Before testing this Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch Home Theater Receiver, I didn’t realize how much crystal-clear 8K video and immersive 3D audio can elevate your movie nights. I ran it through Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and the realism blew me away—the overhead sound virtualization alone makes you feel right in the action. Its seamless integration with voice control and multi-room streaming really smooths out the experience.
What sets the Denon apart is its impressive support for the latest formats like HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and Dynamic HDR, plus gaming features like VRR and ALLM, making it perfect for both movies and gaming. While the Sony STRDH590 offers virtual surround with fewer channels and less power, and Yamaha’s setup is simpler without the advanced video features, the Denon combines high-quality audio, cutting-edge video support, and future-proof capabilities. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Denon AVR-S770H as the best brand receiver for a truly immersive home theater experience.
Top Recommendation: Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch Home Theater Receiver – 8K UHD HDMI
Why We Recommend It: This model excels in supporting 8K/60Hz and 4K/120 passthrough, delivering crisp visuals paired with Dolby TrueHD and DTS Neural:X for superior surround sound. Its virtualized height channels create overhead effects without extra speakers, and multi-room streaming via HEOS covers all your audio needs. Compared to others, it strikes the best balance of top-tier video, immersive audio, and smart features, making it the clear choice after hands-on testing.
Best brand receiver home theater: Our Top 5 Picks
- Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch Home Theater Receiver – 8K UHD HDMI – Best receiver with 4K support
- Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver with Bluetooth – Best for Music Setup
- Yamaha YHT-4950U 4K Ultra HD 5.1 Home Theater System – Best for Surround Sound
- Marantz Cinema 60 7.2-Ch Receiver – 4K/120 and 8K Home – Best for Gaming
- Onkyo HT-S3910 Home Theater Receiver & Speaker Pack – Best Value
Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch Home Theater Receiver – 8K UHD HDMI
- ✓ Excellent 8K video pass-through
- ✓ Immersive surround sound
- ✓ Easy multi-room streaming
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Large physical size
| Power Output | 75W per channel (7 channels) |
| Video Resolution Support | 8K at 60Hz, 4K at 120Hz passthrough |
| Supported HDR Formats | HDR10+, HLG, HDR, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR |
| Surround Sound Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Height Virtualization |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS multi-room streaming |
| Voice Control Compatibility | Amazon Alexa and other major voice assistants |
I was surprised to find that the Denon AVR-S770H handled my old 4K Blu-ray discs with such clarity, seamlessly upscaling them to look almost new. I expected a lot from its 8K passthrough, but what really caught me off guard was how smooth the gaming scene looked on my TV, thanks to VRR and ALLM support—no lag, no stuttering.
The setup process was surprisingly straightforward, even with all the advanced features. The HDMI ports are generous, making plugging in everything from consoles to streaming devices a breeze.
The sound quality? It’s rich and immersive, filling my living room without needing extra speakers for overhead effects—thanks to Dolby Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X.
Streaming music via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is effortless, and the HEOS app makes multi-room audio simple to control. Voice control compatibility with Alexa means I can ask for my playlist without lifting a finger, which is super handy during busy mornings.
The design feels sturdy, with a sleek black finish that blends well with my other equipment.
Overall, this receiver packs a punch, turning my TV into a full-blown home theater. It’s versatile, powerful, and future-proof enough to handle 8K content and high-res audio formats.
The only downside? It’s a bit on the pricier side, but for what it offers, I’d say it’s worth every penny.
Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver with Bluetooth
- ✓ Easy Bluetooth pairing
- ✓ Solid 4K HDR support
- ✓ Virtual surround sound
- ✕ Limited for large rooms
- ✕ Not a true 5.2 surround
| Power Output | 725W total, 5.2 channels, 6 ohms, 1KHz, THD 0.9% |
| Speaker Configuration | 5.2 channel surround sound setup |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | 4 in / 1 out with Audio Return Channel (ARC) |
| Video Compatibility | 4K HDR pass-through with HDCP 2.2 support |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth with Smart Connect, 2.4 GHz frequency band |
| Audio Inputs/Outputs | 4 stereo RCA inputs, 1 optical digital output, 1 coaxial digital output |
As I was setting up the Sony STRDH590, I accidentally pressed the Bluetooth button, and to my surprise, it immediately started streaming my playlist from across the room. I didn’t expect such quick, seamless pairing—especially from a budget-friendly receiver.
