Even if you’re not searching for an eARC-capable AV receiver, your head will spin. To enjoy beautiful surround sound while watching a movie, all you need is a college degree in technical jargon. With eARC, you may stream audio from your TV to a receiver or other external audio device.
To begin, you’ll find a complete buyer’s guide to the most important aspects of AV receivers. In the following sections, you’ll discover a variety of ideas in various categories. The following are some typical inquiries that are regularly posed by customers.
After reading this article, you’ll have a better understanding of the Best AV Receiver with eARC’s thorny technical issues. If you’re lucky, you might even like it.
eARC: Making ARC even better
When it comes to high-definition audio, Dolby Atmos is supported via HDMI ARC, but only through the lossy Dolby Digital Plus codec. This is a problem that audiophiles have long complained about. As long as you’re exclusively streaming Dolby Atmos content (from Netflix or Apple TV+, for example), this shouldn’t be an issue.
A better quality version of Dolby Atmos is used on physical media like Blu-ray discs and game discs for consoles because of Dolby TrueHD’s lossless, high-resolution capabilities, and streaming providers may elect to offer lossless audio in the future.
HDMIe ARC was never intended to support Dolby TrueHD’s higher bandwidth requirements than Dolby Digital Plus, as you would have anticipated. So we’ve included improved Music Return Channel (eARC), which has lots of capacity and therefore can handle lossless hi-res audio up to 24-bit/192kHz, that should please even the most demanding audiophile.
When would I use eARC?
For the time being, eARC is best suited to those who utilize HDMI to attach all of their content items to their TV, rather than an A/V receiver’s inputs. For those who with an Atmos-capable receiver, this is a godsend.
No matter how costly your Blu-ray player is, you won’t be able to send high-resolution, lossless audio (whether Dolby Atmos or another format) to your external A/V receiver unless your TV has an eARC connector.
It’s possible, however, to connect high-quality audio sources such as Blu-ray players directly, rather than using the TV’s audio capabilities. The eARC may be useful in these situations, but it’s also possible that you’ll have a high-quality audio source connected to your TV.
So eARC just about getting better Dolby Atmos?
Not fully, no. HDMI eARC’s audio return channel bandwidth can reach up to 37Mbits/s, although HDMI ARC was never intended to handle more than 1Mbits/s. eARC can now handle a wider range of high-resolution audio files, thanks to this significant improvement.
When using eARC, you won’t have to fiddle with delay settings on your TV or audio equipment to get a precise match of sound and image, as you often do when using HDMI ARC or optical connections.
eARC may also have certain non-audio advantages. In order for ARC to operate, your equipment must have HDMI-CEC enabled. eARC offers a built-in system for device detection that does not need CEC. Though keeping CEC on is advised (turning it off implies you won’t be able to transmit device commands through HDMI), it is workable that you can utilize eARC without CEC if it is giving you problems.
What equipment do I need for eARC?
When using HDMI eARC, not only do you require an eARC port on both the display and the source device, but you also have to get an HDMI cable with Ethernet compatibility, such as an HDMI Ethernet or an Ultra-HDMI cable. As previously mentioned, eARC uses more bandwith than ARC.
Wondering if your existing hardware is compatible with eARC? HDMI ports that enable these capabilities should be marked with “ARC/eARC” if they are available.
This method should work in the majority of cases, even if the audio output will only be ARC’s lower-quality capabilities, rather than the higher-quality of an ARC TV and receiver. In certain cases, the eARC standard does not mandate that eARC devices be backwards compatible, therefore this may not function at all.
How Do You Choose an AV Receiver?
Before making a purchase of an AV receiver, keep the following items in mind:
Price
There are a wide range of AV receivers, from low-cost to high-end. You may immediately filter your options by establishing a price cap.
Channels
How many surround speakers are you looking for? Speaker setups up to and even 13.2 or bigger Atmos systems are possible. This means that you don’t have to go all out with surround sound.
Connections
What other devices do you intend to link up to your radio? Check to see whether it has all the connections you need.
Features
Is there anything in particular that you are looking for? It’s either 4K or 8K. Is Dolby Atmos a real thing? Where can I get information on whether my camera has HDR capability streaming music from one room to another? You should know exactly what you want before looking for a model that fits the bill. Don’t waste your money on extras you won’t use.
