LDN AV receivers Our ratings Best 2 Zone Receiver Reviews

Are you looking for a new two zone receiver to improve your home theater experience? If so, you’re in luck! In this post, we’ll compare and review the best two zone receivers on the market. We’ll discuss their features and help you decide which one is right for you. So, let’s get started!

Our pick
Best two zone receiver
Denon AVR-X1700H
Best two zone receiver
The AVR-X1700H is designed for use with 4K or 8K setups. It provides the ultimate 3D audio home theater/gaming experiences and supports the latest HDMI specifications.

Best 2 zone AV receiver reviews

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Related article – the best multi zone receiver reviews.

Denon AVR-X1700H – best overall

Looking for a great home theater receiver on a budget? The Denon AVR-X1700H is a fine option. It supports the latest audio and video technologies you would expect in $1000's units.

Check out our full Denon AVR-X1700H review, we'll take a closer look at its features and performance to see if it's the right model for you.

Build and design

Denon AVR-X1700H

Denon AVR-X1700H is a mid-sized receiver, measuring 17 inches wide, 13.5 inches deep, and 6 inches tall. It weighs about 19 pounds. An uncluttered appearance that will go well with any home theater setup is the trademark of the Denon AVR-X1700H.

The front panel has a clean, minimalist design with a large volume knob, power button, along with a row of buttons for basic control and navigating the menu. The display is small but clear, and it's easy to read from a distance and very intuitive. The rear of the receiver is more complex and contains a good range of connectivity options.

As for me, it would be better to have different colors and symbols representing different menu items, but it seems to be a personal taste judgment. There have, however, been no issues I noticed other than the screen remaining on after adjusting the volume, requiring a second press.

Features and specs

Denon AVR-X1700H back

Denon AVR-X1700H's specifications say that it is a 7.2 channel receiver that has 95 watts per channel of power into 8 ohms. It is enough for a medium to large-sized room. I'm typically running 55% volume level for normal TV/voice and up to 75% for loud movies/entertainment. In addition, the Denon AVR-X1700H features built-in HEOS wireless multi-room audio technology, which lets you play music from the receiver in any room of your house. For example, I connected my speakers in the kitchen and could watch a movie in the living room and have the soundtrack playing in the kitchen simultaneously.

Six back HDMI inputs and one main output are on offer, with 8k/60 - 4k/120 max Resolution. Phono input for vinyl enthusiasts is also a nice touch. There are also 2 subwoofer outs for those that like to have beefier bass. The pass-through functionality works great as you can still use the tv without the stereo when you don't need it. I configured Zone 2 for my speakers outside, so AirPlay, HEOS functionality, and streaming integration are super handy to control from a phone without needing remotes. I can control the unit from my phone which is great when we're outside.

Denon AVR-X1700H supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, both of which create an immersive 3-dimensional soundscape. Dialog Enhancer is a Denon exclusive feature that helps make speech more intelligible, even in difficult listening environments. The receiver also supports HDR (high dynamic range) video passthrough, which means you can watch HDR content from your Ultra HD Blu-ray player or streaming service and get the full benefit of HDR's enhanced picture quality, with brighter highlights, deeper shadows, and more natural colors. I've watched a few 4k HDR videos and the results were really great.

Sound

Denon AVR-X1700H photo

The Denon AVR-X1700H adds great natural tones and excellent clarity. The receiver's ability to create an immersive soundscape is especially impressive, and it makes movies and TV shows feel more cinematic. The bass response is good, although it could be a bit deeper. The receiver's sound quality is sure to please audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Especially I liked the moments in film trailers where the full surround sound, such as wind or a helicopter, kicked in. I could feel like I was in the room with the action happening. But keep in mind that you have to set up a few speakers in front of you and a few behind it. Otherwise, the sound will be flat.

Verdict about Denon AVR-X1700H

I would consider Denon AVR-X1700H to be an advantageous receiver if you want to upgrade a home theater setup on a budget without sacrificing features or performance. It offers enough audio and video formats for significant improvement of sound and picture quality, with no unnecessary features you'll never use.

Yamaha RX-V6A

In our Yamaha RX-V6A review you can get to know a few things, which make it stand out from others. First, it has a really powerful amplifier. This feature makes the device perfect for both larger rooms and home theaters.

