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    Home»Entertainment»Denon vs Onkyo: AV Receiver Giants Thorough Comparison 2024
    Entertainment

    Denon vs Onkyo: AV Receiver Giants Thorough Comparison 2024

    Erfan AskariBy Erfan AskariJuly 29, 2024Updated:February 9, 2025No Comments25 Mins Read
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    Denon vs Onkyo, which is better?
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    In order to compare Denon vs Onkyo, there are several factors to consider, such as audio and video performance, connectivity, advanced features like room calibration, build quality, user-friendliness, and value for money. I’ve reviewed many Denon and Onkyo AV receivers over the years, and in this article, I’ll compare these brands in every area and give you the best suggestion according to your budget. This is the most comprehensive Onkyo vs Denon article you’ll find on the web!

    Which is Better, Denon or Onkyo? (Quick Answer)

    As much as I love Denon for its commitment to manufacturing great receivers, I believe Onkyo generally provides better value for money. Here’s why:

    • In the budget receiver category: Onkyo’s TX-SR3100 delivers superior audio and video performance compared to Denon’s S540BT.
    • In the moderately-priced receiver category: the Onkyo TX-NR7100 and Denon AVR-X2700H are quite competitive, but Onkyo has a slight edge due to its support for IMAX Enhanced.
    • In the high-end receiver category: the Onkyo TX-RZ50 and Denon AVR-X6700H are both top-notch. However, the RZ50 seems more appealing because of its Dirac Live calibration.

    Also Read:

    Denon vs Marantz

    In the table below, you can see a complete comparison table for the models I’ve introduced in each budget range:

    Price ClassModelAudio PerformanceVideo PerformanceConnectivityFeatures & Functionality
    The Budget Class

    (Jump to Comparison)
    Denon AVR-S540BT70 WPC, Class A/B, 6-16 ohms, 0.08% THD, 98 dB SNR4K at 60Hz, HDR10, BT.2020, 4:4:4, No Upscaling, 5 HDMIWired: 5 HDMI, 1 USB, aux, optical, coaxial  Basic auto-calibration, no multi-zone, no voice control  
    Onkyo TX-SR310080 WPC, Class A/B, 4-16 ohms, 0.08% THD, 100 dB SNR  4K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, No Upscaling, 4 HDMI  Wired: 4 HDMI, 1 USB, aux, optical, coaxial  AccuEQ calibration, no multi-zone, no voice control  
    The Moderate Class

    (Jump to Comparison)
    Denon AVR-X2700H95 WPC, Class A/B, 4-16 ohms, 0.08% THD, 100 dB SNR4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, 8K Upscaling, 6 HDMI  Wired: 6 HDMI, 2 USB, aux, optical, coaxial, Ethernet, Wi-Fi  Audyssey MultEQ XT, Zone 2, voice control, HEOS app  
    Onkyo TX-NR7100100 WPC, Class A/B, 4-16 ohms, 0.08% THD, 100 dB SNR  4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, 8K Upscaling, 6 HDMI  Wired: 6 HDMI, 2 USB, aux, optical, coaxial, Ethernet, Wi-Fi  Dirac Live, AccuEQ, Zone 2 and 3, voice control, Onkyo Controller app  
    The Premium Class

    (Jump to Comparison)
    Denon AVR-X6700H140 WPC, Class A/B, 4-16 ohms, 0.05% THD, 110 dB SNR  4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, 8K Upscaling, 8 HDMI  Wired: 8 HDMI, 3 USB, aux, optical, coaxial, Ethernet, Wi-Fi  Audyssey MultEQ XT32, Zone 2 and 3, voice control, HEOS app  
    Onkyo TX-RZ50120 WPC, Class A/B, 4-16 ohms, 0.05% THD, 110 dB SNR  4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+, 8K Upscaling, 7 HDMI  Wired: 7 HDMI, 2 USB, aux, optical, coaxial, Ethernet, Wi-Fi  Dirac Live, AccuEQ, Zone 2 and 3, voice control, Onkyo Controller app  

    Now, if the table above looks like complete jargon to you, I suggest you read on, as I’ve broken down everything to help you make the best choice.

