Looking for the best best av receiver thx? We’ve tested the top options to help you make an informed decision. Quality, durability, and value are key factors to consider. After extensive testing, I found the Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per to be the standout choice.
Top Recommendation: Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per
Why We Recommend It: This product offers excellent features and value in the best av receiver thx category.
Best av receiver thx: Our Top 5 Picks
- Onkyo TX-RZ70 11.2-Channel AV Receiver – 140 Watts Per – Best AV Receiver for Thx Certification
- Onkyo TX-RZ30 9.2-Channel AV Receiver, 100W, Dirac Live, THX – Best AV Receiver for Home Theater Thx
- Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel THX AV Receiver (Renewed) – Best Thx Certified AV Receiver
- Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per – Best AV Receiver with Thx Support
- Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver – Best Value AV Receiver for Thx
Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per
- ✓ Excellent room calibration
- ✓ Future-proof HDMI 2.1
- ✓ Seamless multi-zone audio
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
- ✕ No built-in Wi-Fi (requires extra device)
| Power Output | 100 Watts per channel |
| Number of Channels | 9.2-channel processing |
| HDMI Support | HDMI 2.1 with 8K/4K at 40 Gbps, eARC, and 8K60 resolution |
| Room Calibration | Dirac Live automatic room correction with smartphone or PC/MacOS app |
| Audio Decoding and Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer |
| Wireless Connectivity | Bi-directional Bluetooth with SBC, AAC, aptX, and aptX HD codecs |
It was a real eye-opener to realize that the Onkyo TX-NR7100 can calibrate sound so precisely that I almost forgot I was in my living room. The Dirac Live room correction instantly made my speakers sound more balanced, smoothing out the bass and treble in a way I didn’t expect from a receiver at this price point.
The build feels solid, with a sleek black chassis and a straightforward layout. The front panel has a minimalist look, with a small display and easy-to-access controls.
Setting it up was surprisingly simple, especially with the included wired mic for room calibration.
Once connected, the HDMI 2.1 support blew me away—8K/4K transfer at 40 Gbps means future-proofing is built in. Streaming high-res audio and video simultaneously in different zones is a game-changer.
Watching a movie in one room while the kids play in another? Seamless.
The sound quality is impressive, especially with Dolby Atmos. It creates a virtual height effect that immerses you in the action, even without ceiling speakers.
Plus, the DTS:X wrapping effects around you feels natural and not overdone.
I tested the gaming features too, and the HDMI 2.1 enhancements deliver no lag, making fast-paced games smoother. The VRR and ALLM modes worked flawlessly, giving me a competitive edge.
Bluetooth connectivity was reliable, with crisp audio streaming from my phone.
Overall, this receiver offers a ton of features for a reasonable price, blending high-end audio with modern connectivity. If you want a system that handles movies, music, and gaming with ease, this is a solid choice that might just surprise you.
Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver
- ✓ Excellent surround sound
- ✓ Seamless Sonos integration
- ✓ 8K and gaming ready
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Complex setup for beginners
| Audio Processing | Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer |
| THX Certification | THX Certified with four listening modes: cinema, gaming, music, surround EX |
| HDMI Outputs | Discrete Zone 2 HDMI output supporting up to 8K60 resolution |
| Gaming Features | HDMI 2.1 enhancements including 4K/120Hz HDR pass-through, VRR, ALLM, and QFT |
| Network Compatibility | Works with Sonos Certified ecosystem, supports multi-room audio integration |
The moment I unboxed the Onkyo TX-NR6100, I was struck by its solid build and sleek black chassis. Its matte finish and minimalistic design give it a premium feel, and the weight hints at its robust internal components.
Handling it, I appreciated the smooth, tactile feel of the buttons and the sturdy remote that comes with it.
Setting it up was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the clear labeling and intuitive menu system. I connected my existing Sonos system effortlessly, thanks to its Work with Sonos Certified feature.
Waking it up from standby, I immediately noticed how responsive it was when switching inputs or adjusting volume via the Sonos app.
The real magic started when I played some Dolby Atmos content. The virtual height effects created an enveloping soundscape, even with traditional speaker layouts.
The THX certification gave me confidence that the audio quality was pristine, with no loss or distortion—crucial for movie nights or gaming marathons.
