Looking to upgrade your home entertainment system? Let's explore two popular but very different home theater receivers - the entry-level Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) and the premium Sony STR-AZ5000ES ($2,098). I'll help you understand what makes each unique and which might be right for your setup.
Think of a home theater receiver as the brain of your entertainment system. It processes audio and video signals, powers your speakers, and manages all your input devices like gaming consoles, streaming boxes, and Blu-ray players. Getting the right receiver is crucial - it needs to handle your current needs while potentially growing with your system.
Modern receivers have evolved significantly in recent years, particularly with HDMI 2.1 features for gaming and 8K video support. Both these models, released in 2022 and 2023 respectively, include these newer technologies.
The most obvious difference between these receivers is their channel count. The Denon AVR-S570BT is a 5.2 channel system, meaning it can power five main speakers (front left, center, front right, and two surrounds) plus two subwoofers. This configuration is perfect for most living rooms and smaller home theaters, providing immersive surround sound without overwhelming the space.
In contrast, the Sony STR-AZ5000ES supports 11.2 channels, allowing for a much more elaborate setup including height channels for Dolby Atmos (which creates sound that appears to come from above), multiple surround speakers, and additional front speakers. This setup can create a truly theater-like experience but requires more space and a bigger investment in speakers.
Power output isn't everything, but it matters. The Denon outputs 70 watts per channel (when measuring all channels driven), which is plenty for most rooms up to about 350 square feet. The Sony delivers 130 watts per channel, providing headroom for larger spaces and more demanding speakers.
What's more interesting is how they handle audio processing. The Denon includes basic Dolby and DTS processing, which works well for most content. The Sony adds more sophisticated processing including advanced room correction and Sony's 360 Spatial Sound Mapping, which creates phantom speakers to fill gaps in your speaker layout.
Both receivers support the latest video standards including:
The main difference is connectivity - the Denon provides 4 HDMI inputs while the Sony offers 7, plus an extra output. For most users, 4 inputs are sufficient, but if you have multiple gaming consoles, a cable box, streaming device, and other sources, the Sony's additional connections could be valuable.
Both receivers support key gaming features:
These features make both receivers excellent choices for gaming, though the Sony's additional power might provide slightly better dynamic range during intense gaming sessions.
The Denon AVR-S570BT shines in simplicity. Its setup assistant walks you through everything from speaker connections to room calibration. I've found its interface particularly user-friendly, making it a great choice for first-time receiver owners.
The Sony STR-AZ5000ES offers more sophisticated setup options, including advanced calibration tools and multi-zone configuration. While potentially more complex, these features provide greater fine-tuning ability for audiophiles and custom installers.
Value isn't just about price - it's about what you get for your money. The Denon provides exceptional value for most users, delivering the core features needed for a great home theater experience at a reasonable price point. It's particularly strong if you're setting up your first proper home theater or upgrading from a soundbar.
The Sony's higher price brings additional capabilities that matter for specific use cases:
In actual use, both receivers perform admirably for their intended audiences. The Denon handles movie soundtracks with clarity and impact, providing engaging surround sound that will satisfy most listeners. Music playback is clean and detailed, especially through the direct mode which bypasses unnecessary processing.
The Sony takes everything up a notch, with more refined sound staging, better dynamic range, and more precise imaging (the ability to place sounds in specific locations). Its additional processing power and superior components are noticeable when using high-end speakers or in critical listening sessions.
Since their release, both receivers have received firmware updates improving their stability and compatibility with newer devices. The Denon has particularly benefited from updates to its HDMI handling, while the Sony has seen improvements to its room correction algorithms.
Choose the Denon AVR-S570BT if:
Choose the Sony STR-AZ5000ES if:
Remember, either receiver will provide years of enjoyment when matched appropriately with your space and needs. The key is honestly assessing your requirements and choosing accordingly.
| Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) | Sony STR-AZ5000ES ($2,098) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how many speakers you can use and the immersiveness of your setup | |
| 5.2 channels (basic surround setup) | 11.2 channels (full Atmos/advanced surround) |
| Power Per Channel - Affects volume capability and speaker compatibility | |
| 70W (sufficient for small/medium rooms) | 130W (handles larger rooms and premium speakers) |
| HDMI Inputs - Determines how many devices you can connect | |
| 4 inputs, 1 output (typical home setup) | 7 inputs, 2 outputs (extensive connectivity) |
| Room Calibration - Impacts how well the system adapts to your space | |
| Basic auto-calibration | Advanced D.C.A.C. IX with multi-point measurement |
| Video Processing - Important for latest gaming/video features | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM (all core features) | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz, VRR, ALLM (plus enhanced processing) |
| Multi-Zone Capability - Allows audio in different rooms | |
| Single zone only | Zones 2 & 3 with independent sources |
| Audio Format Support - Affects compatibility with movie soundtracks | |
| Basic Dolby/DTS formats | Advanced object-based audio with 360 Spatial Sound |
| Build Quality - Impacts longevity and audio performance | |
| Standard construction | Premium ES build with vibration control |
| Price/Value Proposition - Consider your needs and budget | |
| Excellent value for basic home theater | Premium investment for advanced setups |
The Denon AVR-S570BT at $319 is ideal for basic home theaters, offering 5.2 channels and essential features at a great price point. While the Sony STR-AZ5000ES is more powerful, its $2,098 price and advanced features may be overkill for simple setups.
The biggest difference is channel count and price. The Denon AVR-S570BT is a 5.2 channel receiver for basic surround sound, while the Sony STR-AZ5000ES supports 11.2 channels for advanced Dolby Atmos setups.
Yes, both receivers support 4K/120Hz gaming with HDMI 2.1 features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM).
The Sony STR-AZ5000ES with its 130W per channel is better suited for larger rooms, while the Denon AVR-S570BT at 70W per channel is ideal for small to medium-sized spaces.
The Sony STR-AZ5000ES fully supports Dolby Atmos with height channels, while the Denon AVR-S570BT lacks height channel support for true Atmos.
Yes, both receivers support 8K/60Hz video passthrough and upscaling, making them ready for future video formats.
The Sony STR-AZ5000ES offers superior audio processing and build quality for music, though the Denon AVR-S570BT still provides excellent music playback for most listeners.
No, the Denon AVR-S570BT at $319 is sufficient for most home theater setups. The Sony STR-AZ5000ES is only necessary for advanced setups or audiophile needs.
Yes, the Denon has 4 HDMI inputs while the Sony has 7, both supporting the latest gaming features.
The Denon AVR-S570BT is simpler to set up with its basic auto-calibration and setup assistant, making it more user-friendly for beginners.
Yes, both support Bluetooth streaming, though the Sony STR-AZ5000ES offers additional wireless capabilities and multi-room audio features.
The Denon AVR-S570BT works well with most consumer speakers, while the Sony STR-AZ5000ES can drive more demanding high-end speakers due to its higher power 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 - cepro.com - new-age-electronics.com - walmart.com - crutchfield.com - crutchfield.com - snapav.com - merlinstv.com - sweetwater.com - skybygramophone.com - musicloversaudio.com - youtube.com - projectorscreen.com