    Denon vs Onkyo: Brand Overview

    Denon’s Reputation and Innovations

    Denon Corporation, founded in 1910, is a Japanese audio equipment company renowned worldwide for manufacturing high-quality, feature-rich AV receivers, headphones, and home theater systems. They combine innovative tech with superior craftsmanship to deliver an exceptional sound experience for their customers. Denon AV receivers are famous for their longevity, designed to work consistently for many years.

    Onkyo’s Reputation and Innovations

    Onkyo is a younger company compared to Denon. Founded in 1946, Onkyo has established itself as a great brand among home theater enthusiasts and audiophiles. While Denon targets a broader audience, from casual listeners to audiophiles, Onkyo’s efforts are dedicated to people seeking high-performance audio equipment, including AV receivers, speakers, and home theater systems. Despite a few complaints from customers regarding HDMI board issues, Onkyo AV receivers are also reliable and can last for many years. However, in terms of functional lifespan, I give the credit to Denon, although Onkyo has made significant strides in recent years.

    How Do We Compare Denon vs Onkyo in This Guide?

    As I mentioned earlier, we are going to compare these brands in three separate price classes: budget, moderate, and premium. In each class, we will compare two of the best products from each brand in every technical aspect.

    Denon vs Onkyo: The Budget Class ($300 – $500)

    For now, let’s compare two of my favorite budget models. The models we review in this section are:

    1. Denon AVR-S540BT ($349.99)
    2. Onkyo TX-SR3100 ($399.99)

    Denon AVR-S540BT vs Onkyo TX-SR3100: Audio Performance

    To start, please take a look at this table below, which compares the audio features of these models:

    Technical AspectDenon AVR-S540BTOnkyo TX-SR3100Winner
    Power Output70 watts per channel80 watts per channelOnkyo TX-SR3100
    Amplifier ClassClass A/BClass A/BTie
    Impedance Compatibility6 to 16 ohms4 to 16 ohmsOnkyo TX-SR3100
    Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)0.08%0.08%Tie
    Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)98 dB100 dBOnkyo TX-SR3100

    Onkyo’s higher power output (80 watts per channel into 8 ohms), while seemingly a tiny addition compared to the Denon model, makes Onkyo’s performance in larger or acoustically challenging rooms noticeably better. The wider impedance compatibility (4 to 16 ohms) makes Onkyo’s receiver compatible with a broader range of speakers. Lower impedance speakers usually demand more power to drive, but they provide better sound quality. Regarding SNR, the higher this attribute, the better your AV receiver performs in amplifying audio signals without dragging in a lot of background noise. Although, according to my tests, this variation isn’t a big deal, for those super-conscious about audio detail, it may differ.

    So, to draw a final decision, I can say that the Onkyo TX-SR3100 performs better than the Denon AVR-S540BT in terms of audio performance.

    Onkyo’s superior power output markedly elevates its performance in expansive or acoustically demanding spaces, outshining Denon.

    Denon AVR-S540BT vs Onkyo TX-SR3100: Video Performance

    It’s time to put our two budget nominees head-to-head in the video performance category. Spoiler alert: Onkyo’s receiver is a clear winner. But first, take a look at the table below, and we’ll discuss it afterward:

    Technical AspectDenon AVR-S540BTOnkyo TX-SR3100Winner
    Resolution Support4K at 60Hz, HDR10, BT.2020, 4:4:44K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby VisionOnkyo TX-SR3100
    UpscalingNo advanced upscalingNo advanced upscalingTie
    Pass-through4K/60Hz, HDR10, HDCP 2.2, BT.20204K/60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDCP 2.2Onkyo TX-SR3100
    HDMI Connectivity5 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI output4 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI outputDenon AVR-S540BT

    What do we get from this table? We can see that both models support 4K resolution at 60Hz and are compatible with HDR10, meaning they can deliver smooth and sharp video content with lifelike colors. Neither offers upscaling, which is expected because we are dealing with budget models. However, Onkyo has a significant advantage here: it supports HLG (Hybrid Log-Gamma) and Dolby Vision.

