Pioneer VSX-933

Simple setup and operation, along with solid performance, a wealth of features, and exceptional value, more than make up for the VSX-933's few shortcomings.

The term 'AV receiver' used to denote a multichannel amp with a built-in radio tuner. It's even more apt now, with modern AVRs accepting any wireless source you can think of. Pioneer's VSX-933 is a case in point. It may be affordable (it launched at £500, but you can find it for around £350), but it's blessed with rich functionality. Wrapping your head around the receiver's audio capabilities takes some time, because Pioneer has adopted a broad brush approach.