10 Best AV Receivers With eARC in 2026 for Smarter Home Theater Upgrades

Written by: Editor In Chief
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Choosing the right AV receiver with eARC can simplify your system while improving sound, video support, and upgrade flexibility. This roundup compares 10 options across compact 5.2-channel receivers, full-featured 7.2-channel models, and complete home theater packages.

We focused on HDMI performance, surround formats, streaming features, room-friendly connectivity, and overall value so you can match an AV receiver to your TV, speakers, console, and listening habits.

Best 10 Av Receiver with Earc Picks for 2026

Premium Gaming & Cinema Pick

Yamaha RX-A2A

Yamaha RX-A2A
  • eARC with 8K/60 and 4K/120 support
  • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and YPAO calibration
  • Wi-Fi, MusicCast, AirPlay 2, and phono input

Best For: Feature-focused home theaters and next-generation gaming

Value Connectivity Pick

Donner MAMP8

Donner MAMP8
  • 5.2-channel connectivity with two active subwoofer outputs
  • 4K HDR pass-through and HDMI ARC
  • Bluetooth 5.3, USB, phono, optical, and coaxial inputs

Best For: Simple TV, music, and entry-level surround setups

THX-Certified Theater Pick

Onkyo TX-NR6100

Onkyo TX-NR6100
  • THX Select certification and 210W/channel specification
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X 5.2.2 playback
  • Three 40Gbps HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support

Best For: Dedicated home theaters and HDMI 2.1 setups

Balanced 8K Home Theater Pick

Denon AVR-S770H

Denon AVR-S770H
  • 8K/60 and 4K/120 pass-through
  • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and virtual height effects
  • HEOS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and gaming support

Best For: Flexible family rooms with 8K TVs and gaming consoles

Best for Next-Gen Gaming

Onkyo TX-NR5100

Onkyo TX-NR5100
  • 7.2-channel receiver with 80-watt output
  • 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM, and QFT gaming support
  • eARC supports immersive high-bitrate audio

Best For: Gamers with an eARC-equipped TV

Best Compact Streaming Pick

Denon AVR-S670H

Denon AVR-S670H
  • 5.2-channel design with 75 watts per channel
  • 8K, 4K/120Hz, and advanced HDR support
  • HEOS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and voice control

Best For: Streamers building a simple eARC home theater

Best Overall 7-Channel System

Denon AVR-X1700H

Denon AVR-X1700H
  • 7-channel amplifier with 80 watts per channel
  • Three 8K inputs plus eARC and 4K/120Hz support
  • Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, HEOS, and multi-room streaming

Best For: Expandable immersive home theaters

Complete Atmos Package

Yamaha YHT-4970U

Yamaha YHT-4970U
  • Includes receiver, five speakers, and powered subwoofer
  • Dolby Atmos with 4K/120 and 8K/60 video
  • Room correction and Bluetooth Multipoint

Best For: Complete 5.1 home theater setups

Compact 8K Value

Denon AVR-S570BT

Denon AVR-S570BT
  • Four HDMI 2.1 inputs with 8K support
  • eARC up to 40 Gbps
  • Bluetooth, app control, and setup assistant

Best For: Existing 5.1 speaker systems and gaming setups

Flexible Atmos Receiver

Yamaha RX300A AV Receiver

Yamaha RX300A AV Receiver
  • Supports Dolby Atmos and 3.1.2 layouts
  • 4K/120, 8K/60, and HDMI eARC
  • Automatic room correction and Bluetooth Multipoint

Best For: DIY systems using separately purchased speakers

Premium Gaming & Cinema Pick – Yamaha RX-A2A

For shoppers seeking an av receiver with earc, the Yamaha RX-A2A combines eARC with 8K/60 and 4K/120 support, immersive Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, and broad wireless music options. Its YPAO R.S.C. calibration and Surround:AI processing are useful for tailoring a home theater to the room.

Best For: Home theater users who want premium features, next-generation gaming support, and flexible music streaming.

Pros:

  • Supports eARC, 8K/60, 4K/120, VRR, and ALLM.
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS:X provide immersive surround sound.
  • Includes YPAO R.S.C. multipoint calibration and Surround:AI.
  • Offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, MusicCast, phono, and voice-control support.

