When building a home theater system, the receiver acts as the brain of your setup, handling everything from processing audio signals to switching video sources. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the newer Denon AVR-S570BT ($319) and the established Yamaha RX-V385 ($299).
Modern AV receivers need to juggle multiple responsibilities: processing high-resolution audio, managing the latest video standards, and providing enough power to drive your speakers effectively. The technology has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly around HDMI 2.1 features and 8K video support.
Both receivers we're examining today sit in the entry-level to mid-range category, where every dollar of value matters. Let's break down what each offers and help you decide which makes more sense for your setup.
The Yamaha RX-V385 was released in 2018, while the Denon AVR-S570BT arrived in 2022. This four-year gap represents a significant evolution in home theater technology, particularly in video processing capabilities.
The Denon's support for HDMI 2.1 brings several meaningful advantages:
The Yamaha, while still capable, is limited to HDMI 2.0b specifications:
Both receivers offer similar core audio capabilities:
The Denon edges ahead with 5.2 channel support, allowing connection of two subwoofers for more balanced bass response in larger rooms. The Yamaha is limited to 5.1 channels but includes Yamaha's well-regarded YPAO room calibration system.
Room calibration helps optimize your speaker setup for your specific space:
Both receivers offer similar basic connectivity:
The Denon AVR-S570BT adds modern touches:
In practical use, both receivers perform admirably for their price points. The Yamaha has proven reliable over years of service, while the Denon brings newer technology to the table. For movie watching, both deliver clean, powerful audio that will satisfy most users.
If you're a gamer, especially with current-gen consoles, the Denon's HDMI 2.1 features make it the clear choice. The difference in gaming performance is noticeable:
Both receivers handle music well, though in slightly different ways:
The $20 price difference between these receivers makes the decision interesting:
The Yamaha RX-V385 at $299 offers:
The Denon AVR-S570BT at $319 provides:
Consider these key factors when making your choice:
Both receivers represent solid choices for different users. The Yamaha offers mature, refined performance at a slightly lower price, while the Denon provides newer technology and better future-proofing for a small premium.
For most users building a new system today, the Denon AVR-S570BT makes more sense despite its higher price. The HDMI 2.1 features alone justify the extra cost, even if you don't need them immediately. However, if you're certain you won't use the newer features, the Yamaha RX-V385 remains an excellent choice that can save you some money while delivering great performance for current content.
| Denon AVR-S570BT | Yamaha RX-V385 |
|---|---|
| Video Resolution Support - Determines future-proofing and gaming compatibility | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz with HDMI 2.1 | 4K/60Hz with HDMI 2.0b |
| Channel Configuration - Affects subwoofer setup options | |
| 5.2 channels (dual subwoofer support) | 5.1 channels (single subwoofer) |
| Power Output - Determines speaker compatibility and room size capability | |
| 70W per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz) | 70W per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz) |
| Room Calibration - Critical for optimal sound in your specific space | |
| Basic Audyssey (functional but basic) | YPAO (more sophisticated, better results) |
| Gaming Features - Important for next-gen console gaming | |
| VRR, ALLM, QFT supported | Not supported |
| Price - Value consideration against features | |
| $319 (worth it for future-proofing) | $299 (better value if gaming isn't priority) |
| Release Date - Indicates technology generation | |
| 2022 (current-gen features) | 2018 (mature, proven platform) |
| HDR Support - Important for video quality | |
| HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG | HDR10, HLG only |
The Denon AVR-S570BT is significantly better for gaming due to HDMI 2.1 features like VRR, ALLM, and 4K/120Hz support, which the Yamaha RX-V385 lacks.
Both can handle 4K video, but the Denon AVR-S570BT supports 4K/120Hz while the Yamaha RX-V385 is limited to 4K/60Hz.
The Yamaha RX-V385 has the superior YPAO room calibration system compared to the basic Audyssey system in the Denon AVR-S570BT.
Both receivers output 70W per channel, suitable for medium-sized rooms up to about 350 square feet. For larger spaces, consider more powerful receivers.
The Denon AVR-S570BT is more future-proof with 8K support and HDMI 2.1, while the Yamaha RX-V385 uses older HDMI 2.0b technology.
Only the Denon AVR-S570BT supports dual subwoofers (5.2 channels). The Yamaha RX-V385 is limited to one subwoofer (5.1 channels).
Both perform similarly for music, though the Yamaha RX-V385 is often praised for its warmer, more natural sound signature.
Neither receiver supports Dolby Atmos as they are both 5-channel systems. You'll need a 7-channel or higher receiver for Atmos.
Both offer automated setup systems, but the Yamaha RX-V385's YPAO system is generally considered more user-friendly and accurate.
The Denon AVR-S570BT fully supports PS5 and Xbox Series X features, while the Yamaha RX-V385 lacks the latest gaming features.
The price difference is minimal - the Denon AVR-S570BT is $319 while the Yamaha RX-V385 is $299, making the Denon a better value considering its newer features.
For a basic setup, either will work well, but the Denon AVR-S570BT offers better long-term value with newer technology, unless you find the Yamaha RX-V385 at a significant discount.
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 - usa.yamaha.com - usa.yamaha.com - avsforum.com - crutchfield.com - hifiheaven.net - europe.yamaha.com - my.yamaha.com - hifiengine.com - abt.com - abcwarehouse.com
