The SCENE function allows preset or customized listening and viewing modes. One feature I especially like is the Silent Cinema headphone surround output. For ease of speaker setup, the RX-V385 includes Yamaha’s YPAO system. Using an included microphone, the receiver generates test tones that it can analyze to get the best sound from your speakers in a given room. Also included are four HDMI inputs and outputs that, in addition to 1080p, 4K, and 3D video signals, are also pass-through compatible with HDR (HDR10, Dolby Vision, and Hybrid Log Gamma) and Wide Color Gamut. However, the RX-V385 does not provide additional video processing or upscaling. Also, although Bluetooth is provided, as mentioned earlier, the RX-V385 does not include built-in internet streaming capability. However, the front-mounted USB port allows the playback of downloaded music files from stored flash drives. If you are planning to purchase a basic home theater receiver with useful features, power, and performance, the RX-V385 offers a worthy option. Wattage: 145W | Inputs: Stereo RCA (3), HDMI (4), Coaxial (1), Optical (1) | Outputs: Stereo RCA (1), Speaker Wire (5), HDMI (1) | Dimensions: 12.4" x 17.13" x 6.34" James considered it a surprising standout since it’s Onkyo’s least expensive AV receiver from its 2019 lineup, the TX-SR393 includes four HDMI inputs and one HDMI (ARC) output. The speaker hookups accept banana plugs, which makes connecting them much simpler, and thanks to Onkyo’s proprietary AccuEQ calibration technology, you can rest assured knowing that you’ll have the best acoustics for the room you’re in, no matter the size. The Onkyo TX-SR393 is easy to use and adjust as needed, thanks to its user-friendly GUI and remote control. It supports 1080P to 4K upscaling, 4K HDR video at 60 frames/second, and HDR video passthrough. A future firmware update will bring the receiver into HDCP 2.3-compatibility, too. Bluetooth connectivity, but notably no Wi-Fi connectivity, is a nice slice-of-life feature, allowing you to cast music and stream directly from devices to the TX-SR393. Overall, the main criticism of this receiver is that it simply can’t perform at the same level as mid to high-end AV receivers, which offer more finesse and natural sound. Hardly a criticism, given the great value this budget system provides. Wattage: 155W | Inputs: Stereo RCA (5), HDMI (4), Coaxial (1), Optical (1) | Outputs: Stereo RCA (2), Speaker Wire (3), HDMI (1) | Dimensions: 12.9" x 17.1" x 6.3" The STR-DH790 comes equipped with four HDMI inputs which all support HDR and 4K video at 60 frames/second as well as one HDMI (eARC) output. Including 3D video pass-through technology, Our reviewer, Jeremy, found that it worked seamlessly with his home theater setup. Bluetooth connectivity, and a variety of Sound Effect options to optimize listening, the STR-DH790 offers competitive features for the price. Like many entry-level AV receivers, the STR-DH790 doesn’t include Wi-Fi connectivity. While the spring-clip connections are a bit annoying and the setup wizard leaves a little to be desired, the Sony auto-calibration makes finalizing your home theater system a breeze. Do be aware—it doesn’t support wireless speaker connections. Still, with a low harmonic distortion of .9%, this system offers clean, strong sound, great bass, and excellent features at a good price. Wattage: 145W | Inputs: Stereo RCA (5), HDMI (4), Coaxial (1), Optical (1) | Outputs: Stereo RCA (2), Speaker Wire (5), HDMI (1) | Dimensions: 11.75" x 17" x 5.25" In addition to its sleek design, it includes a USB B port for powering smartphones, tablets, and other media devices. Unfortunately, it’s not capable of playing music directly from external sources connected to this port. Once it’s all hooked up, it’s easy to see why those seemingly standard features were actually dropped: to support clean, crisp, and surprisingly strong sound quality. Cambridge Audio’s selective focus on the AXA35’s components and minimalist features has paid off, making it easily the best-designed budget amplifier today. It’s excellent quality for the price. Wattage: 35W | Inputs: Stereo RCA (5), 3.5mm Headphone Jack (1) | Outputs: Stereo RCA (2), 3.5mm Headphone Jack (1) | Dimensions: 13.2" x 16.9" x 3.3" Jeremy Laukkonen is a former auto shop owner who was always drawn towards the tech side of cars (and virtually everything else) and gave up life under the hood to become a tech journalist. He specializes in home entertainment, Android devices, and consumer tech, and loves making complex subjects legible for even the most novice reader. James Huenink has been writing for Lifewire since 2019, covering camera, portable speakers, and home entertainment.
What to Look For in a Home Theater Receiver Under $400
Connectivity
Before you buy a receiver, look at how many devices you want to connect and the methods you’ll use to connect them. Make sure that the receiver has enough HDMI, RCA, optical, and other inputs to accommodate all of your equipment. If you want any wireless connections, look for a receiver that includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or both.
Audio Formats
Most inexpensive home theater receivers support older codecs like Dolby TrueHD and DTS:HD. If you want the best surround sound experience possible, look for a receiver that supports the Dolby Atmos and DTS:X codecs. You’ll also want to look at what home theater setups they support. Some will only work for 5.1 or 5.2 or 7.2 systems. Be sure to take a look at our overview of the 2.0, 2.1, 5.1, 6.1, and 7.1 channel systems.
Room Correction
In this price range, built-in room correction software is one of the biggest difference makers in terms of audio quality. It takes a little extra work to use this feature, but you’ll really notice the difference if you choose a receiver that has great room correction. Our guide for how to set up a home theater system can help you evaluate your options for better digital room correction.