Cons:

  • Its 7.2-channel layout may not suit larger or more elaborate systems.
  • Some advanced functions may require setup and calibration time.

The RX-A2A is a well-rounded eARC receiver for buyers prioritizing connectivity and room correction alongside strong gaming and cinematic specifications.

Value Connectivity Pick – Donner MAMP8

The Donner MAMP8 is a compact, budget-oriented alternative for shoppers comparing an av receiver with earc, though its listed HDMI feature is standard ARC rather than eARC. It combines 5.2-channel speaker connectivity, 4K HDR pass-through, Bluetooth 5.3, and a phono input.

Best For: Buyers who want a straightforward receiver for 4K TV audio, stereo listening, and basic surround speaker setups.

Pros:

  • Supports up to five speakers and two active subwoofers.
  • Offers 4K HDR pass-through and HDMI ARC.
  • Includes Bluetooth 5.3, USB, optical, coaxial, RCA, FM, and phono inputs.
  • Provides adjustable treble, midrange, bass, and saved EQ settings.

Cons:

  • Supplied notes specify ARC, not eARC.
  • Dolby and DTS decoding are not supported.
  • Only two HDMI ports are listed.

The MAMP8 makes sense when broad input selection and simple controls matter more than advanced immersive formats or eARC compatibility.

THX-Certified Theater Pick – Onkyo TX-NR6100

The Onkyo TX-NR6100 is a 7.2-channel network receiver aimed at serious home theater use. For those searching for an av receiver with earc, its supplied specifications highlight HDMI 2.1, three 40Gbps inputs, 8K support, and ARC, while THX Select certification and Dolby Atmos/DTS:X playback focus on cinematic sound.

Best For: Home theater enthusiasts who want THX-certified amplification, immersive audio, and strong HDMI 2.1 connectivity.

Pros:

  • THX Select certified with a 210W-per-channel amplification specification.
  • Supports 5.2.2 Dolby Atmos and DTS:X playback.
  • Provides 8K HDMI 2.1 connectivity with three 40Gbps inputs.
  • Includes discrete Zone 2 audio and video plus Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Cons:

  • The supplied notes list ARC but do not confirm eARC.
  • Its larger chassis may require more installation space.

The TX-NR6100 is compelling for a dedicated theater where THX certification and HDMI 2.1 bandwidth are higher priorities than confirmed eARC labeling.

Balanced 8K Home Theater Pick – Denon AVR-S770H

The Denon AVR-S770H offers a practical 7.2-channel platform for shoppers seeking an av receiver with earc and modern TV connectivity. Its supplied features include 8K/60 and 4K/120 pass-through, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, gaming enhancements, and HEOS streaming over Wi-Fi.

Best For: Families and gamers building a flexible 7-channel system around an 8K television.

Pros:

  • Supports 8K/60 and 4K/120 video pass-through.
  • Handles Dolby Atmos, Dolby TrueHD, DTS:X, and DTS Neural:X upmixing.
  • Includes VRR, ALLM, QFT, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG support.
  • Offers HEOS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and voice control with compatible assistants.

Cons:

  • The supplied notes do not explicitly confirm eARC.
  • Its 75W-per-channel rating may be less suitable for very demanding large-room systems.

The AVR-S770H is a versatile choice when 8K video, gaming features, immersive audio, and multi-room streaming need to coexist in one receiver.

Best for Next-Gen Gaming – Onkyo TX-NR5100

If you want an AV receiver with eARC that also supports modern gaming features, the Onkyo TX-NR5100 is a practical 7.2-channel option. It supports 4K/120Hz HDR pass-through, VRR, ALLM, and QFT, while eARC handles high-bitrate formats such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X from compatible TV apps.

Best For: Gamers building a 7.2-channel home theater around an eARC-equipped TV.

Pros:

  • Supports 4K/120Hz HDR pass-through for fast gameplay.
  • VRR, ALLM, and QFT help reduce tearing, stutter, and input lag.
  • eARC supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS-HD Master Audio, and Dolby TrueHD.
  • Includes Chromecast built-in, AirPlay 2, DTS Play-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Cons:

  • Its 80-watt output and 7.2-channel configuration may not suit larger or more demanding systems.
  • The supplied specifications list four HDMI ports, which may limit connected sources.