Network Connections
Internet radio and local network streaming need an Ethernet connection. Another option would be to have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth available.
Power
Where do you want your music to be heard the most? As you may expect, power production isn’t as important as you might assume. If, on the other hand, you want your music loud and want to push your speakers farther, you’ll need more power.
Speakers
Is it capable of powering your speakers? You should be able to use a variety of speakers with your AV receiver. The maximum power and speaker impedance should be taken into account. You should verify these criteria if you don’t already have speakers.
Best AV Receivers with eARC
Yamaha RX-V4A 5.2-Ch AV Receiver
There are features and performance that formerly cost thousands, and a few that would keep it current for years, in Yamaha’s latest series of AV receivers. In spite of its smaller size, the Yamaha RX-V4A provides outstanding performance for its price, and it can even be all you need if you have no interest in mounting speakers in your ceiling.. This is the pinnacle of what affluent Hi-Fi should sound like.
The number of HDMI ports is limited, but four should be enough for the great majority of users. Consider the fact that HDMI outputs provide audio return of the extended kind, or eARC, which also permits high-resolution audio back from the television. Using a single HDMI connection, you may connect your TV to several sources and send the audio back to your receiver.
In good news, the audio quality is excellent. Using our Procella THX speakers and receiver, we’ve been able to get rich, full-bodied sound with excellent dialogue clarity and warmth. It’s sufficient for a space of this size to have 80 watts per channel in 6 ohms of power.
In comparison to soundbars with seven, nine, or eleven virtual channels, 5.1 sound is much superior. On film, as well as in the form of music. Furthermore, listening to music in stereo is just an experience of its own.
Product Differentiator
There is neither Dolby Atmos or DTS: X support in the Yamaha RX-V4A. Home theater fans aren’t included in that. When it comes to taking market share from soundbars, RX-V4A isn’t going to succeed. Big brother RX-V6A, that has the channels that little brother lacks, now poses a far greater danger.
Denon AVR-S750H 7.2-Ch AV Receiver
Most home cinema enthusiasts will be satisfied with the Denon AVR-S750H but will be disappointed by the absence of some of the most recent capabilities that may be useful to gamers and 8K TV owners.
If you’re looking to get the most out of your new 4K Ultra HD TV, go no further than the Denon AVR-S750H. If you’ve got a Dolby Atmos system, you may experience a new degree of immersion and reality like you’ve never seen or heard before.
HDR10, HDR10+, BT.2020, Wide Color Gamut, and 4:4:4 Pure Color subsampling are also included in this model. You may stream your music to any room in your home with the built-in Wi-Fi and Airplay.
Amazon Alexa voice control is fully supported by the Denon AVR-S750H, a powerful and flexible AV receiver. The AVR-S750H is simple to set up and operate, even for novices, thanks to its award-winning on-screen setup help.
Six HDMI ports (one out) stick to the most recent HDCP 2.3 specifications, making them compatible with the newest 4K Ultra HD TVs and HDR sources. Because of this, the AVR-S750H from Denon is an absolute need for any home theater system.
Product Differentiator
The Denon AVR-S750H is a wonderful choice for individuals who want a high-quality home theater experience at a reasonable cost. While it may seem little in comparison to some other models, this little guy packs a powerful punch when it comes to movie magic.
Sony STR-DH590 5.2-Ch AV Receiver
This value-oriented bundle from Sony offers the main technologies while removing numerous things that are attractive but not required.
It’s a breeze to set up and operate, and it supports the AV technologies that are important to me, so that’s a major plus. While other HTiB receivers may not be up to the task of providing reliable support for your home theater system, this particular model is capable of doing so.
This is a Sony receiver at a low, entry-level pricing point.. Those features may be lacking, but what it does offer is consistently excellent.
The system has 5.2 channels and a total output power of 725 watts at 145 watts per channel. A 5.1 channel system can’t compete with a 5.2 channel system in terms of functionality. Both will provide electricity for five speaker channels. However, the 5.1 system can only accommodate one subwoofer.
Of course, good audio and visuals go hand in hand in a terrific moviegoing experience. Because we claimed it will work with 4K TVs before, we’ll say it again: UHD or Ultra High Definition TVs are the most frequent term for these devices.
