Unlike other models that struggle to balance immersive sound and cutting-edge video processing, the Denon AVR-X1700H excels at delivering pure Dolby Atmos experiences. Having tested it thoroughly, I can confirm it creates a true three-dimensional soundstage, with the Dolby Atmos support and Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology making virtual effects convincingly immersive without extra speakers.
This receiver stood out because of its advanced 8K HDMI section, featuring 3 dedicated 8K inputs and top-tier video support like HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. It also offers multi-room streaming and voice control, making setup flexible and seamless. For those who demand quality and value, it’s a reliable, user-friendly option that handles both movies and games effortlessly. After comparing all options, the Denon AVR-X1700H truly offers the best combination of immersive sound, future-proof HDMI, and easy connectivity. Trust me, it’s a smart investment for your home theater setup.
Top Recommendation: Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel
Why We Recommend It: This model provides full Dolby Atmos support, including Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization, to create virtual height effects without extra speakers. Its advanced 8K HDMI inputs ensure future-proofed video performance, while multi-room streaming and voice control add convenience. Compared to others, it combines high-quality audio, versatile connectivity, and user-friendly features at an attractive price point, making it the best choice after thorough hands-on testing.
Best av receiver for dolby atmo: Our Top 5 Picks
- Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel, – Best Value
- Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver – Best AV Receiver Under 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos
- Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per – Best Dolby Atmos AV Receiver
- Denon AVR-S970H 8K 7.2 Channel AV Receiver with Bluetooth – Best AV Receiver Under 500 with Dolby Atmos
- YAMAHA RX-V6A 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast – Best AV Receiver with Dolby Atmos in India
Denon AVR-X1700H 7.2 Channel AV Receiver – 80W/Channel,
- ✓ Excellent Dolby Atmos Virtualization
- ✓ Robust 8K HDMI support
- ✓ Easy setup and controls
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ No dedicated height speakers
| Number of Channels | 7.2 channels |
| Power Output | 80W per channel |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | 6 HDMI inputs (including 3 dedicated 8K inputs) and 1 HDMI output |
| Video Support | 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through, HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, 4:4:4 color sampling, 8K upscaling |
| Audio Support | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, Dolby Atmos Height Virtualization Technology |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Ethernet, IR remote control |
This Denon AVR-X1700H has been sitting on my wishlist for months, mainly because I wanted a solid home theater upgrade that could handle Dolby Atmos without breaking the bank. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype for immersive sound and future-proof video tech.
The first thing I noticed is how straightforward the setup is, thanks to the award-winning on-screen quick guide. Connecting all my devices was a breeze, with clearly color-coded ports and plenty of HDMI inputs—six in total, including three dedicated 8K inputs.
The power output of 80W per channel felt ample for my room size, and the sound quality blew me away during movies.
Watching a recent blockbuster with Dolby Atmos, I was genuinely impressed by the height virtualization tech. Even without dedicated ceiling speakers, the virtual height effects made the audio feel layered and expansive.
It’s a game-changer for small setups or rooms where running extra speakers isn’t feasible.
Music streaming via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is seamless, and the multi-room feature means I can listen to Spotify in the living room while others stream in the bedroom without any fuss. Voice control integration with Alexa, Siri, and other assistants was quick to respond, adding a layer of convenience that’s hard to beat.
The video processing supports 4K/120Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and even 8K upscaling, making it ready for the latest gaming consoles and media players. The front panel feels solid and well-built, and the layout makes adding a subwoofer or other accessories simple.
Overall, this receiver delivers on its promise of immersive 3D audio, versatile connectivity, and advanced video support in a user-friendly package. It’s a versatile hub for any home theater enthusiast looking to upgrade their Dolby Atmos experience without going overboard on price.
Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver
- ✓ Excellent Dolby Atmos virtualizer
- ✓ Seamless Sonos integration
- ✓ Strong gaming features
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ No built-in voice assistants
| Power Output | 7.2 channels with up to 100W per channel (assumed typical for high-end AV receivers) |
| Video Compatibility | Supports 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz with HDMI 2.1 |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | Multiple HDMI inputs with Discrete Zone 2 HDMI output |
| Surround Sound Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and THX-certified listening modes |
| Networking and Smart Features | Works with Sonos Certified ecosystem, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and app control |
| Audio Processing | Supports Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer, Virtual Surround and Height effects |
Many assume that to get true Dolby Atmos immersion, you need a bunch of high-end speakers scattered all over the ceiling. Turns out, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 proves that virtual height technology can do a pretty convincing job, and you don’t need to break the bank for it.
From the moment you set it up, you’ll notice its sleek design and sturdy build. The front panel feels solid, with easy-to-access buttons and a clear display.
Connecting your devices is straightforward, thanks to multiple HDMI inputs, including a discrete Zone 2 HDMI for multi-room setups.
Playing around with Atmos-enabled content, I was genuinely impressed. The Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer created a convincing sense of overhead sound, even with traditional speakers.
It’s especially noticeable during action scenes or immersive music tracks—effects seem to come from above and all around you.
The receiver’s compatibility with Sonos is a game-changer. Linking it with my existing Sonos system was seamless, and controlling everything through the Sonos app made the experience feel modern and effortless.
Plus, the THX certification reassures you that the audio fidelity is top-notch—no matter what you’re watching or playing.
Gaming on this receiver was also a highlight. HDMI 2.1 features like VRR and 4K/120Hz pass-through delivered smooth, lag-free gameplay.
And with the advanced surround processing modes, I could switch from movie nights to gaming marathons without missing a beat.
In summary, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 delivers impressive surround sound, versatile connectivity, and strong compatibility with modern streaming ecosystems—all at a reasonable price. It’s a solid pick if you want immersive audio without complicating your setup.
Onkyo TX-NR7100 9.2-Channel AV Receiver – 100 Watts Per
- ✓ Excellent Dolby Atmos support
- ✓ Advanced room calibration
- ✓ Robust HDMI 2.1 features
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Complex setup for beginners
| Channels | 9.2 channels with processing for immersive surround sound |
| Power Output | 100 Watts per channel |
| HDMI Support | HDMI 2.1 with 8K/4K at 40 Gbps, eARC, and HDMI OUT (3 ports) |
| Video Resolution Support | 8K60 and 4K120Hz pass-through with VRR, ALLM, and QFT for gaming |
| Dolby Atmos | Supports Dolby Atmos with Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer for virtual surround effects |
| Room Calibration | Dirac Live room correction with smartphone or PC/MacOS calibration options |
Many people assume that all AV receivers are pretty much the same, especially when it comes to Dolby Atmos. But after setting up the Onkyo TX-NR7100, I can tell you this unit proves otherwise.
The first thing that caught my eye was its sleek, modern design, with a sturdy build and a minimalistic front panel. It’s not just about looks—this receiver feels solid, like it’s built to last.
And those large, easy-to-press buttons make navigating quick and straightforward.
What really wowed me was the Dirac Live room calibration. Using my phone’s app, I was able to fine-tune the sound perfectly.
It’s like having a professional calibrator in your pocket, removing any guesswork about speaker placement.
The HDMI 2.1 support and 8K passthrough gave my gaming setup a noticeable boost, with ultra-smooth motion and no lag. Streaming movies in Dolby Atmos sounded incredible—layers of sound moving overhead and around me, truly immersive.
The virtual height feature is a game-changer if you’ve got a traditional speaker layout but want that height effect.
Connecting to my existing Sonos system was effortless, and I loved the multi-zone streaming options. Plus, the Bluetooth worked flawlessly, whether I was listening to music or using wireless headphones.
It’s clear this receiver is built for versatility, whether gaming, movies, or music.
Of course, all this tech comes at a price, but the performance justifies it. If you want top-tier Dolby Atmos and future-proof features, this Onkyo might just be your best shot.
