In the developing world of audio technology, Dolby Atmos has emerged to reshape the way we perceive and experience sound. It has transcended conventional boundaries to immerse us in sound like never before. If you are a cinema addict and love to watch movies with incredible sound effects, you should know more about this surround sound format.
I offer my review of Atmos AVRs, which I have selected and thoroughly tested can make a significant difference to your home entertainment system. From the subtle rustle of leaves in a forest to the thundering roar of a rocket launch, these receivers have redefined audio immersion, promising an unparalleled level of realism and excitement.
Let’s explore how these models work their magic, the technology behind them, and the profound ways they can enhance your audio-visual experiences. But before reviewing the best Dolby Atmos receivers, I will also explain what this technology is all about.
The Denon AVR-X4800H drives 9.4 channels of amplification. With Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, plus IMAX Enhanced and Auro 3D, the AVR-X4800H envelops larger living spaces in breathtaking 3D audio. Read the full review.
| Name | Channels | Power output | HDMI in/out | Bluetooth/Wi-Fi | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denon AVR-X4800H best overall | 9.4 | 125W/8 Ohm, 165W/6 Ohm | 7/3 | yes/yes | Review |
| Sony STR-DH790 budget | 7.2 | 145W/6 Ohms | 4/1 | yes/no | Review |
| Onkyo TX-RZ50 also great | 9.2 | 120W/8 Ohm, 250W/6 Ohm | 7/2 | yes/yes | Review |
| Denon AVR-X8500HA premium | 13.2 | 150/8 Ohm, 190/6 Ohm | 7/2 | yes/yes | Review |
Dolby Atmos is an audio technology that provides the effect of presence by creating three-dimensional audio. Unlike traditional surround sound systems, which only have a fixed number of audio channels, it allows you to position sound in 3D space, including height information. This creates a more realistic sound that surrounds the listener from all sides.
One of the key features of Dolby Atmos is the use of metadata to position audio objects in a 3D audio space. This metadata can be embedded in audio files or generated in real-time by the audio device. When a Dolby Atmos-enabled unit receives audio with surround sound metadata, it can precisely position audio objects in the 3D audio space, providing a more immersive sound experience.
The most notable benefit of Atmos-ready receivers is their ability to create immersive soundscapes that envelop the listener. This spatial audio experience delivers a sense of depth and dimension, making you feel like you’re right in the heart of the action.
Traditional audio systems are limited in how they can position audio, but Dolby Atmos allows audio to be precisely positioned in three-dimensional space. This precise localization of audio objects adds realism and depth to your content.
Unlike conventional systems, Dolby Atmos speakers can project some audio tracks from ceiling speakers. This means that you’ll hear audio above you, enhancing the sense of height and space in your audio experience.
Moreover, this technology is adaptive, meaning it tailors the audio to your specific setup. No matter how intricate your multi-speaker array is, the technology optimizes the audio experience, ensuring you get the greatest possible performance from your equipment.
As audio technology continues to evolve, Dolby Atmos is at the forefront. By investing in the best Atmos receiver, you future-proof your home theater or audio setup, ensuring it remains relevant and compatible with upcoming content.
I’ll start traditionally with a review of the most interesting model and the best receiver for Dolby Atmos from Denon, which was released in 2023. I don’t usually give my impressions of a model right off the bat, but I decided to bend my rules a bit for this receiver. Indeed, this is the leader of my chart, and now I’ll tell you why I made my choice in favor of this device.
With 11.4 channels of processing and 9.4 channels of built-in amplification, the AVR-X4800H delivers 125 W per channel (8 Ohms, 20-20 kHz, 0.05% THD, 2ch). The X4800H uses an independent power amplifier board for each channel, which means reduced crosstalk and vibration. More importantly, it has AL32 processing – Denon’s patented analog signal reproduction technology. This technology completely suppresses noise associated with digital-to-analog conversion to reproduce low-level signals with optimal clarity and reveal all the subtle nuances of music.
8K video is supported on all 7 HDMI inputs and 2 of the 3 outputs. With HLG, HDR, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dynamic HDR pass-through, there’s no need to worry about video compatibility or picture quality.
With this device, you’re able to get the greatest 3D audio experience. Except for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, we also get expanded IMAX support, as well as Auro-3D. What’s new is 360 Reality Audio, a technology that the receiver can support by connecting a 360 RA streaming device via HDMI. Up front, you get a very deep and expansive wall of sound that extends beyond your speakers. During my tests, I actually felt sounds coming from all directions with incredible precision.
In the X4800H, you will find the Audyssey MultEQ XT32 version, which, in my opinion, has a fairly wide range of functionality. However, you’d need to pay some fee for that. But that’s not all; it comes with Dirac Live support.
Since AVR supports both HEOS and Airplay 2, you can either stream music online from one of the available online streaming services, including Spotify, Amazon Music HD, TuneIn, Deezer, TIDAL, and others, or create your own multi-room environment using appropriate wireless speakers.
It’s important to mention Bluetooth. The X4800H can send audio to Bluetooth-enabled headphones for a completely silent home and can also output audio from both the speaker jacks and a Bluetooth headset. This can be especially convenient if there is a person in the family who is hearing impaired.
The Denon AVR-X4800H is an absolutely amazing AV receiver that can handle almost anything you ask of it. No matter how you use it, you can’t go wrong with it. The aesthetics and construction quality are outstanding, the connectivity and capabilities are extensive, and the setup is simple and straightforward. The HDMI support for 8K video and every next-gen gaming option is a nice future-proofing feature, and you simply won’t find another alternative at this price range that offers and works in this way. In all respects, the clear leader on my list!
