If you're building or upgrading a home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial. Today, we're comparing two popular Denon models: the entry-level AVR-S760H ($549) and the flagship AVR-A10H ($4,699). Let's explore what makes each unique and help you decide which is right for your setup.
AV receivers act as the command center for your home theater, handling everything from switching between devices to processing audio and powering your speakers. Recent years have brought significant advances in video processing (like 8K support) and immersive audio formats (like Dolby Atmos), making even entry-level receivers surprisingly capable.
The AVR-S760H, released in 2021, brought high-end features like 8K video and HDMI 2.1 to the entry-level market. The AVR-A10H, launched in 2022, represents Denon's latest flagship technology, incorporating advanced room correction and professional-grade audio processing.
The most obvious difference between these receivers is their channel count. The AVR-S760H supports 7.2 channels (7 speakers and 2 subwoofers), perfect for a basic surround sound setup with two height speakers for Dolby Atmos. It delivers 75 watts per channel, enough to fill most living rooms with clear, dynamic sound.
The AVR-A10H jumps to 13.4 channels, allowing complex speaker arrangements with multiple height speakers and up to four subwoofers. Its 150 watts per channel provides headroom for larger spaces and more demanding speakers. Think of it like having a V8 engine versus a V6 - both will get you there, but one has considerably more power when needed.
Both receivers support modern audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, but there are significant differences in how they process sound:
Both receivers support 8K video and 4K gaming at 120Hz, but the implementation differs:
In typical living room setups, the AVR-S760H performs admirably. I've tested it with various speaker combinations, and it handles movie soundtracks and music with clarity and punch. The basic room correction does a good job of balancing speaker levels and managing bass response.
The AVR-A10H shows its strengths in dedicated home theater rooms where its extra channels and power create a more immersive experience. The superior room correction makes a noticeable difference in challenging acoustic environments, and the additional subwoofer outputs allow for more even bass distribution.
Both receivers offer wireless streaming through HEOS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi, plus voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant. However, the AVR-A10H adds professional integration features and more flexible multi-zone capabilities.
At $549, the AVR-S760H represents excellent value, offering modern features that would have been flagship-exclusive just a few years ago. It's priced competitively against similar receivers from other brands.
The AVR-A10H at $4,699 requires serious consideration of your needs and budget. Its price reflects professional-grade components and expanded capabilities, but it's important to ensure you'll actually benefit from these features.
For most users, the AVR-S760H provides everything needed for an excellent home theater experience. Its feature set and performance represent the sweet spot of price versus capability in today's market.
The AVR-A10H is for serious enthusiasts who need its expanded capabilities or professional integrators working on high-end installations. While its performance advantages are real, they're most noticeable in properly designed theater rooms with high-end speakers.
Remember: The best receiver is the one that meets your specific needs without paying for features you won't use. Consider your room size, speaker plans, and source devices when making your decision.
| Denon AVR-S760H ($549) | Denon AVR-A10H ($4,699) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how many speakers you can use and the type of surround sound setup possible | |
| 7.2 channels (suitable for basic Atmos) | 13.4 channels (enables full theater setup) |
| Power Per Channel - Higher power means cleaner sound at high volumes and better speaker compatibility | |
| 75W (8 ohms, sufficient for most rooms) | 150W (8 ohms, ideal for large spaces/demanding speakers) |
| HDMI 2.1 Inputs - Critical for gaming and future 8K sources | |
| 3 inputs (enough for basic setup) | 7 inputs (comprehensive connectivity) |
| Subwoofer Outputs - More outputs enable better bass distribution | |
| 2 outputs (good for medium rooms) | 4 independent outputs (optimal for large theaters) |
| Room Correction - Better correction means more optimal sound for your space | |
| Basic Audyssey MultEQ (good for simple setups) | Advanced Audyssey XT32 + Dirac Live (professional grade) |
| DAC Quality - Better DACs provide cleaner, more detailed sound | |
| Standard DACs (good for most users) | Premium ESS DACs (audiophile grade) |
| Audio Format Support - More formats mean more ways to enjoy content | |
| Dolby Atmos, DTS:X (covers most content) | Adds Auro-3D, IMAX Enhanced (complete format support) |
| Build Quality - Better components typically mean better longevity and performance | |
| Standard components (reliable) | Premium components, made in Japan (audiophile grade) |
| Best For - Who should buy this receiver | |
| Typical living rooms, basic home theaters | Dedicated theater rooms, audiophiles, future expansion |
The Denon AVR-S760H is a 7.2 channel receiver ideal for basic home theaters, while the Denon AVR-A10H is a premium 13.4 channel receiver designed for advanced setups. The main differences are channel count, power output, and price ($549 vs $4,699).
The AVR-S760H is perfect for typical living room setups, offering sufficient power and features for rooms up to 350 square feet. It's more cost-effective and provides everything needed for a basic surround sound system.
The price difference is substantial ($4,150). The AVR-A10H is only worth the premium if you need its advanced features for a dedicated home theater room or professional installation.
Most users don't. The AVR-S760H's two subwoofer outputs are sufficient for typical rooms. The AVR-A10H's four outputs are beneficial for large, dedicated theater rooms requiring precise bass distribution.
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: crutchfield.com - audioadvice.com - bestbuy.com - denon.com - bestbuy.com - smarthomescope.com - bestbuy.com - bombayaudio.com - manuals.denon.com - cocoontech.com - zkelectronics.com - audiosciencereview.com - audioadvice.com - safeandsoundhq.com - crutchfield.com - audioholics.com - simplehomecinema.com - youtube.com - ihomefurniture.com - skybygramophone.com - techradar.com - denon.com - projectorscreen.com