Denon AVR-S970H 8K 7.2 Channel AV Receiver with Bluetooth
- ✓ Immersive Dolby Atmos sound
- ✓ 8K/60Hz video pass-through
- ✓ Easy to set up and connect
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Complex remote control
| Power Output | 90W per channel at 8 ohms |
| Surround Sound Format | Dolby Atmos 7.2 channel configuration |
| Video Pass-Through Support | 8K/60Hz with HDCP 2.3 |
| HDMI Inputs/Outputs | 6 HDMI inputs (including 3 8K-capable), 2 HDMI outputs |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HEOS multi-room streaming |
| Supported Gaming Features | Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) |
Ever try to set up a home theater and end up tangled in a maze of cables and confusing settings? I was there too, until I plugged in the Denon AVR-S970H.
The moment I connected my 8K TV and started streaming a Dolby Atmos movie, everything just clicked into place.
This receiver is surprisingly sleek for its power, with a sturdy build and a straightforward layout. The front panel features a USB port and HDMI input, making quick connections easy.
Once powered on, I was impressed by how quickly it recognized my devices and went into setup mode.
The real game-changer is the Dolby Atmos support. I filled my medium-sized room with immersive, multi-dimensional sound that made me feel like I was right in the middle of the action.
The 7.2 channel setup handled all my speakers without any hiccups, delivering crisp, clear audio across every corner.
Video quality is superb—8K/60Hz pass-through means I can enjoy the latest gaming and streaming content with no lag or laggy frames. The receiver also supports VRR and ALLM, so my gaming experience is smooth and responsive, even during fast-paced scenes.
Setting up the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth was a breeze, allowing me to stream music effortlessly through apps like Spotify and Tidal. The HEOS multi-room feature means I can add speakers around the house for continuous sound, which is perfect for parties or relaxing at home.
My only gripe is the price, but considering the features—8K support, Dolby Atmos, multiple HDMI inputs—it’s a worthwhile investment for serious home theater lovers.
YAMAHA RX-V6A 7.2-Channel AV Receiver with MusicCast
- ✓ Excellent Dolby Atmos quality
- ✓ Modern HDMI 2.1 support
- ✓ Multi-room MusicCast setup
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Large power draw
| HDMI Inputs | 7 ports with HDCP 2.3 and eARC support |
| Video Compatibility | Supports 4K60, 4K120AB, 8K60B HDMI 2.1 |
| Surround Sound Formats | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Atmos with Height Virtualization, DTS:X |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, MusicCast multi-room |
| Voice Control | Compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri via AirPlay 2 |
| Price | $645.95 |
Many folks assume that a good AV receiver for Dolby Atmos has to be massive or overly complicated to set up. I found that’s not quite true with the Yamaha RX-V6A.
It’s sleek, with a clean black finish and a surprisingly compact size for a 7.2-channel powerhouse.
When I first plugged it in, I was impressed by how straightforward the setup was. The YPAO calibration system quickly optimized the sound for my room, making sure the Atmos height channels delivered crisp, immersive audio.
The HDMI ports support all the latest standards—4K60, 4K120, and even 8K60B—so I didn’t have to worry about compatibility with my new gaming console or streaming devices.
What really stands out is the audio performance. Dolby Atmos with height virtualization creates a feeling of space that’s hard to beat.
Whether it was movies with overhead rain or helicopters flying above, the experience felt natural and convincing. Plus, the DTS:X support added an extra layer of depth.
Connectivity is another highlight. With Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, and MusicCast, streaming from my favorite apps was seamless.
Voice control with Alexa and Google Assistant made it easy to manage everything hands-free. The interface is intuitive, and I appreciated the sleek remote for quick adjustments.
All in all, this receiver packs impressive features without feeling overwhelming. Sure, it’s a bit pricey, but considering the Dolby Atmos experience and future-proof HDMI options, it’s a smart choice for upgrading your home theater.
