The Best Stereo Receivers
The best stereo receivers have become more versatile because of the sheer number of inputs that are now available to consumers. From digital audio to classic phono, there is no shortage of sound waiting to be amplified. Many of the best stereo receivers offer better surround sound capabilities, as well as more support for video formats. There have also been great improvements in overall sound processing and acoustic measurement features, allowing users to set up their rooms much quicker than before. Many of the best stereo receiver manufacturers, such as Sony, Harman, Yamaha, and Onkyo, offer similar features at a reasonable price point.
Here is our round-up of the best stereo receivers:
The Versatile Harman Kardon HK 3390 Stereo Amplifier
Best Stereo Receiver: Harman Kardon HK 3390 Stereo Receiver
The Harman Kardon HK 3390 Stereo Receiver features dual subwoofer outputs, seven audio inputs, four video inputs, and two video outputs. It uses around 80 watts for both channels and there’s even an FM tuner included with room for 30 channel presets. It also includes a pre-amplified phono input for playing turntables through one of the best stereo receivers.
While the HK3390 Stereo Receiver supports some video formats, it doesn’t support the now popular HDMI or S-Video connections. However, this model drives speakers quite well, tending to run them warmer and fuller than other stereo receivers in its price range. With a four and a half star rating from users at Amazon, the HK 3390 stereo receiver has been well received by users, most noting the great sound quality it yields.
The Harman Kardon HK 3390 Stereo Receiver is available at Amazon for $236.
The Dolby-Equipped Onkyo TX-SR607 7.2-Channel Home Theater Stereo Receiver
Best Stereo Receivers: Onkyo TX-SR607 Stereo Receiver
Onkyo’s TX-SR607 7.2-Channel Home Theater Stereo Receiver runs at 90 watts per channel, features HDMI input, Dolby True HD sound, and Faroudja DCDi Edge deinterlacing. In addition to HD inputs, the TX-SR607 stereo receiver also features component inputs, as well as the capability to connect SIRIUS Satellite Radio, MP3 players, and even HD radio. This best stereo receiver has four game sound modes for avid video gamers, and there’s an Audyssesy room-correction feature that makes set up a snap.
With a four and a half Amazon star rating, the TX-SR607 has been championed by many customers for its rounded offerings and sound quality. One downside is the lack of S-Video inputs, odd since it offers every other popular type of video connection. Another gripe from several customers is that its so thorough of a stereo amplifier that it can take some time to figure out all the features it offers.
The Onkyo TX-SR607 7.2-Channel Home Theater Stereo Receiver is available at Amazon for $380.
The Inexpensive Sony STR-DH100 Stereo Amplifier
Best Stereo Receivers: Sony STR-DH100 Stereo Receiver
The Sony STR-DH100 Stereo Receiver offers users 100 watts per channel, five audio inputs, two audio outputs, and a digital media port for connecting an iPod, digital player, PC, or Bluetooth device, making it one of the best stereo amplifiers. The FM tuner features 30 channel presets, and there is a speaker-switching feature available for selecting specific speaker sets of a home theater setup.
While the STR-DH100 is a great buy for the price, some users have complained about the lack of bass response, however a good subwoofer could fix this problem. Another downside is there’s no phono support for turntables, but this isn’t too surprising considering the price. This model is really made for the users looking to get a small home theater set up to compliment their TVs.
The Sony STR-DH100 Stereo Receiver is available at Amazon for $127.
The Two-Zoned Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 7-Channel Home Theater Stereo Receiver
Best Stereo Receivers: Yamaha RX-V765BL Stereo Receiver
The Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 Home Theater Stereo Receiver features two-zone capability, for setting up multiple listening environments. It has connectivity options for inputs like SIRUS Satellite Radio, iPod, Bluetooth, and HDMI. This best stereo receiver features 1080p video upscaling with the HDMI connectivity, and its Auto Lip-Sync compensation actually measures the video delay time and changes the audio delay to balance.
One downside to the RX-765BL stereo amplifier is that you can’t assign audio inputs. Also, many users have noted that the stereo receiver’s firmware usually needs to be updated upon arrival. However, it’s a great model for the price overall, and many users have lauded its sound quality for its depth and richness.
The Two-Zoned Yamaha RX-V765BL 665 7-Channel Home Theater Stereo Receiver is available at Amazon for $599.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Not many phono capable recievers out there. Could you list some for me. Thanks.
I was looking for dedicated Stereo receivers not the surround ones that CAN be used for stereo sound. I have a Pioneer Elite (7.1) and it does have 130W/channel. Still, my experience is that it doesn’t do the same justice to CD music as does by a dedicated 2-Channel Stereo receiver. Thanks.
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