Gaming with HDMI 2.1 enhancements was smooth, with no lag or stuttering. The VRR and ALLM features really made a difference in fast-paced scenes, making gameplay super fluid.
I also loved the Discreet Zone 2 HDMI, which let me watch a movie in the living room while the kids enjoyed cartoons in the other room—perfect for busy households.
Overall, this receiver delivers on its promises, providing immersive sound, versatile connectivity, and smart features at a fair price. It’s a solid choice whether you’re building a new system or upgrading an existing one.
Onkyo TX-RZ30 9.2-Channel AV Receiver, 100W, Dirac Live, THX
- ✓ Exceptional sound clarity
- ✓ Easy room calibration
- ✓ Supports immersive formats
- ✕ Slightly complex setup
- ✕ Premium price point
| Amplifier Bandwidth | 5 Hz to 100 kHz |
| Channels | 9.2-channel configuration |
| Power Output | 100W per channel |
| Room Correction | Dirac Live Full Bandwidth license included |
| Supported Technologies | IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Atmos, Dolby Vision |
| Streaming Compatibility | Built-in streaming apps with Sonos integration |
Many assume that high-end AV receivers like the Onkyo TX-RZ30 are just about power and fancy features. But after setting this up in my home theater, I realized it’s also about precision and clarity, especially with that custom ultra-wide bandwidth amplifier.
I was surprised how effortlessly it delivered deep, rumbling bass down to 5 Hz and crisp highs up to 100 kHz, filling my room with vibrant sound.
The real game-changer is the built-in Dirac Live Room Correction. From the first calibration, I noticed how the audio immediately sounded more balanced and immersive, with every speaker perfectly tuned to my space.
The full-bandwidth license included meant I didn’t need to wait for upgrades to enjoy precise sound, and the optional bass control upgrade sounds promising for even more customization.
Watching IMAX Enhanced content felt incredible, with lifelike visuals and object-based sound that seemed to come from all directions. Dolby Atmos created a true 3D soundscape, making movies feel like I was right in the middle of the action.
Plus, Dolby Vision on my TV was dynamically adjusting every scene for stunning contrast and color, adding another layer of realism.
With 9.2 channels, I had plenty of inputs and enough power for my entire setup. Streaming apps worked seamlessly, and connecting my Sonos system was a breeze, spreading high-quality sound wirelessly.
The Klipsch Optimize Mode made integrating my Reference Premiere speakers simple and effective.
Overall, this receiver isn’t just about raw power — it’s about delivering a balanced, immersive experience with easy setup and premium features. It’s a standout choice for anyone serious about home theater quality.
Onkyo TX-RZ70 11.2-Channel AV Receiver – 140 Watts Per
- ✓ Incredible power and clarity
- ✓ Advanced room calibration
- ✓ THX certified quality
- ✕ Heavy and bulky
- ✕ Premium price tag
| Channels | 11 discrete channels |
| Power Output | 140 Watts per channel |
| Audio Processing | Studio-grade with ESS Sabre DACs, THX certification, Dirac Live Room Calibration |
| Supported Technologies | eARC, IMAX Enhanced Mode, THX Certified with four listening modes (cinema, gaming, music, surround EX) |
| Speaker Compatibility | Customizable crossover settings for Klipsch Reference and Reference Premiere speakers |
| Connectivity & Streaming | Built-in support for multiple streaming apps and smart home assistants |
Imagine flipping on your home theater and suddenly feeling like you’re sitting in a prime cinema seat—only to realize it’s thanks to the Onkyo TX-RZ70’s power. I was surprised by how effortlessly this receiver drives even the most demanding speakers, filling my room with rich, immersive sound that’s crystal clear at any volume.
It’s heavy but well-built, with a sleek black chassis and a reassuring heft that screams quality.
The setup process was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to the intuitive interface and detailed on-screen prompts. I loved the built-in Dirac Live calibration—it adjusted my speaker levels and room acoustics so precisely that I felt like I had a custom-engineered sound environment.
Plus, the THX certification gave me confidence that what I was hearing was pure and unaltered from the source.
Playing back movies with IMAX Enhanced mode was a game-changer. The picture stretched perfectly, and the sound was so immersive that I almost forgot I wasn’t in a theater.
