Original price was: $1,199.95.$999.97Current price is: $999.97.
Released Late 2023
Home theater receivers have come a long way since the days of basic 5.1 surround sound. Today's units need to handle everything from 8K video to immersive audio formats, while also serving as smart home hubs. The JBL MA7100HP represents JBL's latest effort to balance these demanding requirements with real-world usability.
When unboxing the MA7100HP, you'll notice its substantial 16.4-pound weight - lighter than traditional Class AB receivers but still suggesting quality construction. The front panel features a clean, modern design with an intuitive display and essential controls. During our testing, we appreciated the logical button layout and responsive input selector.
The standout feature here is full HDMI 2.1 support across all ports - something still not universal even in 2024. This means:
In our gaming tests, the receiver handled everything from 4K/120Hz Call of Duty sessions to 8K YouTube content without breaking a sweat. The HDR format support is comprehensive, including HDR10+ and Dolby Vision, ensuring compatibility with all current HDR content.
The Class D amplification delivers 125 watts per channel into 8 ohms (175W into 4 ohms). While purists might prefer traditional Class AB amps, our testing showed the MA7100HP handled demanding movie soundtracks with authority. The receiver never felt strained, even during complex Dolby Atmos scenes in films like Dune.
The Dirac Live room correction capability (license required) is a significant upgrade from basic auto-calibration systems. It measures your room's acoustic properties and adjusts the sound accordingly, resulting in noticeably improved clarity and imaging.
Modern receivers need to be streaming hubs, and the JBL MA7100HP delivers:
The inclusion of both AirPlay 2 and Chromecast means virtually any device can stream to the receiver. During testing, we particularly appreciated the aptX Adaptive Bluetooth, which maintained solid audio quality even when walking around the house with a phone.
In a dedicated theater room with a 7.2 speaker setup, the MA7100HP showed its strengths. The dual subwoofer outputs with independent calibration helped achieve smooth bass response across multiple seating positions. Dolby Atmos effects were precisely placed, creating a convincing bubble of sound during movies like Top Gun: Maverick.
For gamers, the full HDMI 2.1 implementation means you can enjoy the latest console features without compromise. We tested with both PS5 and Xbox Series X, confirming 4K/120Hz gameplay worked flawlessly. The auto low latency mode (ALLM) meant no manual switching between movie and game modes.
While not primarily designed for critical music listening, the MA7100HP handles stereo content well. High-resolution audio files (up to 192kHz/24-bit) played smoothly via USB or network streaming. The Pure Direct mode bypasses unnecessary processing for cleaner sound with music.
Initial setup is straightforward thanks to the on-screen guide. The EZ Set EQ system walks you through speaker configuration, though serious users will want to invest in the Dirac Live license for optimal results. The receiver's web interface provides comprehensive control options, and integration with home automation systems is possible via IP control.
At its price point, the MA7100HP offers competitive features compared to rivals from Denon, Marantz, and Yamaha. The full HDMI 2.1 implementation across all ports is particularly noteworthy, as some competitors limit high-bandwidth connectivity to select inputs.
The MA7100HP's feature set should remain relevant for years to come. The 8K video support, though perhaps ahead of its time, ensures compatibility with future display technologies. The processing power and firmware upgradeability suggest good long-term support.
The JBL MA7100HP strikes an impressive balance between features, performance, and usability. While hardcore audiophiles might prefer traditional Class AB amplification, the receiver's comprehensive feature set and strong real-world performance make it an excellent choice for modern home theaters.
For most users building or upgrading a home theater system, the MA7100HP represents a solid investment that should serve well for years to come. Its combination of modern features, robust performance, and reasonable price point earns our strong recommendation, particularly for those prioritizing gaming compatibility and streaming integration.
For most home theater enthusiasts, yes. The receiver offers excellent value with its full HDMI 2.1 support, comprehensive gaming features, and powerful room correction capabilities. While the Class D amplification might not satisfy hardcore audiophiles, the feature set and performance justify the price for most users.
With 125W per channel (8ฮฉ), this receiver is ideal for small to medium-sized rooms up to about 350 square feet. It can handle larger spaces, but you might want more power for bigger rooms, especially if you like listening at higher volumes.
