Amplifiers and AV receivers cover stereo amplifiers, network audio amplifiers, multi-channel AV receivers and soundbar systems with subwoofers. They suit anyone upgrading TV sound or building a home cinema or music system. Brands in our range include LG, Onkyo, Pioneer, Sony and WiiM.
How to choose an amplifier or AV receiver
Product type. A stereo amplifier drives a pair of speakers for music, while an AV receiver adds surround channels and video switching for films. A soundbar with a subwoofer is the simplest option when you want better TV sound without separate speakers or cabling.
Channel layout. Our range runs from 2.0 and 2.1 up to 3.1, 3.1.2, 5.1.2 and 9.1.5. The first number counts speakers, the second the subwoofer, and a third number adds height channels for Dolby Atmos. A 5.1.2 or 3.1.2 setup suits a typical living room, while 9.1.5 only makes sense in a larger room with many speakers.
Power output. Compare RMS power, not peak figures. Where rated power is listed, values run from about 75 W to 570 W. Soundbar speaker power in our range spans roughly 75 W to 350 W, and subwoofers are often around 200 W. A small room rarely needs the top of that scale, but a large or open-plan space benefits from more headroom.
TV connection and control. Check that the unit has HDMI with ARC or eARC so it connects to your TV with one cable. HDMI-CEC lets the TV remote control the volume, and the brand names differ: SimpLink on LG, BRAVIA Sync on Sony and T-link on some other TVs. Matching the brand with your TV is convenient but not essential.
Brands we carry
- LG: known for soundbars with a wireless subwoofer that work with the SimpLink function on LG televisions.
- Onkyo: a long-standing maker of AV receivers, often chosen for multi-channel home cinema setups with Dolby Atmos.
- Pioneer: well known for AV receivers and stereo amplifiers for home cinema and hi-fi use.
- Sony: offers soundbars and audio equipment that integrate with BRAVIA Sync on Sony TVs.
- WiiM: specialises in compact network streamers and amplifiers that play music over Wi-Fi from streaming services.
Also in our range: Inline, Hisense, Renkforce, Sharp, Vivolink and Dynavox.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an amplifier and an AV receiver?
An amplifier boosts audio to drive speakers, usually in stereo. An AV receiver does the same for several channels and also switches HDMI sources, decodes surround formats such as Dolby Atmos and often includes a radio or streaming. Choose a stereo amplifier for music and a receiver for a film-focused setup.
Do I need an AV receiver if I buy a soundbar?
No. A soundbar has its own built-in amplification and usually connects to the TV through HDMI ARC or an optical cable. An AV receiver is only needed when you want to use separate passive speakers or connect many video sources through one unit.
What does 5.1.2 mean?
It describes five main speakers, one subwoofer and two height speakers for overhead sound effects. The layout supports Dolby Atmos, which places sound above the listener as well as around them. The same pattern applies to 3.1.2 and 9.1.5, only with fewer or more speakers.
How many watts do I need for a living room?
Most living rooms are well served by a system with around 100 to 200 W of RMS power, depending on room size and speaker sensitivity. More power gives cleaner volume at loud levels rather than simply louder sound. In a small room, a lower-powered unit is usually enough.
