AV receivers are extremely complex, with many features and confusing technical details. (For example, what about 4K/120Hz?) However, what are the important things when buying a new model? I will summarize the most important ones here.

HDMI inputs

With most TVs and set-top boxes supporting HDMI, you should buy a receiver with as many of these HDMI input ports and outputs as possible. The front-mounted HDMI ports are like a human appendix — unnecessary, since most users don’t hot-plug HDMI devices — which makes the number of rear inputs the most important. (How else do you connect your Roku, Blu-ray player, Nintendo Switch and all your other devices?) The Onkyo TX-NR6100 and Denon AVR-S970H have six rear-mounted HDMI inputs, while the Yamaha RX-V6A goes one better with seven. If you want to connect two different displays – a TV and a projector, for example – all but Yamaha offer a second HDMI output. You should also be sure to have an extra HDMI cable or two on hand – these things are like a second pair of socks because you can’t find them when you need them.

Dolby Atmos capability

Most receivers in the $500-and-above price range include Dolby Atmos capabilities and DTS:Xbut the effect of these formats on your home theater movie viewing can be subtle, or for most movies, non-existent. In other words, don’t worry about losing these formats by not installing one or two that point to the ceiling. Mounting your rear speakers around high on the wall will get you right in the middle there in terms of quality, immersive sound.

Stream music over WiFi

Most midrange receivers have onboard Wi-Fi network connectivity for wireless music streaming through your speaker system. There are many standards for wireless streaming services, but the most universal Spotify ConnectApple AirPlay and Google Cast. If you are looking to create a multiroom system with different AV systems and speakers with a wireless connection, these are the three flavors to be desired. Onkyo and Sony are the only devices that support all three. The Denon receiver model lacks wireless streaming via Google but ups the ante with AirPlay 2 and the proprietary HEOS system. Meanwhile, Yamaha has its own MusicCast system.