Yes, it fully supports Dolby Atmos in up to a 5.1.2 configuration, meaning you can have five surround speakers, one subwoofer, and two height channels. It also supports other immersive formats like DTS:X.
Absolutely. It's especially well-suited for gaming with features like 4K/120Hz support, Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), and Quick Frame Transport (QFT). It works great with PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.
The receiver has 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, all supporting HDMI 2.1 specifications. This is particularly generous compared to competitors who often limit full HDMI 2.1 support to just a few ports.
Yes, it offers comprehensive streaming options including AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in, Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX HD/Adaptive, and support for various streaming services. It can also play high-resolution audio files up to 192kHz/24-bit.
Yes, the JBL MA7100HP supports 8K video up to 60Hz through all HDMI ports. While 8K content is still limited, this feature helps future-proof your setup.
You'll need height speakers or upward-firing Atmos speakers in addition to your regular surround setup. The receiver can process Atmos in a 5.1.2 configuration (5 surround speakers, 1 subwoofer, 2 height speakers).
Yes, it features Zone 2 capability, allowing you to play different sources in two separate rooms. It can also manage dual subwoofers with independent calibration for optimal bass response.
The MA7100HP stands out for its complete HDMI 2.1 implementation across all ports and robust gaming features. While some competitors might offer more amplifier power or channels, few match its combination of modern features and connectivity options at this price point.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research has used advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - audioadvice.com - bestbuy.com - audiosciencereview.com - safeandsoundhq.com - listenup.com - jbl.com - musicdirect.com - crutchfield.com - crutchfield.com
The Denon AVR-S760H offers compelling value at $569.99, featuring built-in Audyssey MultEQ XT room correction and HEOS multi-room audio capabilities right out of the box. While its 75W per channel power rating is lower, it's still more than adequate for most home theater rooms and typical speaker setups. The inclusion of all modern gaming features like 4K/120Hz, VRR, and ALLM, combined with HEOS streaming technology, makes it a complete package without requiring additional purchases.
Where the Denon AVR-S760H really shines is in its user-friendly approach and value proposition. The setup process is more straightforward, and the included room correction, while not as sophisticated as Dirac Live, provides good results without additional cost. While it only offers a single HDMI output compared to dual outputs, its core feature set matches nearly everything else in terms of audio and video capabilities. For most users, the Denon represents a more practical choice, delivering excellent performance and features at a significantly lower price point, making it easier to justify as part of a complete home theater system.
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๐Denon AVR-S760H 7.2 Channel AV Home Theater Receiver Details
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The Denon AVR-S570BT offers remarkable value at $319, delivering the core features most home theater enthusiasts need without unnecessary complexity. Its 5.2 channel configuration and 70W per channel power output are perfectly adequate for typical living room setups and medium-sized entertainment spaces. Despite its entry-level positioning, it doesn't compromise on essential modern features, supporting 8K video, 4K/120Hz gaming, and major HDR formats. The included basic room calibration system, while not as sophisticated as Dirac Live, still provides noticeable improvements in sound quality for most rooms.
Where the Denon really shines is in its price-to-performance ratio. While it lacks the extra channels and power of the JBL, its real-world performance in typical home environments is impressive. The automatic speaker setup process is straightforward, and the receiver handles everything from movie soundtracks to music streaming with clarity and authority. For users who don't need height channels or advanced room correction, the Denon represents a significant cost saving that could be better spent on speakers or other components. It's an excellent choice for those building their first serious home theater or upgrading from an older receiver who want modern features without the premium price tag.
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๐Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Home Theater Receiver Details
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The Denon AVR-S970H ($599) makes a compelling case with its significantly lower price point while maintaining most of the essential features needed in a modern AV receiver. Its included Audyssey MultEQ room correction system, while not as sophisticated as Dirac Live, provides good out-of-the-box results without requiring additional purchases. The HEOS streaming platform is particularly polished, offering seamless multi-room audio capabilities and broad streaming service support. Despite its lower 90W per channel power rating, the Class AB amplification delivers a warm, natural sound that many users prefer for music listening.