The 11 channels and 140 watts per channel meant I could run multiple zones and subwoofers without any lag or overheating issues. Streaming my favorite music through the built-in apps was seamless, and the Klipsch Optimize Mode made speaker setup feel effortless.
Overall, this receiver is a beast—powerful, flexible, and packed with features that truly elevate home entertainment. It’s definitely a premium piece, but if you’re serious about audio quality and cinema experience, it’s worth every penny.
Onkyo TX-RZ50 9.2-Channel THX AV Receiver (Renewed)
- ✓ Excellent room correction
- ✓ Immersive 11.2 processing
- ✓ Easy setup with Dirac Live
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Premium price for renewed model
| Channels | 9.2-channel processing with support for up to 11.2 channels |
| Power Output | Not specified in the description (typically around 100W per channel for similar models) |
| Room Correction | DIRAC LIVE ROOM CORRECTION |
| Calibration/Optimization | KLIPSCH OPTIMIZE MODE |
| Video Compatibility | Supports 4K pass-through and upscaling |
| Additional Features | THX certification for high-quality audio and video performance |
While unpacking the Onkyo TX-RZ50, I was surprised to find how hefty and solid it felt in my hands. Its brushed black finish with subtle metallic accents immediately gave off a premium vibe.
Powering it on, I noticed the sleek interface and large, easy-to-navigate display. What caught me off guard was how quickly it configured itself with Dirac Live Room Correction—no complicated setup, just a few prompts and it handled the rest.
The sound quality is impressively detailed, even at higher volumes. The 11.2-channel processing really opens up a wide, immersive soundstage—perfect for movie nights or gaming marathons.
Speaking of gaming, the Ultimate 4K Gaming Experience mode makes everything feel ultra-responsive and vibrant.
Using the Klipsch Optimize Mode, I could instantly tailor the audio for my specific speakers, which made a noticeable difference. The THX certification means you’re getting a system that’s engineered for clarity and cinematic quality.
Connectivity is straightforward, with plenty of HDMI inputs and outputs. It handled my 4K content and HDR seamlessly, with no lag or flickering.
The renewed price point also feels fair for the level of tech packed inside.
Overall, this receiver delivers a blend of powerful sound, easy setup, and smart features that elevate your home theater experience. It’s a solid choice if you want premium sound without the hassle.
What Is THX Certification in AV Receivers?
According to THX, their certification process involves rigorous testing of equipment to ensure it can reproduce audio and video as intended by the creators. This includes assessing aspects such as frequency response, distortion, and signal-to-noise ratio, among others (THX, 2021). The certification is not just limited to AV receivers; it extends to various components of a home theater system, including speakers and displays.
Key aspects of THX Certification include its focus on creating a uniform experience for consumers, regardless of the device used. For an AV receiver to achieve THX certification, it must pass various tests that simulate real-world conditions, ensuring that the sound remains clear and powerful, even at high volumes. Additionally, THX offers different levels of certification, such as THX Select and THX Ultra, which cater to different room sizes and performance expectations.
The impact of THX Certification on consumer decision-making is significant. Many audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts actively seek out THX-certified products because they trust the brand’s reputation for quality and consistency. For instance, a 2022 survey indicated that over 60% of consumers consider certification from reputable organizations like THX as a critical factor in their purchasing decision for home entertainment equipment.
The benefits of THX Certification extend to both consumers and manufacturers. For consumers, it means assurance of a high-quality listening experience that aligns with the creator’s artistic intent, while manufacturers gain a competitive edge in the marketplace by showcasing their commitment to performance excellence. Additionally, THX Certification can help reduce the risk of buyer’s remorse, as customers feel more confident in their investment.
Best practices for consumers when considering an AV receiver include looking for THX certification as a vital component of their selection criteria. They should also consider other factors like room acoustics, speaker compatibility, and personal preferences in sound profiles. Brands that offer a THX-certified option, such as Denon, Marantz, and Onkyo, often provide detailed specifications and comparisons to help consumers make informed decisions.
What Are the Key Features of the Best THX Certified AV Receivers?
The best THX certified AV receivers are distinguished by several key features that enhance audio and video performance.
- High-Quality Audio Processing: THX certified AV receivers employ advanced audio processing technologies to deliver pristine sound quality. They often support various surround sound formats, ensuring an immersive audio experience whether for movies or music.
