be able to decode all video signals, including the latest ones. A good home theater audio video amp must be able to perform upscaling without the video dropping in quality.
The number of channels is not to be underestimated especially if you have a center surround boomer as well as rear speakers. So you will have to choose between the 5.1, 6.1, 7.1, 8.1 or 9.1 amplifier. If the first number refers to the inputs dedicated to conventional speakers that can be connected, the second number represents the number of bass cassettes. A 5.1 amp is therefore composed of 6 speakers in total, including 5 regular ones and 1 subwoofer.
A good audio video amp for home theater must be robust, powerful and easy to use. For a first purchase, opt for an amplifier equipped with a simplified user interface and whose indications are very clear. A model with a digital screen and very few physical buttons would be ideal for those who are not yet familiar with this device.
The video and audio amplifier is the very heart of a home cinema system. It's the nerve center of the system, providing most of the inputs and outputs that connect devices together, including the TV. With an amplifier that handles both audio and video, you'll have a simple and cost-effective way to centralize your home theater.
Installing the accessories that deliver the sound and images of a home theater is not something you can do overnight. To optimize the viewing and listening experience, all speakers should be positioned at ear level if possible. Side speakers should always be placed on the sides of the screen.
Rear speakers should be placed on either side of the room, slightly back from the sofa. The center channel should be positioned near the TV. As for the subwoofer, it can be installed anywhere on a stable support.
Depending on the arrangement of the speakers and the configuration of the space, the sounds emanating from the speakers may be louder than the others. Before watching a movie, adjustments are required. Adjustments can be made from the home theater menu.
If necessary, you'll need to adjust each speaker by ear until you find the right balance of sounds. If you want to skip this step, consider home theater audio-video amplifiers with an automatic adjustment system.
This device is exclusively intended for the amplification of the audio signal emitted by a source which can be a CD player, a tuner or any support of MP3 reading. This device allows to deliver a powerful sound. On such a system, the addition of a preamplifier is required to manage the volume and the sound modification. On a power amplifier, the sound quality is exceptional.
The integrated amplifier combines both the amplifier and the preamplifier. This device has the advantage of being compact, ergonomic and powerful. It also offers very good sound and video quality. The power of this type of amplifier is very variable. On the most recent models, it reaches 225 W.
Like the previous model, the all-in-one amplifier gathers the amplifier and the network player on a single device. On more advanced models, there is even an FM/DAC tuner, a CD player, and a digital and analog converter. This category of amplifier is mainly used to improve the sound and image of a home theater. Like the integrated amplifier, the all-in-one is compact and versatile.
The home theater audio video amplifier is an essential component of the home multimedia room. If you want to enjoy immersive sound and captivating images like in a real movie theater, you absolutely must have such an amplifier. This single device will allow you to connect your TV screen, speakers, players and even mobile devices such as your laptop.
The hifi amplifier is a very common device in the market. It is easily recognized by the number of its single outputs. So to speak, the hifi amplifier has only one pair intended for another pair of speakers. It also has outputs called speakers outputs which are used to connect other speakers.
As the home theater audio video amp offers multiple outputs that go to many speakers. It's only natural that it offers more power than the hi-fi amp. So, if you're a stickler for good sound and image quality in movies, the home theater amplifier is the obvious choice.
Provides high-resolution audio
A home theater audio video amplifier allows you to access and play high-resolution 2-channel audio files. In fact, that's where the real value of the device lies. Once launched, a multimedia file produces sound of optimal quality, for a guaranteed immersion.
Able to handle video
The best home theater audio-video amplifiers are capable of what's called video switching or processing. In other words, the amplifier does more than just transmit video signals to the TV or projector. It improves the quality of the image by performing processing that relies on deinterlacing or adding additional layers.
Can be controlled via a mobile application
Thanks to connectivity, it is now possible to control the home theater audio video amplifier via an Android or iPhone app. It's true that some apps are more comprehensive than others, but in general, they make it much easier to make adjustments. In addition, if you misplace the remote control, the smartphone can temporarily replace it.
