When setting up a home theater system in 2024, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial - it's literally the brain and heart of your entertainment setup. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) and the Sony STR-AN1000 ($598), breaking down exactly what you get for your money and who should buy each one.
Before diving into the specifics, let's talk about what modern AV receivers do. These devices handle all your audio and video connections, power your speakers, and process various audio formats to create immersive sound experiences. They've evolved significantly in recent years, particularly with the advent of 8K video, advanced gaming features, and object-based audio formats like Dolby Atmos.
The Denon AVR-S570BT, released in 2022, represents a solid entry-level option with modern features. Meanwhile, the Sony STR-AN1000, launched in 2023, brings more advanced capabilities at a higher price point. Both support current video standards, but there are significant differences in their capabilities and target users.
The Denon offers 5.2 channels (five main speakers and two subwoofers) with 70 watts per channel, which is plenty for most medium-sized rooms. It handles traditional surround formats like Dolby Digital and DTS but doesn't support newer object-based formats.
The Sony steps up with 7.2 channels and 100 watts per channel, adding support for Dolby Atmos and DTS:X - formats that create a three-dimensional sound field by precisely placing sounds above and around you. It also includes Sony's 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, which can create virtual speakers to enhance the sound field.
Both receivers support the latest video standards:
However, the Sony includes additional gaming features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM), which help eliminate screen tearing and reduce input lag. These features are particularly valuable if you're using a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X.
The Denon provides basic but reliable connectivity:
The Sony offers more extensive options:
In practical use, both receivers perform well for their intended audiences. The Denon AVR-S570BT delivers clean, powerful sound that's more than adequate for movie nights and music listening in medium-sized rooms. Its setup process is straightforward, and the automatic room calibration helps optimize sound for your space.
The Sony STR-AN1000 takes everything up a notch. The additional power is noticeable, especially in larger rooms or when playing dynamic content like action movies. The object-based audio support creates a more immersive experience, with sounds seeming to come from precise locations around and above you.
At $319, this receiver offers excellent value for:
The $598 price tag brings additional features:
For rooms under 300 square feet and basic 5.1 speaker setups, the Denon provides everything you need. Larger rooms or those wanting height channels for Dolby Atmos should consider the Sony.
Both receivers handle standard content well. The Sony's advantage in movie playback comes from its support for object-based audio formats and more powerful amplification.
While both support 4K/120Hz, serious gamers should lean toward the Sony for its additional gaming-specific features and lower latency.
The Sony's superior DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) and streaming options make it more versatile for music listening, though the Denon performs admirably for its price point.
Technology moves quickly in the AV world. The Sony's additional features and power make it more future-proof, particularly if you're planning to upgrade your speakers or add height channels later. However, the Denon includes the most crucial modern features (8K, 4K/120Hz) that will remain relevant for years.
Choose the Denon if:
Choose the Sony if:
Both receivers represent good value at their price points. The Denon AVR-S570BT is an excellent entry-level choice that doesn't sacrifice essential modern features. The Sony STR-AN1000 justifies its higher price with additional channels, more power, and advanced features that will satisfy enthusiasts and future-proof your system.
Remember, the best choice depends on your specific needs, room size, and future plans. Don't feel pressured to spend more if the basic features of the Denon meet your requirements - it's a capable receiver that will serve most users well. However, if you're passionate about home theater or gaming, the Sony's additional features and flexibility make it a worthwhile investment.
| Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) | Sony STR-AN1000 ($598) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how many speakers you can connect and impacts room-filling sound capability | |
| 5.2 channels (standard surround setup) | 7.2 channels (adds rear surrounds for fuller sound) |
| Power Output - Higher power helps with larger rooms and dynamic movie scenes | |
| 70W per channel (good for small/medium rooms) | 100W per channel (better for larger spaces) |
| Audio Format Support - Advanced formats create more immersive sound experiences | |
| Basic Dolby/DTS (no height channels) | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, 360 Spatial Sound (full 3D audio) |
| HDMI Ports - More ports mean fewer cable swaps between devices | |
| 4 in, 1 out (adequate for basic setups) | 6 in, 2 out (better for complex systems) |
| Gaming Features - Crucial for next-gen console gaming | |
| Basic 4K/120Hz support | Full HDMI 2.1 features (VRR, ALLM, QFT) |
| Wireless Connectivity - Affects streaming flexibility | |
| Bluetooth only | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay, Chromecast |
| Room Calibration - Optimizes sound for your specific space | |
| Basic auto-calibration | Advanced DCAC IX with multiple measurements |
| Video Processing - Important for future-proofing | |
| 8K/60Hz passthrough | 8K/60Hz passthrough with enhanced HDR support |
For a basic 5.1 home theater setup, the Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) offers excellent value and all essential features. While the Sony STR-AN1000 ($598) has more capabilities, you may not need its advanced features for a basic system.
The key difference is that the Denon AVR-S570BT is a 5.2-channel receiver with basic features, while the Sony STR-AN1000 is a 7.2-channel receiver with advanced features like Dolby Atmos and more power per channel.
The Sony STR-AN1000 is superior for gaming, offering advanced features like VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode). While the Denon AVR-S570BT supports 4K/120Hz, it lacks these gaming-specific features.
Yes, both the Denon AVR-S570BT and Sony STR-AN1000 support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz video passthrough, making them future-proof for current video standards.
The Sony STR-AN1000 is better suited for larger rooms with its 100W per channel output, compared to the Denon AVR-S570BT's 70W per channel.
If you only need basic surround sound and don't require Dolby Atmos or advanced gaming features, the Denon AVR-S570BT will satisfy most users' needs. The Sony STR-AN1000 is worth the extra cost if you want premium features or plan to expand your system.
Both receivers offer automated setup systems, but the Denon AVR-S570BT is generally simpler due to fewer complex features. The Sony STR-AN1000 has more advanced calibration but requires more setup time.
Both can stream via Bluetooth, but the Sony STR-AN1000 offers additional options like Wi-Fi, AirPlay, and Chromecast. The Denon AVR-S570BT is limited to Bluetooth only.
For basic movie watching, both perform well. However, the Sony STR-AN1000 offers a more immersive experience with Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support, while the Denon AVR-S570BT handles traditional surround formats only.
The Denon AVR-S570BT has 4 HDMI inputs and 1 output, while the Sony STR-AN1000 offers 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, providing more flexibility for multiple devices.
The Sony STR-AN1000 offers more expansion possibilities with its 7.2 channels, while the Denon AVR-S570BT is limited to 5.2 channels maximum.
The Sony STR-AN1000 is more future-proof with its additional channels, advanced audio formats, and gaming features. However, the Denon AVR-S570BT still supports essential modern standards like 8K video.
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 - electronics.sony.com - klarna.com - crutchfield.com - cnet.com - skybygramophone.com - bestbuy.com - sony.com - videoandaudiocenter.com - youtube.com - us.community.sony.com - sony-asia.com