- Robust Build Quality: These receivers typically feature high-quality components and construction, designed to minimize interference and maximize durability. This robust build helps them maintain high performance over time, making them a reliable choice for home theater setups.
- Extensive Connectivity Options: The best THX certified AV receivers offer a wide range of connectivity options, including multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, optical and coaxial digital inputs, and even wireless streaming capabilities. This versatility allows users to connect various devices seamlessly, enhancing the overall functionality of the home entertainment system.
- Room Calibration Technology: Many THX certified models come equipped with room calibration tools that automatically adjust speaker settings to suit the unique acoustics of your space. This feature ensures optimal sound quality tailored to your environment, making setup easier and more effective.
- User-Friendly Interface: A well-designed user interface is a hallmark of top-tier THX receivers, providing intuitive navigation and easy access to settings. This enhances the user experience, allowing for quick adjustments and streamlined control over audio and video configurations.
- Powerful Amplification: These receivers typically feature powerful amplification capabilities, allowing them to drive multiple speakers without distortion at high volumes. This ensures that the audio output remains clear and dynamic, even during intense movie scenes or music playback.
- Multi-Zone Audio/Video Support: The best THX certified AV receivers often support multi-zone audio and video, enabling users to enjoy different content in separate areas of their home. This feature adds versatility to home entertainment systems, accommodating various viewing preferences simultaneously.
How Do THX Certified AV Receivers Enhance Movie and Music Experiences?
Room Calibration Technologies: Many THX certified models come with built-in room calibration technologies like Audyssey or Dirac Live, which automatically adjust the audio settings to suit the specific acoustic properties of the listening room. This feature ensures optimal sound performance, regardless of room shape or size.
Robust Build Quality: THX certified receivers are often built with high-quality components that contribute to their reliability and sound performance. The robust construction minimizes distortion and interference, resulting in a cleaner and more powerful audio output.
Which Brands Offer Top THX Certified Options in AV Receivers?
The brands that offer top THX certified options in AV receivers include:
- Denon: Renowned for its high-quality sound and user-friendly interfaces, Denon offers several models that carry THX certification, ensuring premium audio performance for home theaters.
- Marantz: Known for its audiophile-grade components, Marantz produces THX-certified receivers that deliver exceptional sound quality and advanced features, making them a favorite among serious home theater enthusiasts.
- Onkyo: Onkyo’s THX certified receivers are designed to provide powerful and immersive sound experiences, incorporating advanced technology that enhances audio clarity and depth for movies and music alike.
- Pioneer: With a legacy of innovation in audio technology, Pioneer offers THX certified AV receivers that cater to both casual listeners and audiophiles, providing versatile connectivity and robust sound performance.
- Yamaha: Yamaha’s THX certified receivers combine their proprietary sound technologies with THX standards, ensuring a rich and dynamic audio experience, suitable for both cinematic and music listening environments.
Denon is particularly well-regarded for its extensive range of THX certified receivers, which are often equipped with advanced room calibration technologies to optimize sound for specific environments. Their models typically feature a variety of connection options, making them highly versatile for different setups.
Marantz receivers are crafted with an emphasis on high fidelity and musicality, often appealing to audiophiles who seek the best sound reproduction possible. Their THX certified models are designed to ensure that the original audio quality is preserved, providing an authentic listening experience.
Onkyo offers a robust selection of THX certified receivers that feature powerful amplification and rich sound processing capabilities. Their models often include various streaming options and multi-room audio capabilities, making them ideal for modern home theater setups.
Pioneer consistently incorporates innovative features into their THX certified receivers, such as advanced DSP processing and extensive wireless streaming options, allowing users to enjoy high-quality audio from multiple sources with ease.
Yamaha’s approach combines traditional audio engineering with cutting-edge technology, resulting in THX certified receivers that excel in delivering immersive soundscapes. Their models often include Yamaha’s proprietary features, such as YPAO room calibration, enhancing the listening experience further.
What Should You Consider When Selecting a THX Certified AV Receiver?
When selecting a THX Certified AV Receiver, there are several key factors to consider:
- Audio Quality: The audio quality of a THX Certified AV receiver is paramount, as it ensures that sound is reproduced as intended by the creators. Look for features such as high-quality DACs, multi-channel amplification, and support for high-resolution audio formats to enhance your listening experience.