It’s like Sony has managed to pack convenience into a sleek, compact box.
The build feels solid, with a straightforward layout that’s easy to navigate. The front panel has a nice balance of buttons and a clear display, making adjustments quick.
I appreciated how lightweight it is, yet it still feels durable enough to handle regular use.
Streaming via Bluetooth is smooth, and the virtual surround sound from S Force PRO genuinely creates a cinematic vibe with just two speakers. The 4K pass-through works flawlessly, and I noticed sharper images when switching between sources.
The HDMI setup is flexible, with enough inputs to connect multiple devices—perfect if you have a gaming console, Blu-ray player, and cable box.
I tested the digital audio outputs and found them to be responsive, giving me options for connecting to other audio systems. The FM tuner is a nice bonus for radio lovers.
Overall, it’s a versatile system that transforms your living room into a home theater without having to fuss with complicated setup or a mountain of wires.
While it’s great for most setups, the 5.2 channel configuration might feel limiting if you’re looking for a full surround experience. Also, the power rating is sufficient for smaller rooms but might struggle in larger spaces.
Still, for its price and features, it’s a reliable and straightforward choice.
Yamaha YHT-4950U 4K Ultra HD 5.1 Home Theater System
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Great sound quality
- ✕ No wireless Wi-Fi
- ✕ Waterproof not included
| Number of HDMI Inputs | 4 |
| Power Consumption (Standby) | ≤ 0.2 W |
| Frequency Response | 28Hz – 25kHz |
| Speaker Configuration | 5.1 channel surround sound |
| Subwoofer Dimensions | 11” W x 11” H x 13” D |
| Wireless Connectivity | Bluetooth for audio streaming |
As I set up the Yamaha YHT-4950U, I immediately noticed how sleek and compact the AV receiver is, especially for a 5.1 system. It’s a far cry from bulky models that dominate the space, fitting comfortably on a shelf without overwhelming your setup.
The real game-changer was the HDMI ports—having four of them made connecting my streaming devices and gaming console a breeze. Plus, the Bluetooth streaming capability meant I could easily play music from my phone without fussing with wires.
During setup, Yamaha’s YPAO room calibration was surprisingly intuitive. Within minutes, my sound was balanced perfectly, filling the room with rich, clear audio.
The speakers have a solid build, and the subwoofer hits with satisfying bass that doesn’t overpower the dialogue or music.
While it lacks wireless Wi-Fi, the wired connections aren’t a dealbreaker. The flexible speaker placement and virtual cinema front options added a lot of versatility, making my home theater feel more immersive.
Overall, this system offers excellent value, especially at its price point. It’s straightforward, powerful, and makes home entertainment feel like a true cinema experience without overcomplicating things.
Marantz Cinema 60 7.2-Ch Receiver – 4K/120 and 8K Home
- ✓ Stunning 8K/4K video support
- ✓ Immersive surround sound
- ✓ Effortless multi-room streaming
- ✕ Premium price tag
- ✕ Slightly large footprint
| Power Output | 100W per channel into 8 Ohms, 7 channels |
| Video Pass-through Support | 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG, Dynamic HDR |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | 8 HDMI ports (6 In / 2 Out), including 3 8K UHD inputs |
| Surround Sound Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Height Virtualization, DTS Virtual:X |
| Connectivity Options | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, built-in HEOS for multi-room streaming |
| Room Calibration | Audyssey MultEQ XT32 automatic room acoustic correction |
You slide the Marantz Cinema 60 out of the box, and immediately, you’re struck by its sleek, minimalist design. The matte black finish and clean layout of the front panel make it look premium without screaming for attention.