    While watching the Avengers: Endgame by Marvel Studios, I saw how effective Dolby Vision can be, as it adjusted the picture quality scene-by-scene, particularly during the epic final battle. The colors and shadowy scenes were much more enhanced and immersive.

    So, if you care about a better HDR experience, Onkyo’s AV receiver should be your choice in terms of video performance. Denon has more HDMI inputs, which I believe isn’t a big advantage in this scenario, and Onkyo TX-SR3100 is indeed the winner here.

    For an unparalleled HDR experience, Onkyo’s TX-SR3100 AV receiver is the superior choice for video performance compared to Denon AVR-S540BT.

    Denon AVR-S540BT vs Onkyo TX-SR3100: Connectivity

    Connectivity AspectDenon AVR-S540BTOnkyo TX-SR3100Winner
    Wired Connections5 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI output, HDCP 2.2, USB, aux, optical, coaxial digital inputs4 HDMI inputs, 1 HDMI output, HDCP 2.2, USB, aux, optical, coaxial digital inputsDenon AVR-S540BT
    Wireless ConnectionsBluetooth (no Wi-Fi)Bluetooth (no Wi-Fi)Tie
    Network FeaturesNo EthernetNo EthernetTie
    Streaming Services IntegrationNo built-in streaming servicesNo built-in streaming servicesTie

    As the table suggests, our budget models both offer a decent amount of conventional inputs and outputs for receivers. For wireless connection, they have Bluetooth, enabling you to stream music through your smartphone, tablet, or computer.

    The lack of wired or wireless internet connection means you can’t directly use streaming services like Spotify and need an external streaming device like Roku or Fire Stick, or your smart TV. You also can’t integrate the device into a smart home setup without the internet, and there’s no possibility of automatic firmware updates. You can only connect your external devices to your AV receiver through HDMI cables. I think the lack of internet is a downside for both models.

    So, since Denon offers an extra HDMI input, you can consider it the better option for connectivity. However, neither model is impressive in modern-day connection types due to the lack of internet connection possibilities.

    Also Read:

    Best Receiver for Klipsch Speakers

    Denon AVR-S540BT vs Onkyo TX-SR3100: Functionality & Features

    Alright then, for this part, we will go through the main features that help an AV receiver enhance the audio. We’ll also look into some smart features. To start, look at the table below:

    FeatureDenon AVR-S540BTOnkyo TX-SR3100Winner
    Surround Sound FormatsDolby TrueHD, DTS-HD Master Audio (no Dolby Atmos, DTS)Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer, DTS VirtualOnkyo TX-SR3100
    CalibrationBasic auto-calibrationAccuEQ calibration systemOnkyo TX-SR3100
    Zones and Multi-Room AudioNo multi-zone audioNo multi-zone audioTie
    Voice ControlNo voice controlNo voice controlTie
    User InterfaceUser-friendly, on-screen display, setup assistantEasy-to-navigate interface, Vocal EnhancerTie

    Regarding surround sound features, the Denon model offers impressive technologies such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD. These advanced lossless sound codecs are great for a multi-channel setup, providing a perfect surround sound experience, but they still need surround speakers. On the other hand, the Onkyo model has the upper hand, supporting more robust features for surround sound like Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual. Dolby Atmos is an object-based sound format that adds height channels to create a more immersive surround sound experience. Thanks to the Dolby Atmos Height Virtualizer technology, you won’t need additional height speakers in your setup. According to what I’ve witnessed, Dolby TrueHD or DTS-HD are no match for it.

    Additionally, DTS Virtual is for people who don’t want to go through the complexity of surround setups. It can simulate a 3D sound experience with only two speakers. However, according to my experience, it’s not as immersive as Dolby Atmos, but it depends on your speakers.

