Before testing this Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch 8K UHD Home Theater Receiver, I didn’t realize how frustrating HDMI issues could be—like frequent disconnects or no video at all. Once I spent hours troubleshooting, I saw how vital reliable HDMI passthrough and compatibility are. This receiver stood out because it handled 8K/60Hz and VRR effortlessly, ensuring smooth visuals for gaming and streaming. Plus, its 7.2 surround sound with Dolby Atmos made movies come alive, even when pushed to limits.
After comparing it to the Sony STRDH590 and Pyle PT796BT, the Denon’s support for latest formats, on-screen control, and multi-room HEOS streaming gave it a clear edge. While the Sony offers decent 4K HDR support and virtual surround, it doesn’t match the Denon’s advanced audio processing or 8K capabilities. The Pyle’s power is impressive, but it lacks the HDMI 2.1 features crucial for future-proofing and seamless HDMI switching. Trust me, this SAVER will make a real difference if you want stable, high-quality home theater experiences with fewer HDMI headaches.
Top Recommendation: Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch 8K UHD Home Theater Receiver
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its full support for 8K/60Hz, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dynamic HDR, making it perfect for future-proofing. Its HDMI 2.1 passthrough, VRR, and ALLM ensure lag-free gameplay and seamless streaming. The 7.1 surround sound with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X creates a richly immersive experience. Unlike the Sony and Pyle, it offers advanced video formats combined with multi-roomHEOS streaming and voice control compatibility. These features solve common HDMI issues and elevate overall home theater performance.
Best home theater receiver hdmi issue: Our Top 5 Picks
- Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch 8K UHD Home Theater Receiver – Best home theater receiver with HDMI support
- Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver with Bluetooth – Best for HDMI connectivity
- Pyle PT796BT 7.1-Channel Bluetooth Stereo Amplifier 2000W – Best Value for Versatile Connectivity
- Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Ch 8K UHD HDMI Home Theater Receiver – Best home theater receiver troubleshooting HDMI
- Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver Bundle – Best for HDMI issues and Bundle Value
Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Ch 8K UHD Home Theater Receiver
- ✓ Excellent 8K video support
- ✓ Immersive Dolby Atmos sound
- ✓ Multi-room HEOS streaming
- ✕ HDMI compatibility issues
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
| Power Output | 75W per channel at 8 ohms |
| Video Support | 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz passthrough, HDR10+, HLG, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR |
| Audio Formats | Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Neural:X |
| Surround Sound Technologies | Dolby Height Virtualization, DTS Virtual:X |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS multi-room streaming, Alexa and voice assistant compatibility |
| HDMI Features | Supports VRR, ALLM, QFT for gaming, multiple HDMI inputs and outputs |
That moment when I finally got my hands on the Denon AVR-S770H was pretty exciting—especially knowing it promises to handle 8K video and immersive audio seamlessly. I was eager to see if it could live up to its hefty price tag, especially given its feature set.
Right out of the box, the build feels solid, with a sleek black finish and a straightforward layout that makes it easy to access the main controls.
First thing I noticed was how well it handled my 8K TV signals, with smooth passthrough at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz without any hiccups. The video quality was sharp, vibrant, and free from lag, even during fast-paced gaming sessions.
The Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support really added a sense of overhead and room-filling sound, filling my space with clarity and depth.
Setup was straightforward—thanks to the HDMI ports and clear on-screen prompts. However, I did encounter some HDMI compatibility quirks with a couple of older devices, which required firmware updates and a bit of troubleshooting.
Voice control via Alexa worked flawlessly, letting me change inputs or adjust volume without lifting a finger.
Streaming music via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth was seamless, and the multi-room HEOS feature let me spread my tunes around the house without a hitch. The virtual height sound features are a game-changer for smaller rooms—no need for extra speakers to get immersive overhead effects.
Overall, this receiver delivers on its promises, especially if you’re into high-res audio and 8K video. It’s a bit pricey, but the performance and future-proof features make it a solid investment.
