The Best New Home Theater Receivers in 2023

Get the Most Channels, Resolution & Power for Your Home Theater 

The AV receiver is the brains of the home theater. A receiver takes in audio and video signals and then sends them to the respective speakers and displays. All home theater components—surround sound speakers, projector, Blu-ray player, gaming consoles—connect to the receiver so everything works in unison. 

A receiver is essential to use anything more than built-in TV speakers or a soundbar. And if you’re looking for the best, leading manufacturers like Marantz and Sony have released all-new home theater receivers. 

Here’s what makes a “good receiver” and why these picks stand out for your University Park, TX, home theater. 

SEE ALSO: How to Get More Out of Your AV This Year 

What Makes A Good Receiver? 

You may be tempted to buy any old receiver, but there are certain qualities you won’t want to miss. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Fits your needs: Opt for an audio receiver if you only use the receiver for music listening. In a home theater, you’ll need an AV receiver (AVR) that does both audio and video. 
• Has enough channels: Each speaker needs its own audio channel. Make sure your receiver supports enough channels for your surround sound system. 
• Connects to all your entertainment: Make sure it includes all the inputs and outputs you need, from phono to Bluetooth. 
• Provides the AV formats you want: Dolby Atmos, HDR formats, and 4K video switching offer the best visual and audio experience.  

Best New Receivers in 2023 

Here are the home theater receivers at the top of our lists this year.  

Marantz Cinema 40 & 50 

Marantz’s Cinema line of receivers offers the ultimate home theater experience. Its Cinema 40 and Cinema 50 receivers both boast 9.4 channels (nine speakers and four subwoofers). If you love rumbling bass in your music and movies, the Marantz Cinema receivers are meant for you. 

Also, expect incredible Dolby Atmos audio, IMAX-enhanced visuals, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections, and future-ready 8K inputs. Both receivers are an excellent pick for luxury home theaters and can be upgraded to the Dirac Live software for advanced room calibration. 

Sony ES Series 

Sony released five new receivers for 2023, including four in the Elevated Standard (ES) Series. The ES Series receivers are intentionally built for custom integration and are Sony’s first to include 8K support and the new Sony 360 Spatial Sound Mapping technology. 

The most high-end receiver in the series, the STR-AZ7000ES, offers a jaw-dropping 13.2 channels, followed by the STR-AZ5000ES with 11.2 channels. The ES receivers support home control systems, including Control4, Crestron, and Savant, integrating seamlessly with the control system of your choice. Plus, the “Works with Sonos” feature makes it easy to integrate Sonos wireless speakers.  

Unsure of Next Steps? Let Us Help 

If you want a home theater, you don’t have to worry about the equipment and installation on your own. Integrated Lifestyles designs and installs custom home theaters and can help you find all the right components. All you need to do is press “play” and enjoy! 

Contact our team in the Dallas and University Park area to get started. We look forward to working with you!