Many prefer turning a 9.2 receiver to a 11 channel receiver with an additional amplifier. this is because 11 channel receivers are comparatively costlier. The cost will reduce further if you already have an amplifier at home. We have reviewed some of the best 11 channel receivers at different price range.
The receivers mostly differ in terms of zones, multiroom audio feature, room calibration. Zone 3 is very common and found in receivers from Marantz, Onkyo, and Pioneer. In case you prefer Audyssey room calibration among others you are tied to Marantz and Denon. They also offer mid-priced receivers so you can easily choose over expensive ones.
Yamaha Aventage RX-A8A is one of the expensive 11 channel receivers we have reviewed. If you seek a cheap 11 channel receiver, look for the Pioneer VSX-LX503. However, it is limited to 4k but has Chromecast. Onkyo TX-RZ840 is another affordable receiver but it doesn’t support Chromecast, Amazon Alexa, or 8k.
Why do you need a 11 channel receiver?
The primary reason to opt for a 11-channel receiver is because you want to build a large home theater. Or, even if you want to add 7 speakers, you want the freedom to add multiple subwoofers and Atmos speakers.
Top five 11 channel receiver
Specs:
- 7 HDMI In, 3 Out
- Discrete power amplifier
- Supports 4k/8k passthrough
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 100 kHz — +1, –3 dB
Product Uniqueness:
Denon AVR-X3700H is a mid-priced receiver that is packed with all the major features and specs.
Review:
You will see some of the enlisted receivers have a 9.2 channel. Are they 11 channel receivers? Well, Denon AVR-X3700H has a maximum number of processing channels of 11.2. this well-built receiver has adequate power.
Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, TrueHD, DTS Virtual:X, DTS:X, DTS: Neutral, IMAX Enhanced, all these are available in the 3700H receiver. You can use contents from Spotify, Pandora, Tidal, etc via AirPlay 2. Control the unit with remote or voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Siri, and Josh.AI. Basic features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi are readily available.
Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room correction is a reliable method of calibrating the room. Heos built-in is available for multiroom audio. With Heos you can stream contents from many streaming services. Use HEOS compatible speakers and devices and wirelessly stream audio in different rooms. Denon 11 channel receiver uses Preamplifier mode where the amplifier in it is disabled and as a result you can use it as a preamp/processor.
With an external HDMI adaptor, you can easily use this receiver with Xbox Series X and other gaming consoles. Along with Heos app you can use the Denon 2016 AVR Remote app. Although the remote control doesn’t have any backlight, it is quite user-friendly. The setup is simple and easy, but newbies might need some time to comprehend the whole thing.
If you used to with receivers, then this one is easy as breeze. Once all available cables are connected, insert the Audyssey microphone and run the software for calibration. You can play contents in MP3, FLAC or MQA. After you connect all speakers, you will be delighted by the audio quality. It is rich, detailed, crisp and clear.
Denon AVR-X3700H is one of the best receiver for money. If you want a receiver to control more than 2 zones, then check the Denon AVR-X4700H. Denon AVR-X6700H is a 11.2 channel receiver so you can also check that. The following image shows a 11.1 connection using the Denon 3700 8k capable receiver with an external amplifier.
For connecting TV HDMI is the best connection but you can also use optical. The remote control has buttons for zone select, input select, sound mode, eco mode, option, settings etc. The reason we like this receiver so much is due to its versatility, along with basic inputs and outputs, it has phono in to connect turntables without built-in phono preamp.
Marantz SR7015 Review:
Specs:
- Supports FLAC HD 192/24, WAV 192/24, ALAC 192/24
- Has HDAM, Pure Direct
- 8 HDMI In and 3 out
- Picture adjust, noise reduction feature
- 2 sub out
Product uniqueness:
Marantz SR7015 is one of the best 11 channel receivers under $300. The latest features allow you to use it for different use cases.
Review:
Marantz receivers are similar to Denon in several cases. All the Dolby and DTS codecs are same and the SR7015 9.2 receiver uses the same Audyssey MultEQ XT32 for calibration. They both use Audyssey Dynamic EQ and Dynamic Volume as well. The maximum number of processing channels is 11.2. To use this unit for 11.2 system, you need to include an additional amplifier for Front or Height 2 channels.