The TX-NR5100 stands out when gaming responsiveness and eARC audio support are priorities. It is a sensible fit for a compact-to-midsize setup that does not need extensive HDMI expansion.

Best Compact Streaming Pick – Denon AVR-S670H

The Denon AVR-S670H is an approachable AV receiver with eARC for a 5.2-channel home theater. Along with 8K and 4K/120Hz pass-through, it adds built-in HEOS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and voice-control compatibility for convenient TV and music playback.

Best For: Buyers who want straightforward eARC connectivity, streaming, and voice control in a 5.2-channel system.

Pros:

  • HDMI ARC/eARC supports TV audio through a single HDMI connection.
  • Supports 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG, and Dynamic HDR.
  • Built-in HEOS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Spotify, TIDAL, and Pandora support broadens streaming options.
  • Works with Alexa and other major voice agents for hands-free control.

Cons:

  • The five-channel amplifier is less expandable than the 7-channel models in this roundup.
  • Its 75-watt-per-channel output may be limiting for larger rooms or less-sensitive speakers.

Choose the AVR-S670H if you value easy network streaming and broad video-format support more than additional surround channels. Its eARC and voice-control features make it a convenient centerpiece for a simpler home theater.

Best Overall 7-Channel System – Denon AVR-X1700H

For a more capable home theater, the Denon AVR-X1700H combines a 7-channel amplifier with an AV receiver with eARC connectivity. It offers three dedicated 8K inputs, 4K/120Hz pass-through, Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, multi-room streaming, and setup guidance aimed at making installation easier.

Best For: Home theater owners who want 7-channel immersive audio, flexible networking, and multiple 8K-capable inputs.

Pros:

  • Seven-channel, 80-watt amplifier supports Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X.
  • Three dedicated 8K HDMI inputs and one 8K output support modern sources and displays.
  • eARC, 4K/120Hz pass-through, 8K upscaling, and broad HDR compatibility support current TVs.
  • HEOS, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Alexa, and multi-room functionality add flexibility.

Cons:

  • Its larger feature set may be more than needed for a basic 5.1 setup.
  • The supplied details do not specify the complete built-in media and input list.

The AVR-X1700H is the strongest choice here for buyers planning a more immersive, connected system. Its combination of eARC, three 8K inputs, room-oriented setup guidance, and 7-channel audio gives it room to grow.

Complete Atmos Package – Yamaha YHT-4970U

If you want an AV receiver with eARC without shopping for speakers separately, the Yamaha YHT-4970U is a convenient all-in-one home theater package. It combines the RX300A receiver with five speakers and a powered subwoofer, while supporting Dolby Atmos, 4K/120, and 8K/60 video.

Best For: Buyers building a complete 5.1 home theater system in one purchase.

Pros:

  • Includes the receiver, five speakers, powered subwoofer, speaker wire, and setup accessories.
  • Supports Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual:X, HDMI eARC/ARC, Dolby Vision, and HDR10+.
  • Room-correction microphone helps optimize sound for the listening space.
  • Bluetooth Multipoint allows two source devices to be paired.

Cons:

  • Its 5.1 speaker package offers less expansion flexibility than buying a receiver alone.
  • At 50.4 pounds, the complete system is relatively substantial to move and install.

The YHT-4970U is the simplest route to a coordinated surround setup, especially if you need both an eARC-capable receiver and speakers. Its included calibration tools and guided setup also make it approachable for first-time home theater buyers.

Compact 8K Value – Denon AVR-S570BT

The Denon AVR-S570BT is a practical AV receiver with eARC for shoppers who already own speakers and want modern HDMI connectivity. It provides four 8K HDMI inputs, 5.2-channel surround processing, Bluetooth streaming, and gaming-focused features in a receiver-only design.

Best For: Existing speaker owners who need multiple 8K HDMI inputs and straightforward surround sound.

Pros:

  • Offers four HDMI 2.1 8K inputs and eARC support up to 40 Gbps.
  • Supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, VRR, and QFT.
  • Built-in Bluetooth supports wireless playback from compatible devices.
  • On-screen setup assistant and app control simplify configuration and daily use.

