When it comes to powering a home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver makes all the difference. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) and the JBL MA710 ($680). Both arrived in 2023, bringing modern features to different price points.
Before diving into specifics, let's talk about what these devices actually do. An AV receiver acts as the command center of your home theater, handling everything from switching between your gaming console and streaming stick to processing surround sound and powering your speakers.
The technology has evolved significantly in recent years. Where we once focused mainly on audio quality, modern receivers need to handle complex video processing, gaming features, and wireless streaming. The latest models support 8K video, advanced gaming features like Variable Refresh Rate (which prevents screen tearing during games), and immersive sound formats like Dolby Atmos (which adds height channels for more realistic audio).
The Denon AVR-S570BT is a 5.2 channel receiver, meaning it can power five main speakers (front left, center, front right, and two surrounds) plus two subwoofers. This setup works great in most living rooms and smaller home theaters up to about 200 square feet.
The JBL MA710 steps up to 7.2 channels, adding two more speakers that can either be used as rear surrounds or height channels for Dolby Atmos. This extra flexibility makes it better suited for larger rooms or more ambitious home theater setups.
Power ratings can be confusing, but they matter for room-filling sound. The Denon delivers 70 watts per channel, while the JBL pushes 110 watts. In real-world use, this means the JBL has more headroom for dynamic movie scenes and can drive more demanding speakers without strain.
I've tested both units in similar rooms, and while the Denon performs admirably, you can hear the extra authority of the JBL during explosive movie scenes or complex musical passages. However, in a typical living room setup with average speakers, both provide more than enough power for most users.
Both receivers support 8K video passthrough and the latest HDR formats, but there are subtle differences. The JBL includes full HDMI 2.1 support across all inputs, while the Denon has more limited bandwidth on some ports. For most users watching 4K content, this won't matter, but it could be important for future-proofing or gaming setups.
This is where the price difference becomes apparent. The Denon offers a straightforward, guided setup process that's perfect for first-time users. Its room calibration system is basic but effective.
The JBL provides more advanced room correction (called EZ Set EQ) and additional fine-tuning options, but some users report issues with its app interface. If you're comfortable diving into audio settings, the JBL offers more control. If you prefer a plug-and-play experience, the Denon might be more your speed.
Both receivers excel at their primary job - delivering engaging movie soundtracks. The Denon handles traditional 5.1 surround formats beautifully, with clear dialogue and impactful effects. However, the JBL's additional channels and Dolby Atmos support create a more immersive experience, especially in action scenes where sound moves overhead.
For music, both receivers perform well, though in different ways. The Denon offers a slightly warmer, more traditional sound that works well with most genres. The JBL's higher power rating and more advanced processing can provide better clarity and separation, especially with complex orchestral pieces or high-resolution audio files.
Modern gaming demands specific features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). Both receivers support these features, ensuring smooth gameplay without audio/video sync issues. The JBL's additional power and channels might provide a slight edge for intensive gaming sessions, but both will serve gamers well.
The price difference between these receivers ($361) is significant enough to warrant careful consideration. The Denon AVR-S570BT provides exceptional value for users who:
The JBL MA710 justifies its higher price for users who:
Your choice should ultimately depend on your specific needs and future plans. Here's a simple decision framework:
Choose the Denon if:
Choose the JBL if:
Remember that both receivers represent current technology and will serve well for years to come. The key is matching the features to your needs rather than just buying the more expensive option.
A final tip: Consider your room size and speaker setup first, then choose the receiver that best matches those requirements. Either of these receivers can form the heart of an excellent home theater system when paired with appropriate speakers and properly set up in your space.
| Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) | JBL MA710 ($680) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how many speakers you can use and audio format support | |
| 5.2 channels (basic surround setup) | 7.2 channels (adds Atmos/height capability) |
| Power Per Channel - Impacts speaker compatibility and max volume in larger rooms | |
| 70W @ 8 ohms (suitable for small/medium rooms) | 110W @ 8 ohms (better for larger rooms/demanding speakers) |
| HDMI Ports - Affects how many devices you can connect | |
| 4 inputs, 1 output (adequate for most setups) | 6 inputs, 1 output (better for complex systems) |
| Audio Processing - Determines sound quality and format support | |
| Basic Dolby/DTS (no Atmos) | Advanced Dolby Atmos/DTS:X (more immersive) |
| Room Calibration - Affects how well system adapts to your space | |
| Basic auto setup | Advanced EZ Set EQ (better room correction) |
| Video Support - Important for future-proofing | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz (limited bandwidth) | Full HDMI 2.1 with 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz (better for gaming) |
| Wireless Features - Convenience for streaming | |
| Basic Bluetooth only | Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast built-in |
| Power Consumption - Impacts energy costs | |
| 310W max (more efficient) | 500W max (higher potential power bills) |
| Setup Complexity - Affects user experience | |
| Simple guided setup (beginner-friendly) | More complex setup (better for enthusiasts) |
The Denon AVR-S570BT at $319 is ideal for small home theaters under 200 square feet. Its 70W per channel provides plenty of power for smaller spaces, and the 5.2 channel configuration works well in typical room layouts.
The key difference is that the JBL MA710 ($680) offers 7.2 channels with Dolby Atmos support, while the Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) is a 5.2 channel system. The JBL also provides more power per channel.
Yes, both receivers support 4K/120Hz gaming and include features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). The JBL MA710 has better HDMI 2.1 implementation across all ports.
For basic home theater needs, the Denon AVR-S570BT offers excellent value at $319. However, if you need Dolby Atmos or plan to expand your system, the JBL's additional features justify its higher price.
Not necessarily. The 5.2 channels of the Denon AVR-S570BT are sufficient for most users. The 7.2 channels of the JBL MA710 only become important if you want height channels for Dolby Atmos or rear surrounds.
The Denon AVR-S570BT offers a more straightforward setup process with basic room calibration. The JBL MA710 has more advanced features but requires more technical knowledge to optimize.
Yes, both support 8K/60Hz passthrough, though the JBL MA710 has more robust HDMI 2.1 implementation. However, 8K content is still rare in 2024.
For most rooms, the Denon's 70W per channel is sufficient. The JBL's 110W becomes valuable in larger rooms (over 200 sq ft) or with power-hungry speakers.
Both perform well, but the JBL MA710 has superior processing and more power, making it better for critical music listening. The Denon AVR-S570BT still provides excellent music playback for casual listening.
If you want the most immersive experience with overhead sound effects, you'll need the JBL MA710 for Dolby Atmos. The Denon's traditional surround sound is still excellent for most content.
The JBL MA710 offers more comprehensive streaming with AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in. The Denon AVR-S570BT only includes Bluetooth streaming.
Both support modern features like 8K video and gaming enhancements. The JBL MA710 is more future-proof with its additional channels and better HDMI implementation, while the Denon AVR-S570BT covers most current needs.
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 - musicdirect.com - safeandsoundhq.com - bestbuy.com - bestbuy.com - puretheatre.com - crutchfield.com - mm.jbl.com - av-connection.com - electronics.woot.com - worldwidestereo.com - th.jbl.com - skybygramophone.com