If you already won an amplifier, then you don’t even have to spend extra bucks. You can create a 7.1.4 home theater with this receiver. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Heos, AirPlay 2 all are supported similar to Denon. Remote and voice assistants are available. With HDMI CEC, you need to use one remote less as you can use the TV’s remote to control the unit.
Comparing Denon vs Marantz receivers, the Marantz 11 channel receiver has 3 number of zones, HEOS can be uses for wireless streaming in multiroom and Auro 3D for 3D sound. 4k and 8k passthrough are supported. Along with multiple HDMI ports, it has phono in, 2 optical and 2 coax, phono in, multichannel preout, 2 sub out, speaker terminals, USB, etc.
The latest and up-to-date codecs available ensures powerful surround sound with broad soundstage along with overhead effects. HDMI 2.1, ALLM, QFT, VRR ensures gaming is lag-free, smooth, and responsive. Being 8k capable and having the latest features makes this receiver futureproof. A 32-bit AKM AK4458 digital-to-analog converter is used for all channels that focuses on eliminating any unwanted effect.
This also ensures that the receiver delivers optimum performance. The unit is compatible with eARC and HDR10, HLG, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR and Dolby Vision. These formats enhance picture quality. You will receive rich and detailed image. The overall brightness and contrast levels increase. To tweak settings, use any one of the listening modes: Auto Detection, Direct Modes, Stereo Modes.
There are different Audio Enhancement options where each one improves the sound differently; some improve the dialogue others are used while watching movies. Based on the content you are watching, choose one video mode: Game, Movie and Auto. During setup, the Setup Assistant assists in the process. Marantz SR7015 is one of the best 11 channel receiver for overall use.
You can check the Marantz SR-8015 for a 11.2 channel receiver. It has 140W per channel for 8 ohms. It has 3 zones as well you can connect a 11.2 system without the need of additional amplifier. However, you need to have high budget to purchase this model.
Onkyo TX-RZ840 Smart AV Receiver
Specs:
- HDMI compatible with 4K/60p, 4K HDR, BT.2020, HDCP 2.3*7
- AKM (AK4458) 384 kHz/32-bit multichannel D/A conversion
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz–100 kHz/+1 dB, -3 dB (Direct Mode)
- IMAX Enhanced
Product uniqueness:
Onkyo TX-RZ840 is one of the best affordable Onkyo receiver. It costs almost half of that of Denon and Marantz. While it may lack few features, but the receiver performance is premium as well.
Review:
Similar to Denon and Marantz, this Onkyo budget 11.2 receiver supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Dolby® TrueHD, and DTS-HD Master Audio. But it doesn’t have DTS Virtual: X. This doesn’t mean Onkyo TX-RZ840 receivers lacks all features. It supports Sonos, Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, DTS Play-Fi, FlareConnect. With FlareConnect, you can connect other FlareConnect supported device.
Onkyo RZ receiver lineup is considered high-end. Its build quality is quite strong, and the buttons feel easy to press. On the front panel there is a large volume knob and above it, there are several buttons to select input. There are multiple setting options to adjust and tweak audio. If you are listening to compressed audio playback, select the Advanced Music Optimizer to enhance the sound.
The use of Dynamic Audio Amplification is quite intelligent as it is a high current low-noise power transformer. The internal equipment is designed to eliminate interference and noise. Use the included remote or voice assistant like Google Assistant and Siri. The remote is packed with buttons where you can adjust treble, bass and vocals. Download the Onkyo Controller app if you need a mobile app for control.
Supported audio formats can easily deliver powerful surround sound and create virtual overhead effects. With a 9.2 channel, you can create 5.1.4 or 7.1.2. And by adding another amplifier, you can build 11.2 channels easily. Onkyo TX-RZ840 has excellent performance. The vocals are clear, bass is adequate, and the surround sound is noteworthy.