Yamaha RX-V6A

The device’s advanced features and functionality make it a suitable option for those who want more control over their audio experience. This model also includes features like Yamaha's Own CINEMA DSP processing, which provides an unforgettable sound experience. Finally, the RX-V6A model has different built-in ways of connectivity that makes the device really easy for connecting to your favorite streaming services.

Design and its built

Let’s begin with the design of the model, which is relatively straightforward. For instance, when you are looking at the front side, we can notice a clean and minimalist design, with only a few buttons and regulation knobs. Generally speaking, its build quality is also fine, with a solid feel.

Let’s consider some more Yamaha RX-V6A specifications. As for dimensions, they are 17-1/8" x 6-3/4" x 14-7/8" inches. The model also weighs about 21.6 lbs., which gives it a premium feel. As for the back panel, it is where all the action is, with many ports and connections.

Overall, this design is elegant and practical. It should be more than enough to satisfy most users' needs and desires.

Moreover, it’s really easy to set up the Yamaha RX-V6A model, even if you haven’t done it before. The Yamaha model has a clear interface, so it will be easy for you to to control and operate it. The setup process does not require special knowledge or expertise. The receiver can be configured to work with most varieties of home theater systems and different audio components that you use.

Features

Yamaha RX-V6A back

The Yamaha RX-V6A model is a popular 7.2-channel device, which produces deep, realistic sound and supports advanced streaming services for ultimate flexibility and convenience. I think practicality and power are two main things, which are worth our attention. With 100 W (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 0.06% THD, 2ch driven), the model has a lot of power in order to drive your speakers and also provide an unforgettable sound experience. It is a possibility to feel deep and clear sounds. This model supports bi-ampinng.

Owners of the device can use two amplifiers at the same time, if they want to power each of the left and right speakers, providing greater power and improved sound quality. Bi-amp capable models typically have special speaker terminals. Users are allowed to connect the two amplifiers and switches or menus in order to enable or disable the bi-amp function.

Besides, it includes a multi-room mode. Here we speak about one more interesting feature. You just need to download the MusicCast app if you want to control which room the sound is playing in. People can also use it to stream different sources to any of your rooms. It’s really comfortable, because it doesn’t require any additional remote control, only your smartphone.

The Yamaha RX-V6A includes a wide variety of ports for connecting a lot of types of devices, such as audio and video. It’s also important to check before buying, in order not to buy something else later. On this device you can notice seven HDMI inputs, two RCA stereo inputs, one optical digital input, and a subwoofer output.

In addition, this model includes a USB port that gives a possibility to connect a USB drive or a digital audio player. For radio fans, the RX-V6A includes a built-in AM and FM tuner. Besides, there are some other connectivities, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Such availability is really comfortable, because they are like alternative options, in the case of any problem. It provides an easy way of connection, giving you the maximum flexibility in usage. The AirPlay2 and Yamaha AirPlay app allows you to stream your favorite music directly from your personal Apple devices. The RX-V6A model is ideal for almost any home theater setup with all these great features.

This model provides an excellent video experience. Yamaha RX-V6A also has several audio features that will improve watching experience. It supports 4K Ultra HD video, including HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. People like and prefer this device for its 4K120AB, 8K60B, 4K60, and 24GBPS HDMI1-3 pass-through.

Sound

Yamaha RX-V6A photo

The Yamaha RX-V6A is an excellent option for people, who are looking for quality sound. It has many great features that will make your listening experience better. The receiver has a built-in Dolby Digital and DTS decoder, ensuring that you'll get the best possible sound quality from your movies and music. It supports a wide variety of audio formats. It also features six channels of amplification to enjoy stereo sound even in large rooms. So, one of the best things about this receiver is the sound quality. It provides a clear and powerful sound that will make you feel right in the middle of the action.

The Yamaha RX-V6A also includes the YPAO Volume feature. It is a feature that automatically adjusts the receiver's volume to suit your preference.

Verdict about Yamaha RX-V6A

In conclusion, the Yamaha RX-V6A is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable home theater experience. It offers clear and powerful sound quality and a wide range of features to make your movies and music come to life. If you're on the market in order to buy a new receiver, we highly recommend considering the Yamaha RX-V6A.

Onkyo TX-SR393

We have prepared an Onkyo TX-SR393 review. The TX-SR393 is an excellent receiver that offers excellent value. It has many features not found on other receivers in its price range.