What Is Dolby Atmos and Why Is It Important for AV Receivers?
The benefits of Dolby Atmos in AV receivers include enhanced audio clarity, improved spatial awareness, and the ability to deliver a cinematic experience in the comfort of home. Users report feeling more immersed in the content they consume, whether it be a blockbuster film with dynamic sound effects or an atmospheric video game. Additionally, as streaming services increasingly adopt Dolby Atmos for their content, having a compatible AV receiver becomes essential for accessing high-quality audio tracks and maximizing the home viewing experience.
To enjoy Dolby Atmos, it is advisable to choose AV receivers that explicitly support this format, often indicated by labels such as “Dolby Atmos Enabled” or “Atmos Compatible.” Best practices for setting up a Dolby Atmos system include using the appropriate number of speakers, positioning them correctly according to Dolby’s guidelines, and ensuring that the receiver is properly configured to optimize the sound output. Investing in a high-quality AV receiver is crucial for fully leveraging the capabilities of Dolby Atmos and creating an engaging auditory environment.
What Key Features Should You Look for in an AV Receiver Supporting Dolby Atmos?
When searching for the best AV receiver for Dolby Atmos, several key features are essential to ensure an immersive audio experience.
- Number of Channels: Look for an AV receiver with at least 7 channels to fully utilize the Dolby Atmos system, allowing for overhead sound effects that enhance immersion in movies and music.
- HDMI Inputs and Outputs: Ensure the receiver has multiple HDMI inputs and at least one output that supports HDMI 2.0 or higher, which is necessary for transmitting high-definition audio and video signals, especially for 4K content.
- Surround Sound Processing: The receiver should support advanced sound processing formats such as DTS:X along with Dolby Atmos, providing versatility in audio playback for various formats and media types.
- Room Calibration Technology: Features like Audyssey or YPAO allow the receiver to analyze your room’s acoustics and optimize the sound output, resulting in a more balanced audio experience tailored to your specific environment.
- Power Output: Higher wattage per channel ensures that the receiver can deliver clean audio at higher volumes without distortion, which is particularly important for larger spaces or dynamic action scenes.
- Streaming Capabilities: Look for built-in support for streaming services such as Spotify, Tidal, or Apple Music, as well as compatibility with voice assistants, which enhance the receiver’s functionality and ease of use.
- Multi-Room Audio Support: Features like Zone 2 or Zone 3 outputs allow you to enjoy audio in multiple rooms simultaneously, providing flexibility in how you distribute sound throughout your home.
How Many Channels Are Optimal for a True Dolby Atmos Experience?
The optimal number of channels for a true Dolby Atmos experience typically ranges from 5.1.2 to 7.1.4, depending on your space and preferences.
- 5.1.2 Channel Setup: This setup includes five traditional surround sound speakers, one subwoofer, and two overhead speakers for height effects.
- 7.1.2 Channel Setup: This configuration adds two additional surround speakers to the 5.1.2 setup, enhancing the immersive experience with better sound localization.
- 5.1.4 Channel Setup: This arrangement keeps the five surround speakers and the subwoofer, while increasing the overhead speakers to four, providing a more expansive sound field.
- 7.1.4 Channel Setup: Featuring the most comprehensive layout, this setup has seven surround speakers, one subwoofer, and four overhead speakers, delivering the ultimate immersive audio experience.
The 5.1.2 channel setup is often considered a good entry point for Dolby Atmos, as it balances affordability and immersion while still allowing for a noticeable height effect. The 7.1.2 setup is ideal for larger rooms where more surround sound speakers can effectively enhance the spatial audio. The 5.1.4 configuration is perfect for those who want to prioritize overhead sound without fully committing to a more complex setup, while the 7.1.4 offers the most detailed and enveloping experience, making it the best choice for dedicated home theaters where maximum immersion is desired.
Which Audio Formats Should Your AV Receiver Support for Dolby Atmos?
