When you’re building a new home theater, it can be difficult to determine if you should get an AV processor with dedicated amps, just a receiver with built-in amplification, or an AV receiver mixed with dedicated amps. Here are some pros and cons for both:
Pros with AV Processor:
Customization: Tailored for audiophiles who prefer to choose specific amplifiers and speakers.
- Modularity: Allows for independent upgrades of amplifiers and other components.
- Higher Audio Quality: Focuses on delivering superior audio performance with advanced DACs and processing.
- Future-Proofing: Equipped with advanced connectivity options and processing capabilities for long-term compatibility.
Cons:
- Cost: Generally more expensive due to the need for additional amplification components.
- Complex Setup: Requires more effort to set up and configure due to multiple components.
- Additional Components: Users need to purchase separate amplifiers and possibly other components, adding to the overall cost and complexity.
- Limited Integration: May lack built-in streaming services or other convenient features found in AV receivers, necessitating additional devices.
Pros with AV Receiver:
- All-in-One Solution: Integrates amplification, audio/video processing, and often streaming capabilities into a single unit for convenience.
- Ease of Setup: Ready to connect to speakers and other devices out of the box, making setup simpler.
- Cost-Effective: Offers better value for users who don’t require extensive customization or high-end audio features.
- Integrated Features: Includes built-in streaming services, room calibration systems, and other features for enhanced convenience.
Cons:
- Less Customization: Provides fewer options for customization compared to AV processors.
- Lower Audio Quality: While still capable of good sound, may not match the audio performance of high-end AV processors.
- Limited Upgradability: Upgrading often means replacing the entire unit rather than individual components.
- Bulkier Size: Typically larger and may take up more space in the entertainment setup.
Both?
Another solution is to get a receiver and use the built-in amplification for the surround channels and a dedicated amp for the front channels. Then you get the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the receiver, while the benefit from the dedicated amp.