For a long time, AV receivers have held the top spot in the home media center. This is hardly unexpected given the amazing visual and audio capabilities of these gadgets. Receivers are getting increasingly popular, and competition in the market is increasing. In this study, we’ll take a look at the top Denon AV receivers.
This firm has been in operation for almost a century. Throughout its existence, the firm has adhered to its core values, the most important of which are quality and dependability. That is why we conducted a thorough top Denon receivers evaluation in order to select a superb receiver.
If you are interested in these models, keep reading our 5 Best Denon Receivers review for more information below.
Our Top Pick: Denon AVR-X8500H Flagship Receiver
Description: Denon’s AVR-X8500H is the company’s most technologically advanced receiver to date.
Features: It is perhaps the most sophisticated AVR currently available. It’s the most impressive AVR we’ve ever evaluated. It’s Denon’s most audiophile-worthy AVR since the classic AVR-5308CI and AVR-5805.
If you are looking for the 5 Best Denon Receivers, you should give this one a chance. This is probably one of the best 5 Best Denon Receivers you can find. The X8500H can flex all 13 of its amp muscles with ease. With its comprehensive, current feature set, this gigantic AVR will put competitors to shame.
The Denon supports every major immersive audio format (Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D, and the new IMAX Enhanced); it will play them to the highest supported settings available today—right out of the box—without the need for any additional amplifiers.
The X8500H supports all important 4K/UHD specifications, including BT.2020 deep color, HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision HDR. Perhaps most importantly, an upgrade route to HDMI 2.1 has been disclosed for the X8500H.
In a single box, reference performance, remarkable flexibility, extensive features, excellent value, and future-proof(ish)? That’s the AVR-X8500H from Denon in a nutshell. But keep reading because there’s a lot more.
This is a bold artwork. Denon places a high value on the AVR-legacy. X8500H’s Each device is hand-built in small batches in Japan at the same plant that manufactured the famous AVR-5805. That is significant.
The plastic front access panel has been replaced with solid metal. Physical buttons have been improved to have a more quality feel. A few edges are slightly beveled. Even the screws have been improved with a knurled finish that reflects light. What do you think of it for visual flair?
Denon’s industrial design team meticulously examined every millimeter of this device. What are the ultimate results? The X8500H exudes quality construction and design. You can also select your finish: Silver or black.
Pros
- Perfect sound for reference two and multi-channel situations.
- 2 channel processing; 15 assignable amplifier channels; and 15.2 external amplification pre-outs
- Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, Auro-3D, and IMAX support They have been enhanced to their maximum speaker combinations.
Cons
- The absence of native Roon support
Runner Up: Denon AVR-X3700H 8K Ultra HD 9.2 Channel (105Watt X 9) AV Receiver
Description: The AVC-X3700H, a surprisingly significant advance over its already superb predecessor, might easily be Denon’s 2020 performance-per-pound selection.
Features: When you listen to class-leading items as frequently as we do, you can tell when a new standard has been established. However, it is not always clear how high the bar has been raised until a direct comparison with another excellent product is made.
That is the situation with the new Denon AVC-X3700H 8K-ready home cinema amplifier. While there is a tiny part of us that wishes the Japanese business would screw up one of these amps just so we could write something else, the sound improvement over last year’s model is pretty noticeable.
One of the AVC-seven X3700H’s inputs and two of its three outputs are full HDMI 2.1 sockets with 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz capability. All of its HDMI connections feature HDR10+, Dynamic HDR, and Quick Media Switching, which enables a source to adjust resolution or frame rate instantaneously to minimize screen blackout.
If you are looking for the 5 Best Denon Receivers, you should give this one a chance. This is probably one of the best 5 Best Denon Receivers you can find.
Gamers are well serviced as well, with Variable Refresh Rate enabled to prevent frame tearing and enhance overall accuracy, as well as Auto Low Latency Mode and Quick Frame Transport to reduce latency and therefore improve gaming performance.
In terms of audio, the AVC-X3700H keeps the 11 channels of processing that were increased from seven in the previous model generation. There are nine built-in power amplifier channels, each with a stated 180W of power.
That means you may configure the AVC-X3700H for 5.2.4 or 7.2.2 Dolby Atmos, or add an extra two-channel amp for maximum processing power with a 7.2.4 setup.
Pros
- Exceptionally clear and detailed
- enthralling and dynamic
- 8K and HDMI 2.1
Cons
- None
Best for Budget: Denon DRA-800H 2-Channel Stereo Network Receiver
Description: Denon’s contemporary take on the traditional stereo receiver provides superb sound quality, video switching for 2-channel home theater, and all of the conveniences of an app-driven, internet-connected music system.
Features: Denon’s HEOS hi-res multi-room broadcasting platform (which includes access to Spotify, Tidal, Deezer, Amazon Music, and TuneIn Internet Radio, as well as uPnP network streaming) is combined with five HDMI inputs and an HDMI ARC socket, allowing the receiver to connect to a 4K TV and a few AV sources.
So, if you’re wanting to design a mid-range stereo system that can handle both your TV and audio demands, the DRA-800H may be at the heart of it.