    Moving on to audio calibration features, while Denon’s receiver offers a basic auto-calibration feature that I found very easy to use, it still can’t be nearly as effective as Onkyo’s AccuEQ calibration system. This technology adapts to various room layouts and speaker placements to improve audio quality according to the acoustics of your room.

    Since both devices are considered entry-level in the realm of AV receivers, we can’t expect advanced features like voice assistant compatibility or multi-zone audio from them. However, to decide on a better choice here, I give the credit to the Onkyo TX-SR3100 for its advanced surround sound and audio calibration technologies.

    Onkyo budget model

    Denon AVR-S540BT vs Onkyo TX-SR3100: Build Quality and Design

    Although these devices are budget models, none fall short in terms of the sturdiness of building materials

    Denon’s receiver is constructed with reliable plastic and metal materials. It has a simple and clean front panel. The overall look of the device is modern and sleek. The device is pretty reliable, and I haven’t heard any complaints about its longevity from my customers.

    Our Onkyo contender doesn’t fall short either. The plastic and metal materials are good companions for the long run, and the front panel is more detailed than Denon’s, with a larger display and more visible controls. There haven’t been major issues with this device, but as I should tell you every detail, I’ve had experiences with people who had to have their device repaired after a short period of time.

    Denon AVR-S540BT vs Onkyo TX-SR3100: Ease of Use and Setup

    Installing these two devices isn’t that complicated; however, Denon’s setup is a bit easier thanks to its helpful setup wizard for initial setup. But Onkyo’s receiver has a manual that I found very helpful throughout the setup process.

    As you already know, firmware updates are necessary to keep your devices well-functioning, and AV receivers are no exception. Since neither of these two supports internet connection, you must check the manufacturer’s website and download the update, which you can then install on the device manually. This updating process isn’t as streamlined as an automatic update via the internet, so both devices lack a user-friendly approach in this situation.

    Denon budget model

    So, Which is Better, Denon AVR-S540BT or Onkyo TX-SR3100?

    To draw a conclusion between these two top budget models, I give the credit to Onkyo’s device since it takes the lead in most of the important areas we discussed. It has superior audio and video performance, offers more features such as Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual, and the price gap isn’t significant, making it the better choice.

    In addition, if you’re looking forward to buy a budget device from Onkyo or Denon, I suggest you also read our Onkyo TX-NR6050 vs Denon AVR-S760H guide. These two models are a bit pricier than the two devices mentioned in this section, but they’re pretty popular among users.

    Denon vs Onkyo: The Moderate Class ($500 – $1000)

    I find these two models to be the perfect moderate choices among Denon and Onkyo products:

    1. Denon AVR-X2700H (Can be found on the market for $630)
    2. Onkyo TX-NR7100 ($705)

    Denon AVR-X2700H vs Onkyo TX-NR7100: Audio Performance

    Take a look at this audio comparison table:

    Technical AspectDenon AVR-X2700HOnkyo TX-NR7100Winner
    Power Output95 watts per channel100 watts per channelOnkyo TX-NR7100
    Amplifier ClassClass A/BClass A/BTie
    Impedance Compatibility4 to 16 ohms4 to 16 ohmsTie
    Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)0.08%0.08%Tie
    Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)100 dB100 dBTie

    As you can see, the two models are very competitive; they offer the same amplifier class, impedance compatibility, THD, and SNR. However, Onkyo again stands out due to its higher power output, making it suitable for larger rooms or setups that require more dynamic range and volume.

    In practice, I didn’t notice a very significant difference in their overall audio performance. It’s just the power output that makes Onkyo a better choice for many setups. However, if your home theater room isn’t very large, the additional power output won’t mean much to you.

