A receiver is the hub for all of the audio/visual elements of your home theater setup. It manages the audio and video inputs from various sources, such as a streaming media device, Blu-ray player or turntable, and sends the signals to your speakers and display. So, a receiver can serve as the center of both your movie and video system. If you are choosing a home audio system, think about getting a receiver for speakers that will also accommodate video.

When choosing your receiver, focus mainly on the sound setup and quality you want. If you want surround sound, you need an A/V receiver with 5.1 channels or more. Fewer channels can handle stereo sound, but not surround. More channels can handle multi-room audio systems. For certain sound systems, you might also want to connect your receiver with a preamp.

Having all the proper cables, like HDMI cables and digital audio cables, is crucial to enjoying a smooth setup. So, consider your input options and figure out whether you need any adapters, couplers or splitters before you get started. Depending on the number of speakers you are using, the cables could get a little chaotic. A TV stand with cabinets can offer you space for getting and keeping everything organized, especially if you also have a lot of media hardware, like gaming consoles or DVD players.

After connecting everything, you will want to calibrate audio levels across all channels to create a balanced sound that complements your specific room environment. Some contemporary receivers come with automated systems that make audio calibration a breeze. If you feel confused and want help, don’t hesitate to reach out to Best Buy’s TV and home theater services team.