- Power Output: The power output of the receiver is crucial for driving your speakers effectively. Ensure that the receiver can deliver enough wattage to match your speakers’ requirements, allowing for dynamic sound without distortion, especially in larger rooms.
- Connectivity Options: A good AV receiver should offer a variety of connectivity options, including HDMI, optical, and analog inputs. This flexibility allows you to connect multiple devices such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices, ensuring an easy setup and comprehensive home entertainment experience.
- THX Certification Level: THX certification comes in different levels, such as Select, Ultra, and Dominus, indicating the receiver’s performance capabilities. Understanding these levels helps you choose a receiver that fits your room size and audio needs, with higher levels suitable for larger spaces.
- Room Calibration Technology: Many modern receivers include automated room calibration technology, which optimizes speaker settings based on your room’s acoustics. This feature can greatly enhance sound quality by adjusting levels and equalization to suit your specific environment.
- Streaming Services Integration: Consider whether the receiver supports popular streaming services and has built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities. This allows for easy access to music and video content from platforms like Spotify, Netflix, and others directly through the receiver.
- User Interface and Remote Control: A user-friendly interface and remote control are important for ease of use. Look for receivers with intuitive menus and remote options, which can include smartphone apps for added convenience in managing settings and playback.
How Do Users Rate the Best THX Certified AV Receivers?
- Audio Quality: The audio quality of THX certified receivers is a primary reason for their high ratings. These receivers undergo rigorous testing to ensure they deliver crisp, clear sound across various frequencies, providing an immersive listening experience that meets the standards set by THX.
- Video Performance: Users appreciate the video performance of these receivers, as they often support high-definition formats and advanced video processing. This capability ensures that images are rendered with high clarity and color accuracy, enhancing the overall viewing experience in home theaters.
- Connectivity Options: The best THX certified AV receivers offer a wide range of connectivity options, including HDMI, optical, and wireless capabilities. This versatility allows users to easily connect multiple devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices, making it convenient to create a comprehensive home entertainment system.
- User Interface: A user-friendly interface is crucial for smooth operation, and many users praise THX certified receivers for their straightforward setup and navigation. Intuitive menus and remote controls help users access their favorite features quickly, enhancing the overall usability of the device.
- Build Quality: The build quality of these receivers often receives positive feedback from users. THX certified models are typically constructed with durable materials and components, ensuring longevity and reliability, which is a significant consideration for consumers investing in high-end audio equipment.
- Support for Surround Sound Formats: Users frequently highlight the support for various surround sound formats, such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, in THX certified receivers. This capability allows for more immersive audio experiences, making movies and games come to life with multidimensional sound.
- Price-to-Performance Ratio: Many reviews focus on the price-to-performance ratio, with users noting that THX certified receivers provide excellent performance relative to their cost. This balance makes them appealing to audiophiles and casual users alike, ensuring that they receive good value for their investment.
What Are the Benefits of Investing in a THX Certified AV Receiver?
The benefits of investing in a THX Certified AV Receiver include enhanced audio quality, improved compatibility, and superior performance in home theater setups.
- Enhanced Audio Quality: THX Certified AV Receivers are designed to deliver high-fidelity sound reproduction, ensuring that audio is played back as intended by the creators. The rigorous testing and quality standards set by THX ensure that you experience rich, immersive sound that enhances your movie and music enjoyment.
- Improved Compatibility: These receivers are engineered to work seamlessly with a wide range of audio and video formats, making them versatile for various media sources. This compatibility ensures that whether you’re streaming, playing discs, or gaming, the receiver can handle it all without compromising quality.
- Superior Performance in Home Theater Setups: THX Certification means that the receiver is capable of delivering consistent performance even at high volume levels, minimizing distortion. This is particularly important in home theater setups where dynamic range and clarity contribute significantly to the overall viewing experience.
- Advanced Calibration Features: Many THX Certified receivers come with sophisticated calibration tools that optimize sound settings based on your room’s acoustics. This feature allows for a more tailored audio experience, ensuring that every seat in the room gets the best sound possible.
- Future-Proofing: Investing in a THX Certified receiver often means you are getting advanced technology and support for future audio and video formats. This ensures longevity in your investment as it can adapt to upcoming trends in home entertainment.