Best Stereo Receiver Under $200 Reviews

Last Updated on March 11, 2023

Looking not to burst your budget by purchasing a cheap stereo receiver? This is a constant thought that most music lovers will have, especially if they are working on a tight budget, but they still want the best. There are indeed many stereo receivers out there, but not all of them are good. The old adage of “what is cheap is not good, and what is good will not come cheap” is indeed true. But having said that, even when you are on a tight budget, it will still be fairly easy for you to find a stereo receiver that works the best for the given budget. For that, you might want to check out the reviews of the best stereo receiver under $200.

What is a Stereo Receiver?

A stereo receiver is an audio device that combines an amplifier and a radio tuner in one unit. It allows you to connect various audio sources, such as a CD player, turntable, or digital device, and amplify the sound output. Most stereo receivers also have a built-in AM/FM radio tuner that allows you to listen to local radio stations.

Why Buy a Stereo Receiver?

A stereo receiver is an excellent addition to any home audio system, whether you’re an audiophile or just looking for an upgrade. Here are some reasons why you should consider buying a stereo receiver:

• Sound quality: A stereo receiver can significantly improve the sound quality of your audio sources, providing a more immersive listening experience.
• Connectivity options: Most stereo receivers come with multiple input and output options, allowing you to connect various audio sources and speakers.
• Cost-effective: Stereo receivers are generally more affordable than buying separate amplifiers and tuners, making them a cost-effective solution.
• Space-saving: A stereo receiver is a compact device that takes up less space than separate amplifiers and tuners, making it ideal for small spaces.

Best Stereo Receiver Under $200 Reviews

When it comes to getting or purchasing cheap stereo receivers, it can be pretty tricky as some models might be more expensive on the scale, but the quality might be inferior to those that are cheaper. Hence, when we review each of the following stereo receivers, each of them have been tested based on the following metrics:

1. Phono input
2. Types of connections available
3. Satellite radio capability
4. Smart?
5. A/B speaker
6. subwoofer preamp output or 2.1 channel?
7. Headphone jack
8. digital optical and digital coaxial audio inputs

These are the top 8 considerations that we have when we wish to purchase a budget stereo receiver that works. Indeed, while the following are considered to be cheap stereo receivers, most of the individual components might not come cheap!

Here are our top 6 choices of the best stereo receiver under $200 reviews:

1. Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver
2. Sony STRDH190 2-ch Stereo Receiver
3. Onkyo TX-8220 2 Channel Stereo Receiver with Bluetooth
4. Onkyo TX-8020 2 channel Stereo Receiver
5. Pyle PDA5BU
6. Sherwood RX4508 200W AM/FM Stereo Receiver

Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver

The Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver is touted as the best stereo receiver on Amazon. And with a price tag of below $200, it is easily our editor’s choice for the best budget stereo receiver too.

The sleek aluminum design is simplistic yet having a futuristic look to it. While the aesthetics do standout on its own, the features do not shy away either.

The R-S202BL have various features such as the Bluetooth connectivity as well as the 3 audio ports that allows you to play music from various sources. Of course, you can play your music from your vinyl records by connecting your turntable to it, that is assuming that your turntable has an inbuilt phono preamp. Otherwise, you can buy an external phono preamp too.

Also, this budget stereo receiver allows for multiple music to be played at the same time, hence giving itself an edge when it comes to versatility.

Here are the key stats of the Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver.

Sony STRDH190 2-ch stereo receiver

Another no-frills budget stereo receiver is the Sony STRDH190 2-ch Stereo Receiver. Though made by a big brand, the price itself is still below $200, hence enabling it to reach out to more consumers.

Perhaps the Sony STRDG190 has everything that you wish for in a stereo receiver. From the ability to stream music from your mobile via Bluetooth to playing music from the turntable via its phono input, you are really spoilt for choice. The aesthetics might be wanting, but it is being made up for by the features of this Sony STRDH190 stereo receiver.

Perhaps the following stats will be of interest to you.

 

Onkyo TX-8220 2 Channel Stereo Receiver with Bluetooth

In our efforts to find the best budget stereo receiver under $200, we found the Onkyo TX-8220 2 Channel Stereo Receiver. While it may be nearing the limit of $200 that we have set, the sheer quality of the build, as well as the inclusive features, make it a truly outstanding piece of work.