Can scale video
High-tech home theater audio video amplifiers, after performing deinterlacing, will mathematically try to match the incoming audio signal to a more qualitative screen resolution. Thus, an average quality video format will be adapted to match 720p, 1080p and even 4K. Note that the amp doesn't transform standard definition into high definition, but it does enhance the image to look smoother on an HDTV or Ultra HD screen.
Make fora great video experience
With a home theater audio video amplifier, you'll be fully immersed in the world of your movie or video game, all thanks to better sound and image quality.
In our opinion, the best brands of home cinema amplifiers in 2022 are :
The Japanese firm has excelled in creating musical instruments and audio devices for home and professional use for decades. To enjoy sound that comes as close to reality as possible, set your sights on a Yamaha home theater audio video amp.
In business since 1938, Pioneer is a heavyweight in car and home audio equipment. Its home theater amplifiers are extremely successful for their performance, but also for their ergonomics and design.
Denon is a Japanese brand that was founded in 1910. This firm is notably famous for its 9-channel hifi and home theater amplifiers that guarantee a complete immersion in your music and movies.
Onkyo is a brand, whose origins go back to 1946. This company is extremely successful in the home theater industry thanks to its devices that combine quality and practicality.
Although Auna does not benefit from the same experience as the brands presented above, this manufacturer still occupies a significant place in this industry. These amplifiers are, moreover, as efficient as those offered by the big names like Pioneer.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Use the right number of speakers
A home theater audio video amplifier can accommodate up to 11 speakers. To enjoy high-resolution sound, use at least 5 speakers. And if your room allows, use more. Listening to many speakers is subject to the DTS HD or Dolby True HD cinema video formats.
Make sure your amplifier is more powerful than the speakers
To get a well-balanced sound, make the home theater audio video amp more powerful than the speakers. That way, you won't have to constantly adjust the treble and bass. Note that speakers with low sensitivities will be better held by a powerful amp.
Check the connections carefully
Attention! Make sure that the amp's connectors are compatible with your devices. RCA, S-Video, HDMI, USB, headphone output, phono input, make sure the ports you need most are present, otherwise you'll have to invest in adapters.
Use the wireless connection
To make the use even more intuitive, some home theater audio video amps are equipped with a wireless connection allowing you to adapt them with your sources. Thanks to Wifi and Bluetooth, you can pair the amp with a computer, tablet or smartphone.
Place the speakers in the right places
When the speakers are placed in the right places, the quality of the sound produced by the set borders on perfection. That's how you're going to enjoy high-resolution sound, whether it's for movies, music, and video games.
Generally, the connection of a hometheater audio video amplifierwith the sound auxiliaries is made with a 7.1 RCA cable. All RCA outputs of the amplifier should be connected to the RCA audio inputs of the power amplifier. The same goes for the speakers which must be connected to the terminals of the amplifier.
Yes, the connection of an internet box on an audio video amplifier for home cinema is done through the HDMI cable that must be connected to the HDMI out socket of the box. It is also necessary to use an optical cable to connect the screen to the amp so that there is no latency between the sound of the TV and the amp.
Theaudio video amp for home cinema is never chosen at random. To be sure to buy the equipment that best meets your expectations, different criteria should be taken into account, such as the number of channels, the number of ports, the power of the amp, the audio/video decoding, but also the simplicity of use.
The number 5.1 refers to the number of speakers that can support theaudio video amp for home theater. Here, the 5 refers to the number of conventional speakers supported by the device. As for the 1, it refers to the subwoofer. In total, the 5.1 home theater amplifier is capable of supporting 6 speakers.
Every month we help more than 1 000 000 people buy better and smarter.
Copyright © 2022 - Made with ♥ by buyingbetter.co.uk
Your reviews and buying guides 0% advertising, 100% independent!