It can be operated by most remotes owing to HDMI-CEC and offers A/B zones for connecting two pairs of stereo speakers or bi-wiring, which helps its case as both a home cinema and hi-fi hub.
If you are looking for the 5 Best Denon Receivers, you should give this one a chance. This is probably one of the best 5 Best Denon Receivers you can find. FM/DAB+ radio; phono, RCA, optical, coaxial, and USB inputs; AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth are also available.
Meanwhile, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri provide voice control functionality, with each capable of varied playback control duties such as volume adjustment, track skipping, and input switching.
Many of Denon’s amplifier topologies are used in the DRA-800H, including a newly built power amp with a left/right structure, a pre-power section with double differential DAC circuitry, Denon proprietary capacitors, and an oxygen-free copper power transformer – all for performance.
The Denon, at roughly 18 pounds in a full rack-width chassis, straddles the center while strongly targeting the audiophile. Its high-current Class A/B amplifier is rated for 100 watts RMS x 2 into 8 ohms (both channels driven, complete 20 to 20kHz bandwidth, 0.08 percent total harmonic distortion), and it can handle loads as low as 4 ohms.
Pros
- Sonics of audiophile caliber
- Extensive HDMI switching allows you easy access to networked and internet-streamed music.
Cons
- Remote with no backlight
Denon AVR-X2700H
Description: The AVR-X2700H doesn’t support as many 3D audio formats as higher-end versions, but Dolby Atmos, Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS:X, and DTS Virtual:X are all present and proper.
Features: Denon has dominated the home cinema receiver market in recent years. After successfully sustaining its five-star history with its 2020 X-Series AVRs at the top and middle of the market, it’s time to move to the Denon AVR-X2700H, the company’s entry-level AVR.
The single 8K/60Hz HDMI 2.1 input, which can also send over 4K video at 120Hz, is a notable improvement over its predecessor, paving the way for the future needs of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
However, dismissing the additions to this year’s model as simply for gamers would be a mistake. If you are looking for the 5 Best Denon Receivers, you should give this one a chance. This is probably one of the best 5 Best Denon Receivers you can find.
The channel configuration remains the same. There are seven power amplifier channels available (along with outputs for two subwoofers) that may be configured in 7.2 or 5.2.2 configurations, with a stated 150W per channel.
There is no front ‘trap door’ as seen on higher-spec Denon AVRs, and the array of conveniently accessible on-device settings is less extensive. You may still use the hard buttons to switch inputs, adjust the radio, and operate a second listening zone, but most of your setup and playback choices will need the usage of the fully-featured remote.
Although there is just one HDMI 2.1-certified input, the other five have not been overlooked. To meet the needs of next-generation content, they’re all compatible with lag-reducing technologies such as Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), Quick Frame Transport (QFT), and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).
They also support the complete range of HDR standards, including HDR10+, HDR10, HLG, and Dolby Vision. Both HDMI outputs are also 2.1-certified, so customers with a TV and a projector in their system will be able to send 8K@60Hz and 4K@120Hz to both. eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel) is also supported.
Pros
- Excellent spatial control
- HDMI 2.1 and 8K have an excellent sense of rhythm.
Cons
- None
Denon AVR-S750H Receiver
Description: The ‘S750H’ can power up to seven speakers at once. In a 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos® or DTS:XTM system, use all seven channels.
Features: Every now and again, wemarvel at how far home theater receiver technology has progressed, particularly in terms of value for money. Consider the Denon AVR-S750H.
It combines high-quality surround sound with smartphone management, wireless streaming, and multi-room audio functionality, all at a low price. It wasn’t long ago that a similar combination of features would have cost far more.
You can go with a standard 5.1-channel arrangement and reuse the additional two channels for music in another zone. If you are looking for the 5 Best Denon Receivers, you should give this one a chance. This is probably one of the best 5 Best Denon Receivers you can find.
The ‘S750H supports music streaming from your phone or tablet over Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and even Apple AirPlay 2.
Do you enjoy playing records? This receiver has a phono input for your turntable. You can also play high-resolution tunes from a USB drive or networked PC if you’ve painstakingly collected a great music library.
This receiver is very simple to integrate into a wireless multi-room audio system. Stream music to HEOS wireless speakers and components in multiple rooms, and use the free HEOS app to manage the sound in each room individually.
The software allows you to manage to play, explore music sources, and choose which rooms to utilize. Play the same music in each room, or listen to something different in each.
The HEOS Home Entertainment ability for Amazon Alexa allows you to send voice commands to the ‘S750H using your Echo devices. On the receiver and other HEOS-enabled devices, you may effortlessly switch inputs and manage volume and playback.
Alexa can also assist you to find music and stream different types of material to different rooms in your multi-room HEOS system. The ‘S750H is also compatible with devices that support Google Assistant. Start music in the HEOS app, then use your Google Home or Google Pixel phone to alter the volume, play, stop, skip songs, and more.
Pros
- The Denon AVR-S750H provides superb home theater performance in a cheap, up-to-date package
- Supports a variety of wireless protocols.
- There is voice control available.
Cons
- Chromecast is not supported.