As you know, not all stereo receivers are equipped with the capability to accept and reroute signals coming from your TV. Interestingly, with the Onkyo TX-8220, you are able to reroute the signals, hence you will be able to hear sounds that come from your TV as a source. This is mainly due to the Use Hi-Res Audio-ready digital audio inputs that help to play sounds from literally any source.

From your turntables, to your mobile phone or even your CD player, this stereo receiver will be able to play outout musicom them. Also, with the modern design as well as simple controls, you can dictate the quality of the music that you would like to hear.

These are the specs of the Onkyo TX-8220 2 Channel Stereo Receiver.

 

Onkyo TX-8020 2 channel Stereo Receiver

If you do not need the A|B speaker system as well as the ability to play sounds from the TV, then the Onkyo TX-8020 2 channel Stereo Receiver will be a better alternative. While most of the features are pretty much the same with the Onkyo TX-8220 stereo receiver, the former will not allow you to play different music from different sources at the same time.

For iPhone or iPad users, you can rejoice as this stereo receiver under $200 have the DS-A5 AirPlay RI Dock that allows you to play music from your handheld apple devices. Do note that, however, this stereo receiver is a simple one, as it does not allow Bluetooth nor SMART capabilities.

Here are the specs.

 

Pyle PDA5BU

One of the newest kid on the block, the Pyle PDA5BU will not disappoint you with its multiple impressive features that is packed into this cute little box. Indeed, we were impressed by the features, and we were equally impressed by the low price too. This is easily the cheapest budget stereo receiver that you can find on Amazon.

To date, this is the only stereo receiver, that we have reviewed, that has a USB option. It allows you to connect your USB devices onto the stereo receiver so that songs can be played. Not only that, it does have all the features of the regular stereo receiver that we have reviewed thus far.

While the design is a little on the ugly side, this is completely subjective! In our opinion, the multiple features of the Pyle PDA5BU make up for the lack of aesthetics. This is tbe best buy for us!

Here are the specs of this cheap stereo receiver.

 

Sherwood RX4508 200W AM/FM Stereo Receiver

The Sherwood RX4508 200W AM/FM Stereo Receiver is one of the other outliers. In fact, it is tipping close to the budget of $200! Having said that, given its features as well as ability to play out sounds that will amaze you, we reckon that the price is totally worthwhile.

Interestingly, this is one of rare few stereo receivers that comes with a 100W high-power output and discrete amplifier stage (DAS) system behind it. This means that the sound quality is near perfection, making it qualify as a high-end audio! Quite a feat for this price, eh?

I shall let the specs do the talking.

 

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stereo Receiver

When choosing a stereo receiver, there are several factors you should consider to ensure you get the best performance for your budget. Here are some of the essential factors to keep in mind:

Sound Quality

The sound quality of a stereo receiver is one of the most critical factors to consider. Look for a receiver that delivers clear, crisp sound with minimal distortion. Check the receiver’s power output, which is measured in watts, to ensure it can drive your speakers adequately.

Connectivity Options

The more input and output options a stereo receiver has, the more versatile it will be. Look for a receiver with multiple audio inputs, such as RCA, optical, or coaxial, and output options, such as speaker terminals or subwoofer outputs.

Power Output

The power output of a stereo receiver is measured in watts and indicates how much power it can deliver to your speakers. Look for a receiver with sufficient power output to drive your speakers without distortion.

Compatibility with Audio Sources

Make sure the stereo receiver you choose is compatible with the audio sources you plan to connect to it. For example, if you have a turntable, look for a receiver with a phono input. If you plan to connect a digital device, make sure the receiver has an optical or coaxial input.

Brand Reputation

The brand reputation of a stereo receiver is another essential factor to consider. Look for a well-established brand with a good reputation for producing high-quality audio equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between a stereo receiver and an amplifier?

A stereo receiver combines an amplifier and a radio tuner in one unit, while an amplifier is solely responsible for amplifying the sound output from an audio source.

Can I connect a turntable to a stereo receiver?

Yes, most stereo receivers have a phono input, making them compatible with turntables.

What is the power output of the Yamaha R-S202BL?

The Yamaha R-S202BL has a power output of 100 watts per channel.

Conclusion

As you can see, even with a budget of $200, you are still able to have a good stereo receiver that works wonders. With the various types of connectivity as well as different configurations, you are spoilt for choice! Our heart is always leaning towards the Yamaha R-S202BL Stereo Receiver as the specs, as well as the sound quality, really blew us away!

But hey, the choice is yours! Have a good time listening!