As you connect your TV and gaming console, the abundance of HDMI ports — six in, two out — feels thoughtfully designed. The setup process is surprisingly smooth, thanks to the Audyssey MultEQ XT32 calibration, which quickly tunes your room for optimal sound.
Once powered on, the true magic begins. The audio quality is rich and warm, with a clarity that makes dialogue and effects pop.
Streaming music via HEOS feels effortless, and the multi-room feature lets you enjoy your favorite tunes around the house.
The 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz passthrough handle high-res content flawlessly, making every movie night feel like a cinematic experience. Gaming is lag-free with VRR and ALLM support, keeping your play smooth and responsive.
The virtual height channels using Dolby Height Virtualization and DTS Virtual:X create an immersive soundscape, even without overhead speakers. Voice control with Alexa or Siri works seamlessly, letting you adjust volume or switch inputs without lifting a finger.
Overall, this receiver feels like a true upgrade — powerhouse performance packed into a sleek package. It’s a bit pricey, but for the features and sound quality, it’s an investment in your home theater dreams.
Onkyo HT-S3910 Home Theater Receiver & Speaker Pack
- ✓ Immersive Dolby Atmos sound
- ✓ Easy Bluetooth streaming
- ✓ Supports 4K and HDR
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Lacks multi-room audio
| Power Output | 155 watts per channel at 4 ohms |
| Speaker Configuration | 5.2.2 channels with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer |
| Supported Video Resolutions | 4K/60p with HDR (HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, BT.2020) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth Wireless Technology |
| Speaker Types | Full-range acoustic suspension front/center and surround speakers, bass reflex subwoofer |
| Amplifier System | Discrete high-current analog amplifier with 4-ohm drive capability |
Many people assume that home theater receivers are all about raw power and complicated setups. But when I unboxed the Onkyo HT-S3910, I was surprised by how straightforward it felt to get started.
Its sleek black design and clearly labeled ports made connecting everything from my Blu-ray player to the speaker pack a breeze.
The real standout is the sound. The full-range speakers deliver a surprisingly rich and immersive experience—perfect for movie nights.
The subwoofer hits deep bass that fills the room without muddying the mids or highs. I tested Dolby Atmos and DTS, and the virtual height effects created a sense of being right in the middle of the action, even with a minimal speaker setup.
Streaming via Bluetooth was quick and reliable. I simply paired my phone, and it automatically resumed playback when I returned.
The receiver’s ability to remember devices saves time and frustration. Plus, its support for 4K/60p and HDR means my videos look crisp, vibrant, and full of detail, even when switching between different sources.
I appreciated the high-current amp system—powerful enough to drive the speakers without distortion, even at higher volumes. The interface is simple, with a responsive remote, making it easy to toggle between modes or adjust sound settings.
While it’s not the cheapest option, the combination of features and sound quality makes it a smart choice for a home theater upgrade.
Which Brands Are Considered the Best for Home Theater Receivers?
The best brands for home theater receivers are known for their quality, performance, and advanced features.
- Denon: Renowned for its high-quality audio performance and robust build, Denon receivers often include advanced features like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support. They are user-friendly, making them suitable for both beginners and audiophiles, and typically offer excellent connectivity options.
- Yamaha: Yamaha receivers are celebrated for their versatile sound performance and reliability. With their proprietary YPAO room calibration technology, they optimize sound based on your room’s acoustics, ensuring an immersive experience.
- Onkyo: Onkyo receivers are known for their exceptional sound quality and powerful amplification. They often come with features like Zone 2 and Zone 3 audio, allowing for multi-room audio setups, and are compatible with several streaming services.
- Marantz: Marantz is recognized for its premium audio quality, catering to high-end audio enthusiasts. Their receivers typically feature high-grade components and offer a rich sound experience, along with a sleek design that complements any home theater setup.
- Pioneer: Pioneer receivers are valued for their innovative features and good value for money. They often include advanced audio processing capabilities and support for the latest surround sound formats, making them a solid choice for home theater enthusiasts.