There are plenty of ports on this Sony receiver to guarantee that you get the most out of it. There are four RCA stereo audio inputs and an optical and a coaxial digital audio output on this device. It is stereo.
There are four HDMI eARC inputs and one output with a return audio channel. A 1/4-inch headphone jack is also available for private listening.
Product Differentiator
We believe this Sony receiver is quite well-equipped and outstanding. It includes a lot of outstanding features, including high-quality audio and cutting-edge visuals. If you’re looking for a decent looking device that’s simple to use, this is the one for you. And for the amount you’re paying, you’re getting a wonderful deal.
Denon AVR-X2700H 7.2-Ch AV Receiver
In recent years, Denon has dominated the home cinema receiver market. The Denon AVR-X2700H, the company’s entry-level AVR, is now up for review after the 2020 X-Series AVRs just at top and middle of the market continued the company’s five-star heritage.
The single 8K/60Hz HDMI 2.1 input, which could also send over 4K video at 120Hz, is a notable improvement over its predecessor on paper, thereby opening the potential needs of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
The AVR-X2700H is the smallest member of Denon’s 2020 X-Series, hence it uses a less powerful version of Audyssey speaker calibration technology. The MultEQ XT measures, on the other hand, need just a few minor adjustments before we are satisfied with the setup. In the event that you are unable to make up your mind, you may switch between two sets of Audyssey measurements.
Denon has a huge advantage here. No other AVR on the market comes close to this one in terms of quality. There’s a real movie theater experience in your living room thanks to its mature approach and natural sense of timing.
Even though the 8K passthrough and then the next gaming technology grab the upgrade headlines, the acoustic enhancements over its predecessor are noticeable. The AVR-X2700H from Denon is an excellent choice for new consumers, and we recommend it above older versions because of its simplicity of expression.
Product Differentiator
Anyone looking for a well-specified mid-range receiver that doesn’t sacrifice features for price will find the AVR-X2700H has immense appeal. It’s as much a system upgrade for gamers as movie fans, particularly if you’ve just taken in a next-gen console, and when it comes to cinematic action, its performance is addictive. This receiver is snappy, energetic and moves objects as efficiently as a poltergeist in a Pinewood mixing suite. Overall, the AVR-X2700H is a amazing buy.
Marantz NR1711 7.2-Ch AV Receiver
It’s the latest in a long series of slimline NR AV receivers from Marantz, where convenience and design take precedence above sheer power.
Well-specified brother of the NR1510, the NR1711 is the NR1711. 7.1.2 Dolby Atmos or 7.2 speaker setups are both supported by this seven-channel amplifier. All seven channels have a 50W rating for power output.
Because of its aggressive specification, this tiny Marantz AVR is more than capable of blowing up raucous Dolby Atmos action films or getting down to multi-channel music. Also, it’s a great centre for next-generation games systems, but there’s an elephant in the room: 4K 120fps gaming.
To avoid the appearance of a wind block while still supporting Dolby Atmos, you should use the Marantz NR1711. A standard AV receiver would be twice as tall, but it doesn’t mean that the Marantz NR1711 sacrifices any connection or features. So maybe you’re a gaming enthusiast who has just purchased an Xbox One S or PlayStation 5 that has a v2.1 HDMI port that supports 4K 120fps gameplay.
Product Differentiator
Much of what you’d expect to find in high-end AV receivers can now be had at a more affordable price point with the Marantz NR1711. Streaming is a breeze with AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Alexa, and Google Assistant pre-installed. Its 3D audio performance is also impressive. The NR1711 is still an excellent upgrade or first-time AVR, despite the fact that it can’t handle 4K 120fps gaming at this moment.
Marantz SR5015 7.2-Ch AV Receiver
The Marantz SR5015 is one of the most feature-rich sub-$1,000 players on the market today. Starting with the basics, it includes Bluetooth connection, multi-zone speaker setups, pre-outs for Zone 2 and 3, multi-channel audio decoding, HDMI switching (8 inputs/2 outputs), iPod/iPhone connectivity, internet radio, AirPlay compatibility, and more.
Because the SR5015 was THX Select2 Plus certified, it should be capable of producing excellent sound. However, the most essential feature of this receiver is that it is entirely compatible with the rapidly growing object-based surround sound technologies Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.
