The dedicated stereo receiver has become increasingly rare. This has to do with the incredible popularity of wireless speakers — which basically cut out the need for a receiver — as well as many manufacturers opting to make multi-channel AV receivers instead. It’s true that these AV receivers can work as stereo receivers, too, but they’re more expensive because they’re really meant for hooking up your TV with a robust surround sound system.
Products in the Guide
Of course, there are still stereo receivers out there — you even buy a vintage stereo receiver — and they’re the ideal solution for people who want to create a classic stereo hi-fi system. You get a stereo receiver, hook it up with a set of passive bookshelf speakers, and from there you can either stream audio to the receiver or hook up an analog source, like a turntable or CD player.
As far as which stereo receiver to buy, it should, of course, depend on how you plan on listening to music. But it should also come secondary to your speakers. A good rule of thumb, as far as the entry-level price bracket is concerned, is that the receiver shouldn’t cost more than your bookshelf speakers. That’s why we set a price cap at $500. Below, we’ve listed our favorite entry-level stereo receivers — all under $500 — to pair with your bookshelf speakers.
What to Look for in Affordable Stereo Receivers
Power
The main job of a stereo receiver to properly drive your passive loudspeakers. So before buying a stereo receiver, you should first know what the power and impedance (the amount of resistance in the receiver’s electronic circuits) needs for your speakers. All of the below stereo receivers should be able to drive most bookshelf-sized loudspeakers, but it’s still a good idea to double check before buying.
Streaming
Most stereo receivers that have been released in the past few years have built-in streaming capabilities — but they are anything but equal. The older (or cheaper) models generally just support Bluetooth, but they likely don’t support higher-resolution option like Bluetooth aptX HD. And then the newer (and more expensive) models add streaming over Wi-Fi (such as AirPlay or Chromecast built-in), which allows you to stream lossless-quality audio as well as integrate your stereo setup into a larger multi-room system with your other wireless speakers or soundbars.
Phono input
With the increased popularity of vinyl, more and more people are looking for a stereo receiver that they can directly connect to a turntable. The good news is that a lot of stereo receivers have a built-in phono stage — which is labeled as the “phono input” — so you can connect your turntable directly to the receiver via an RCA cable. If your turntable already has a built-in phono-stage or you want to use an external phono preamp, you can connect it to your receiver via the AUX or CD input and by using a another RCA cable
Size
The final thing is just the size and general look of the stereo receiver — it’s generally going to be a big box that you’re likely going to have a difficult time hiding. Most stereo receivers in this price range are around the same size and weight, and honestly most are just going to be black boxes. The flashier models (with brushed aluminum panels) are generally a little pricier.