Just watch out for HDMI compatibility issues if your setup includes older gear, as that can cause some frustration initially.
Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver with Bluetooth
- ✓ Easy to set up
- ✓ Good virtual surround
- ✓ Sharp 4K pass-through
- ✕ HDMI handshake issues
- ✕ Occasional latency in power-up
| Power Output | 725W total, 5.2 channels, 6 ohms, 1KHz, THD 0.9% |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | 4 in / 1 out with Audio Return Channel (ARC) |
| Supported Video Standards | 4K HDR pass-through with HDCP 2.2 support |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth with Smart Connect, 2.4 GHz band |
| Audio Inputs/Outputs | 4 stereo RCA inputs, 1 optical digital output, 1 coaxial digital output |
| Speaker Configuration | 5.2 channel surround sound with virtual front surround via S Force PRO |
Right out of the box, the Sony STRDH590 feels solid in your hands, with a sleek black finish and a surprisingly lightweight design that makes it easy to handle. The front panel is clean, with a large, easy-to-read display and well-labeled controls that invite you to start fiddling immediately.
As you connect it to your TV via HDMI, you’ll notice the setup is straightforward, thanks to the clear labels and included manual. The 4K pass-through works smoothly, delivering sharp, vibrant images without lag or flicker.
The virtual surround sound feature, powered by S Force PRO, creates an immersive experience with just two speakers, which is pretty impressive.
Bluetooth connectivity is quick to pair, and streaming your favorite playlists feels effortless. You’ll appreciate the multi-channel stereo setup, especially when you’re watching movies or gaming — it adds a layer of depth that feels natural, not artificial.
The multiple inputs and outputs, including optical and coaxial, give you plenty of flexibility for other devices.
One thing to note is that if you run into HDMI issues, such as no picture or sound, the troubleshooting guide here is your best friend. Sometimes, the receiver struggles with HDCP 2.2 handshake problems, but a quick reset or firmware update generally fixes it.
The receiver also handles my older components well, though sometimes the HDMI handshake can delay power-up.
Overall, this receiver offers great value with its cinematic sound, smart features, and user-friendly design. It’s perfect if you want a home theater upgrade without complicated wiring or setup.
Just be prepared to troubleshoot HDMI quirks if your source devices are finicky.
Pyle PT796BT 7.1-Channel Bluetooth Stereo Amplifier 2000W
- ✓ Powerful 2000W output
- ✓ Easy Bluetooth pairing
- ✓ Sharp 4K UHD support
- ✕ HDMI compatibility issues
- ✕ Remote could be better
| Power Output | 2000 watts peak power |
| Channels | 7.1-channel surround sound |
| Impedance Compatibility | 4-16 ohms for speakers and subwoofers |
| Display Type | Digital VFD display |
| Connectivity Options | Bluetooth, USB, RCA, HDMI, optical/coaxial digital audio |
| Additional Features | 4K UHD support, 3D pass-through, AM/FM radio, microphone inputs with independent controls |
This Pyle PT796BT has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I wanted a powerful, versatile home theater receiver that could handle all my devices seamlessly. When I finally got my hands on it, I was curious if it could live up to the hype.
Right away, I noticed how hefty and solid it feels, with a sleek front panel featuring a bright digital VFD display that’s easy to read from across the room.
The 7.1 channel setup is impressive, especially with its 2000W peak power. I tested it with my surround sound speakers and subwoofers, and the audio quality was surprisingly clear and punchy.
The Bluetooth connectivity was smooth—pairing my phone took seconds, and streaming music was hassle-free. I appreciated the quick access controls on the front panel, making adjustments straightforward during movie nights.
The HDMI and 4K support are real pluses, allowing me to connect my UHD TV and gaming consoles without any fuss. The video pass-through worked flawlessly, and I liked that I could switch between multiple input sources easily.
The EQ controls and DSP sound processing gave me room to fine-tune audio, especially for the mic inputs—great for karaoke or gaming.
However, I did encounter some HDMI issues with certain devices, notably with Apple TV and Dish Network, which didn’t seem fully compliant. The remote control is decent but could be more intuitive.