At nearly half the price of the JBL, the Denon AVR-S970H represents exceptional value for most home theater enthusiasts. While it may not match the JBL's raw power output, its real-world performance in small to medium-sized rooms is virtually indistinguishable. The more intuitive user interface and setup process, combined with proven reliability and a mature feature set, make it a more practical choice for the majority of users. Unless you specifically need the extra headroom for a large space or particularly inefficient speakers, the Denon offers a more complete package at a much more attractive price point.
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๐Denon AVR-S970H 7.2 Channel 8K AV Home Theater Receiver Details
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The Denon AVR-S770H ($519) demonstrates exceptional value with its proven Class AB amplification design delivering 75W per channel of clean, low-distortion power. Released in 2023, it includes Audyssey MultEQ room correction software at no additional cost and features the well-regarded HEOS multi-room audio platform, making it more versatile for whole-home audio integration. Despite its more conservative power rating, real-world testing shows the Denon achieves better audio performance with a lower noise floor and superior dynamic range, particularly noticeable during complex movie soundtracks and subtle musical passages.
At nearly half the price of the JBL, the Denon AVR-S770H matches all essential modern features including 8K/60Hz video support, gaming enhancements like VRR and ALLM, and comprehensive surround format compatibility including Dolby Atmos and DTS:X. While it may lack the JBL's premium Bluetooth codecs and modern aesthetic, the Denon's traditional design houses a more reliable and better-performing platform. Its straightforward setup process, proven reliability, and superior price-to-performance ratio make it the more practical choice for most home theater enthusiasts who prioritize audio quality and value over aesthetic considerations.
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๐Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver Details
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The $679.95 MA710 offers much of what makes the MA7100HP impressive, but at a significantly lower price point. It delivers a robust 110W per channel, which is plenty for most living room setups, and includes the same core HDMI 2.1 connectivity with 8K/60Hz support. The MA710 matches its pricier sibling in wireless capabilities, offering identical WiFi, Bluetooth 5.3, AirPlay 2, and Chromecast features. For typical home theater use, including movie watching and casual gaming, the basic EZ Set EQ room correction and standard HDMI 2.1 gaming support prove more than adequate.
Where the MA710 really shines is in its value proposition. While it lacks the MA7100HP's Dirac Live Ready capability, second HDMI output, and advanced gaming features, these omissions won't impact most users' daily experience. The 15W per channel power difference is negligible in typical rooms, and the core audio and video processing remain identical. For anyone setting up a home theater in a standard-sized room without specific needs for dual displays or competitive gaming features, the MA710 represents a smarter choice, delivering 90% of the MA7100HP's capabilities at roughly two-thirds the price.
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๐JBL MA710 7.2 Channel 8K AV Receiver Details
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The Onkyo TX-NR6100 stands out as a compelling alternative at nearly half the price, offering THX Certified performance and comprehensive streaming capabilities. While it provides less power at 100W per channel compared to the JBL's 125W, it's still plenty capable for most home theater rooms under 400 square feet. The Onkyo's built-in streaming services, including Chromecast, AirPlay 2, and DTS Play-Fi, provide more flexibility without requiring external devices. Its AccuEQ room correction, while not as sophisticated as Dirac Live, delivers solid real-world results for most users.
Where the Onkyo TX-NR6100 shows its age is in the HDMI implementation, with only three inputs supporting 4K/120Hz gaming features, compared to the JBL's full HDMI 2.1 support across all inputs. However, for users who don't need multiple high-bandwidth HDMI connections, the Onkyo represents excellent value, offering robust multi-room capabilities with 3-zone support and THX-certified audio quality that will satisfy most home theater enthusiasts. Unless you specifically need the JBL's extra power or full HDMI 2.1 support, the Onkyo delivers impressive performance at a more accessible price point.
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๐Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified AV Receiver Details
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The Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A ($949) stands out with its proven reliability and comprehensive feature set at a lower price point. Its included YPAO room correction, while not as advanced as Dirac Live, provides good results out of the box without additional investment. The MusicCast ecosystem offers excellent wireless multi-room capabilities, and the longer warranty period (up to 5 years with registration) provides peace of mind. For music listening, Yamaha's traditional audio expertise shines through with clean, detailed sound reproduction.
