Choosing Between Two Popular AV Receivers: A Detailed Comparison

When setting up a home theater system in 2024, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) and the Onkyo TX-NR6100 ($519). Both were released in late 2021/early 2022, and while they share some basic features, they target different segments of the home theater market.

Understanding AV Receivers: The Basics

An AV receiver acts as the command center of your home theater system. It processes audio and video signals, powers your speakers, and manages all your inputs and outputs. Think of it as the traffic controller for your entertainment system – everything flows through it.

Key Technologies and Changes Since Release

Since these receivers launched, the home theater landscape has evolved significantly. Both support HDMI 2.1 features, which have become increasingly important with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X gaming consoles. The biggest changes have been in content availability – more streaming services now offer Dolby Atmos content, and 8K content, while still rare, is slowly emerging.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Power and Channel Configuration

The Denon AVR-S570BT offers a 5.2-channel configuration (5 main speakers and 2 subwoofers) with 70 watts per channel. This setup is perfect for smaller to medium-sized rooms and traditional surround sound configurations.

The Onkyo TX-NR6100 steps up to 7.2 channels with 100 watts per channel. This additional power and the extra channels enable more sophisticated setups, including:

• Height speakers for Dolby Atmos
• Additional surround speakers
• Bi-amping capabilities for main speakers

Audio Processing Capabilities

This is where the differences become significant. The Denon handles traditional surround formats well, including:

• Dolby Digital
• DTS
• Dolby Pro Logic II

The Onkyo adds:

• Dolby Atmos (for 3D surround sound)
• DTS:X
• THX Certification (ensuring cinema-quality standards)

In practical terms, watching a movie like "Dune" or "Top Gun: Maverick" on the Onkyo will provide a more immersive experience, with sounds truly moving above and around you if you have height speakers installed.

Video Features

Both receivers support modern video standards:

• 8K/60Hz passthrough
• 4K/120Hz gaming support
• HDR formats (HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG)

However, the Onkyo provides more HDMI 2.1 inputs (3 vs 1 on the Denon), making it more suitable for gaming setups with multiple current-gen consoles.

Real-World Performance

Home Theater Performance

In a typical living room setup (15x20 feet), both receivers perform admirably. The Denon's 70 watts per channel are sufficient for most users, especially with efficient speakers. However, the Onkyo's additional power becomes noticeable during dynamic movie scenes, providing more headroom and clarity.

Music Playback

For music, both receivers offer good performance, but with different strengths:

Denon AVR-S570BT:

• Clean, neutral sound signature
• Good stereo imaging
• Basic Bluetooth streaming

Onkyo TX-NR6100:

• More power for dynamic range
• Advanced streaming options (WiFi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast)
• Better DAC implementation

Gaming Experience

This is where the Onkyo pulls ahead significantly. With three HDMI 2.1 ports, it can handle multiple gaming consoles with features like:

• Variable Refresh Rate (VRR)
• Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)
• Quick Frame Transport (QFT)

The Denon supports these features too, but with only one HDMI 2.1 port, you'll need to swap cables if you have multiple gaming devices.

Setup and Usability

Initial Setup

The Denon offers a simpler setup process, which many users will appreciate. Its on-screen guide is straightforward and user-friendly. The Onkyo's setup is more complex but offers more fine-tuning options.

Daily Use

Both receivers provide:

• Remote control operation
• Front panel controls
• Basic smartphone control

The Onkyo adds:

• Voice control options
• Multi-room audio capabilities
• More detailed EQ settings

Value Proposition

When considering value, consider these scenarios:

The Denon AVR-S570BT offers excellent value if you:

• Have a smaller room
• Don't need height channels
• Primarily watch TV and movies in traditional surround
• Have a limited budget

The Onkyo TX-NR6100 justifies its higher price if you:

• Want Dolby Atmos/DTS:X support
• Have multiple gaming consoles
• Need multi-room audio
• Plan to expand your system later

How to Make Your Decision

Consider these key factors:

1. Room Size and Speaker Setup
   • Under 200 sq ft: Either receiver works well
   • Larger rooms: Onkyo's extra power helps
   • Planning height speakers: Onkyo is required
2. Content Preferences
   • Mainly streaming services: Either works
   • Physical media collection: Onkyo's better processing helps
   • Heavy gaming: Onkyo's multiple HDMI 2.1 ports are valuable
3. Future Proofing
   • Basic needs: Denon is sufficient
   • System expansion plans: Onkyo offers more flexibility
4. Budget Considerations
   • The $200 price difference could go toward better speakers
   • Consider long-term satisfaction vs. immediate savings

Conclusion

For most users setting up a basic home theater, the Denon AVR-S570BT provides excellent value and performance. It handles the essentials well and won't disappoint in typical living room setups.

However, if you're serious about home theater, game frequently, or want the most future-proof option, the Onkyo TX-NR6100 is worth the extra investment. Its additional features, power, and flexibility make it a more capable long-term choice.

Remember, whichever you choose, both receivers will serve as capable hearts of your home theater system for years to come. The key is matching the receiver to your specific needs and budget rather than simply choosing based on specifications alone.

Denon AVR-S570BT 5.2 Channel AV Home Theater Receiver Deals and Prices

Onkyo TX-NR6100 7.2 Channel THX Certified AV Receiver Deals and Prices