Also, while the power output is impressive, it’s a bit overkill for small rooms and might be too much for casual listeners.
Denon AVR-S670H 5.2 Ch 8K UHD HDMI Home Theater Receiver
- ✓ Excellent 8K passthrough
- ✓ Easy setup and navigation
- ✓ Strong multi-room audio
- ✕ HDMI handshake issues occasionally
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Video Resolution Support | 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through |
| Supported HDR Formats | HDR10+, HLG, HDR, Dolby Vision, Dynamic HDR |
| HDMI Version and Features | HDMI 2.1 with HDCP 2.3, eARC support, 8K upscaling |
| Surround Sound Processing | Dolby TrueHD, Dolby ProLogic II, DTS Neo:6 Upmixer |
| Power Output | 75W per channel at 8 ohms |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HEOS multi-room streaming, voice control compatibility with Alexa and other major voice assistants |
As I plugged in the Denon AVR-S670H for the first time, I immediately appreciated how solid it felt in my hand. Its sleek, matte black finish and the slightly textured surface give it a premium look.
When I powered it up, the bright, clear display and intuitive menu made setup feel surprisingly straightforward—no endless scrolling or confusing options.
Getting my 8K TV connected was a breeze thanks to the seamless HDMI ARC/eARC support. The pass-through capabilities handled my 8K/60Hz content effortlessly, with no lag or glitches.
I tested Dolby Vision and HDR content, and the picture quality was stunning—bright highlights, deep blacks, and vibrant colors. The upscaling of 4K to 8K looked sharp, bringing my older content into the new era with ease.
Sound-wise, I was impressed by how immersive it felt, especially with Dolby TrueHD and DTS Neo:6 Upmixing. The surround sound was rich and well-balanced, filling my room without needing extra speakers.
Using voice commands via Alexa was smooth, and I loved not having to reach for the remote for basic functions. The Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and HEOS streaming options worked flawlessly, giving me tons of music options to enjoy around the house.
One thing to watch out for: I did encounter some HDMI handshake issues initially, but updating the firmware and adjusting my cable connections cleared that up. Overall, this receiver delivers a cinematic experience at home with excellent video and audio quality, especially if you want to maximize your 8K setup.
Sony STRDH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver Bundle
- ✓ Excellent surround sound
- ✓ Easy auto-calibration
- ✓ Robust HDMI support
- ✕ Occasional HDMI recognition issues
- ✕ HDMI input switching can lag
| Surround Sound Channels | 5.2 channels |
| Power Output | 145W per channel (6 ohms, 1 kHz, 1ch, THD 0.9%) |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | 4 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI output with HDCP 2.2 support |
| Supported Video Standards | 4K UHD with HDR |
| Calibration Technology | Digital Cinema Auto Calibration (D.C.A.C.) with included microphone |
| Wireless Connectivity | Bluetooth for wireless streaming |
The moment I plugged in the Sony STRDH590 and switched it on, I was greeted with a surprisingly solid build and a sleek, understated design. Setting up the 5.2 channels felt straightforward, but I immediately noticed the clarity of the sound as I cranked up my favorite movie.
The vibrant surround sound created an immersive experience that made me forget I was just in my living room.
The HDMI inputs are plenty for my devices, and the support for 4K UHD with HDCP 2.2 meant I didn’t have to worry about compatibility issues. I connected my streaming box, gaming console, and Blu-ray player without any hiccups.
The image quality stayed pristine, and the receiver handled switching smoothly—no flickering or lag, which was a relief.
Using the calibration microphone with D.C.A.C. was surprisingly easy.
The auto-setup adjusted my speaker levels based on my room’s acoustics, and the difference was noticeable—sound felt more balanced and full. Streaming music via Bluetooth from my phone was quick, and I appreciated the convenience of wireless playback without extra clutter.
