Choosing an AV receiver starts with the system you want to build, not with a headline specification.
The most useful questions are practical: how many speakers will you run, do you need height channels for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X, how important is room correction, and will the receiver also serve as a music-streaming hub?
The supplied field includes several true AV receivers and one complete receiver-based home-theater package, alongside adjacent home-cinema components such as processors, speakers, a subwoofer, a turntable and a digital player. That mix is useful, because a receiver rarely works in isolation, but it also means not every entry below should be treated as a direct AV receiver alternative. For a straightforward receiver shortlist, the Arcam AVR21, Anthem MRX SLM, Denon AVC-S660H, Denon AVR-X1800H and Onkyo HT-S5915 are the most directly relevant. The remaining entries can help complete, expand or refine a home-theater system, but they do not replace an AV receiver in the same way.
1. Arcam AVR21: AV Receiver optimized for audiophiles
Arcam AVR21 AV receiver with traditional front-panel volume control, display and direct-access controls.
The Arcam AVR21 is the most audiophile-leaning AV receiver in this selection.
It is a 7.1-channel model that supports Dolby Atmos in a 5.1.2-channel configuration, with the option to expand toward 7.1.4 by adding external amplification.
Its source material points to broad codec support, including DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X and IMAX Enhanced, while full 16-channel Dirac calibration gives it a serious room-correction foundation. The return of a traditional volume knob, front-panel controls, headphone output and Aux input also make it feel more tactile than some minimalist AV designs.
Best for: Audiophile home-theater systems with room to grow
- Dolby Atmos support in 5.1.2 configuration
- Expandable toward 7.1.4 with external amplification
- Full 16-channel Dirac calibration
- Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast streaming
Verdict: Choose the Arcam AVR21 if sound optimization, advanced calibration and future expansion matter more than keeping the setup as simple as possible.
2. Anthem MRX SLM is a compact and powerful five-channel AV receiver
Anthem MRX SLM slimline AV receiver designed for compact or hidden installation.
The Anthem MRX SLM is a space-saving five-channel AV receiver aimed primarily at custom-install environments.
Its compact dimensions and low weight make it suitable for systems where a conventional full-size receiver would be difficult to accommodate, and the source notes that it can be placed out of sight.
Despite the slim format, it includes HDMI 2.0b with eARC and HDCP 2.3, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, and several streaming routes including Spotify Connect, AirPlay, Chromecast built-in and Bluetooth. Anthem’s ARC Genesis software platform is another key distinction for room setup and calibration.
Best for: Discreet installations and compact media rooms
- Very compact receiver format
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- ARC Genesis room-correction platform
- Spotify Connect, AirPlay, Chromecast and Bluetooth
Verdict: Choose the Anthem MRX SLM when space, placement flexibility and Anthem room correction are central to the system plan.
3. Denon AVC-S660H: AV Receiver boasting superior surround sound and gaming experiences
Denon AVC-S660H AV amplifier with five discrete high-current amplifier channels and network playback features.
The Denon AVC-S660H is positioned in the source as an entry-level model within Denon’s S series, and it differs from the AVR-S660H primarily by omitting an FM tuner.
It uses five high-current discrete amplifiers, supports 8K/60 Hz video, and handles Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio.
Audyssey MultEQ calibration, Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume help adapt the connected speakers to the room and listening conditions. It also works as a streaming device, with local network playback, front USB playback, high-resolution file support, online services, Bluetooth, dual-band Wi-Fi and AirPlay 2.
Best for: Affordable surround systems that also need modern streaming
- Entry-level Denon S-series positioning
- 8K/60 Hz video support
- Audyssey MultEQ calibration
- Network, USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and AirPlay 2 playback
Verdict: Choose the Denon AVC-S660H if you want a practical five-amplifier receiver with current video support, streaming and Audyssey setup assistance.
4. Denon AVR-X1800H: Fully equipped AV receiver
Denon AVR-X1800H AV receiver suited to 7.2-channel systems and 5.2.2 immersive-audio setups.
The Denon AVR-X1800H is the more fully equipped Denon receiver here, with a 7.2 configuration and seven built-in power amplifiers.
It can be used as the basis for a 5.2.2-channel Dolby Atmos or DTS:X system, and it also offers virtual height processing for systems without height speakers.
Audyssey MultEQ XT uses the supplied measurement microphone to analyze several listening points and adjust the sound for more balanced room performance. The receiver is also equipped with six HDMI inputs and one output, supports HDCP 2.3, and handles video transmission up to 8K according to the source.
Best for: Mainstream Atmos systems with seven amplifier channels
- 7.2 configuration with seven built-in amplifiers
- 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X capability
- Virtual height-channel processing
- Audyssey MultEQ XT calibration
Verdict: Choose the Denon AVR-X1800H if you want a flexible 7.2-channel receiver for a real 5.2.2 immersive-audio layout.
5. Pro-Ject T2 W: A wireless turntable designed for authentic high-fidelity sound
Pro-Ject T2 W belt-driven turntable with Wi-Fi streaming capability for vinyl playback.
The Pro-Ject T2 W is not an AV receiver, but it may be relevant if vinyl playback is part of the wider entertainment system.