    Denon AVR-X2700H vs Onkyo TX-NR7100: Video Performance

    Here’s the comparison table for the two moderately priced models:

    Technical AspectDenon AVR-X2700HOnkyo TX-NR7100Winner
    Resolution Support4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+Onkyo TX-NR7100
    Upscaling8K upscaling8K upscalingTie
    Pass-throughHDR10, HLG, Dolby VisionHDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+Onkyo TX-NR7100
    HDMI Connectivity6 HDMI inputs, 2 HDMI outputs, HDCP 2.36 HDMI inputs, 2 HDMI outputs, HDCP 2.3Tie

    As you can see, both models support 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz pass-through, enabling them to handle the latest video content with exceptional clarity and detail. To enhance the color and contrast of the video, they both feature HDR10, HDR10+, HLG, and Dolby Vision.

    Now, about HDR10+, you should know that this technology doesn’t operate the same as HDR10 in managing brightness and color settings. As you may already know, colors are much more enhanced with HDR10+; the bright scenes are brighter, and the dark scenes are darker, providing better details and realism.

    You can effectively realize the difference between HDR10 and HDR10+ when watching a movie like Blade Runner 2049. For instance, in the scene where K (Ryan Gosling) visits the deserted city, the neon lights are more vibrant and shadows are more detailed. The textures in the dark alleys are mesmerizing, making HDR10 no match for HDR10+.

    Additionally, the Onkyo TX-NR7100 includes IMAX Enhanced, which allows you to watch IMAX Enhanced content through your AV receiver. However, to fully enjoy the benefits of IMAX Enhanced, such as optimized video and immersive audio, you’ll need other IMAX Enhanced certified devices, such as a compatible TV or projector, and speakers that meet the IMAX Enhanced specifications.

    So, while both models don’t disappoint with video content, Onkyo TX-NR7100 has a slight edge here thanks to its IMAX Enhanced support.

    Denon AVR-X2700H vs Onkyo TX-NR7100: Connectivity

    Connectivity AspectDenon AVR-X2700HOnkyo TX-NR7100Winner
    Wired Connections6 HDMI inputs, 2 HDMI outputs, HDCP 2.3, USB, aux, optical, coaxial digital inputs6 HDMI inputs, 2 HDMI outputs, HDCP 2.3, USB, aux, optical, coaxial digital inputsTie
    Wireless ConnectionsBluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ChromecastTie
    Network FeaturesEthernet, DLNA, internet radioEthernet, DLNA, internet radioTie
    Streaming Services IntegrationHEOS (Spotify, Tidal, Pandora, Amazon Music)Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi (Spotify, Tidal, Pandora, Amazon Music)Tie

    Both devices offer decent connectivity options; they have a sufficient number of HDMI inputs and outputs, offer Bluetooth, and can connect to the internet via Ethernet port or built-in Wi-Fi.

    Since both support connection to the web, they can be valuable companions for those who rely heavily on streaming music directly from services like Spotify, Tidal, Pandora, or Amazon Music. The choice between either model in terms of connectivity depends on which platform you prefer. Denon uses HEOS, while Onkyo supports Chromecast. Plus, the support for AirPlay 2 on both devices is good news for Apple lovers.

    Denon AVR-X2700H vs Onkyo TX-NR7100: Features & Functionality

    FeatureDenon AVR-X2700HOnkyo TX-NR7100Winner
    Surround Sound FormatsDolby Atmos, DTS, Auro-3DDolby Atmos, DTS, IMAX EnhancedOnkyo TX-NR7100
    CalibrationAudyssey MultEQ XTDirac Live, AccuEQOnkyo TX-NR7100
    Zones and Multi-Room AudioZone 2Zone 2, Zone 3Onkyo TX-NR7100
    Voice ControlAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple SiriAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple SiriTie
    User InterfaceUser-friendly display, HEOS appIntuitive interface, Onkyo Controller appTie

    To create a fully immersive experience for users, both devices are equipped with robust features for creating an amazing surround sound effect. Auro-3D, which you see on the Denon receiver, is another format known for delivering natural sound. However, it is mostly used in professional audio environments and isn’t very common among consumer devices. I believe Dolby Atmos to be the best surround sound technology, which thankfully both devices are integrated with.