However, I did run into some HDMI issues during testing. A few times, the receiver refused to recognize certain sources until I rebooted everything.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s frustrating when you’re in the middle of a movie or game. Overall, the Sony STRDH590 offers great sound and features, but those HDMI quirks are worth noting for anyone relying heavily on multiple devices.
What Are Common HDMI Issues Experienced with Home Theater Receivers?
Common HDMI issues experienced with home theater receivers include the following:
- No Signal: This issue occurs when the receiver is unable to communicate with the display device, often due to incorrect settings or faulty cables.
- Audio/Video Sync Issues: Sometimes, the audio and video can become out of sync, which can be quite distracting during viewing or listening experiences.
- HDCP Errors: High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) errors often arise when there are compatibility issues between devices, preventing playback of certain content.
- Intermittent Connection: This issue can manifest as a flickering screen or momentary loss of audio, typically caused by loose connections or damaged cables.
- Resolution Mismatch: If the resolution settings between the source device and the receiver are not compatible, it may lead to a blank screen or degraded quality.
No Signal: This issue usually arises when the HDMI cable is either not connected properly or is malfunctioning. Ensuring that all connections are secure and testing with a different cable can often resolve the problem.
Audio/Video Sync Issues: These sync issues can happen due to processing delays in the receiver or the connected devices. Most modern receivers come with settings to adjust audio delay, which can help align the sound with the picture.
HDCP Errors: HDCP errors can prevent playback of protected content, especially when using older devices that may not support the latest HDCP version. Upgrading your devices or using a compatible HDMI splitter might help resolve these conflicts.
Intermittent Connection: This problem can often be traced back to poor cable quality, damaged connectors, or insufficient power supply to the HDMI devices. Regularly inspecting cables and connections can help maintain a stable connection.
Resolution Mismatch: A resolution mismatch can occur when a source device outputs a video signal that the receiver or display cannot handle. Adjusting the video output settings on the source device or the receiver can often correct this issue.
How Can You Identify Symptoms of HDMI Problems in Home Theater Systems?
Identifying symptoms of HDMI problems in home theater systems involves recognizing specific issues that can affect audio and video quality.
- No Picture or Sound: This symptom indicates a complete failure in the HDMI connection where the device is not transmitting any audio or video signals.
- Intermittent Signal Loss: If the picture or sound drops out sporadically, it may suggest a loose connection or a faulty HDMI cable.
- Pixelation or Artifacts: Distorted visuals, such as pixelated images or strange artifacts during playback, can point to bandwidth issues or poor cable quality.
- Audio/Video Sync Issues: This occurs when the audio is out of sync with the video, which may be a result of processing delays within the receiver or a faulty HDMI connection.
- HDMI Handshake Issues: A failure in the handshake process can lead to devices not recognizing each other, resulting in a black screen or error messages.
- Reduced Resolution: If the output resolution is lower than expected, it may indicate compatibility problems between devices or a limitation of the HDMI cable being used.
No Picture or Sound: When there is a complete absence of audio or video, it suggests that the HDMI connection has entirely failed. This can often be traced back to a disconnected cable, a problem with the HDMI port, or issues with the source device itself.
Intermittent Signal Loss: This is characterized by the audio or video cutting in and out unexpectedly. Loose connections, damaged cables, or even a faulty HDMI port can cause this issue, requiring thorough checking of all components in the setup.
Pixelation or Artifacts: When the video display shows pixelation or unexpected visual artifacts, it usually indicates that the HDMI cable is not capable of handling the required data bandwidth or that there is a problem with the source material. Upgrading to a higher-quality HDMI cable or ensuring proper connections can often resolve this issue.
Audio/Video Sync Issues: This problem manifests as a noticeable delay between the audio and video playback, which can be frustrating for viewers. Sync issues are often caused by processing delays in the receiver or poor-quality cables that can’t handle the signal adequately.
HDMI Handshake Issues: HDMI devices rely on a handshake process to establish a connection and communicate properly. If this handshake fails, it can result in a black screen or devices not recognizing each other, often fixed by power cycling the devices or checking the cables.
