The competition between AV receivers and soundbars for the best gaming audio setup is heating up in 2025 as more players upgrade to 4K/120Hz and 8K-ready consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
While soundbars promise simple installation and slim design, AV receivers deliver deeper surround sound and more immersive customization.
So, which should you choose for the best gaming audio setup? This guide compares both options across latency, compatibility, surround formats, HDMI 2.1 support, and real-world gaming performance.
Key Features of the Best Gaming Audio Setup
For a truly immersive gaming experience, the best gaming audio setup should include these must-have features:
Low latency for real-time responsiveness and seamless sync with on-screen action.
Dolby Atmos or DTS:X to deliver directional audio and spatial awareness in next-gen games.
HDMI 2.1 and eARC support to unlock full-resolution sound from modern consoles.
VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode) compatibility to ensure smooth gameplay and reduced lag.
✅ Takeaway: Without these features, even high-end speakers won’t give you the best gaming audio setup for PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X.
AV Receiver: Pros and Cons for the Best Gaming Audio Setup
When aiming for the best gaming audio setup, an AV receiver offers unmatched performance but also adds complexity.
✅ Pros
True 5.1 / 7.1 surround sound for immersive directional audio.
Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, enhancing next-gen game realism.
Expandable system — add subwoofers, height speakers, or extra zones.
HDMI switching allows multiple consoles to connect seamlessly.
Smart assistant compatibility with Alexa, Google, and SmartThings.
❌ Cons
More complex setup with wiring and calibration.
Higher cost compared to soundbars.
Requires speaker placement and fine-tuning for best performance.
✅ Takeaway: For gamers who want cinematic sound and flexibility, AV receivers deliver the best gaming audio setup, but demand more effort and budget.
Soundbar Setup – Pros & Cons
For many gamers, soundbars strike a balance between convenience and performance. But when it comes to the best gaming audio setup, they have clear strengths and limitations.
✅ Pros
Sleek, minimalist design fits easily under a TV or wall-mounted setup.
Easy plug-and-play installation with minimal wiring required.
Many models support Dolby Atmos (virtual) for enhanced 3D gaming effects.
Ideal for small or shared living spaces, especially apartments.
❌ Cons
Virtual surround is less accurate, lacking the precision of true multi-channel setups.
Limited bass depth and soundstage width, reducing cinematic immersion.
Fewer HDMI inputs and weaker switching options compared to receivers.
✅ Takeaway: A soundbar is the simpler path to the best gaming audio setup in compact spaces, but it sacrifices depth and expandability.
AV Receiver Features for the Best Gaming Audio Setup
AV receivers bring advanced tools that make them the top choice for the best gaming audio setup, especially for next-gen consoles.
| Feature | AV Receiver Advantage |
|---|---|
| HDMI 2.1 passthrough | Full 4K/120Hz and 8K gaming support |
| VRR / ALLM | Console-optimized visuals with reduced lag |
| eARC | Dolby Atmos passthrough to any modern TV |
| Speaker calibration | Precise audio positioning using YPAO or Audyssey |
| Multi-input switching | Seamless swaps between PS5, Xbox, and Switch |
✅ Takeaway: These features give AV receivers the edge in delivering the best gaming audio setup for competitive and cinematic players alike.
Soundbar Features for the Best Gaming Audio Setup
Soundbars may not match the depth of receivers, but they bring convenience and design advantages to the best gaming audio setup in smaller spaces.
| Feature | Soundbar Advantage |
|---|---|
| Simple setup | Just one HDMI cable from the TV |
| Virtual surround modes | Simulated Dolby Atmos effects for immersion |
| Space-saving design | Perfect for apartments and shared rooms |
| HDMI eARC | Dolby Atmos passthrough with minimal wiring |
✅ Takeaway: For gamers who want quick installation and a clean look, soundbars deliver a simplified path to the best gaming audio setup.
AV Receiver vs Soundbar by Scenario
Choosing between an AV receiver and a soundbar depends on your space, budget, and priorities. Here’s how the best gaming audio plays out in different scenarios:
| Scenario | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Competitive gaming (low lag) | AV Receiver | Lower input lag through ALLM and HDMI 2.1 support |
| Small apartment setup | Soundbar | Compact design saves space and power |
| Dolby Atmos on 8K TV | AV Receiver | Provides true object-based sound |
| Budget gaming rig | Soundbar (mid-tier) | More affordable entry point |
| Multi-console setup | AV Receiver | Simplifies switching with multiple HDMI inputs |
✅ Takeaway: For serious gamers, the AV receiver often delivers the best gaming audio setup, while soundbars shine in smaller spaces or budget builds.
Recommended Products by Category
✅ Best AV Receivers for the Best Gaming Audio Setup
Yamaha RX-V6A – Full HDMI 2.1, Dolby Atmos, MusicCast, Alexa support.
Denon AVR-S970H – VRR, ALLM, Audyssey calibration, HEOS streaming.
(Examples of the best AV receivers for gaming in 2025.)
✅ Best Gaming Soundbars for the Best Gaming Audio Setup
Sonos Beam Gen 2 – Dolby Atmos, Alexa, and AirPlay 2 integration.
Samsung HW-Q700C – Q-Symphony, HDMI 2.1, included subwoofer.
Vizio M-Series 5.1.2 – Affordable Atmos with true rear speakers.
(Curated list of the best gaming soundbars in 2025.)
✅ Takeaway: Both receivers and soundbars deliver paths to the best gaming audio — your choice depends on whether you want immersive expandability (AVR) or plug-and-play simplicity (soundbar).
Final Verdict: Finding the Best
✅ Choose an AV Receiver if:
You want true 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound.
You play immersive titles like Elden Ring, Spider-Man 2, or Halo Infinite.
You have the space and budget for a future-proof system.
✅ Choose a Soundbar if:
You game in a small apartment, dorm, or shared space.
You prefer an easy plug-and-play setup with a clean look.
You focus on casual or single-player games where simplicity matters most.