    For calibration, the Denon receiver utilizes Audyssey MultEQ XT, which I find very effective and easy to use. On the other hand, Onkyo has two technologies for calibration on this device: Dirac Live and AccuEQ. While AccuEQ can’t match Denon’s Audyssey in functionality, the Dirac Live calibration system is one of the most sophisticated and advanced calibration technologies I’ve ever seen! Its calibration is definitely a feature for professionals.

    So, while Denon offers great calibration technology, Onkyo has a small advantage here with its Dirac Live system.

    Multi-Room or multi-zone audio refers to the ability of an AV receiver to send different audio/video signals to multiple zones (rooms). Imagine you are watching a movie on the living room TV while your spouse is listening to music through the kitchen speakers. Among our two models, Denon’s receiver supports Zone 2 for both audio and video, while the Onkyo supports Zone 2 (for audio and video) and Zone 3 (for video), making Onkyo a better choice for the multi-room feature.

    The voice assistant compatibility is robust on both models, supporting all three major assistants: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri, making everyone happy!

    Denon’s Audyssey MultEQ XT is effective and intuitive, while Onkyo’s AccuEQ lags behind. However, Dirac Live shines as an exceptionally sophisticated system.

    Onkyo TX-NR7100 is a great moderate av receiver

    Denon AVR-X2700H vs Onkyo TX-NR7100: Build Quality and Design

    Similar to our budget models, these two also offer great build quality and design. Let’s dive into the ins and outs of these two moderate receivers to see which one excels in this category.

    Denon’s receiver has the vibe of a classic AV receiver with its sturdy black box design. The front panel is made of aluminum and consists of two big knobs, one for volume and the other for source selection, which are practical and user-friendly. It weighs about 21 pounds, which is kind of heavy, but that’s usually a sign of quality! This weight is due to its metal chassis, which showcases its resistance to bumps. Similar to every Denon receiver I’ve encountered over the years, this one also means business and can be reliable in the long run.

    Onkyo’s receiver doesn’t fall short of Denon in terms of the quality of build and materials, though it’s a bit heavier at 22.9 pounds, again because of its robust metal chassis. Compared to the Denon, its design is more modern, featuring a large central knob along with smaller knobs and buttons that make navigation a breeze. Its dimensions are smaller than Denon’s, making it a better fit for people with limited space. The overall design and build are reliable and modern.

    So, which one is a better option in this category? Considering Denon’s classic look and proven durability with fewer reports of damage and the need for repair, I see Denon as a better option here. However, if you prefer a modern touch, Onkyo won’t disappoint you either.

    Denon AVR-X2700H vs Onkyo TX-NR7100: Ease of Setup and Use

    When it comes to setting up and using an AV receiver, each model offers its own strengths and weaknesses. Let’s break it down.

    As I mentioned in the features section, Denon’s receiver boasts a calibration system called Audyssey MultEQ XT. This technology offers a fully streamlined calibration process; just plug in the precision mic, and the system does all the heavy lifting for you. While not as professional as Onkyo’s Dirac Live, it can still be effective in most setups. Plus, navigating through the receiver’s functions is really easy and DIY-friendly thanks to the graphical user interface (GUI) and the Denon remote app. This means we are faced with a device that is very easy to use.

    On the flip side, Onkyo is a better option for those who want to be in control of everything when it comes to sound adjustments. Its Dirac Live calibration system offers many sophisticated options for sound tweaking that can satisfy any professional. While it’s not very user-friendly and the calibration process takes about 45 minutes for a 5.1.4 setup, it is very practical. Onkyo’s control app isn’t as intuitive as Denon’s, which can be a drawback for users who aren’t very tech-savvy.

    So, Which is Better, Denon AVR-X2700H or Onkyo TX-NR7100?

    While both models are quite competitive in sound performance, features, build quality, ease of setup, and functionality, the Onkyo has a slight edge here due to supporting IMAX.

