Choosing Between Modern AV Receivers: A Complete Guide

When setting up a home theater system, the AV receiver acts as the command center - processing video, powering speakers, and managing all your inputs. Today we'll compare two popular options: the Denon AVR-S760H ($569) and the JBL MA310 ($339). I'll help you understand exactly what you get for your money and which receiver might be right for your setup.

Understanding AV Receivers in 2024

Before diving into specifics, let's talk about what modern AV receivers need to handle. They're responsible for:

• Processing audio formats like Dolby Atmos (which adds height channels for more immersive sound)
• Managing video signals, including 4K and now 8K content
• Powering multiple speakers with clean, sufficient amplification
• Providing connectivity for various devices (gaming consoles, streaming boxes, etc.)
• Offering room correction to optimize sound for your space

The technology has evolved significantly in recent years. When the Denon AVR-S760H launched in 2021, it brought 8K compatibility and HDMI 2.1 features that weren't common before. The JBL MA310 represents a more basic approach focused on reliable core features rather than cutting-edge specs.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Channel Configuration and Power

The most immediate difference between these receivers is their channel count. The Denon's 7.2 configuration means it can power seven main speakers plus two subwoofers. This allows for either rear surround speakers or height channels for Dolby Atmos. The JBL's 5.2 setup supports the traditional five-speaker surround layout (front left/right, center, and two surrounds) plus two subwoofers.

Power output is another key differentiator:

• Denon: 75 watts per channel (6 ohms)
• JBL: 60 watts per channel (8 ohms)

While these numbers might seem close, the Denon's additional power and lower impedance rating means it can drive speakers more effectively, especially in larger rooms or with more demanding speakers.

Audio Processing and Room Correction

Here's where the Denon really pulls ahead. It includes:

• Full Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
• Audyssey MultEQ room correction (which measures your room's acoustics and adjusts accordingly)
• HEOS multi-room audio system
• High-resolution audio support

The JBL offers more basic processing:

• Standard Dolby Digital and DTS
• Basic EQ settings
• Bluetooth audio streaming

Having used both systems, I can say the Denon's room correction makes a noticeable difference in sound quality. It helps eliminate boomy bass and harsh spots that often occur due to room acoustics.

Video Capabilities

Modern home theaters need to handle various video formats and resolutions. Here's how they compare:

Denon AVR-S760H:

• 8K/60Hz pass-through
• 4K/120Hz support (great for gaming)
• HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG support
• 8K upscaling
• 6 HDMI 2.1 inputs

JBL MA310:

• 4K/60Hz pass-through
• Basic HDR10 support
• 4 HDMI 2.0 inputs

The Denon's additional video capabilities future-proof your system for upcoming 8K content and current high-frame-rate gaming consoles.

Real-World Performance

I've spent time with both receivers in various setups, and here's what stands out:

Home Theater Use

The Denon AVR-S760H excels in dedicated home theater applications. The additional channels and power make movie soundtracks more immersive, especially with Dolby Atmos content. The advanced room correction really helps dialogue clarity and maintains balanced sound across all seats.

The JBL MA310 performs well in more modest setups. It's particularly suitable for smaller rooms or when you're not planning to use height channels. While it lacks some premium features, it delivers clean, reliable performance for standard surround sound content.

Music Listening

Both receivers handle music well, but in different ways:

• The Denon offers more streaming options and better processing for high-resolution audio
• The JBL provides solid stereo performance with a more straightforward approach

Gaming Performance

For gaming enthusiasts, the Denon's HDMI 2.1 features and 4K/120Hz support make it the clear choice. These features ensure compatibility with PS5 and Xbox Series X at their highest performance levels.

Value Consideration

While the Denon costs about $230 more, it offers significantly more features and flexibility. Here's how to think about the value proposition:

The Denon makes sense if:

• You want a future-proof system
• You're building a dedicated home theater
• You plan to use height channels or rear surrounds
• You need advanced gaming features
• You want multi-room audio capabilities

The JBL is a better value if:

• You're setting up a basic 5.1 system
• You have a smaller room
• You don't need advanced processing
• You want a simpler setup process
• Your budget is strictly limited

How to Decide

Your choice should ultimately depend on your specific needs and future plans. Consider these questions:

1. What's your room size?
2. Large rooms benefit from the Denon's extra power
3. Smaller rooms work fine with the JBL's capabilities

1. What's your primary use case?
2. Movies: Denon offers better processing and more channels
3. Music: Both perform well, with Denon offering more streaming options
4. Gaming: Denon has crucial next-gen gaming features

1. What's your future upgrade path?
2. Planning to add height speakers? Choose Denon
3. Keeping a basic setup? JBL is sufficient

1. What's your budget?
2. Include not just the receiver but also speakers and cables
3. Consider if you'll upgrade other components soon

Final Thoughts

The Denon AVR-S760H represents the modern standard for home theater receivers, with features that will remain relevant for years. Its additional channels, power, and processing capabilities make it the better choice for enthusiasts and future-proof systems.

The JBL MA310 serves well as a basic surround sound receiver, offering good performance for less demanding setups. It's a solid choice if you want straightforward operation and don't need the latest features.

Remember that an AV receiver is a long-term investment. While the price difference might seem significant initially, spreading it over several years of use often makes the more capable receiver a better value, especially if you think you might want to upgrade your system in the future.

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

JBL MA310 5.2 Channel 4K AV Receiver Deals and Prices