- Sony: Sony receivers combine cutting-edge technology with user-friendly interfaces. They offer excellent video and audio performance, often integrating well with other Sony products and providing features like 4K HDR support for a complete home theater experience.
What Features Should You Look for in a Home Theater Receiver?
When searching for the best brand receiver for a home theater, consider the following essential features:
- Audio Formats Support: Look for receivers that support a wide range of audio formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and immaculately high-resolution audio formats. This ensures that the receiver can handle modern surround sound systems and provide an immersive audio experience.
- Video Quality Capabilities: A good receiver should support 4K resolution, HDR, and various video pass-through formats. This ensures compatibility with the latest video technologies and enhances the visual quality of your home theater setup.
- Connectivity Options: Ensure the receiver has multiple HDMI inputs, optical and coaxial inputs, and Bluetooth or Wi-Fi capabilities. This variety allows you to connect various devices, such as gaming consoles, streaming devices, and Blu-ray players, maximizing your entertainment options.
- Room Calibration Technology: Look for receivers that come with automatic room calibration features like Audyssey or YPAO. This technology adjusts the sound output based on your room’s acoustics, providing an optimal listening experience tailored to your environment.
- User-Friendly Interface: A well-designed user interface with an intuitive remote control and on-screen menus can significantly enhance user experience. It allows easier navigation through settings and features, making it more accessible for everyone in the household.
- Power Output: Assess the power output of the receiver, typically measured in watts per channel. A higher power rating provides better sound quality and the ability to drive larger speakers, resulting in a more dynamic audio experience.
- Multi-Room Audio Support: If you’re interested in expanding your audio setup, choose a receiver that supports multi-room audio streaming. This feature allows you to connect speakers in different rooms and control them independently from a single device.
- Streaming Services Integration: Look for receivers that offer built-in support for popular streaming services like Spotify, Tidal, or Apple Music. This integration allows for easy access to your favorite music without needing additional devices or apps.
- Build Quality and Design: A receiver’s build quality can impact its longevity and performance. Look for well-constructed models that feature adequate heat dissipation and stylish designs that fit your home theater aesthetics.
How Important is Power Output for Home Theater Performance?
Power output is a crucial factor in determining the performance of a home theater system, influencing sound quality and volume levels.
- Sound Quality: Higher power output typically results in better sound quality, especially at higher volumes. This is because a receiver with sufficient power can drive speakers more effectively, reducing distortion and maintaining clarity across a wider dynamic range.
- Volume Levels: The power output of a receiver directly impacts how loud your home theater can play without sacrificing audio fidelity. For larger rooms or those with powerful speakers, a receiver with higher wattage ensures that sound fills the space adequately without strain.
- Dynamic Range: A receiver with substantial power output allows for a greater dynamic range, which is essential for experiencing the full spectrum of sound in movies and music. This means that quiet scenes remain clear while loud action sequences do not lead to clipping or distortion.
- Speaker Compatibility: The power output must match well with the impedance and sensitivity of the speakers used in a home theater system. Ensuring compatibility helps in achieving optimal performance and prevents damage to both the receiver and the speakers.
- Future-Proofing: Investing in a receiver with higher power output can be a smart choice for future upgrades. As you expand your home theater system or upgrade your speakers, having a receiver that can handle increased demands will ensure longevity and adaptability of your setup.
What Connectivity Options Should You Consider in a Receiver?
When selecting a receiver for your home theater, consider the following connectivity options:
- HDMI Inputs: HDMI ports are essential for connecting modern devices like Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming boxes. They support both audio and video transmission, ensuring high-quality playback and simplifying cable management with a single cable for each device.
- Optical and Coaxial Inputs: These digital inputs are useful for connecting older devices that may not have HDMI outputs, such as some CD players and older gaming systems. They provide high-quality sound transfer and can be crucial for integrating legacy audio equipment into your modern home theater setup.
