AV Receivers in 2025
What still works. What has changed. AV receivers are still the heart of most home theaters. In 2025, that hasn’t changed. But a few things have. Most brands now push HDMI 2.1 as a standard. Some models keep analog inputs. Others have dropped them. Room correction software is still hit or miss.
Here’s a clear, honest look at the models that matter. No jargon. No “ultimate home cinema” claims. Just what works if you want clean sound, low noise, and enough flexibility.
Denon AVC-X6800H
- Channels: 11.4
- HDMI: 7 inputs, all HDMI 2.1
- Room EQ: Dirac Live (upgradeable), Audyssey XT32
- Power: 140W per channel (8 ohms, 2 ch)
- Use if: You want full Atmos and can add power amps later.
This one feels like a safe bet. Balanced. No surprises. Still gives pre-outs for every channel. Good if your room will grow.
Marantz Cinema 50
- Channels: 9.4
- HDMI: All ports upgraded to 2.1
- Room EQ: Audyssey XT32
- Power: 110W per channel
- Use if: You need fewer speakers but want clarity.
Marantz stuck to clean layout and low noise floor. Good match for 5.2.4 or 7.2.2 setups. Sounds tight even at low volume.
Yamaha RX-A6A
- Channels: 9.2
- HDMI: All 7 inputs now 2.1
- Room EQ: YPAO R.S.C. with multipoint
- Power: 150W per channel
- Use if: You like sharp sound and Yamaha's reliability.
Still a solid all-rounder. Menu system needs patience. The sound stage is wide and open once tuned right.
Onkyo TX-RZ70
- Channels: 11.2
- HDMI: All 7 inputs support 8K
- Room EQ: Dirac Live (full)
- Power: 140W per channel
- Use if: You want full Dirac at a mid-tier price.
Feels more confident this year. Better cooling. Cleaner pre-out stage. Not fancy, just works.
Arcam AVR21
- Channels: 7.2
- HDMI: 7 inputs, 2.1 support
- Room EQ: Dirac Live
- Power: 110W per channel
- Use if: You prefer Arcam’s neutral tone and British build.
Not as easy to set up. But in a treated room, the sound is honest and open.
What To Keep In Mind
- Don’t chase features. If your room is 15x20 ft with 5.1.2 speakers, you don’t need 13 channels.
- Focus on pre-outs if you plan to add power amps later.
- Room correction matters more than EQ bands. Dirac or XT32 make a difference if set up right.
- Skip the DAC hype. All major brands use good chips now. Room and speaker choice matter more.
Closing Thought
AV receivers in 2025 don’t look very different. But the small shifts — HDMI stability, cleaner signal paths, better cooling — are real. Choose the one that suits your room and gear, not what the box says.
Because we believe Home is Theater!
