How does the home theater system works? The soul of the home theater is the home theater receiver. It is probably the best method to centralize your system. They aren’t too expensive. They are usually moderately priced. It actually serves many purposes like it powers your speakers; you can also switch DVD players easily with this. It connects all the output and input of your system. They come in various models and the choice will depend on your requirements. The home theater receivers do decoding which allows you to watch your favorite shows and movies. They are also used as radio tuner. The receiver is known by various names like A/V receiver, Dolby Digital receiver, surround receiver etc.

The working of home theater receiver

The receiver performs a number of audio signal processing functions like bass management, digital audio decoding and simulated soundfields. The home theater receiver has three components. These are the tuner, preamp and a multi channel amplifier. These three components work together for the proper functioning of the receiver. Each one serves some specific functions. The function of the tuner is to receive FM/AM, HD and internet radio. It also receives Sirius satellite radio. You can choose the source of your AV. It can be a DVD player or a CD. iPod is also a AV source. So this function of choosing the audio/video source is provided by the preamp. The preamp can also process the incoming signals and send them to various channels. Finally, the surround sound signals are distributed by the amplifier. This multi channels amplifies powers up the speakers. Amplification is a process by which a low signal is converted in to a high one. More amplification results in better and louder sound. Basically, the receiver takes the signals from the source, performs the required information and amplifies it. This is how it works.

Choose your receiver carefully

You have to keep certain things in your mind while buying home theater receiver. A power listing is always given with these receivers. The rating mentions the watts per channel. So always take notice of this rating when you are buying the receiver. A higher rating does not imply that the receiver is good. The watts required will depend on the type of receiver you are opting for. The distortion should also be good. Distortion measures the level of amplification of sound and music.

A good receiver should have low distortion level. A low distortion level means that there will be low noise even when the receiver is used at high volume. So you will have no disturbances while you are watching your favorite shows. The distortion level should be always taken into consideration. Go for a receiver which has low distortion level as well as low watt.

A good receiver is one which can maintain full power output for a long time and that too continuously. Receivers should work for a considerable period of time. Buy a receiver which fulfils this criterion even if it is low in watts. RMS measure is something which tells you about the watt output. This will tell you the level of volume that can be tolerated with a particular output. Do not be interested in the maximum power the receiver can generate. Instead, one should always look out for the continuous power. RMS stands for root mean square and it is a measure of continuous power.

There are several things which you must consider before you finally buy the home theater receiver. As mentioned earlier it should have a low distortion level. It should also have a low power rating. In addition to all this, the receiver should be compatible enough with your home theater. It should be easy to use and easy to connect. You must also not compromise on sound quality which should be excellent. Thus, you can get the best receiver for yourself only when you take into account all these things. You have to choose a model which fulfils all your needs.

By: David Faulkner