Audio & Video receiver. A box that captures and decodes audio/video signals and delivers the amplified audio signals to the speakers.
Also called a Home Theater receiver, sometimes the term "integrated" is also used. Receivers take audio signals from components such as a CD player, tape deck and phonograph, amplify it and output it to the speakers. An A/V receiver is designed to also accept video inputs, such as from a DVD player, cable box and VCR, and output the signal to a television. In most cases the video signal is not processed but simply passed through to the TV. A/V receivers, in most cases, also have Dolby and DTS decoders to play multi-channel audio.
Home audio component which usually combines a preamplifier, amplifier, DAC and radio in a single chassis.
Similar to stereo receivers of old, newer receivers include a built-in surround processor and several extra amplifier channels for connection to the home theater loudspeakers. A/V receivers should be capable of providing adequate power to your loudspeakers, and should include the capability to decode Dolby Digital (AC-3) signals. If you are using an A/V receiver, the only other components that you need to complete your system would be a Hi-Fi VCR, a DVD player, a TV or video projection device, and a proper loudspeaker array.
also called audio/video receiver, home-theater receiver or integrated receiver. The receiver takes audio signals from components such as DVD players, cable boxes and HDTV tuners, amplifies and processes them (see Dolby Digital/DTS) and outputs them to the speakers.
An electronic component combining many audio and video functions: AM and FM tuners, surround-sound decoders, power amplifiers, source selection, volume and tone controls, etc.