There are certain proprietary features, such as Cinema Pure Audio mode, which was designed by Marantz’s own sound designers in order to provide greater sound quality for movie viewing in this high-end device.
In addition, it has an AccuEQ calibration system, which allows you to have the receiver measure your speakers and then automatically adjust them depending on the data that is received.
Because of multipoint technology, you can link up to eight Bluetooth devices at once, saving you the time and hassle of having to re-pair everything every time you use one. In addition, Siri (or Google Home) compatibility is available if you’re interested in smart-home technology.
However, if you have more than seven speakers and are searching for a device that can connect to all of them, you may want to seek elsewhere. It’s the only HDMI receiver that has 11 ports, so if you’re planning on connecting many game consoles or media devices to your TV through HDMI, this is a big plus.
Product Differentiator
The Marantz SR5015 is a good option for those who are just starting out with home theater. This device has ample connection choices for most individuals, but if you have more than seven speakers, you may want to look into other options, since it doesn’t have Bluetooth or built-in Wi-Fi capabilities.
Denon AVR-X4700H 9.2-Ch AV Receiver
To be honest, the AVR-X4700H is Denon’s second 9.2 channel AV receiver and to be fair, its smaller sibling, the AVR-X3700H is an internal competitor that it has to deal with on a daily basis. Many times, I’ve seen customers debating between the X4700H and the X4700 and wondering whether the additional expense is justified.
First and foremost, you need to know what else it has to offer in order to make an informed decision about whether or not it’s worth your time and money. Auro-3D and AL32 processing, as well as an additional 20 watts of power per channel, are included in the X4700H‘s higher price tag. Additional HDMI ports, a 12 volt trigger port, and a composite video output are also included, as well as analog to HDMI upscaling and compatibility for Zone 3.
Additional features include 9.2 channels of built-in amplifying power with 11.2 channels of processing, HDMI 2.1 compatibility with its new game-centric capabilities, and a wide range of online and streaming functions, making the X4700H the most feature-rich product in its category.. If you’re looking for Denon-quality audio, you’ll get it, and we were really pleased with how well it performed in our movie and music listening sessions.
Product Differentiator
With its extensive feature set, the Denon AVR-X4700H is a highly powerful AV receiver. Overall, the performance is superb, with clear and accurate effects control. A 9.2-channel system is fine for most people, however if you want 11.2 you will not be disappointed. However, the Denon is as adept in playing two-channel music.
Yamaha RX-V6A 7.2-Ch AV Receiver
If you’re looking for a smart, networked, and reasonably priced entry-level AV receiver, go no further than the Yamaha RX-V6A. There are too many changes between the RX-V685 and this device’s specifications for it to be considered a straight replacement.
There are two items that make up the 2020 RX-V6A: There are three HDMI 2.1 connectors, making Yamaha the only company to provide more than one in 2020. Other from that, it was just like every other Yamaha event. I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. In terms of features, you get a lot for your money with this device, including internet streaming and the ability to use it offline. A software update may be required to activate Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization and a few other new HDMI 2.1 capabilities, however the receiver will still receive them even if they are not available at the time of first release.
Aside from the HDMI 2.1 limits, all 2020 AV receivers equipped with HDMI 2.0 ports have the same issues. While the Xbox Series X appears to be the primary target of this issue at the present, if the new port becomes more widely accessible and more 4K@120Hz signals are made available, the issue may become more apparent with the 2020 devices. This year’s device has less legacy ports than prior models, and the remote is cheaply made and not up to the new contemporary look we received.
Product Differentiator
The Yamaha RX-V6A is a great mid-range AV receiver that has everything you need for a modest home theater setup. With its virtual sky channel, high output power, sound quality improvement, and other features, this RX-V6A is capable of performance previously only found in high-end equipment.
Denon AVR-X8500HA 13.2-Ch AV Receiver
An AV receiver from Denon will allow you to enjoy your favorite movies, TV programs and gaming consoles in the best possible way. In addition to Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization (with such a firmware update), DTS:X Pro, IMAX Enhanced, and 8K Upscaling, this AVR’s superior power amplifier architecture produces realistic visual quality that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Even if that isn’t enough for you, you can take advantage of HDR10+ support and outstanding color accuracy with 4:4:4 Pure Color Sub Sampling for all HDMI inputs.