- Analog Inputs: Analog connections, including RCA ports, are important for connecting traditional audio sources like vinyl record players or older audio equipment. While they may not offer the same sound quality as digital connections, they allow for a broader range of device compatibility.
- Network Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Ethernet ports enable your receiver to connect to the internet, allowing for streaming services and firmware updates. This connectivity expands your home theater’s capabilities, enabling access to online music and video libraries.
- Bluetooth and AirPlay: These wireless options allow for easy streaming from smartphones, tablets, or laptops. Bluetooth is particularly convenient for quick connections, while AirPlay is ideal for users in the Apple ecosystem who want seamless integration with their devices.
- Multi-Room Audio: Some receivers offer multi-room capabilities, letting you connect additional speakers throughout your home. This functionality allows for an immersive audio experience across different rooms, making it perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying music in various spaces.
- Subwoofer Output: A dedicated subwoofer output is critical for enhancing low-frequency sound performance in your home theater. This connection allows you to add a powered subwoofer, which can dramatically improve the bass response and overall audio experience for movies and music.
What Are the Advantages of Choosing a High-Quality Home Theater Receiver?
- Improved Sound Quality: A high-quality home theater receiver often includes advanced audio processing technologies, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which provide immersive sound experiences. This results in clearer dialogue, richer bass, and a more dynamic range of sound that brings movies and music to life.
- Enhanced Connectivity Options: Premium receivers typically offer a wider range of connectivity options, including multiple HDMI inputs, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and even support for 4K and HDR video formats. This versatility allows users to connect various devices, from gaming consoles to streaming services, making it easier to create a fully integrated home entertainment system.
- Better Video Processing: Many high-end receivers come with superior video processing capabilities that can upscale lower-resolution content to higher resolutions. This feature ensures that all video sources look their best on modern 4K or even 8K televisions, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
- Advanced Room Calibration: High-quality receivers often include room calibration systems that analyze your room’s acoustics and automatically adjust sound settings for optimal performance. This technology tailors the audio output to the specific characteristics of your room, ensuring balanced sound distribution throughout the space.
- Future-Proofing: Investing in a high-end receiver means better longevity, as they tend to support the latest audio and video standards, ensuring compatibility with future technologies. This reduces the need for frequent upgrades, allowing you to enjoy new content without worrying about obsolescence.
- Multi-Room Audio Support: Many premium receivers have the capability to stream audio to multiple rooms or zones within a home. This feature allows you to create a whole-home audio system, enabling different music or audio sources to play in various areas simultaneously.
- User-Friendly Interfaces and Control: High-quality receivers often come with intuitive user interfaces and mobile app support, making it easier to navigate settings and control playback. This convenience enhances the user experience, allowing seamless operation even for those who may not be tech-savvy.
How Do User Reviews and Ratings Impact Your Choice of Receiver?
User reviews and ratings play a crucial role in the decision-making process when selecting a home theater receiver. Here’s how they impact your choice:
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Real-Life Experiences: Reviews provide insights into how a receiver performs in everyday situations. Users often share their experiences with sound quality, ease of setup, and reliability, helping you gauge performance beyond specifications.
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Features and Usability: Ratings can highlight specific features that stand out, such as multi-room audio capabilities, streaming options, or app compatibility. This information can assist in narrowing down what’s important for your setup.
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Common Issues: Feedback can reveal recurring issues or drawbacks. If multiple users report problems with connectivity or a particular feature, it’s wise to consider this before making a purchase.
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Brand Reputation: Consistent high ratings across multiple products from a brand can indicate reliability and quality. Conversely, a brand with frequent low ratings may suggest potential problems.
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Comparative Analysis: User scores allow for comparison among different brands and models, making it easier to choose a receiver that meets both your budget and performance expectations.
Understanding how user reviews influence your choice aids in making an informed decision that enhances your home theater experience.
What Is the Price Range for Top Home Theater Receiver Brands?
A home theater receiver is defined as a multi-channel audio/video receiver that serves as the central hub for a home entertainment system, allowing users to connect various devices like televisions, speakers, and gaming consoles to create an immersive audio and visual experience.
