If you're looking to build or upgrade your home theater system in 2024, you're likely considering the Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) or the Onkyo TX-NR5100 ($441). Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your setup.
AV receivers act as the command center of your home theater system. They process both audio and video signals, power your speakers, and handle all the switching between your various devices like gaming consoles, streaming boxes, and Blu-ray players. Think of them as the traffic controller for your entertainment system.
The technology in this space has evolved rapidly over the past few years, with both of these models supporting modern features like 8K video pass-through and high-frame-rate gaming capabilities. These weren't even considerations in receivers from just a few years ago.
The Denon AVR-S570BT supports a 5.2 channel setup, meaning you can connect five main speakers (front left, center, front right, and two surrounds) plus two subwoofers. This configuration works perfectly for most living rooms and medium-sized spaces.
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 steps up to 7.2 channels, adding the ability to connect two additional speakers. These can be used either as rear surrounds for a more enveloping experience or as height channels for Dolby Atmos content, where sounds can appear to come from above.
Power output is often misunderstood - more isn't always better. The Denon delivers 70 watts per channel, while the Onkyo offers 80 watts. In real-world use, this difference is minimal for most rooms. You'd need to be in a fairly large space (over 400 square feet) or using particularly power-hungry speakers to notice the difference.
Both receivers excel at modern video handling, supporting:
The Denon has a slight edge by including 3D pass-through support, though this feature is becoming less relevant as 3D content becomes scarcer.
Both receivers support all modern audio formats, but there are some notable differences:
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 includes:
The Denon AVR-S570BT offers:
Both receivers provide four HDMI inputs, which should be sufficient for most setups (think cable box, gaming console, streaming device, and Blu-ray player). The Onkyo adds a second HDMI output, useful if you want to send video to two displays - perhaps a TV and a projector.
The Onkyo also includes wired network connectivity, while the Denon relies solely on Bluetooth for wireless connections. This might matter if you're planning to stream high-resolution audio files or if you have weak WiFi in your entertainment area.
The Denon AVR-S570BT makes the most sense if:
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 is worth the extra investment when:
Both receivers have automated setup systems that help calibrate your speakers to your room's acoustics. The Onkyo's AccuEQ system is more advanced, but the Denon's setup assistant is notably user-friendly.
For installation, remember:
Both manufacturers have strong reputations for reliability. The Denon tends to run slightly cooler in operation, which can contribute to longevity. The Onkyo's additional features mean there's more that could potentially need updating over time, but its network connectivity makes updates easier.
Consider these key questions:
For most users in typical living rooms, the Denon AVR-S570BT offers everything needed at a more attractive price point. It's an excellent choice for those new to home theater or upgrading from an older receiver.
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 is the better choice for enthusiasts, larger rooms, or those planning to expand their system over time. Its additional capabilities and power make it more versatile, though at a higher price point.
Remember, either receiver will provide excellent performance for modern home theater needs. The key is matching the receiver's capabilities to your specific requirements and future plans.
| Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) | Onkyo TX-NR5100 ($441) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how many speakers you can connect and your maximum surround sound capability | |
| 5.2 channels (standard surround setup) | 7.2 channels (adds height or rear speakers) |
| Power Per Channel - Affects how well it drives speakers and fills larger rooms with sound | |
| 70W (good for small/medium rooms) | 80W (better for larger spaces) |
| Room Calibration - Helps optimize sound for your specific space | |
| Basic Audyssey MultEQ | Advanced AccuEQ with subwoofer EQ |
| HDMI Ports - Determines how many devices you can connect | |
| 4 in / 1 out (standard setup) | 4 in / 2 out (dual display capable) |
| Network Connectivity - Important for firmware updates and streaming | |
| Bluetooth only | Wi-Fi + Ethernet + Bluetooth |
| DAC Quality - Affects overall sound quality and high-res audio support | |
| 192 kHz/24-bit (good) | 384 kHz/32-bit (excellent) |
| Gaming Features - Critical for next-gen console gaming | |
| VRR, ALLM, 4K/120Hz (all essentials covered) | VRR, ALLM, QFT, 4K/120Hz (full feature set) |
| Physical Size - Consider your available space | |
| 17.1 × 13 × 6 inches (compact) | 17.1 × 12.9 × 6.3 inches (similar size) |
| Power Consumption - Impacts energy costs | |
| 310W (more efficient) | 490W (higher usage) |
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 ($441) is better for dedicated home theaters due to its 7.2 channels and more powerful amplification. However, the Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) is excellent for living room home theaters where 5.2 channels are sufficient.
The primary difference is channel count - the Denon offers 5.2 channels while the Onkyo provides 7.2 channels, allowing for additional surround or height speakers for Dolby Atmos.
Both receivers support key gaming features like 4K/120Hz and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR). The Onkyo TX-NR5100 has a slight edge with Quick Frame Transport, but both will serve gamers well.
Yes, both the Denon AVR-S570BT and Onkyo TX-NR5100 support 8K/60Hz video pass-through and upscaling through their HDMI 2.1 ports.
The Denon AVR-S570BT is ideal for small to medium rooms, offering sufficient power (70W per channel) at a lower price point.
No, the 5.2 channels of the Denon AVR-S570BT provide excellent surround sound. The extra channels of the Onkyo TX-NR5100 are only beneficial if you plan to use height speakers or rear surrounds.
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 offers more streaming options with WiFi and ethernet connectivity, while the Denon is limited to Bluetooth streaming.
Both receivers support modern standards like 8K video and HDMI 2.1. The Onkyo TX-NR5100 offers more expandability with its 7.2 channels, making it slightly more future-proof.
The Denon AVR-S570BT is known for its user-friendly setup assistant and simpler interface, making it ideal for first-time AV receiver users.
The Onkyo TX-NR5100 fully supports Dolby Atmos with height channels, while the Denon can only process virtual Atmos due to its 5.2 channel limitation.
The Denon AVR-S570BT offers better value for typical home theater setups, while the Onkyo TX-NR5100 justifies its higher price with additional features and channels.
Both receivers have 4 HDMI inputs, but the Onkyo TX-NR5100 adds a second HDMI output for connecting multiple displays, while the Denon AVR-S570BT has one output.
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 - crutchfield.com - hifiheaven.net - youtube.com - bestbuy.com - audioholics.com - onkyo.com - support.onkyousa.com - bestbuy.com - onkyo.com - audiolab.com - support.onkyousa.com - youtube.com