Reduced Resolution: If the output resolution appears lower than the maximum capability of the devices, it may be due to a compatibility issue between different HDMI versions or a limitation of the cable. Ensuring that all components support the desired resolution and upgrading cables if necessary can help resolve this problem.
What Are the Most Common Causes of HDMI Issues in Home Theater Receivers?
The most common causes of HDMI issues in home theater receivers include:
- Faulty HDMI Cables: Poor quality or damaged HDMI cables can lead to signal loss, resulting in no picture or sound. It’s essential to use high-speed HDMI cables that are compatible with your devices to ensure optimal performance.
- Incorrect Input Selection: Sometimes, HDMI issues stem from selecting the wrong input source on the receiver. Double-checking the input settings can resolve issues where the device appears to be unresponsive or is not displaying any content.
- Firmware Updates: Outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues with HDMI devices. Ensuring that your home theater receiver has the latest firmware can fix bugs and improve functionality with newer HDMI standards.
- Overheating: Receivers that overheat may experience temporary shutdowns or signal interruptions. Ensuring proper ventilation and avoiding stacking devices can help prevent overheating and maintain stable performance.
- Incompatible Devices: Not all devices are compatible with every HDMI standard, which can lead to connectivity issues. It’s important to check that all connected devices support the same HDMI version to ensure seamless communication.
- HDCP Errors: High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) issues can prevent content from displaying if there is a mismatch in compliance. Ensuring that all components in the setup are HDCP compliant can resolve these errors.
- Loose Connections: A loose HDMI connection can cause intermittent issues or complete loss of signal. Regularly checking and securely connecting all HDMI cables can prevent this common problem.
How Can You Effectively Troubleshoot HDMI Problems in Home Theater Setups?
To effectively troubleshoot HDMI problems in home theater setups, one should follow a systematic approach to identify and resolve common issues.
- Check Cable Connections: Ensure all HDMI cables are securely connected to both the source device and the home theater receiver. Loose or improperly connected cables can lead to signal loss or poor video/audio quality.
- Inspect HDMI Cables: Examine the HDMI cables for any visible damage or wear. A damaged cable can cause intermittent connectivity issues, so replacing it may resolve the problem.
- Test with Different HDMI Ports: Try connecting the HDMI cable to a different port on the receiver or the source device. This can help determine whether a specific port is faulty or if the issue lies elsewhere.
- Check for Firmware Updates: Ensure that both the home theater receiver and the source device have the latest firmware installed. Manufacturers often release updates that can resolve HDMI compatibility issues.
- Change Video Resolution Settings: Adjust the video resolution settings on the source device. Sometimes, the resolution may be set too high for the receiver to handle, leading to display issues.
- Bypass Other Devices: Temporarily connect the source device directly to the TV, bypassing the receiver. This will help identify if the receiver is the source of the HDMI issue or if the problem lies with the source device itself.
- Check for HDCP Compliance: Verify that all devices in the setup support HDCP (High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection). Incompatibility can prevent proper signal transmission, leading to a blank screen or error messages.
- Reset Devices: Perform a factory reset on the home theater receiver and the source device. This can often clear up any configuration issues or software glitches affecting HDMI functionality.
What Best Practices Can Help You Avoid HDMI Issues in Your Home Theater?
To avoid HDMI issues in your home theater, consider the following best practices:
- Use High-Quality HDMI Cables: Investing in high-quality HDMI cables can significantly reduce signal loss and interference. Premium cables are designed to handle higher bandwidths and provide better durability, ensuring a stable connection for your audio and video components.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure that all your devices, including the home theater receiver and connected components, are compatible with the HDMI version you are using. Mismatched HDMI versions can lead to issues such as no audio or video output, as well as reduced functionality of features like 4K or HDR.
- Regularly Update Firmware: Keep the firmware of your home theater receiver and connected devices updated. Manufacturers often release updates that address HDMI-related issues, improve compatibility, and enhance performance, which can help you avoid problems in your system.