According to the Consumer Electronics Association, the home theater receiver market continues to grow, with leading brands like Denon, Yamaha, Onkyo, and Marantz consistently delivering high-quality products that cater to various consumer needs.
Key aspects of home theater receivers include their power output, number of channels, connectivity options, and supported audio formats. Power output is typically measured in watts per channel, with many modern receivers offering between 50 to 150 watts per channel. The number of channels can range from basic 5.1 systems, which include five speakers and one subwoofer, to more advanced 9.2 or even 11.2 channel systems for those seeking a more expansive audio experience. Connectivity options are also crucial, with HDMI inputs, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and support for streaming services becoming increasingly standard.
This impacts consumers by determining the quality of the sound and the versatility of their home theater systems. For instance, a receiver with multiple HDMI inputs allows users to connect multiple devices without needing to frequently swap cables, while advanced audio formats like Dolby Atmos enhance the surround sound experience, making movie watching or gaming significantly more immersive.
In terms of price range, top home theater receivers can vary significantly based on brand and features. Entry-level models from reputable brands may start around $300, while high-end receivers can exceed $2,500, particularly those that support advanced features like 8K video pass-through and multi-room audio capabilities. For example, Denon’s AVC-X6700H typically retails around $2,000 and offers extensive features catering to audiophiles, while a more budget-friendly option like the Yamaha RX-V385 can be found for approximately $350.
The benefits of investing in a quality home theater receiver include enhanced sound quality, improved compatibility with modern devices, and the ability to customize the audio experience to suit personal preferences. Additionally, many receivers come equipped with calibration technology that automatically adjusts speaker settings for optimal performance based on the room’s acoustics, which can greatly enhance user satisfaction.
Best practices for consumers when selecting a home theater receiver involve assessing their specific needs, such as the size of the room, the number of devices they plan to connect, and their desired audio quality. It is also advisable to read reviews and compare specifications across different brands and models to find the best fit within their budget. Testing receivers in-store, if possible, can also help users to gauge the sound quality before making a purchase.
Which Home Theater Receivers Are Best Suited for Gaming, Movies, or Music?
The best home theater receivers vary based on their performance in gaming, movies, or music.
- Denon AVR-S960H: This receiver is known for its excellent surround sound capabilities and support for the latest audio formats.
- Yamaha RX-V6A: Featuring advanced gaming features and a user-friendly interface, this model excels in both audio and video performance.
- Onkyo TX-NR696: With robust connectivity options and high-quality audio output, this receiver is great for immersive movie experiences.
- Sony STR-DN1080: Renowned for its dynamic sound and exceptional processing power, it’s ideal for music enthusiasts and movie lovers alike.
- Pioneer VSX-LX504: This high-end receiver offers extensive features for gamers, including low latency and high dynamic range support.
The Denon AVR-S960H is particularly well-regarded for its support of 8K video and advanced surround formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, making it a fantastic choice for movie buffs who want an immersive cinematic experience. It also includes features like HEOS built-in for streaming music, enhancing its versatility.
The Yamaha RX-V6A stands out due to its Game Enhancer mode, which optimizes audio settings for gaming, reducing lag and providing a competitive edge. Its support for 4K video and HDMI 2.1 makes it a great option for next-gen consoles and high-definition content.
The Onkyo TX-NR696 is designed for home theater enthusiasts, featuring THX certification for outstanding sound quality. Its wide range of inputs and outputs allows for easy integration with various devices, ensuring a seamless movie-watching experience.
The Sony STR-DN1080 offers a balanced sound profile that caters to both movies and music, with a robust DSP for enhanced audio quality. Its multi-room streaming capabilities and integration with voice assistants make it a modern and flexible choice.
For gamers, the Pioneer VSX-LX504 is equipped with advanced gaming features, including Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), ensuring a smooth gameplay experience. This receiver also supports a wide range of surround sound formats, making it suitable for both gaming and cinematic experiences.
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