Cons:

  • Does not include speakers or a subwoofer.
  • Provides five amplified channels rather than a larger immersive-speaker layout.

The AVR-S570BT is a sensible choice when HDMI 2.1 connectivity matters more than advanced expansion. Its four 8K inputs and eARC output make it well suited to a TV, console, and multiple source components.

Flexible Atmos Receiver – Yamaha RX300A AV Receiver

The Yamaha RX300A is a flexible AV receiver with eARC for building a system around your own speakers. It supports 5.2-channel layouts, including a 3.1.2 Dolby Atmos configuration, along with 4K/120 and 8K/60 HDMI, automatic room correction, and Bluetooth Multipoint.

Best For: DIY home theater builders who want Atmos flexibility without an included speaker bundle.

Pros:

  • Supports Dolby Atmos and flexible 3.1.2-channel layouts with height speakers.
  • Includes 4K/120 and 8K/60 HDMI, HDMI eARC/ARC, ALLM, and VRR.
  • Automatic room correction uses the included setup microphone.
  • Bluetooth Multipoint supports two paired source devices.

Cons:

  • Speakers and subwoofer must be purchased separately.
  • Its five amplified channels limit expansion compared with larger AV receivers.

The RX300A offers a strong balance of current video support and setup assistance for a receiver-only purchase. Choose it if you want to select your own speakers and may use a compact Atmos layout with height channels.

How We Picked the Best Av Receiver with Earc

We selected models that support eARC or include it as part of their modern HDMI connectivity, then compared the features that matter most in a current home theater. Our evaluation considered channel count, HDMI support, 4K/120Hz and 8K capability, Dolby Atmos and DTS:X compatibility, network and wireless audio, room correction, and ease of setup.

The list includes established Yamaha, Denon, and Onkyo receivers, along with a value-focused Donner option and a Yamaha package that includes speakers and a powered subwoofer. Because product specifications and included accessories can vary by retailer or revision, confirm the listing details before buying.

Quick Comparison

Choose a 5.2-channel receiver if you want a straightforward surround system for a living room, bedroom, or smaller media space. A 7.2-channel model is more suitable for a larger room, a second subwoofer, or a future Dolby Atmos configuration. Yamaha’s RX-A2A and Onkyo’s TX-NR6100 are aimed at buyers wanting broader features and expansion, while Denon’s S-series models emphasize accessible setup and everyday value.

The Yamaha YHT-4970U stands apart because it combines a receiver with speakers and a subwoofer. It may be convenient for a first-time system, but separate speakers generally provide more flexibility for later upgrades.

Key Buying Factors for an Av Receiver with Earc

HDMI, EARC, and Gaming Support

eARC sends high-quality audio from a compatible TV to the receiver through HDMI, including formats used by streaming services and game consoles. Look for enough HDMI inputs for your devices, plus 4K/120Hz support if you own a current PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. An 8K label can help with future compatibility, but it is not essential for every TV setup.

Channels and Speaker Layout

Five amplified channels are enough for traditional 5.1 surround. Seven channels can support 7.1 or a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos layout, depending on the receiver’s processing and amplification options. Check the receiver’s power ratings, speaker impedance requirements, and available pre-outs before planning a demanding system.

Audio Formats and Room Setup

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X add height effects when paired with compatible speakers. Automatic room calibration can also improve balance in imperfect rooms. Features such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, HEOS, MusicCast, or other network platforms make it easier to stream without turning on a separate source device.

Who Should Buy Which Av Receiver with Earc?

Buy a 5.2-channel Denon or Yamaha model if you want simple operation, reliable TV audio, and a conventional surround setup. Choose a 7.2-channel Onkyo, Denon, or Yamaha receiver if you want more inputs, stronger expansion options, or a path toward Atmos. Choose the Yamaha YHT-4970U if you need an all-in-one package and do not already own speakers. Consider the Donner if initial cost is the priority, but verify its HDMI, eARC, warranty, and network features carefully against your needs.

Before checkout, confirm the receiver’s exact HDMI version, included accessories, regional voltage, dimensions, and current firmware support. The best Av Receiver with Earc is the one that has enough inputs today, supports your intended speaker layout, and leaves reasonable room for future upgrades.