When setting up a home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial - it's literally the brain and heart of your entertainment setup. Today, we're comparing two popular options: the Denon AVR-S760H ($569.99) and the Onkyo TX-RZ30 ($1,199.00). Let's break down everything you need to know to make the right choice.
Before diving into specifics, let's understand what makes a modern AV receiver important. Think of it as the command center for your home theater - it processes audio signals, powers your speakers, switches video sources, and handles streaming services. The technology has come a long way since basic stereo receivers, with modern units supporting features like 8K video, wireless streaming, and immersive 3D audio formats.
The Denon AVR-S760H was released in 2021, during a significant transition period in home theater technology. It was one of the first receivers in its price range to offer multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, which was a big deal for next-gen gaming consoles. The Onkyo TX-RZ30, scheduled for release in late 2024, represents the next generation of receivers, incorporating lessons learned from the HDMI 2.1 rollout and adding more refined features.
Let's talk about power and channels, which directly impact how many speakers you can run and how loud they can play:
The extra channels and power of the Onkyo matter if you're planning a more elaborate setup or have a larger room. However, for many home theaters, the Denon's power rating is perfectly adequate.
Both receivers support the latest video standards, but there are important differences:
Both support:
The Onkyo's additional HDMI 2.1 ports and second output provide more flexibility for complex setups, especially if you're running both a TV and projector.
This is where we see significant differences that impact sound quality:
Room correction helps compensate for acoustic problems in your space - think of it as an automated sound engineer optimizing your system for your specific room.
Both receivers offer comprehensive streaming options:
Modern gaming needs have become increasingly important for AV receivers:
The price difference between these receivers is significant, so let's break down the value proposition:
Consider these key factors when choosing between the Denon AVR-S760H and Onkyo TX-RZ30:
Both receivers are excellent choices, but they serve different users:
The Denon AVR-S760H is a fantastic value proposition offering all the essential features most users need. It's particularly well-suited for those building their first serious home theater or upgrading from an older receiver.
The Onkyo TX-RZ30 represents a more premium approach, with additional features and capabilities that enthusiasts will appreciate. Its superior room correction, additional channels, and more comprehensive gaming support make it a more future-proof choice, albeit at a higher price point.
Remember, the best receiver is the one that meets your specific needs and budget. Don't feel pressured to spend more if the Denon's features match your requirements - it's an excellent receiver that will serve most users well. Conversely, if you're building a more elaborate system or want the best possible performance, the Onkyo's premium features may be worth the investment.
| Denon AVR-S760H ($569.99) | Onkyo TX-RZ30 ($1,199.00) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines how many speakers you can power and what surround formats you can use | |
| 7.2 channels (good for typical home theater) | 9.2 channels (better for advanced Atmos setups) |
| Power Output - Impacts maximum volume and speaker compatibility | |
| 75W per channel (suitable for medium rooms) | 100W per channel (better for larger spaces) |
| HDMI 2.1 Ports - Critical for next-gen gaming and 8K video | |
| 3 HDMI 2.1 ports (basic future-proofing) | 6 HDMI 2.1 ports (excellent for multiple devices) |
| Room Correction - Affects how well the system sounds in your specific space | |
| Audyssey MultEQ (good basic correction) | Dirac Live (superior, more detailed correction) |
| Video Processing - Important for optimal picture quality | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz (standard gaming support) | 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz plus enhanced gaming features |
| Streaming Features - Determines wireless playback options | |
| HEOS, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth | Chromecast, AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Sonos certified |
| Zone Support - Allows music in multiple rooms | |
| 2 zones (basic multi-room audio) | 3 zones (more flexible whole-home audio) |
| Future Expandability - How well it will grow with your needs | |
| Limited by 7.2 channels (good for most users) | More flexible with 9.2 channels (room to grow) |
For a basic home theater, the Denon AVR-S760H ($569.99) is the better choice. It offers all essential features needed for a typical 5.1 or 7.1 setup at a more affordable price point compared to the Onkyo TX-RZ30.
The Denon AVR-S760H costs $569.99, while the Onkyo TX-RZ30 is priced at $1,199.00, representing a $629.01 difference. The price gap reflects additional features and power in the Onkyo model.
The Onkyo TX-RZ30 features superior Dirac Live room correction, which offers more detailed control and better results than the Denon's Audyssey MultEQ system. However, both systems work well for typical home theaters.
Yes, the Denon AVR-S760H supports key gaming features including 4K/120Hz and VRR through its HDMI 2.1 ports, making it suitable for current-gen gaming consoles.
The Denon AVR-S760H supports 7.2 channels (7 speakers plus 2 subwoofers), while the Onkyo TX-RZ30 supports 9.2 channels, allowing for more complex speaker setups including additional height channels.
The Onkyo TX-RZ30 is better suited for large rooms due to its higher power output (100W per channel vs 75W) and additional speaker channels.
Yes, both receivers support Dolby Atmos, but the Onkyo TX-RZ30 can handle more complex Atmos configurations (up to 9.2 channels) compared to the Denon's 7.2 channel limit.
Both offer comprehensive streaming options, but the Onkyo TX-RZ30 includes additional features like Chromecast built-in and Sonos certification, while the Denon AVR-S760H uses the HEOS platform.
Both receivers support 8K video and HDMI 2.1, but the Onkyo TX-RZ30 offers more HDMI 2.1 ports and additional channels for future expansion.
The Denon AVR-S760H is generally considered easier to set up, with a more straightforward user interface and setup process, making it better for first-time AV receiver users.
Yes, both can power multiple zones, but the Onkyo TX-RZ30 offers more flexibility with powered Zone 2 and Zone 3 capabilities, while the Denon is limited to two zones.
The price difference is worth it if you have a larger room, want superior room correction, or plan to build a more complex home theater setup. For basic to mid-level home theaters, the Denon AVR-S760H offers excellent value, while enthusiasts might prefer the additional capabilities of the Onkyo TX-RZ30.
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 - youtube.com - onkyo.com - cnet.com - audioholics.com - theabsolutesound.com - bestbuy.com - audiosciencereview.com - onkyo.com - onkyo.com - ecoustics.com - cine-craft.de