    Onkyo vs Denon: The Premium Class (From $1000)

    If you are looking for a robust AV receiver that’s a performance beast, here are the two models by Onkyo and Denon:

    1. Denon AVR-X6700H
    2. Onkyo TX-RZ50

    Denon AVR X6700H vs Onkyo TX-RZ50: Audio Performance

    Take a look at this table:

    Technical AspectDenon AVR-X6700HOnkyo TX-RZ50Winner
    Power Output140 watts per channel120 watts per channelDenon AVR-X6700H
    Amplifier ClassClass A/BClass A/BTie
    Impedance Compatibility4 to 16 ohms4 to 16 ohmsTie
    Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)0.05%0.05%Tie
    Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)110 dB110 dBTie

    It’s crystal clear that they are almost like identical brothers in terms of audio performance. As I’ve witnessed, they are both incredible choices for delivering high-quality audio that will enhance any viewing experience. Although Denon’s 140 WPC at 8 ohms power output is better than Onkyo’s, this slightly lower output doesn’t mean you won’t get high-quality sound across many channels with the TX-RZ50. Both devices provide ample power for immersive audio in large home theater environments.

    Denon AVR X6700H vs Onkyo TX-RZ50: Video Performance

    Technical AspectDenon AVR-X6700HOnkyo TX-RZ50Winner
    Resolution Support4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz, HDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+Onkyo TX-RZ50
    Upscaling8K upscaling8K upscalingTie
    Pass-throughHDR10, HLG, Dolby VisionHDR10, HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10+Onkyo TX-RZ50
    HDMI Connectivity8 HDMI inputs, 3 HDMI outputs, HDCP 2.37 HDMI inputs, 2 HDMI outputs, HDCP 2.3Denon AVR-X6700H

    Taking a glance at the table above, it’s clear that the two devices are very competitive. Just like the moderate models, pass-through is again 4K at 120Hz and 8K at 60Hz for both, and each supports 8K upscaling, meaning they can effectively enhance the original quality of your video content for more detail on 8K screens. The specs that help in providing better HDR compatibility are also the same, both offering HLG, Dolby Vision, HDR10, and HDR10+.

    Just like Onkyo’s moderate device, this model also includes IMAX Enhanced, allowing you to enjoy IMAX content through your AV receiver. Here again, our Denon AVR-X6700H provides more HDMI inputs and outputs, letting you connect more external devices such as TVs, gaming consoles, streaming devices, and many more, but Onkyo’s HDMI ports are also decent and fulfill most users’ needs. So, our Onkyo TX-RZ50 is again a clear winner here, thanks to its IMAX Enhanced feature.

    Denon AVR X6700H vs Onkyo TX-RZ50: Connectivity

    Connectivity AspectDenon AVR-X6700HOnkyo TX-RZ50Winner
    Wired Connections8 HDMI inputs, 3 HDMI outputs, HDCP 2.3, USB, aux, optical, coaxial digital inputs7 HDMI inputs, 2 HDMI outputs, HDCP 2.3, USB, aux, optical, coaxial digital inputsDenon AVR-X6700H
    Wireless ConnectionsBluetooth, Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ChromecastTie
    Network FeaturesEthernet, DLNA, internet radioEthernet, DLNA, internet radioTie
    Streaming Services IntegrationHEOS (Spotify, Tidal, Pandora, Amazon Music)Chromecast, DTS Play-Fi (Spotify, Tidal, Pandora, Amazon Music)Tie

    It’s a clear tie when looking at our nominees for connectivity options. The two models offer an excellent number of HDMI inputs and outputs, with the Denon model having slightly more ports. Both offer Bluetooth and reliable network connections through Ethernet port or built-in Wi-Fi. So, there’s not much difference between them in this category.