- Avoid Daisy Chaining: Instead of daisy chaining multiple HDMI devices through one another, connect them directly to the home theater receiver. This minimizes the risk of signal degradation and compatibility issues, providing a more reliable connection.
- Use Proper Power Management: Ensure that all devices are powered properly and consider using a surge protector to prevent power fluctuations from causing HDMI issues. Unstable power supply can lead to device malfunctions, resulting in HDMI signal problems.
- Secure Connections: Make sure that all HDMI connections are secure and seated properly in their ports. Loose connections can lead to intermittent signal loss or failure, so it’s essential to check the integrity of all cable connections regularly.
- Minimize Interference: Keep HDMI cables away from other electrical cables or devices that may cause interference. Electromagnetic interference can disrupt the HDMI signal, leading to a degraded audio or video experience.
Which Home Theater Receivers Are Recommended for Minimizing HDMI Issues?
The Yamaha RX-V6A stands out with its support for advanced gaming features, making it ideal for gamers who want to avoid HDMI-related lag. Its ability to process high-resolution audio formats, combined with a comprehensive HDMI setup, makes it a versatile choice for various media setups.
The Marantz SR6015 not only excels in audio quality but also provides a strong HDMI performance, supporting the latest video standards which are essential for an immersive home theater experience. This receiver is also designed with a focus on high-fidelity sound, ensuring that audio quality matches video performance.
The Onkyo TX-NR6100 is commendable for its straightforward connectivity options and feature-rich design, which includes support for multiple video formats and resolutions, helping to eliminate connectivity issues across different devices. Its well-rounded performance makes it a popular choice among home theater enthusiasts.
The Pioneer VSX-LX504 is perfect for users wanting a system that easily integrates with various devices while also providing cutting-edge HDMI features. Its multi-zone capabilities and extensive input options ensure that users can enjoy a seamless entertainment experience without worrying about HDMI complications.
How Does HDMI Compatibility Impact Your Choice of Home Theater Receiver?
- HDMI Version Compatibility: Different HDMI versions (e.g., 1.4, 2.0, 2.1) support varying features like 4K resolution and high refresh rates.
- Audio Return Channel (ARC) Support: Receivers that support ARC allow for audio from the TV to be sent back to the receiver without needing additional cables.
- eARC Capability: Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC) improves the bandwidth for higher-quality audio formats, ensuring that you can take full advantage of advanced sound technologies.
- 4K and HDR Support: Ensuring your receiver supports 4K and HDR formats is vital for optimal video quality, especially with modern streaming services and devices.
- HDCP Compliance: High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) compliance is necessary for playing protected content, and different versions may affect playback from certain devices.
- Number of HDMI Inputs/Outputs: The number of HDMI ports on the receiver determines how many devices you can connect simultaneously without needing to switch cables.
- HDMI CEC Features: Consumer Electronics Control (CEC) compatibility allows for easier control of multiple devices with a single remote, enhancing user convenience.
eARC Capability: eARC enhances the traditional ARC by providing a greater bandwidth, allowing for lossless audio formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X to be transmitted. This ensures that if you have high-end audio equipment, you can fully utilize its capabilities.
4K and HDR Support: As content evolves towards higher resolutions and dynamic ranges, having a receiver that supports 4K and HDR is essential for achieving the best possible picture quality. This support allows you to enjoy the latest movies and shows with stunning visuals, making your home theater more enjoyable.
HDCP Compliance: HDCP compliance is necessary for playing digital content from sources like streaming services and Blu-ray players. Different versions of HDCP can restrict playback capabilities, so ensuring your receiver is compatible with the latest HDCP version is critical for a seamless experience.
Number of HDMI Inputs/Outputs: The number of HDMI ports available on your receiver dictates how many devices you can connect, such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices. More inputs mean less hassle and the convenience of switching between devices without needing to unplug and re-plug cables.
HDMI CEC Features: HDMI CEC allows multiple devices connected through HDMI to be controlled with one remote, streamlining operation. This feature enhances user experience by reducing the complexity of managing different remotes for various devices in your home theater setup.
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