Signal to noise ratio
This indicator determines the amount of extraneous noise that accompanies the sound output by the receiver's amplifier. It is convenient because it takes into account almost all possible significant noise — both created by the device itself and due to external causes. The higher the signal-to-noise ratio, the lower the noise volume compared to the main signal, the cleaner the amplifier will sound. A reading of 70-80 dB is considered normal for most consumer electronics, but in AV receivers, which are usually premium devices, this can only be called satisfactory. In the most advanced models, this figure can significantly exceed 100 dB.
Decoders
A decoder can be broadly described as a standard in which digital audio (often multi-channel) is recorded. For normal playback of such sound, it is necessary that the corresponding decoder is supported by the device. The first signs of multi-channel decoding were
Dolby Digital and
DTS, gradually improving and introducing new features. The final stage for 2020 is Dolby Atmos and
DTS X decoders. And the intermediate ones were
Dolby TrueHD,
Dolby Pro Logic II,
DTS-HD,
DTS ES,
DTS Neural: X,
DTS Neo (6, X).
Dolby Atmos. A decoder that does not use a rigid distribution of sound across channels, but the processing of audio objects, due to which it can be used with almost any number of channels on a reproducing system — the sound will be divided between channels so that each audio object is heard as close as possible to its proper place. When using Dolby Atmos, in-ceiling speakers (or speakers facing the ceiling) are highly desirable. However, in extreme cases, you can do without them.
— DTS X . An analogue of the Dolby Atmos described above, when the sound is distributed not through individual channels, but through audio objects. The
...digital signal contains information about where (according to the director's intention) the object audible to the user should be and how it should move, and the processor of the reproducing device processes this information and determines exactly how the sound should be distributed over the available channels in order to achieve the required localization. Thanks to this, DTS X is not tied to a specific number of audio channels — there can be as many as you like, the system will automatically divide the sound into them, achieving the desired sound. Also note that this decoder allows you to separately adjust the volume of dialogues.
— IMAX Enhanced. The IMAX Enhanced Mark of Conformity is awarded to equipment that meets the audio certification requirements of IMAX Corporation. Combined with DTS audio technology to deliver signature IMAX theater-like sound in the home. The most accurate reproduction of such audio is possible in systems with a large number of channels (5.1 or more). Note that for a fully immersive experience, IMAX Enhanced certification must also apply to video equipment for playing content (TV, projector, etc.).Power consumption
The maximum power consumed by the receiver during normal operation. The power consumption of the device depends on this parameter, so if saving energy is crucial for you, you should pay attention to it. Also, information on power consumption is useful if you have doubts about the claimed characteristics of the built-in amplifier: if the total power of all channels is greater than the total power consumption of the receiver, then there is an error somewhere in the numbers.
Standby consumption
The power consumed by the receiver in standby mode. Most modern premium electronics, when “shut down” (from the remote control or control panel), do not turn off completely, but are put into standby mode — for a number of reasons this option is considered better than a complete shutdown. It requires electricity consumption, but it is usually very low. At the same time, if you plan to be away from home for a long time, for example, it is likely that from the point of view of economy it will be justified to turn off the power to the audio system completely.