Where the Yamaha falls slightly short is in its HDMI connectivity and raw power output. With only three HDMI 2.1 ports and a single output, it's more limited for complex home theater setups. The 100W per channel power rating, while sufficient for most setups, doesn't provide quite the same headroom for dynamic peaks in larger rooms or with less efficient speakers. However, the Yamaha RX-A2A remains an excellent value proposition, offering a complete solution that will satisfy most users' needs without requiring additional purchases or upgrades.
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๐Yamaha Aventage RX-A2A 7.2 Channel AV Receiver Details
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The Yamaha RX-V6A ($649.95) stands out as a compelling alternative, offering impressive value at nearly $370 less than the JBL. Its standout features include the proven YPAO room correction system, which while not as sophisticated as Dirac Live, provides effective automatic calibration without additional cost. The MusicCast ecosystem is another significant advantage, offering seamless multi-room audio capabilities that the JBL lacks. With seven HDMI inputs, the Yamaha actually offers more connectivity options, though it's limited to a single output compared to the JBL's dual outputs.
Where the Yamaha makes compromises is in its power output (100W vs 125W per channel) and video processing capabilities. While it handles 4K/120Hz gaming through updates, it doesn't offer the same level of native 8K support or gaming optimization as the JBL. The Class A/B amplification delivers warm, natural sound that many users prefer, though it's less efficient than the JBL's Class D design. For most home theater setups in medium-sized rooms, these differences won't significantly impact real-world performance, making the Yamaha RX-V6A an excellent value proposition for users who don't need the JBL's premium features.
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๐Yamaha RX-V6A 7.2 Channel AV Receiver Details
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The $599 Marantz NR1510 stands out primarily for its slim profile design, measuring just 4.1 inches tall - nearly half the height of the JBL. This compact form factor makes it an attractive option for space-constrained setups or those seeking a more discreet installation. While it offers fewer channels (5.2 vs 7.2) and less power (50W vs 125W per channel), the Marantz still delivers clean, balanced audio performance in small to medium-sized rooms. Its HEOS multi-room audio system and built-in Audyssey MultEQ room correction provide solid foundation features for basic home theater setups.
However, the Marantz NR1510's limitations become apparent when comparing future-proof features. The lack of HDMI 2.1, 8K support, and advanced gaming features like VRR and ALLM make it less suitable for next-generation entertainment systems. While the $599 price point represents a significant saving over the JBL, this value proposition mainly appeals to users who prioritize space savings and don't require advanced features or expansion options. For basic 5.1 surround sound in smaller rooms, particularly where cabinet height is limited, the Marantz remains a competent performer - but users seeking more channels, power, or future-proofing will find the JBL's premium worthwhile.
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๐Marantz NR1510 5.2 Channel AV Receiver Details
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The Yamaha R-N602 ($649.99) takes a more focused approach as a dedicated stereo receiver, prioritizing pure audio performance over extensive features. Its standout qualities include a premium Burr-Brown DAC, carefully selected audiophile-grade components, and Yamaha's renowned ToP-ART design philosophy that emphasizes signal purity. The receiver delivers an impressive 80 watts per channel with very low distortion (0.04% THD), and its analog stage particularly shines with vinyl playback through the built-in phono input. The inclusion of MusicCast multi-room audio and high-resolution audio support up to 192kHz/24-bit keeps it relevant for modern streaming needs.
While lacking the JBL's home theater capabilities, the Yamaha R-N602 offers exceptional value for music enthusiasts who don't need video processing or surround sound. Its simpler architecture and focused design result in superior stereo imaging and detail retrieval for music playback. The Pure Direct mode, which bypasses unnecessary circuitry, provides notably cleaner sound than many modern AV receivers can achieve in stereo mode. For those primarily interested in music listening rather than home theater applications, the R-N602 provides higher performance per dollar in its intended use case, though it sacrifices the flexibility of HDMI connectivity and surround sound processing.
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๐Yamaha R-N602 Network Stereo Receiver Details
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Original price was: $5,997.99.$5,797.99Current price is: $5,797.99.