There’s been no denying that the AVR-X8500HA is among the top home theater receivers out there since since it was originally introduced. This groundbreaking gadget comes with a lifetime of free firmware upgrades, ensuring that it will serve you for many years to come.
All of your old favorites are still there: 8 hdmi ports and 3 hdmi outputs make it simple to connect to any home theater system, as well as 4k upscaling for smooth super HD screen performance.
The Denon AVR-X8500HA has patent-pending technology that have never been litigated anywhere else on the earth! Fortunately, such products are usually susceptible to costly patent disputes.
Product Differentiator
In terms of power and functionality, the Denon AVR-X8500HA is an excellent home theater system. With a broad range of plugs on the back panel, you can connect your devices quickly and get the greatest sound quality possible in your home theater.
Denon AVR-X6700H 11.2-Ch AV Receiver
Home theater enthusiasts will like the Denon AVR-X6700H receiver. 8K/60Hz pass-through, 4K/120Hz game mode, and superior video processing for superb visual quality are among the characteristics of this monitor.
Using its 13.2 channel processing capabilities, you may choose a speaker setup that best serves your entertainment demands. As a result, you’ll have a smooth, engaging experience that is free of latency and frame tearing thanks to its Lag-Free Gaming mode.
Superior clarity, color and contrast are provided by the AVR-Denon X6700H’s AVR-X processor. This 11.2-channel receiver features Dynamic HDR and HDR10+ for stunning stereo sound, deep bass, and lightning-fast media switching.
High-definition TVs, Blu-ray players, and turntables may all be used to get the best sound possible from this device. You can also spread your music across your house via Wi-Fi, Airplay 2, and Bluetooth.
Pass-through of Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HLG is supported by this powerful and adaptable receiver. It also has high-quality audio decoding and 9.2 channel amplification. For wireless music streaming, the Denon AVR-X6700H has HEOS compatibility. Also included is an Intelligent ECO mode that adapts power usage based on the volume level of the music being played. This may save you up to 20% on your energy bill. The Denon AVR-X6700H is an excellent choice if you’re searching for a receiver that does it all.
Product Differentiator
Despite the fact that it could only maintain audio quality around the level of its last attempt, the Denon AVR-X6700H 11.2-Ch AV Receiver was a winner for gamers and those looking to future-proof their setups for 8K video, which is expected to come within the next five to ten years, depending on your next amp’s lifetime. Anyone in the market for one will appreciate the fact that it has improved through time.
Conclusion
That’s all there is to it. Phew, that’s a lot of stuff to process! In the beginning, it may seem tough for you to know where to begin with home theater. What you should be on the lookout for, if anything?
Even if you’re well-versed in the subject matter, it might still be perplexing. However, don’t lose sight of the ultimate aim. When you have superb audio in your room, you may have an amazing time watching movies or listening to music. You won’t be sorry.
In the year 2022, you should be able to locate the greatest AV amplifiers with the aid of this guide. Take your time and choose the best one you can afford.
FAQs
This FAQ is here to solve some of your problems. well, we are almost at the end of the article, and here we are answering some of the most asked question about the best eARC AV Receiver.
Does eARC work with ARC?
Fortunately, eARC can be found in a wide range of devices, not only 8K TVs. However, you should not expect to stream Atmos via an older TV if you use an older ARC-compatible player.
Does AV receiver improve audio quality?
There are 5.1 and 7.2-channel audio options with receivers; you can also increase the sound or even do single-room corrections to better manage music across multiple speakers with receivers.
Can you leave your AV receiver at all the time?
Keep your AV receivers and amplifiers on all the time. Often these stereo equipment has been set up to use very little power, and when it isn’t in use, it goes into standby mode and saves power. AV receivers and amplifiers may be left on or turned off when they are not in use.
Do you need HDMI 2.1 for eARC?
In order to use HDMI eARC, you’ll need a TV or gadget produced in the previous year or so that has an HDMI 2.1 connector. If the manufacturer has updated their sets/receivers/speakers to accommodate eARC, certain eARC capability may be accessed using older HDMI standards.
Freelance tech journalist & author of soundboxlab.com …Read More