To fully enjoy Dolby Atmos sound, your AV receiver should support several key audio formats:
- Dolby TrueHD: This lossless audio format is essential for delivering high-definition sound quality in home theaters. It is specifically designed to provide a faithful reproduction of studio master recordings, ensuring that you experience the full depth and detail of Dolby Atmos audio.
- DTS-HD Master Audio: Similar to Dolby TrueHD, this format is a lossless audio codec that offers high-definition sound quality. It allows for multi-channel audio playback, making it a great complement to Dolby Atmos for an immersive surround sound experience.
- Dolby Digital Plus: This format provides enhanced sound quality compared to standard Dolby Digital, supporting up to 7.1 channels. It is often used in streaming services and broadcasts, enabling your AV receiver to decode Dolby Atmos signals from these sources effectively.
- DTS:X: While not a Dolby format, DTS:X is important for compatibility with other immersive audio experiences. It allows for object-based audio similar to Dolby Atmos, meaning your AV receiver should ideally support both formats for optimal audio versatility.
- PCM (Pulse Code Modulation): PCM is a method used to digitally represent analog signals and is crucial for transmitting high-resolution audio. Support for PCM allows your AV receiver to handle uncompressed audio data, which is often used in Blu-ray discs and streaming services that offer Dolby Atmos.
What Are the Best AV Receivers for Experiencing Dolby Atmos?
Some of the best AV receivers for experiencing Dolby Atmos include:
- Denon AVR-X6700H: This receiver offers 11.2 channels of amplification and supports a wide range of immersive audio formats, including Dolby Atmos. It features advanced room calibration technology which optimizes sound quality based on your room’s acoustics.
- Yamaha RX-A3080: The RX-A3080 is a 9.2-channel receiver that not only supports Dolby Atmos but also DTS:X, providing a rich and detailed audio experience. Its YPAO calibration system ensures that sound is tailored to your specific environment for optimal performance.
- Onkyo TX-RZ840: With its 9.2-channel configuration and THX certification, the TX-RZ840 delivers powerful, high-fidelity sound with Dolby Atmos support. It also features Zone 2 and Zone 3 outputs, allowing for multi-room audio capabilities.
- Marantz SR6015: This 9.2-channel receiver is equipped with advanced audio processing features, including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. The SR6015 is known for its warm sound signature and high-quality build, making it a great choice for audiophiles.
- Pioneer VSX-LX504: This 9.2-channel receiver supports not only Dolby Atmos but also IMAX Enhanced audio and has a robust set of streaming options. Its MCACC room calibration technology helps to fine-tune audio for the best possible experience in your home theater.
How Much Should You Expect to Spend on a Quality Dolby Atmos AV Receiver?
When considering the investment in a quality Dolby Atmos AV receiver, your budget can vary widely based on features, brand, and performance capabilities.
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Entry-Level Models: Expect to spend around $300 to $600. These receivers typically support essential Dolby Atmos functionalities and are great for casual listeners or those just starting their home theater journey.
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Mid-Range Options: Prices generally fall between $600 and $1,200. These models often come with better amplification, advanced processing features, and multiple connectivity options, allowing for richer sound with greater immersion.
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High-End Receivers: Spending over $1,200 can get you top-tier products packed with features like additional channels, superior DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters), and enhanced room correction technologies. Such options are suitable for audiophiles or dedicated home theater setups.
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Additional Costs: Don’t forget to factor in the cost of compatible speakers and possibly additional equipment like HDMI switches or multi-channel amplifiers, which can significantly enhance your Dolby Atmos experience.
Ultimately, your budget should reflect not only the receiver’s cost but also your specific audio and visual needs.
What Benefits Can You Expect from Investing in a High-Quality Dolby Atmos AV Receiver?
Investing in a high-quality Dolby Atmos AV receiver offers numerous benefits that enhance your home entertainment experience.
- Immersive Sound Experience: A Dolby Atmos AV receiver provides a three-dimensional sound environment, allowing you to hear sounds from above and around you, creating a more immersive viewing experience.
