7 Best Sony Av Receivers 2025 in the United States

The Sony STRDH190 is a 2-channel home stereo receiver that offers a solid audio experience with 100 watts per channel. It supports a speaker impedance of 6–16 ohms, which makes it versatile for various speaker setups. A standout feature is its Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily stream music from your smartphone or other Bluetooth-enabled devices. This receiver also includes a phono input, making it ideal for vinyl enthusiasts who want to connect a turntable.

Additionally, it has multiple RCA inputs and a 3.5mm input, providing flexibility for various audio sources. You can connect up to four speakers with its A/B switching feature, enabling multi-room audio or different audio zones within your home. The unit is compact with a low-profile design that fits comfortably in most AV cabinets. While it lacks advanced video processing capabilities, its focus on high-resolution audio will appeal to those prioritizing sound quality over video features.

The user interface is straightforward, and it includes a remote control for convenient operation. Some users may find the lack of modern connectivity options like HDMI or USB a drawback. This receiver is best suited for audio enthusiasts looking for a simple and effective solution to enhance their home audio setup.

The Sony STRDH590 is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their home entertainment experience with a 5.2 channel surround sound setup. It delivers cinematic sound that can bring your favorite movies and shows to life, thanks to its S-Force PRO technology, which creates virtual surround sound using only two speakers. This feature can be particularly appealing for users with limited space who still want immersive audio.

In terms of connectivity, the STRDH590 offers a good range with 4 HDMI inputs and 1 output, allowing easy connection to multiple devices like gaming consoles and streaming boxes. The inclusion of Bluetooth means you can stream music directly from your phone, and the HDMI audio return channel simplifies connecting your TV for audio playback.

The receiver is also 4K HDR compatible, supporting sharp image quality for modern TVs, making it a great fit for users who own 4K televisions. With a power output of 725W, it provides sufficient audio power for a typical living room. However, it's not without its drawbacks. Some users may find the user interface less intuitive than they would like, and those new to AV receivers might require some time to fully understand its features. Additionally, the virtual surround sound, while impressive, doesn't quite match the experience of a dedicated multi-speaker setup, which some audiophiles might prefer. The STRDH590 is best suited for casual movie watchers and music lovers who appreciate good sound quality without needing a complex speaker arrangement. Its multi-functional capabilities, including FM radio and headphone jack, add to its versatility, making it a decent choice in the mid-range AV receiver category.

The Sony STR-DH790 is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their home theater experience with its 7.2 channel surround sound capability. Thanks to features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, it creates an immersive sound environment, making movie nights feel cinematic. The 4K HDR support, including Dolby Vision, ensures high-quality video output, which is great for modern TVs. Its 5 HDMI ports provide ample connectivity for multiple devices, accommodating a range of home entertainment setups.

One of the standout features is the advanced D.C.A.C. auto calibration, which helps optimize audio settings based on the room's acoustics, ensuring you get the best sound possible without needing to be an audio expert. The low-profile design makes it easier to fit into various entertainment center spaces, a significant plus for those with limited room.

While the user interface is generally straightforward, some users might find it a bit overwhelming at first due to the wide array of features. Additionally, while the Bluetooth connectivity allows for easy streaming, some might prefer a more intuitive app control experience, which could be lacking with this model. Although the receiver is well-regarded, its weight (over 18 pounds) might be cumbersome for some to install or move around.