It uses Voice Enhancer with DSP to work with dialogues. Upscaling up to 4k resolution is rich and vibrant. While it doesn’t offer 8k support, we don’t think this to be a major downside. This is because 8k contents are still very scarce. Onkyo user manual shows detailed setup of connections with front, surround, rear, and ceiling speakers.
With ARC/eARC TV, use HDMI which is the best connection method. For non-HDMI TV, use the optical port. With multiple HDMI ports, you can easily connect BD/DVD, Gaming console, streaming media player, satellite set-top box. But the receiver doesn’t support HDMI 2.1 yet. Follow the on-screen commands to perform room calibration.
YAMAHA RX-A8A Aventage
Specs
- Supports surround AI and cinema DSP
- Supports 4K120AB, 8K60AB, 4K60 and 40GBPS
- Up to 8k upscaling
- Supports HDR10+, Dolby Vision
Product uniqueness
Yamaha Aventage RX-A8A is one of the best high-end receivers under $4000.
Review:
Along with 7 HDMI In and 3 out, this Yamaha 11 channel receiver has USB, 3 optical in, 2 coax in, analog audio in, Composite Video Input. It also supports MusicCast Surround, Wi-Fi, AirPlay2, Bluetooth and Phono In. With this 11 channel receiver, you can create 7.1.4 or 7.2.4 and up to 9.2.2 sound system. The looks are intimidating with glossy front panel and ABS plastic on top.
Along with 4 legs, it has an Anti Resonance Technology (A.R.T.) fifth leg. The isolation plate minimizes any tranfomer-related vibration as a result you get the cleanest sound possible. Controlling the unit is easy with remote control or voice assistants. HDMI CEC eliminates the need to use the remote, rather you can use the TV remote. The AI technology takes each scene at a time, then delivers the best possible sound based on the scene and content.
Cinema DSP HD3 for content ensures realistic and powerful sound field. Atmos effects work very pretty leaving a prominent effect. It uses Dual ESS SABRE ES9026PRO Ultra DACs to achieve optimum performance. Independent power supply for primary and secondary windings making it powerful than other receivers. A latest firmware update 1.22 is available that ensures resolving bugs.
The Compressed Music Enhancer improves the MP3 file formats. It has a high Slew Rate Amplifier that works with precision. All-important gaming features are available: RR, ALLM, QFT, QM to ensure smooth lag-less gaming scenes. Wireless multiroom becomes very easy with MusicCast feature and compatible speakers like MusicCast 50 and MusicCast 20. YPAO works pretty well in room calibration.
It includes DSP Effect Normalization, YPAO Volume, R.S.C and many other features. There are HiFi Sound Modes, Audio Enhancements, and several other options and settings to choose from. Support for HDR, HDR 10+, DV and HLG ensures the optimum image quality. Streaming via Bluetooth, AirPlay, Wi-Fi, sources like Pandora Spotify, all these basic things are do-able with this receiver.
Yamaha 11 channel receiver user manual will help a lot during setup. In terms of performance, you will receive excellent dynamics, with broad sound field and can get very loud. The loudness is adequate to use in most use cases and rooms. This receiver when paired good quality speakers will shine like a gem.
Pioneer VSX-LX503 9.2
Specs
- Up to 4k upscaling
- Reflex optimizer
- Phase control
- Supports Up to 192 kHz/24-bit
- Direct Energy amplification type
Product uniqueness
If you are looking for an affordable expandable 11 channel receiver, then Pioneer VSX-LX503 receiver is one of the best 11 channel receivers.
Review
Pioneer 9 channel receiver can be used as a 11 channel receiver. It is made of metal with aluminium-made front panel. The receiver aesthetics is quite basic with knobs and buttons. You will find Digital Quad-Core 32-bit DSP (Cirrus Logic) and Aureus™ Floating-Point DSP (TI), 384 kHz/32-bit D/A Conversion with AK4458 (AKM) & PCM5101 (TI).
With the specified power, you can easily use this receiver in mid-sized rooms. Easily create a 5.2.4 or 7.2.2 with it. Separation in sound is quite good with clear dialogues and outstanding performance. You will get Chromecast built in, Play-Fi wireless streaming. With FlareConnect you connect multiroom audio system.
