A 5-channel AV receiver is a type of audio/video receiver that is designed to power a 5.1 surround sound speaker system. This type of receiver has five discrete channels of amplification, typically rated between 50-100 watts per channel, and is capable of decoding and processing various surround sound formats, such as Dolby Digital and DTS.

The "5" in 5-channel refers to the number of speakers in the system. A 5.1 speaker system consists of five speakers: a center channel speaker, two front speakers, and two surround speakers, as well as a subwoofer for low-frequency effects. The receiver sends the audio signals to each speaker individually, creating a surround sound effect that can enhance the overall listening experience.

In addition to the five channels of amplification, 5-channel AV receivers typically include multiple input and output ports, such as HDMI, optical, and analog, to accommodate various audio and video sources, as well as built-in audio and video processing features, such as equalization and video upscaling.

When choosing a 5-channel AV receiver, it is important to consider factors such as power output, input and output ports, compatibility with your speaker system and devices, and features such as wireless connectivity and integration with smart home systems.