When building a home theater system, the AV receiver serves as the command center, handling everything from processing surround sound to switching between your gaming console and streaming box. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) and the JBL MA310 ($339).
Modern AV receivers have evolved significantly in the last few years, particularly with the rise of 4K and now 8K video, advanced gaming features, and streaming integration. They're no longer just amplifiers with extra inputs - they're sophisticated digital processors that need to handle everything from legacy DVD players to next-gen gaming consoles.
The most important things to consider are:
The Denon AVR-S570BT was released in 2022 and represents Denon's entry-level model with 8K support. The JBL MA310 is brand new for 2024, part of JBL's fresh push into the receiver market. This timing difference is important because while the Denon is slightly older, it actually supports more advanced video features.
The Denon's video capabilities are notably more advanced. It handles 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz, plus every major HDR format (HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG). These aren't just buzzwords - if you're planning to use a PS5 or Xbox Series X, or thinking about an 8K TV in the future, these features matter.
The JBL supports 4K/60Hz with basic HDR10, which is fine for most current content but less future-proof. For context, while 8K content is rare now, having 4K/120Hz support is increasingly important for gaming.
Both receivers are "5.2 channel" designs, meaning they power five main speakers (front left, center, front right, and two surrounds) plus up to two subwoofers. However, their processing capabilities differ significantly:
The Denon supports:
The JBL offers:
In practical terms, this means the Denon can handle the highest quality audio tracks from Blu-rays, while the JBL is more limited to standard streaming and broadcast audio.
The Denon provides 70 watts per channel (into 8 ohms), while the JBL offers 60 watts. This 10-watt difference isn't huge, but the Denon's amplifier section is generally considered more capable of driving demanding speakers.
The JBL actually has an advantage here with its modern EZ Set EQ app, which uses your phone to help set up speaker levels and distances. The Denon uses a more traditional microphone-based system that's powerful but less user-friendly.
Both receivers offer Bluetooth, but the JBL has the newer 5.1 version for potentially better wireless audio quality. The Denon has more HDMI inputs (6 vs 4) and outputs (2 vs 1), which might matter if you have lots of devices.
The Denon includes:
The JBL lacks these gaming-specific features, making it less ideal for serious gamers.
For a dedicated home theater, the Denon AVR-S570BT has clear advantages. Its superior audio processing and video capabilities make it better suited for movie enthusiasts who want the best possible sound from their Blu-rays and streaming services.
The JBL MA310 might be preferable in a living room setting where ease of use is paramount. Its app-based setup and simpler interface could make it more family-friendly, though you'll pay slightly more for this convenience.
For gaming, the Denon is the clear winner. Its HDMI 2.1 features and better video processing make it much more suitable for current and next-gen gaming consoles.
The Denon offers more features at a lower price point ($319 vs $339). It's rare to see the more capable device cost less, making it particularly compelling from a value perspective. However, the JBL's newer design and easier setup might be worth the premium for some users.
Choose the Denon if:
Choose the JBL if:
For most users, the Denon AVR-S570BT represents the better value, offering more features at a lower price. However, the JBL MA310 could be the right choice if you prioritize ease of use and don't need the advanced features. The decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs and how you plan to use the receiver in your setup.
Remember that both receivers will handle basic home theater duties well - the differences matter most when you're pushing the limits with gaming, high-end audio, or future expansion plans.
| Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) | JBL MA310 ($339) |
|---|---|
| Power Output - Determines speaker compatibility and max volume | |
| 70W per channel (8 ohms) - solid for most speakers | 60W per channel (8 ohms) - adequate for modest setups |
| Video Resolution - Critical for future-proofing and gaming | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz with full HDR suite - excellent future-proofing | 4K/60Hz with basic HDR - sufficient for current content |
| Audio Format Support - Impacts quality from high-end sources | |
| Dolby TrueHD, DTS-HD MA - ideal for Blu-ray | Basic Dolby Digital/DTS - fine for streaming |
| HDMI Ports - Determines how many devices you can connect | |
| 6 in, 2 out - generous connectivity | 4 in, 1 out - adequate for basic setups |
| Gaming Features - Important for next-gen consoles | |
| VRR, ALLM, QFT - full gaming support | None - basic video switching only |
| Room Calibration - Affects sound quality in your space | |
| Traditional mic-based system - powerful but complex | App-based EZ Set EQ - modern and user-friendly |
| Physical Size - Matters for cabinet space | |
| 17.1 × 13 × 6 inches - standard size | 17 × 11 × 4.3 inches - more compact |
| Bluetooth Version - Affects wireless audio quality | |
| Version 4.2 - basic streaming support | Version 5.1 - better range and stability |
The Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) is generally better for home theater use due to its superior audio format support, including Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio, which are crucial for Blu-ray playback. It also offers better video processing with 8K support.
The Denon AVR-S570BT is priced at $319, while the JBL MA310 costs $339. The Denon offers more features at a lower price point, making it better value for most users.
The Denon AVR-S570BT is significantly better for gaming, supporting 4K/120Hz, VRR, and ALLM features needed for PS5 and Xbox Series X. The JBL MA310 lacks these gaming-specific features.
The Denon has 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, while the JBL has 4 inputs and 1 output. This makes the Denon more flexible for connecting multiple devices.
The JBL MA310 has an advantage with its modern app-based EZ Set EQ system. The Denon AVR-S570BT uses a traditional microphone setup that's more powerful but less user-friendly.
Yes, both receivers support 4K video. However, the Denon supports 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz, while the JBL is limited to 4K/60Hz.
The Denon outputs 70 watts per channel (8 ohms), while the JBL provides 60 watts per channel (8 ohms). Both are adequate for most home theater setups.
Both support Bluetooth streaming, but the JBL MA310 has newer Bluetooth 5.1 compared to the Denon AVR-S570BT's version 4.2.
Yes, both receivers are 5.2 channel designs that support dual subwoofers for enhanced bass performance.
The Denon AVR-S570BT is more future-proof with 8K video support, advanced gaming features, and better audio format compatibility compared to the JBL MA310.
Both perform well for music, but the Denon typically offers better audio processing and power handling. The JBL has better Bluetooth for wireless streaming.
The JBL MA310 has a more compact design and simplified setup, making it ideal for smaller rooms. However, the Denon AVR-S570BT offers better overall performance if space isn't a primary concern.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: bestbuy.com - parts-express.com - bestbuy.com - audiosciencereview.com - crutchfield.com - audiolab.com - bestbuy.com - denon.com - audioadvisor.com - avsforum.com - en.community.sonos.com - bestbuy.com - av-connection.com - mm.jbl.com - bestbuy.com - safeandsoundhq.com - crutchfield.com - nfm.com - jbl.com - musicdirect.com - crutchfield.com - skybygramophone.com - youtube.com
