Choosing the right AVR can significantly enhance your home theater setup. But which are the best AVRs with eARC support right now? Discover the top 10 AVRs that support the eARC feature in 2023.
An AV receiver is a very important part of your home theater system. Without it, your home theater system would be like a ship without a captain or a sports car without an engine. In other words, an AV receiver is the central hub that ties all your audio and video components together. And that's why, if you want the very best home theater experience, you must invest in a good AV receiver.
An AVR with eARC support is the best option, as it offers the best sound quality. The good news is that there are a ton of AV receivers that support eARC in the market today. In this article, we'll explore the ten best AVRs with eARC support in 2023.
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What Is eARC, and Is It Different from HDMI ARC?
Gone are the days when we had to rely on analog or optical cables to carry digital audio streams between our amplifier/ soundbar and TV. Thanks to HDMI ARC, our home entertainment setups have been simplified. With ARC, digital audio data can simply be transmitted via an HDMI cable. This means that you can use a single HDMI cable to transmit visual and audio information between your TV and an AV receiver or soundbar.
eARC, or Enhanced Audio Return Channel, is an advanced version of HDMI ARC. This enhanced version boasts significantly increased bandwidth and speed compared to HDMI ARC. As a result, it not only processes high-quality audio but also compliments it with perfect picture quality.
10 Best AVRs with eARC Support
1. Denon AVR-X4700H
The Denon brand has been delivering top-quality products for decades now. It is no surprise that the Denon AVR-X4700H is a fantastic AVR with eARC support. The AVR-X4700H is known for its audiophile-grade performance and compatibility with modern surround sound formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, IMAX Enhanced, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, and DTS Virtual: X.
The AVR-X4700H comes with a powerful 9-channel amplifier, which provides 125 watts per channel. This means it can be configured for Dolby Atmos 5.1.4 or 7.1.2 configuration. The receiver is also compatible with popular voice assistants, including Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, Google Assistant, and Josh.ai.
Key Features
- 9.2 channel configuration
- Supports HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG
- 11 HDMI ports: 8 Input /3 Output
- Voice Assistants compatibility
- Supports 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through
2. Sony STR-AN1000
The Sony STR-AN1000 is designed to provide a movie theater-like experience in the comfort of your home. It delivers 7.2 channels of audio and can output up to 165 watts per channel. Since the STR-AN1000 supports eARC, you can enjoy high-quality audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS: X with clarity and fidelity. The Sony STR-AN100 is fully equipped to handle 8K video pass-through. It features 2 8K HDMI inputs and 2 outputs. The AVR is also compatible with 4K Ultra HD content, ensuring your visuals are crisp and vibrant.
Key Features
- 7.2 channel AV receiver
- eARC support
- Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- 8K and 4K/120 HDMI connectivity
- Supports Dolby Vision, HDR, IMAX enhanced, and HLG
3. Yamaha RX-V4A
Yamaha RX-V4A is another good AVR with eARC support. It offers 5.2 channels of amplification, delivering 80 watts per channel. It is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri.
The AVR supports advanced audio formats, including. Dolby Atmos and DTS: X. It also supports the latest video technologies, such as 8K/60B and 4K/120AB pass-through, Dolby Vision, HLG, and HDR10+.
Key Features
- 5.1 channel configuration
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- 4K ultra HD and HDR compatibility
- YPAO room calibration
- eARC support
4. Marantz SR6015
Marantz SR6015 is one of the best AV receivers with eARC support. This high-end AVR comes packed with an array of features to suit your audio preferences. It boasts 9.2 channels of amplification, delivering 110 watts per channel.
The Marantz SR6015 features a total of 7 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs. However, only one of the 7 HDMI inputs supports eARC. It also supports surround formats such as Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, and DTS Virtual: X.
Key Features
- 9.2 channel configuration
- 8K video pass-through and upscaling
- Supports HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, ALLM, VRR and QFT
- eARC support
5. Denon AVR-X2700H
If you love using voice commands to control your home theater system, then the Denon AVR-X2700H is another AVR you should consider. It is compatible with Alexa, Josh.ai, Google Assistant, and Siri, meaning you can adjust the volume, switch inputs, or change tracks hands-free. Denon AVR-X2700H comes with built-in HEOS. The feature allows you to stream music wirelessly to various rooms in your home via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and AirPlay 2.
Key Features
- 7.2 channel configuration
- 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass through and upscaling
- Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- Supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology, DTS Virtual: X, DTS: X, and IMAX Enhanced
6. Marantz NR1711
The next AVR with eARC support on our list is the Marantz NR1711. The AVR is a slim and compact 7.2 channel that delivers excellent audio and video performance. Its slim design allows the AVR to fit into tight spaces, making it ideal for a smaller space.
The Marantz NR1711 features an "Auto Eco Mode." When this mode is activated, your AVR reduces power consumption to save energy. And if you're worried about sound, don't be. The AVR does not compromise on Marantz's audio quality.
Key Features
- 7.2 channel configuration
- Slim and compact design
- Supports HDR10, HDR10+, QMS, ALLM, and Dynamic HDR
- Supports Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTX: X, and DTS Virtual: X
7. Denon AVR-X6400H
The Denon AVR-X6400H provides a premium audio and video experience to audiophiles and movie aficionados around the world. It delivers outstanding video performance with 11.2 channels of amplification. It comes with 8 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs, allowing you to connect to 8 media devices and output to 3 displays. It also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS: X.
Key Features
- 11.2 channel configuration
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa
- Supports Dolby Atmos, DTS: X, DTS Virtual: X and Auro-3D
8. Yamaha RX-V6A
The Yamaha RX-V6A is another AVR we can't forget to mention. This sleek and modern AVR is a great choice for gamers. It's compatible with the latest gaming consoles that demand features like Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR).
It comes with built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to stream music from your mobile devices. You can also access and enjoy your favorite music from streaming platforms like Spotify, Tidal, Amazon Music HD, Pandora, and more.
Key Features
- 7.2 channel configuration
- Supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization
- Supports Dolby Vision, BT.2020, and HLG
9. Denon AVR-X8500HA
The Denon AVR-X8500HA is a powerhouse in the world of AVRs with eARC support. It features Audyssey MultEQ XT32 room calibration technology. It meticulously analyzes your room's acoustics and optimizes the audio settings for precise and balanced sound. The Denon AVR-X8500HA offers a 7.1.6 or 9.1.4 Atmos setup via its 13-channel amplification. It comes with 8 HDMI inputs and 3 outputs.
Key Features
- 13.2 channel amplification
- Supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS: X Pro, Auro-3D, DTS Virtual: X and IMAX Enhanced
- Built-in HEOS multi-room streaming
- Voice control compatibility
10. Sony STR-DH790
Sony STR-DH790 is another popular AV receiver. With Sony STR-DH790, you can enjoy sound that moves around and above you, making you feel like you are right in the middle of your favorite movie. It comes with built-in Bluetooth technology, which allows you to wirelessly stream music from your tablet, smartphone, or other compatible devices.
Key Features
- 7.2 channel configuration
- 4K Ultra HD pass-through
- Built-in Bluetooth connectivity
- Support Dolby Atmos and DTS: X
Final Thoughts
AVRs with eARC support are a must-have for any home theatre enthusiast. With eARC, you can enjoy high-quality, lossless audio that complements the stunning visuals of modern 4K and 8K displays. Our list of the ten best AVRs with eARC support showcases a range of options to cater to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you go with the Sony STR-AN1000, Yamaha RX-V6A, or any other AVR above, you're guaranteed an elevated audio experience that brings your movies and tracks to life.