Buyer’s Guide for 5 Best Denon Receivers
So you’re debating whether to buy, rent, or otherwise test out an AV receiver or amplifier. In this detailed buyer’s guide, we’ll go over everything you should think about before purchasing an AV receiver or amplifier.
The distinction between budget and premium AV receivers from Denon
Every manufacturer of home theater receivers, including Denon, offers a wide selection of models that may find a consumer in each price range of the market, delivering the finest Denon receiver in its scope.
As a result, many purchasers have queries about this type of device. And it’s good learning more about this by dissecting each component of a home theater receiver.
We should begin with the corps and frame. Perhaps the first feature that consumers consider when purchasing a new gadget. The more expensive the AVR, the more luxurious it looks to be. This is evident from the plastic of the front panel and other exterior casing elements.
More costly receivers also include a strengthened frame that acts as a mount for a large transformer. It also dampens vibrations in the components. The second thing to look at is connection specs. Manufacturers outfit high-end receivers with the most up-to-date audio and visual functionality in this regard.
These kinds always have a greater number of digital and analog interfaces. Enabling example, HDMI 2.1 for 8K video streaming with HDCP 2.3 protection is only available in high-end devices. The same is true for wireless protocols; the more costly the model, the more advanced the technology used: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and so on.
How many channels will I require?
When selecting a receiver, you should have a thorough concept of where you intend to place the home theater system, which room it will be in, what dimensions it will have, the space available for installing speakers, and so on.
On that basis, the user will be able to calculate how many channels are required (usually 5.1 or 7.1). Most mid- to high-end receivers on the market today are 7.1 or higher compatible, with 5.1 gear falling into the budget range. And keep in mind that the more stations the transmitter has, the greater area it can cover with sound.
What Is Your Budget for an AV Receiver/Amplifier?
When making any purchase, the first thing to consider is your budget. Because money can be a sensitive issue for some, we’ll keep this part brief. We would never recommend that someone splurge on audio equipment. Know what you can afford realistically and do your best to keep within those constraints, whatever they may be.
AV receiver/amplifiers, like many other audio equipments, have a wide price range. Because the market is so wide, there should be something for every budget. It should be noted that some stores offer payment plans, which may be a choice according to this 5 Best Denon Receivers review.
Consider the cost-benefit ratio of buying an AV receiver/amplifier. For example, if the receiver/amp is required for commercial purposes, perhaps stretching the budget is preferable. If, on the other hand, you do not intend to make money from the receiver/amp, a more cautious budget may be reasonable.
Consider any additional accessories or care that your AV receiver/amplifier may require. Your budget is entirely up to you. All we’re saying is that you should think about it.
Number of Audio Channels on an AV Receiver/Amplifier
As the heart of your home theater or entertainment system, your AV receiver must be able to connect to all of your devices. Furthermore, it should have the same number of channels, if not more, as your present speaker arrangement according to this 5 Best Denon Receivers review.
The number of audio channels is crucial in knowing how the device will fit into the wider system when picking an AVR to meet our demands. A stereo receiver will have a stereo amplifier or two monoblock amplifiers to power a pair of stereo speakers (left and right channels).
Wireless and wired connectivity
Continuing from the I/O section, we should grasp our prospective AVRs’ wired and wireless connectivity choices according to this 5 Best Denon Receivers review.
The AVR will link to a variety of devices as the hub of an entertainment system. Wired connections may be preferable for stationary equipment such as televisions and speakers. They are typically more reliable than wireless connectivity and provide a more accurate signal transfer with the necessary encoding and decoding for wireless signal transmission.
Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and an AM/FM radio are examples of wireless connectivity to consider when purchasing your next AVR. The remote control is also worth considering, even though it, like AM/FM radio, is now standard with AV receivers.
Many proprietary wireless communication protocols, such as Apple’s AirPlay, Denon’s HEOS, DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance), Google’s Chromecast, and Spotify’s Connect3, are accessible over Wi-Fi according to this 5 Best Denon Receivers review.
Bluetooth connection allows us to pair the AVR with any Bluetooth-enabled device, with specifications defaulting to the lowest Bluetooth version between the associated devices (backward compatibility).
Power Requirements for an AV Receiver/Amplifier
As previously stated, AV receivers also function as power amplifiers, effectively driving the speakers to which they are connected. So, while selecting an AVR, we must consider how much power (watts) we require per channel and overall.
Unfortunately, power/wattage specifications are sometimes misleading, especially when determining how much power is available per channel according to this 5 Best Denon Receivers review.
Investigate how much power is available per channel when all channels are connected to speakers. Take note of the speakers’ rated nominal impedance and the frequency response at which the specification remains true (ideally 20-20,000 Hz). Look for overall harmonic distortion values at maximum peak power as well.
Conclusion: 5 Best Denon Receivers [2022 Review]
It can be challenging to stay up in the receiver sector as technology innovations occur at an increasing rate. While new and enhanced surround sound formats dominate audio innovations, the world of digital video is fast changing.
So, while selecting a receiver, it is essential to examine the concept of futureproofing to ensure that the AVR we select now will not be outdated a year or even a few months from now. We hope you liked our 5 Best Denon Receivers review and it was helpful.