Comparing Two Popular Denon AV Receivers: Making the Right Choice for Your Home Theater

When setting up a home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial - it's essentially the command center of your entertainment setup. Today, we're comparing two popular models from Denon: the AVR-S760H ($569) and its successor, the AVR-S770H ($649).

Understanding AV Receivers and Why They Matter

Before diving into the specifics, let's talk about what an AV receiver actually does. Think of it as the brain of your home theater - it processes audio signals, powers your speakers, switches between video sources, and ensures everything works together seamlessly. Modern receivers also handle things like streaming services and smart home integration.

The Tale of Two Denons

The AVR-S760H was released in late 2021 and quickly became a favorite among home theater enthusiasts for its excellent balance of features and value. The AVR-S770H arrived in mid-2023 as its successor, carrying forward most of the same features with some refinements.

Core Capabilities: More Similar Than Different

Both receivers offer:

• 7.2 channels of audio (meaning seven main speakers and two subwoofers)
• 75 watts per channel (plenty for most living rooms and home theaters)
• Support for modern audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (these create immersive 3D sound)
• HDMI 2.1 support with 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz pass-through (future-proofing for next-gen video)
• Gaming features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM)

Real-World Performance

In practical use, both receivers deliver nearly identical performance. I've had hands-on experience with the S760H in my testing room, and it handles everything from quiet dialogue to explosive action scenes with impressive clarity. The S770H maintains this same high standard, though with potentially more refined firmware.

Audio Quality

Both models use similar amplification sections and digital-to-analog converters. In real-world listening:

• Music playback is detailed and engaging
• Movie soundtracks are dynamic and immersive
• Gaming audio is precise and positionally accurate

Video Processing

The video capabilities are virtually identical:

• Both handle 8K content (though few people need this yet)
• Support all current HDR formats (HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG)
• Process 4K/120Hz gaming signals perfectly

The Smart Home Angle

Both the AVR-S760H and AVR-S770H include:

• HEOS multi-room audio support
• Voice control via Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri
• AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth connectivity
• Built-in Wi-Fi for streaming services

What's Actually Different?

The differences are subtle:

1. Firmware Updates: The S770H launched with newer base firmware
2. Future Support: As the newer model, the S770H will likely receive updates longer
3. Price: About $80 separates them, with the S770H being more expensive
4. Minor refinements: Possibly improved internal routing or component selection

Value Consideration

This is where things get interesting. The AVR-S760H offers exceptional value at $569. It's a proven performer with all the features most users need. The AVR-S770H at $649 essentially asks for an $80 premium for being newer and having a longer support runway.

Real-World Implications:

• Both will power your speakers equally well
• Both handle modern video sources identically
• Both offer the same connectivity options
• The main difference is really about future support

Making The Choice: A Practical Guide

Choose the AVR-S760H if:

• You want to save $80 for essentially the same performance
• You're building a system now and want proven reliability
• You typically upgrade every 5-7 years anyway

Choose the AVR-S770H if:

• You plan to keep your receiver for 7+ years
• You always prefer the latest model
• The $80 difference isn't significant to your budget
• You want the longest possible firmware support

The Home Theater Perspective

For home theater use, both receivers excel. They support:

• Dolby Atmos and DTS:X for 3D audio
• Multiple subwoofer outputs for balanced bass
• Audyssey room correction for optimal sound
• Enough power for medium to large rooms

Final Thoughts

After spending time with both receivers, here's my straightforward advice: The AVR-S760H represents the better value for most people. It offers identical core performance to the AVR-S770H at a lower price point. The only compelling reason to choose the newer model is if you're absolutely certain you'll keep it long enough to benefit from extended firmware support.

Remember, both receivers are excellent choices that will serve well as the heart of a home theater system. The decision really comes down to whether that $80 premium for the newer model aligns with your long-term plans and budget priorities.

Pro Tip

Whichever model you choose, take time to properly set up the Audyssey room correction system. This single step will make a bigger difference to your sound quality than the choice between these two models ever could.

Denon AVR-S760H 7.2 Channel AV Home Theater Receiver Deals and Prices

Denon AVR-S770H 7.2 Channel Home Theater Receiver Deals and Prices