It is a belt-driven turntable with a larger CNC-machined chassis, a 9-inch aluminum tonearm, a glass platter, electronic speed stabilization and a pre-installed Sumiko Rainier cartridge.
Its standout feature is integrated Wi-Fi streaming, allowing vinyl playback to be sent to compatible network audio playback devices using Pro-Ject’s proprietary streaming approach. As a source component, it complements a system rather than replacing the switching, decoding and amplification duties of an AV receiver.
Best for: Vinyl listeners adding wireless playback to a broader system
- Wi-Fi streaming from vinyl records
- 9-inch aluminum tonearm
- Electronic 33/45 rpm speed switching
- Pre-installed Sumiko Rainier cartridge
Verdict: Consider the Pro-Ject T2 W as a source component for vinyl, not as an alternative to an AV receiver.
6. Onkyo HT-S5915: A complete home theater kit worth checking out
Onkyo HT-S5915 home-theater package with speakers and TX-SR494 AV receiver.
The Onkyo HT-S5915 is a complete home-theater kit rather than a standalone receiver purchase, combining speakers with a TX-SR494 AV receiver.
The system supports conventional 5.1 playback and Dolby Atmos in a 5.1.2 configuration, using seven amplification channels rated in the source at 100 W each.
The included receiver carries decoders for common surround formats, a 32-bit DSP with four audio processing modes, and Burr-Brown DACs across all channels. Its HDMI section includes four inputs and one output with 4K UHD passthrough including Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG.
Best for: Buyers who want a ready-made surround speaker and receiver package
- Complete receiver-and-speaker package
- Dolby Atmos in 5.1.2 configuration
- Seven-channel TX-SR494 receiver included
- 4K UHD HDMI passthrough with Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG
Verdict: Choose the Onkyo HT-S5915 if you prefer a complete Dolby Atmos-capable kit instead of matching a receiver and speakers separately.
7. Best AV Processors: Choosing the very best for your home theater
AV processors are designed to handle surround decoding and system control in separates-based theaters.
This entry is about AV processors, not AV receivers.
That distinction matters: an AV processor handles multi-channel audio and video processing, but it is intended to be paired with separate power amplification rather than replacing a receiver directly.
The supplied article frames processors as the starting point for a more luxurious home-theater system and gives examples ranging from entry-level processor options to higher-channel designs. It also highlights features such as Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X, DTS-Master decoding, HDMI 2.0 or 2.0b connectivity, multi-channel layouts and room-correction systems depending on the model discussed.
Best for: Separates-based home theaters with external amplification
- Designed for multi-channel audio processing
- Suited to use with separate power amplifiers
- Examples include Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding
- Some models include room correction
Verdict: Consider an AV processor route when you want separates, not when you need the built-in amplification of an AV receiver.
8. Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2: An excellent basis for a high-end home theater system
Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2 Anniversary Edition floor-standing speaker for stereo or home-theater systems.
The Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2 is a loudspeaker, not an AV receiver, but it can form part of a higher-quality home-theater speaker system.
The source describes it as the largest model in the 600 Anniversary Edition Series, with upgraded crossovers using Mundorf bypass capacitors and improved high-frequency and mid-frequency capacitors.
Its three-way configuration includes a separate midrange driver, and the cabinet is made from MDF with internal partitions to reduce wall vibration. In practical buying terms, this is a speaker choice to pair with a capable receiver or processor, not a control hub on its own.
Best for: Speaker upgrades for a serious home-theater front stage
- Three-way floor-standing speaker design
- Separate midrange driver
- Upgraded crossover components
- Large-room sound-pressure capability noted in source
Verdict: Consider the Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2 when your receiver choice is settled and the next priority is stronger main speakers.
9. Canton SUB 501: Powerful subwoofer boasting impressive 750 watt power amplifier
Canton SUB 501 active subwoofer with rear-panel controls for level, crossover and phase.
The Canton SUB 501 is an active subwoofer, so it addresses low-frequency performance rather than AV receiving, decoding or video switching.
The source describes a 12-inch active design with a reengineered 750-watt power amplifier, rear-panel adjustments for volume level, crossover frequency and phase, plus automatic on/off operation.
Its front-firing subwoofer is supported by a down-firing passive radiator, and the product is positioned as an enhancement for home-cinema and stereo systems. It is therefore a system-completion option for bass, not a receiver choice.
Best for: Adding adjustable bass support to cinema or stereo systems
- 12-inch active subwoofer design
- 750-watt power amplifier stated in source
- Volume, crossover and phase adjustment
- Automatic on/off function
Verdict: Consider the Canton SUB 501 if your AV receiver and speakers need deeper, more adjustable low-frequency support.
10. Cambridge Audio CXUHD: Reference digital player
Cambridge Audio CXUHD universal digital transport with 4K UHD, HDR and broad disc-format support.
The Cambridge Audio CXUHD is a universal digital transport and network media player, not an AV receiver.
It is designed to play a wide range of disc formats, including UHD Blu-ray, DVD-Audio and SACD, and it deliberately omits an onboard digital-to-analog converter.
