An A/V receiver is the command station for any home theater. An A/V receiver integrates every part of your home entertainment center – television, speakers, DVD players, and home stereo equipment – to ensure synergy between all components and quality audio and video throughout.
All audio and video wires lead to the A/V receiver. Your plasma television, in-room speakers and subwoofers all connect to the receiver so that you can command each piece through one central location, all from the comfort of your favorite sofa.
The benefits of the A/V receiver can best be experienced when you watch your favorite action film and play with the sound quality. By playing with the receiver you can adjust the surround sound levels and hear how the receiver decodes the digital audio formats so that the bass comes booming from the sides if needed, and the high-pitched chirps of the birds sound as if they come from the trees. Most receivers have an amplifier built in (you can decide to purchase these items separately). The internal amplifier will control the volume.
If you decide to by a receiver separate from your other home theater components, make sure you talk with your retailer about whether all of your system’s components are compatible.
