![]() The Denon receiver model lacks wireless streaming via Chromecast, but ups the ante to AirPlay 2 and the proprietary HEOS system. Onkyo and Sony are the only devices to support all three. If you're looking to build a multiroom system with a variety of AV systems and speakers with wireless connectivity, these are the three flavors to aim for. There are plenty of standards for wireless streaming services, but the most universal are Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 1 and 2 and Google Chromecast built in. Wi-Fi music streaming: Most midrange receivers have onboard Wi-Fi network connectivity for wireless music streaming through your speaker system.Mounting your rear surround speakers high on the wall will get you halfway there in terms of quality, immersive sound. In other words, don't worry about missing out on these formats if you don't install an extra height speaker or two. Dolby Atmos capability: Most receivers in the $500-and-above price range include Dolby Atmos capability and DTS:X, but the effect they have on your home theater movie-watching can be subtle, or in most movies, nonexistent.You should also be sure you have an extra HDMI cable or two on hand - these things are like the second sock of a pair in that you can never find them when you need them. If you want to connect two different displays - a TV and a projector, for example - all but the Yamaha offer a second HDMI output. (How else are you going to connect your Roku, Blu-ray player, Nintendo Switch and all your other devices?) The Onkyo TX-NR6100 has six rear-mounted HDMI inputs, while the Denon AVR-S960H and Yamaha RX-V6A go one better with seven. Front-mounted HDMI ports are kind of like an appendix - unneeded, because most users don't hot-plug HDMI devices - making the number of rear inputs what's most important. HDMI inputs: With most TVs and set-top boxes supporting HDMI, you should buy a receiver that has as many of these HDMI input ports and outputs as possible.The Marantz SR6015 has been replaced by the Cinema 500 but as it is selling out for its original price it's a good deal. It sounds great, but it's not as flexible as the best receivers here - for instance, you can't watch a video source while listening to music, like the Onkyos can, and neither can you ask a Google Nest to play a song on it. ![]() Marantz SR6015 ($1,599, save $600): The Marantz SR6015 does everything you'd expect - Dolby Atmos, music streaming, 4K/120Hz throughput - and with a good deal of aplomb.Notably, the TSR-700 is identical - it's an exclusive model for some outlets - and you can find it for $550 here at Amazon. Find out more in CNET's Yamaha RX-V6A review. While the receiver saw a $200 price hike in September 2022, the V6A is back to around $650 on sale. It offers plenty of connectivity with Wi-Fi bringing AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Bluetooth and Yamaha's MusicCast system for streaming from your devices. ![]() The Yamaha might even make you forget about visiting a cinema ever again, and it's no slouch with music, either. Yamaha RX-V6A ($650, save $200): This Yamaha RX-V6A offers a fresh look at AV receiver design, with its futuristic edges and simple controls, while maximizing sound quality.It's currently on sale, which makes it an excellent value. It's not quite as good as the Yamaha RX-V6A or the Onkyo TX-NR6100 as it has neither the former's home theater chops nor the latter's streaming options. The receiver is laid-back, blends well with forward-sounding speakers and replays music beautifully. Denon AVR-S960H ($549, save $250): The Denon may not be as glittering and shiny as the Yamaha RX-V6A, but it still offers excellent sound quality. ![]() Check out CNET's receiver buying guide for more about the features and things you should consider when looking for a new system. ![]()
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