The Best Stereo Receivers

Just Buy This (All Around Best)

Onkyo TX-NR696

$625 at Amazon $650 at Best Buy

TL;DR: The TX-NR696 from Onkyo nails the fundamentals while also throwing in some smart integrations as a little cherry on top.

Why We Recommend This

One look at the inputs/outputs on the back of the TX-NR696 gives you a good idea of its fundamental versatility when connecting your in-home entertainment setup.

With dual front speaker outputs, dual surround outputs, a center channel output, dual surround ceiling outputs, and even a second zone output, this receiver lets you send audio to a variety of spaces in your room or home—and in my experience, Onkyo’s on-device menu system is quite a bit more intuitive than some of the other popular brands.

You’ll also have many HDMI channels, including a primary input with HDMI ARC functionality. This makes connecting a soundbar to your system easier and ensures this receiver can be the brains of your TV-watching setup.

But the TXNR696 is quite a bit more than its typical wired functionality. Onkyo has loaded this with a vast array of software optimizations and smart integrations.

When you pair it with a Sonos Connect, the receiver is ready to be welcomed into your Sonos home setup—or you can opt for the Smart AVR app to connect to streaming services like Amazon Music, Pandora, Spotify, and more.

You’ll also find DTS Dolby Atmos with full-height virtualizer tech to dial in impressively immersive sound, and this receiver is even THX certified to take movie nights to the next level.

The amp provides up to 100 watts of juice when running multiple channels, which is plenty to power most setups. Thanks to the wired Internet connectivity, you’ll always be set up for network audio listening.

• Who else recommends it? CNET has dubbed the TXNR696 the king of do-it-all audio because of its versatility and performance. 
• What do buyers say? Amazon reviewers have awarded this receiver more than 4 stars for quality and value, and the Budget Audiophile subreddit consistently recommends this device for most starter setups.

Best Smart Features

Sonos Amp

$675 at Amazon $700 $699 at Walmart $699 at Best Buy

TL;DR: The Sonos Amp channels simplicity and ease of use, but makes up for it in connectivity for your Sonos setup.

Why We Recommend This

If you’re already in the Sonos ecosystem, you know how powerful a multi-room, whole-home audio solution can be. But what if you want to extend that to your standard bookshelf speakers or entertainment system? Enter: the Sonos Amp. This sleek little amp may not look like much, but it can actually serve as your main AV receiver for your setup.

The inputs and outputs are a bit limited featuring just a stereo RCA line-in option as well as an HDMI eARC, and just two speaker outputs. So, while you can’t send your audio to a suite of surround-sound speakers, you can easily run a pair of speakers in your main setup.

Where the Sonos Amp really shines is that it’ll act just like any regular Sonos speaker—essentially adding your favorite pair of bookshelf or tower speakers to the Sonos wireless ecosystem. This’ll unlock full wireless functionality—including smart streaming services and Sonos integration—so you can listen to records or watch TV with Sonos support.

Under the hood, there are 125 watts of power per channel, providing a ton of headroom for various speakers. This also makes it great for powering outdoor speakers, so it’s an excellent way to carry the Sonos magic to your patio or pool area.

At around $700, it can be a hard pill to swallow for the limited I/O (input/output) support. While the design is sleek with some limited touch buttons on the front, if you don’t like using an app to control your setup, you’ll leave much functionality on the table. But for smart features and connected performance, the Sonos Amp is one of the top dogs in the game.

• Who else recommends it? The Verge, PCMag, What Hi-Fi, and TechRadar all find the Sonos Amp a capable addition to your home AV setup.
• What do buyers say? Nearly 1,000 satisfied Amazon buyers rate the Sonos Amp a compelling 4.5 stars for its well-built quality, design, and performance. 

Easiest on the Budget

Sony 5.2 Multi-Channel 4K Receiver

$348 at Amazon $350 at Best Buy $348 at B&H Photo Video

TL;DR: If you’re looking to get started quickly, a nuts-and-bolts receiver like the Sony STR DH590 is easy on the wallet and perfect for the basic setup.

Why We Recommend This

Sony’s place in the stereo receiver world is well-known—having spent years producing units that easily drive surround systems and AV setups. The STRDH590 is a simple, barebones system that still brings with it a host of features that’ll tackle a variety of audio/visual needs.

First, it’s got the standard set of speaker outs for a 5.2 system—dual front speakers, dual rear, one center, and the option for a sub. This, when paired with the multiple audio options, a digital optical input, and five HDMI ports including ARC support make the STR DH590 a well-appointed receiver that can drive both TV and non-TV setups.

Sony has also taken the time to ensure that the HDMI pass–through supports HDR and Dolby Vision signals so it won’t hamper any of your visual needs either.

You’ll also find Bluetooth support to play music from your smart devices without needing to connect or cast to your TV or anything complicated. However, you won’t have many smart features or wireless options like you would on pricier models.

It also occupies a relatively bulky footprint, which is surprising considering how simple the interface is. Sony likely uses the same chassis to build various receivers.

But, for a reasonable price point, you’ll get 145 watts of power to all your channels and reliable performance from one of the biggest names in the home audio space, which is why the STR DH590 easily earns our best budget slot.

• Who else recommends it? Niche publications like Perfect Acoustic and HomeTheaterReview were impressed by this receiver's performance-to-price ratio.
• What do buyers say? Customer reviews on Amazon, Crutchfield, and other top storefronts reflect satisfied customers—particularly for the price point.