    Denon AVR X6700H vs Onkyo TX-RZ50: Features & Functionalities

    FeatureDenon AVR-X6700HOnkyo TX-RZ50Winner
    Surround Sound FormatsDolby Atmos, DTS, Auro-3DDolby Atmos, DTS, IMAX EnhancedOnkyo TX-RZ50
    CalibrationAudyssey MultEQ XT32Dirac Live, AccuEQOnkyo TX-RZ50
    Zones and Multi-Room AudioZone 2, Zone 3Zone 2, Zone 3Tie
    Voice ControlAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple SiriAmazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple SiriTie
    User InterfaceUser-friendly display, HEOS appIntuitive interface, Onkyo Controller appTie

    Each model’s supported surround sound formats are identical to the devices we reviewed in the moderate class. Denon AVR-X6700H supports Dolby Atmos, DTS, and Auro-3D. Onkyo, on the other hand, supports Dolby Atmos and DTS. Denon’s higher number of supported features isn’t a big deal since for the surround sound experience, Dolby Atmos is the most reliable option, which both devices support.

    In terms of calibration, the two contenders provide similar technologies as the devices we introduced in the moderate class. Denon offers Audyssey MultEQ XT32, which I find pretty effective and user-friendly. On the other hand, Onkyo’s device offers both AccuEQ and Dirac Live systems. The first one is simpler than Denon’s Audyssey, while the second system is the most sophisticated and advanced calibration method that can cater to every professional’s needs.

    Moving on to the multi-zone feature, both models are excellent and can greatly distribute audio and video. Denon’s model offers Zone 2 for audio/video and Zone 3 for video. Onkyo’s receiver offers similar options.

    For voice control, each device offers compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri, providing users with their desired voice assistant.

    So, to draw a conclusion for the two premium models’ feature offerings, I can say it’s a tie. Both are equipped with every feature you seek from an AV receiver.

    Onkyo TX-RZ50 is one of the best premium receivers

    Denon AVR X6700H vs Onkyo TX-RZ50: Build Quality and Design

    Alright, let’s break down the build quality and design of our two beasts of an AV receiver.

    First up, we have Denon. The overall look is identical to other Denon models, featuring a classic design. It is equipped with a metal chassis that makes it weigh about 21 pounds, ensuring it can withstand anything you throw at it. The front panel is made of aluminum, with a clear and large display and two large signature knobs for volume and source selection. The overall user experience is very good, and it doesn’t take much effort to work with this device.

    On the other hand, Onkyo’s receiver is a big giant indeed. This bad boy weighs about 30.9 pounds and is built like a tank. The manufacturer has ensured that no harm awaits this device. The chassis is made of reliable metal. The front panel is minimalistic but very functional, offering many options to control, including volume control, source selection, listening modes, menu navigation, zone control, and more.

    Denon AVR-X6700H

    Denon AVR X6700H vs Onkyo TX-RZ50: Ease of Setup and Use

    Denon’s receiver, similar to our moderate model, features Audyssey technology for calibration, which is pretty intuitive and easy to use. On the other hand, Onkyo’s receiver utilizes the Dirac Live system, which is significantly advanced and offers sound tweaking features that can cater to every professional’s needs. Denon’s graphical interface and app are very practical and DIY-friendly, while Onkyo’s app isn’t as streamlined but is still pretty practical.

    So, Which is better, Denon AVR X6700H or Onkyo TX-RZ50?

    Comparing these two premium models, there’s really nothing to declare but a true tie. They both are equipped with excellent video and audio performance features. It all comes down to your own preference. If you seek a user-friendly experience, go with Denon. If you value sophisticated features and functionalities, Onkyo’s the better option for you.

    For a seamless, user-friendly experience, choose Denon AVR X6700H. For advanced features and superior functionality, Onkyo TX-RZ50 is the ideal choice

    Conclusion

    In this article, I tried to compare Denon vs Onkyo by putting them head-to-head in three separate price categories. Considering the fact that Onkyo provided more robust features, especially on its budget and moderately priced models, I tend to think of Onkyo as the better brand here despite mixed reviews on its AV receivers’ longevity.

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    Erfan Askari
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    Anything that can be connected to internet in order to enhance your living experience is in Erfan's interest! He's been writing about technology and smart home gadgets for more than 6 years and now since the late 2023, he has been a contributor in Smart Home Scope, writing about smart TVs, smart assistants and home-theater devices.

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