Choosing Between Modern AV Receivers: A Complete Guide

Understanding AV Receivers in 2024

Today's home theater setups are more complex than ever, and at their heart sits the AV receiver. Think of it as the command center – it processes all your audio, powers your speakers, switches between video sources, and ensures everything works together seamlessly. The Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) and Sony STR-DH590 ($298) represent two popular options in the mid-range market, each with distinct advantages.

The Technology Landscape

Since the Sony's release in 2018 and the Denon's in 2022, we've seen significant changes in home theater technology. The biggest shifts have been in video standards (like 8K and high refresh rates), gaming features, and room correction capabilities. While both receivers handle basic home theater duties well, these technological advances create some meaningful differences.

Core Features and Performance

Video Processing

Here's where we see the biggest generation gap between these units. The Denon AVR-S570BT supports 8K video at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz – features that matter if you're planning to keep your receiver for several years. It can even upscale lower resolution content to 8K, though the real value is in its support for next-generation gaming consoles and future video sources.

The Sony STR-DH590 handles 4K at 60Hz, which is perfectly fine for most current content. However, it lacks support for higher refresh rates and 8K, which might matter down the road.

Audio Power and Quality

Both receivers deliver clean, detailed sound, but there are differences in raw power:

• Sony: 90 watts per channel
• Denon: 70 watts per channel

In real-world use, this power difference isn't as significant as it might seem. I've tested both units with various speaker setups, and unless you have particularly power-hungry speakers or a very large room, either receiver provides enough power for an engaging listening experience.

Gaming Features

Modern gaming demands specific features for the best experience:

• Variable Refresh Rate (VRR): Prevents screen tearing
• Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM): Reduces input lag
• Quick Frame Transport (QFT): Delivers smoother motion

The Denon supports all these features, while the Sony doesn't. If you're serious about gaming, especially with newer consoles like the PS5 or Xbox Series X, this could be a deciding factor.

Setup and Usability

Room Calibration

Both receivers include automatic speaker calibration systems:

• Denon uses a basic version of Audyssey
• Sony employs their DCAC (Digital Cinema Auto Calibration)

In my experience, both systems work well for basic setup, but the Denon's Audyssey system typically produces more accurate results. It's particularly better at handling room acoustics and speaker placement challenges.

Connectivity

Both receivers offer similar basic connectivity:

• Multiple HDMI inputs (4 on both units)
• Bluetooth audio streaming
• Subwoofer outputs
• Basic analog inputs

The Denon's HDMI ports are newer generation (2.1), supporting higher bandwidths necessary for 8K and high refresh rate 4K content.

Real-World Performance

Home Theater Use

In a typical home theater setting, both receivers perform admirably. I've tested them with various speaker configurations and content types:

• Movies: Both handle surround sound formats well, creating an immersive experience. The Sony's extra power might give it a slight edge with action movies in larger rooms.
• Music: Both receivers deliver clean, detailed stereo performance. The Denon seems to have a slightly warmer sound signature, while the Sony tends toward a more neutral presentation.
• TV Shows: For everyday TV watching, both perform equally well, with clear dialogue and balanced sound.

Gaming Performance

This is where the Denon AVR-S570BT really pulls ahead. Its support for VRR and ALLM makes a noticeable difference when gaming, especially in fast-paced titles. The Sony works fine for gaming, but lacks these modern features that help reduce lag and screen tearing.

Value Considerations

Future-Proofing

The Denon's support for 8K and advanced gaming features makes it more future-proof. While 8K content is still rare, having the capability means you won't need to upgrade as soon when it becomes more common.

Current Usage

If you're primarily using current-generation equipment and aren't planning to upgrade to 8K in the next few years, the Sony STR-DH590 offers excellent value. Its stronger power output and lower price make it an attractive option for users focused on current needs.

How to Decide

Choose the Denon if:

• You want the latest gaming features
• You're planning to upgrade to 8K in the future
• You value having newer HDMI standards
• You want slightly better room calibration

Choose the Sony if:

• You want to save some money
• You need more power for your speakers
• You're satisfied with 4K/60Hz video
• You don't need advanced gaming features

Final Thoughts

For most buyers in 2024, I recommend the Denon AVR-S570BT. Its more recent design and future-proof features justify the slightly higher price. However, if you're working with a strict budget and don't need the latest features, the Sony STR-DH590 remains a solid choice that delivers excellent audio performance for the price.

Remember, both receivers will serve well as the heart of a home theater system – the key is matching their capabilities to your specific needs and future plans. Consider how long you plan to keep the receiver and what other equipment you might add to your system over time.

The best choice ultimately depends on your personal priorities between future-proofing, power needs, and budget constraints. Either way, you'll end up with a capable receiver that can deliver an engaging home theater experience.

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

Sony STR-DH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver Deals and Prices