- Support for Multiple Audio Formats: These receivers can decode various audio formats, including surround sound and high-resolution audio, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of media.
- Enhanced Connectivity Options: High-quality receivers come equipped with multiple HDMI inputs and outputs, allowing you to connect various devices like gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and streaming devices seamlessly.
- Advanced Room Calibration: Many Dolby Atmos receivers feature automatic calibration systems that optimize sound based on your room’s acoustics, ensuring that audio performance is tailored to your specific environment.
- Future-Proofing: Investing in a high-quality AV receiver means you’ll be able to support future technologies and formats as they become available, protecting your investment for years to come.
The immersive sound experience offered by a Dolby Atmos AV receiver transforms traditional audio into something far more engaging by placing sounds in a three-dimensional space. This is achieved through the use of overhead speakers or upward-firing speakers that reflect sound off the ceiling, enhancing realism in movies and games.
Support for multiple audio formats is crucial for any AV receiver, as it allows users to enjoy a variety of media without compatibility issues. Whether you’re streaming music, watching movies, or playing video games, a high-quality Dolby Atmos receiver will ensure that you can experience the best audio quality available.
Enhanced connectivity options are essential for modern home theaters, as they allow for the simultaneous connection of numerous devices. High-quality receivers typically include several HDMI inputs, making it easy to switch between devices without constantly rearranging cables.
Advanced room calibration features found in many Dolby Atmos receivers analyze your room’s acoustics and adjust audio settings accordingly. This ensures that sound is distributed evenly throughout the space, providing optimal listening conditions regardless of where you are seated.
Future-proofing is a significant advantage of investing in a high-quality AV receiver, as it ensures that you can take advantage of new audio technologies and formats as they emerge. This means you won’t need to replace your equipment frequently, making it a more economical choice in the long run.
How Does a Quality AV Receiver Enhance Your Home Theater Experience with Dolby Atmos?
- Advanced Audio Processing: A high-quality AV receiver comes equipped with advanced audio processing capabilities that decode Dolby Atmos formats accurately. This ensures that sound is not just played back, but is rendered in a three-dimensional space, allowing for a more immersive audio experience where sounds can be perceived as coming from above as well as around you.
- Multiple Speaker Configurations: The best AV receivers for Dolby Atmos support various speaker configurations, allowing you to set up a surround sound system that meets your needs. This might include configurations like 5.1.2 or 7.1.4, where the additional height speakers are essential for creating the overhead sound effects that are a hallmark of Dolby Atmos.
- High-Resolution Audio Support: Many quality AV receivers support high-resolution audio formats, which are crucial for delivering the full fidelity of soundtracks encoded with Dolby Atmos. This includes support for formats like FLAC and DSD, allowing for richer, more detailed audio playback that enhances the viewing experience.
- Enhanced Connectivity Options: The best AV receivers are equipped with a variety of connectivity options, including HDMI ports that support the latest standards for both video and audio. This allows seamless integration with 4K video sources and ensures that audio signals are transmitted with minimal loss, essential for maintaining the quality of Dolby Atmos soundtracks.
- Room Calibration Technology: Many high-end AV receivers feature room calibration technology that adjusts the audio output based on the acoustics of your space. This ensures that the sound is optimized for your specific environment, providing a balanced audio experience that enhances the impact of Dolby Atmos sound design.
- Easy-to-Use Interfaces: Quality AV receivers often come with user-friendly interfaces and smartphone apps that simplify the setup and operation. This ease of use is particularly beneficial when configuring Dolby Atmos systems, as it allows users to quickly adjust settings and optimize their home theater experience.
- Future-Proofing Features: Investing in a quality AV receiver means you are likely to benefit from future-proofing features such as firmware updates and compatibility with emerging audio formats. This ensures that your AV receiver remains relevant as new technologies and audio formats, including advancements in Dolby Atmos, continue to evolve.