When setting up a home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial - it's essentially the brain and heart of your entire setup. Today, we'll compare two popular options: the entry-level Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) and the premium Marantz Cinema 50 ($2,500). While both handle the basic job of processing audio and video signals, their capabilities and target users differ significantly.
Before diving into the comparison, let's quickly cover what an AV receiver does. Think of it as a powerful hub that:
The more advanced the receiver, the more it can handle simultaneously while maintaining quality.
The Denon AVR-S570BT offers a 5.2 channel configuration, which means it can power five main speakers (front left, center, front right, and two surrounds) plus two subwoofers. This setup delivers traditional surround sound - what most people think of when imagining a home theater.
In contrast, the Marantz Cinema 50 supports a 9.4 channel configuration, enabling more complex speaker arrangements including height channels for Dolby Atmos (where sounds can appear to come from above). The extra channels and power (110W vs 70W per channel) make a noticeable difference in larger rooms or when you're seeking a more immersive experience.
Released in 2022, this receiver handles common audio formats like Dolby Digital and DTS. While it won't process advanced formats like Dolby Atmos, it delivers clean, powerful sound that's perfect for most users. I've found it particularly impressive in rooms under 200 square feet, where its 70W per channel provides plenty of punch.
The Cinema 50 represents current high-end technology, supporting all modern formats including:
The difference is particularly noticeable with modern streaming content and 4K Blu-rays, which often include these advanced audio formats.
Both receivers support modern video standards, including:
However, the Marantz Cinema 50 offers more HDMI ports (6 inputs vs 4) and better video processing. For gamers, both support Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), but the Marantz's superior processing power handles these features more smoothly.
In smaller spaces, the Denon AVR-S570BT really shines. Its 70W per channel is plenty for most speakers, and the basic room correction helps manage acoustic issues. I've used it in a 15x15 foot room with excellent results - clear dialogue, impactful effects, and solid music performance.
The Marantz Cinema 50 excels in larger rooms where its extra power and advanced room correction become noticeable. The additional channels also allow for a more enveloping sound field - particularly noticeable with height speakers for Dolby Atmos content.
The price difference ($319 vs $2,500) is substantial, but so are the capabilities. Think of it like choosing between a reliable compact car and a luxury SUV - both will get you there, but the experience differs significantly.
The Denon represents excellent value for:
The Marantz justifies its premium for:
Since their releases, both receivers have received firmware updates improving compatibility with newer devices. The Denon's 2022 release included HDMI 2.1 features previously only found in more expensive units. The Marantz represents current state-of-the-art technology, with features that will remain relevant for years.
Consider these key factors:
Both receivers excel in their respective categories. The Denon AVR-S570BT offers remarkable value for basic home theater needs, while the Marantz Cinema 50 provides a premium experience for those seeking the ultimate in home theater performance.
For most users starting out or upgrading from TV speakers, the Denon provides an excellent experience at a reasonable price. However, if you're serious about home theater, have a larger room, or want the best possible audio experience, the Marantz's additional features and performance capabilities justify its premium price.
Remember, both will deliver enjoyable home theater experiences - the choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, room size, and budget. Don't feel pressured to spend more than necessary; the Denon performs admirably for its intended use case, while the Marantz exists for those seeking the next level of home theater performance.
| Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) | Marantz Cinema 50 ($2,500) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines speaker setup possibilities and immersive audio capability | |
| 5.2 channels (standard surround sound) | 9.4 channels (full Dolby Atmos/DTS:X support) |
| Power Per Channel - Impacts speaker compatibility and room size suitability | |
| 70W (8 ohm) - good for small/medium rooms | 110W (8 ohm) - ideal for larger spaces |
| HDMI Ports - Affects how many devices you can connect | |
| 4 inputs, 1 output (sufficient for basic setups) | 6 inputs, 3 outputs (flexible for complex systems) |
| Room Correction - Critical for optimal sound in your space | |
| Basic Audyssey calibration | MultEQ XT32 (superior room optimization) |
| Audio Format Support - Determines compatibility with modern content | |
| Basic Dolby/DTS (standard surround formats) | All formats including Atmos/DTS:X/Auro 3D |
| Video Processing - Important for gaming and future-proofing | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz basic support | Enhanced processing with better upscaling |
| Multi-room Capability - Enables whole-home audio | |
| None | HEOS multi-room audio with 3 zones |
| Wireless Connectivity - Affects streaming options | |
| Basic Bluetooth only | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, HEOS |
| Build Quality - Impacts longevity and performance | |
| Standard components, plastic chassis | Premium components, better power supply |
| Gaming Features - Critical for next-gen console gaming | |
| Basic VRR/ALLM support | Enhanced gaming mode with better processing |
The Denon AVR-S570BT at $319 is ideal for basic home theater setups, offering essential 5.2-channel surround sound perfect for most living rooms. While the Marantz Cinema 50 offers more features, its $2,500 price point may be overkill for basic needs.
The biggest difference is channel count and processing power. The Denon AVR-S570BT supports 5.2 channels for traditional surround sound, while the Marantz Cinema 50 offers 9.4 channels for advanced Dolby Atmos and DTS:X configurations.
The Marantz Cinema 50 is better suited for large rooms due to its higher power output (110W vs 70W per channel) and superior room correction capabilities. The Denon AVR-S570BT is better suited for rooms under 200 square feet.
No - the Denon AVR-S570BT provides excellent sound quality for most users. The Marantz Cinema 50 offers additional features and power, but isn't necessary for enjoying good home theater sound.
Both support gaming features like VRR and ALLM, but the Marantz Cinema 50 offers better processing and more HDMI 2.1 ports. However, the Denon AVR-S570BT is still perfectly capable for most gaming setups.
Yes, both the Denon AVR-S570BT and Marantz Cinema 50 support 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz passthrough, making them future-proof for new video formats.
The Denon AVR-S570BT is easier to set up due to its simpler features and straightforward interface. The Marantz Cinema 50 offers more customization but requires more technical knowledge.
Both can stream music, but differently. The Denon AVR-S570BT offers basic Bluetooth connectivity, while the Marantz Cinema 50 adds Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and HEOS multi-room capabilities.
Both handle movies well, but the Marantz Cinema 50 offers superior processing and support for advanced formats like Dolby Atmos. The Denon AVR-S570BT still provides excellent movie performance for standard surround sound.
Both receivers work with most speakers, but the Marantz Cinema 50 offers more power and flexibility for demanding speakers. The Denon AVR-S570BT works well with most consumer-grade speakers.
Room correction is important for optimal sound. The Denon AVR-S570BT includes basic Audyssey calibration, while the Marantz Cinema 50 features superior MultEQ XT32 correction for better results.
Both are well-built and support current standards. The Denon AVR-S570BT offers good longevity for its price, while the Marantz Cinema 50 provides additional future-proofing with more advanced features and better build quality.
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 - tomsguide.com - valueelectronics.com - audiosciencereview.com - crutchfield.com - trustedreviews.com - bestbuy.com - snapav.com - sweetwater.com - marantz.com - soundunited.com - forums.audioholics.com - soundandvision.com - audioadvice.com