With intelligent features, the receiver continuously improves sound quality. Phase controls allows synchronization between the main and the sub. Reflex optimizer improves the ‘localization of the sound image’. In terms of ports, there are 7 HDMI in, USB, composite in, 2 HDMI out, Phono in, coax, 2 optical, etc.
This multi-zone receiver has MCACC Auto Room Tuning that uses Phase Control, Subwoofer EQ and Multi-point Standing Wave Control. It supports HDR10, HLG, DV and BT.2020. It also supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Surround Upmixer, DTS:X, DTS Neural:X Upmixer. Dolby TrueHD, Dolby Digital Plus. All these codecs ensure you will receive the best sound possible in terms of surround and overhead effects.
What’s makes Pioneer one of the best affordable 11 channel receiver is that it tries to pack basic features and codecs so that you are not disappointed. You will be able to receiver Object-Based Soundtracks from this unit. Whether you need to connect turntable, listen to online music services or Internet radio, you can do it all with it.
Setup Guidance will assist you during initial setup. The user manual is very helpful with detailed image and instructions of different playback settings. There are several listening modes designed for different use cases. Watching movies, playing games, or listening to music are quite engaging with this receiver. You can achieve all these without breaking the bank.
How I rated the best 11 channel receiver?
Let’s have a look on some of the basic requirements while choosing the best 11 channel receiver.
Use case
While choosing the best 11 channel AV receiver, you will see they different in supporting the number of zones. Some have 2 or 3, others extend up to 4. Choose the one that suits your setup. Make sure HDMI inputs and outputs are adequate for the number of devices you are going to connect. In case you need multiroom feature, select the one you think is most reliable or easy to setup, like the MusicCast.
Quality
Most receivers try to maintain a standard quality, which is very good unless you receive a defect piece. Receivers also want to focus less on outer material and more on internal DAC, transformer, etc. Others look both on inside and outside, like the Yamaha with the fifth foot. This will in turn increase the overall cost of the receiver. Plastic is a good enclosure material if it is of high quality. Metal and aluminium are good as well.
Ease of use
HDMI CEC makes it easier to control the receiver with a single (TV) remote. User friendly remote control helps as well. But with time, we aren’t satisfied with remotes only. Fast mobile apps and voice assistants make receivers easy to use. While we say voice assistants, most users prefer the popular Google Assistant and Alexa. So, make sure the receivers have these.
Budget
In this best 11 channel receiver article, we tried to review mid-priced, cheap, and expensive receiver models. Affordable receivers are a bit hard but not impossible to find.
Parting words:
While reviewing the best 11.2 channel receivers, we often selected the 9.2 receivers that can be expanded to 11.2 channels. Denon and Marantz receivers have good reputation in the market and will give reliable performance and service. The build quality is quite sturdy as well. Control options are many, connections are ample.
8k receiver is not a must for a futureproof receiver. 4k receivers are more than enough to run for all contents. This is because 8k contents aren’t widely available. There are 11 channel amplifiers from Denon and Marantz where you will not need any amplifier. Online customer reviews reveal HDMI bugs and delay bugs in some receivers.
These issues are often addressed with future firmware update. User manuals are detailed and helpful in most cases. Connecting wires, performing room calibration and 11.2 channel speaker setup will take some time and will not be as easy as setting up speakers without receivers. Lastly it all depends on your requirement, use case, preference, and budget.
FAQ
This FAQ is here to give your some answer to the questions that are most asked all over the internet. let’s find out more!
Do I need a receiver?
Well, no. Receivers are not a must have in any music system, specially if you are sure, you will always be satisfied with a 2.0 stereo setup. However, receivers are a must have if you want to build a home theater system. The larger the home theater, the higher the number of channels you will need.
What other factors should I take into consideration?
While a powerful receiver will help you to improve the overall audio and will deliver clean music, the speakers and subwoofers must perform as well. So, make sure you know how to choose the best speakers for a home theater. Give some thought about speaker placement as well.
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