Choosing your surround sound receiver can be a little intimidating if you are new to the Home Theatre world. This quick guide will help make sure you pick the right unit for your application and get you watching your favorite movies/shows with some immersive sound.
Number of Channels
The first step in choosing the right AVR (Audio/Video Receiver) is actually deciding on how many speakers you have or will have. There are multiple configurations on surround systems depending on room size, application, and preference. The most common home theatre configuration for speakers is a 5.1 system, which includes a Left, Center, Right, Surround Left, and Surround Right Speakers. The ".1" Stands for 1 Subwoofer. 7.2 Surround Sound System are also quite common. They feature a similar setup to a 5.1 system, but have an extra set of surround back speakers, and 1 extra subwoofer. Typically, bigger rooms would call for a 7.2 system over a 5.1. You can even choose to do a 5.2 or 7.1 system, but you need to make sure the receiver you are choosing can accommodate your desired channels. Other configurations include 9.2, 13.2, Dolby Atmos, etc, but we will dive deeper into other configurations in a future blog. Main takeaway here is: Make sure the receiver you choose can handle the amount of channels you decide for your speaker configuration.
Amount of Power Per Channel
The next factor to consider is the amount of power needed per channel. This all depends on the room size and speakers you choose. Make sure you are powering your speakers according to their requirements. All speakers have their own power requirements. Keep in mind that receivers labeled as 7.2 or 5.1 etc typically do not provide power for your subwoofers.
Note:Subwoofers typically require a separate amplifier to power them unless you choose to go with a self powered subwoofer, which comes with the amplifier built in. Make sure you account for this when designing your system.
Key Features to Consider when Choosing your Home Theatre Receiver
Other very important aspects to consider when choosing your AVR include the features it comes with. The main features to look out for include:
Video Resolution (4k, 8k, etc).
Number of HDMI Outputs/Inputs (Some receiver come with multiple video outs)
2nd Zone (If you need an extra audio zone. ex:Patio, Lounge, etc)
Wifi/Ethernet Options (Not all receivers include these)
Bluetooth, Airplay, and Wireless Music Features (Not all receivers include these)
Quality, Warranty, and Brand
Average Cost of an AVR?
You can find surround sound receivers in various price points nowadays ranging from $300 to Four Figures and up. We find that most solid AVRs start and sit between a range of $1000-$2000, but can easily go way up from there depending on what you need for your system.
Need help with your Home Theatre System?
Designing your own Home Theatre System can be a fun experience for some, but if you would prefer to leave the design, installation, and configuration to professionals, please do not hesitate to contact us today! We would love to discuss your project in more detail!
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