For example, it has built-in Bluetooth that allows you to stream music from your phone or tablet. It also has an HDMI port with a 4K passthrough and HDCP 2.2 support, which allows you to take full advantage of the latest high-resolution video formats. Finally, it has a built-in FM tuner, which you will not find in many other receivers.

Onkyo TX-SR393 front

Build and design

Let's begin with Onkyo TX-SR393 features. The receiver's dimensions are 17 1/8"" x 6 5/8"" x 12 15/16"" inches, and it is 18.1 lbs in weight. The front panel has a clean and clear design. The front panel has a power button, input selector, volume knob, and headphone jack. The back panel has speaker terminals, an antenna connector, different inputs, a USB port, and HDMI ports.

A small display in the middle of the front panel shows the current input and volume level. Around the display, four LED indicators show which input is selected: Analog, Optical/Coaxial, and two HDMI inputs.

There is also a remote control. It is essential, but it gets the job done. It has all the standard buttons you would need, such as power, volume up/down, input, and surround mode. Plus, it's backlit, making it easy to see in the dark.

Features and specs

Onkyo TX-SR393 is a 5.2 channel A/V Receiver with 80 Watts, 0.08% THD of audio output when 2 channels driven. TX-SR393 is a receiver that allows you to enjoy many features. For example, it supports Zone B line-out. In addition, it allows users to send audio from the receiver to a second location, typically in another room.

Onkyo TX-SR393 has HDMI, Optical, and AUX inputs, a USB input that you can play music directly from your mp3 player or phone, a headphone output, and coaxial input. The rear panel of Onkyo TX-SR393 has several audio output ports. It also houses an antenna port for picking up FM broadcast signals. In addition, there are two RCA connectors for the analog input source, along with a dedicated digital coaxial connector. The speaker terminals are similar to the ones on the front. This model doesn't have built-in Wi-Fi, but you can connect your mobile phone, TV, DVD player to it via Bluetooth.

Onkyo TX-SR393 Inputs

As Onkyo TX-SR393 video specifications, have Ultra HD Pass that supports 4K (up to 60p) video signals. It makes your movies come alive. It plays all types of media files, including high-definition blu-ray discs, making it worth buying for movie buffs. A high-quality video processor guarantees the highest image quality by minimizing noise and improving color gradation. In addition, the upscaling function converts standard definition material to Full HD for an improved picture, even on large screens.

Sound

Onkyo TX-SR393 sound

It has an excellent sound quality, and it can easily play almost all types of file formats, including MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, FLAC, and DSD. In addition, the TX-SR393 also supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which are two of the latest audio formats. As a result, it allows you to experience a more immersive sound with better quality.

The sound of the Onkyo TX-SR393 is perfect for watching movies. This receiver brings the movies to life and makes you feel like you are right in the middle of the action. The low, mid, and high frequencies are well balanced, but it lacks some power in the bass frequencies. When watching an action movie, you will notice this effect with explosions or car chases. This aspect can be compensated by adding a subwoofer to the system.

Verdict about Onkyo TX-SR393

The Onkyo TX-SR393 is the perfect amplifier for those who want to enjoy a genuinely cinematic soundscape. It's powerful enough to deliver performance that will satisfy even the most avid audiophile, but it does so without compromising on convenience or affordability. So if you're looking for an upgrade from your current system, you should pay attention to this model.

Related article – the best three zone receivers.

FAQ

What is Zone 2 on a receiver?

Zone 2 on an AV receiver is a feature that allows you to play another audio or video source in another room. This could be a DVD player, satellite box, game console, etc.

Can I use Zone 2 in the same room?

Yes, you can use Zone 2 in the same room. The Zone 2 setting will allow you to play the audio at a lower volume so that it is not as loud as the main zone.

Can I use Zone 2 as pre out?

Yes, you can use Zone 2 as pre out. This will allow you to connect an external amplifier to Zone 2 and boost the sound output. Keep in mind that only the speaker terminals on the back of the receiver can be used for this purpose. You cannot use the headphone jack as an output for Zone 2.

Can Zone 2 be used for Atmos?

Yes, Zone 2 can be used for Atmos. The receiver or amplifier must be Atmos-enabled in order to use the height channels. You will need to connect the height speakers to the correct channels on the receiver or amplifier. Refer to your owner’s manual for more information.

How do you control volume Zone 2?

Volume Zone 2 can be controlled by selecting the zone on your remote or, alternatively, you can use the Volume Zone button on the top of your receiver.

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