The source highlights 4K UHD support, HDR, Dolby Vision, UHD upscaling and HDMI handling of codecs including Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. In a home-theater chain, it is best understood as a high-grade source component feeding a receiver, processor or display.
Best for: Disc-based systems needing a universal digital transport
- UHD Blu-ray, DVD-Audio and SACD playback
- 4K UHD, HDR and Dolby Vision support
- UHD upscaling
- HDMI handling of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
Verdict: Consider the Cambridge Audio CXUHD as a premium source player to feed an AV receiver or processor, not as the receiver itself.
Quick comparison
The clearest way to compare these entries is to separate true AV receiver choices from related home-theater components.
The Arcam, Anthem, Denon models and the receiver-based Onkyo kit can anchor a surround system, while the other products either feed, process, reproduce or extend the system in more specialized ways.
| Product | Best for | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Arcam AVR21 | Audiophile-focused receiver systems with external expansion potential | A strong choice for buyers prioritizing Dirac calibration, broad codec support and a path beyond the built-in 7.1-channel receiver layout. |
| Anthem MRX SLM | Compact or hidden installations | The slim five-channel format, streaming options and ARC Genesis platform make it the specialist choice where space is limited. |
| Denon AVC-S660H | Entry-level Denon surround systems with streaming | A practical five-amplifier option with 8K/60 Hz support, Audyssey MultEQ and extensive network playback features. |
| Denon AVR-X1800H | 7.2-channel receiver systems and 5.2.2 immersive audio | The more flexible Denon receiver here, with seven amplifiers, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X decoding, virtual height processing and Audyssey MultEQ XT. |
| Pro-Ject T2 W | Wireless vinyl playback within a broader audio system | A turntable source with Wi-Fi streaming, useful alongside a receiver but not a replacement for one. |
| Onkyo HT-S5915 | Complete home-theater buyers | A package route that combines speakers and a TX-SR494 receiver for 5.1 or 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos playback. |
| Best AV Processors: Choosing the very best for your home theater | Separates-based systems with external power amplifiers | A processor path is appropriate when you want system control and decoding separated from amplification. |
| Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2 | Front-speaker upgrades for home theater | A floor-standing speaker option that can strengthen the loudspeaker side of a system once the receiver decision is made. |
| Canton SUB 501 | Low-frequency reinforcement | An active subwoofer choice for adding adjustable bass to cinema or stereo systems. |
| Cambridge Audio CXUHD | Disc playback and digital source duties | A universal digital transport for feeding an AV receiver or processor with disc and media content. |
Frequently asked questions
How many receiver channels do I need for Dolby Atmos?
For a basic height-channel Atmos layout from the supplied receiver options, look for support for 5.1.2 or 5.2.2.
The Arcam AVR21 supports Dolby Atmos in 5.1.2 and can expand toward 7.1.4 with external amplification, the Denon AVR-X1800H can form a 5.2.2 system, and the Onkyo HT-S5915 package supports 5.1.2.
Should I choose an AV receiver or an AV processor?
Choose an AV receiver when you want surround processing and power amplification in one unit.
Choose an AV processor when you are building a separates-based system with external power amplifiers; the supplied AV processor article is not a direct substitute for a receiver with built-in amplification.
How important is room correction?
Room correction is useful because the room and speaker placement strongly affect the final sound.
In the supplied material, Arcam uses full 16-channel Dirac calibration, Anthem uses ARC Genesis, Denon models use Audyssey MultEQ or MultEQ XT, and these systems are designed to help adapt playback to listening conditions.
Do I need every source and speaker component listed here to build a theater?
No.
Start with the receiver or receiver-based package, then add sources and speakers as needed.
A turntable such as the Pro-Ject T2 W, a player such as the Cambridge Audio CXUHD, speakers such as the Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2, and a subwoofer such as the Canton SUB 501 serve different roles around the receiver.
How to Make the Right AV Receiver Choice
Begin with your speaker layout.
If the goal is a compact five-channel installation, the Anthem MRX SLM is the most space-conscious receiver in the supplied group.
If you want a mainstream receiver for a 5.2.2 immersive-audio system, the Denon AVR-X1800H is the clearest fit because it has seven built-in amplifiers and Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. If you want an entry-level Denon model with streaming and modern video support but do not need the additional amplifier channels of the X1800H, the Denon AVC-S660H is the simpler Denon route. For a more audiophile-oriented installation, the Arcam AVR21 stands apart through its Dirac calibration, codec support and ability to expand toward a larger layout with extra amplification. If you would rather avoid selecting separate speakers and a receiver, the Onkyo HT-S5915 offers a complete package built around the TX-SR494 receiver and a speaker set for 5.1 or 5.1.2 playback. Treat the remaining products as system-building pieces. The Pro-Ject T2 W is for vinyl playback, the Cambridge Audio CXUHD is for disc and digital transport duties, the Bowers & Wilkins 603 S2 is a loudspeaker upgrade, the Canton SUB 501 adds bass capability, and the AV processor route is for systems using external power amplifiers. The strongest buying decision is the one that matches the receiver’s channel layout, calibration system, video needs and installation constraints to the room you actually have.
