Choosing Between Modern AV Receivers: A Detailed Comparison

If you're setting up a home theater system in 2024, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial - it's essentially the command center of your entertainment setup. Today we'll compare two popular options: the Denon AVR-S760H ($569.99) and the Sony STR-DH790 ($348.00), breaking down exactly what you get for your money.

Understanding AV Receivers in 2024

Before diving into the specifics, let's talk about what these devices actually do. An AV receiver acts as both the brain and muscle of your home theater system. It processes video signals (the "AV" part) and powers your speakers (the "receiver" part). The technology has evolved significantly in recent years, particularly around gaming features and streaming capabilities.

Modern receivers need to handle everything from traditional cable boxes to the latest gaming consoles, streaming devices, and smart home integration. The market has shifted dramatically since the Sony's release in 2018, with new standards like HDMI 2.1 becoming crucial for serious gamers and home theater enthusiasts.

Key Differences That Matter

Video Processing and Gaming Support

The Denon AVR-S760H, released in 2021, represents the current generation of receivers. It supports 8K video (though few people need this yet) and, more importantly, 4K video at 120Hz refresh rate. This higher refresh rate matters tremendously for gaming, making motion smoother and reducing input lag. It also supports all modern HDR (High Dynamic Range) formats, which make colors more vibrant and realistic on compatible TVs.

The Sony STR-DH790 handles 4K at 60Hz, which is fine for movies and regular gaming, but lacks the newer HDMI 2.1 features. If you've got a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X, you won't be able to use their highest performance modes through this receiver.

Audio Processing and Power

Both receivers support Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which are formats that create three-dimensional sound, including overhead effects. In practical terms, this means you can hear rain falling from above or a helicopter flying overhead in movies that support these formats.

The Denon offers 75 watts per channel while the Sony provides 90 watts per channel. However, these numbers can be misleading - the Denon's power supply and amplification are more recent designs, and in real-world use, both receivers can easily fill most rooms with sound.

Connectivity and Streaming

This is where the age difference really shows. The Denon includes built-in WiFi and HEOS (Denon's multi-room audio system), letting you stream music directly to the receiver and connect it with other HEOS speakers throughout your house. It works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and supports AirPlay 2 for Apple users.

The Sony is more basic, offering Bluetooth connectivity but lacking WiFi or smart features. For many users, this might not matter - you can always add a streaming device like a Roku or Apple TV to either receiver.

Real-World Performance

I've had hands-on experience with both receivers, and here's what stands out in daily use:

Setup and Calibration

Both receivers include automatic room calibration systems, but Denon's Audyssey MultEQ is more sophisticated than Sony's D.C.A.C. system. Audyssey takes measurements from multiple positions in your room and makes more detailed adjustments. In practice, this means better sound across your entire seating area, not just in the primary listening position.

Sound Quality

For movies and TV shows, both receivers perform admirably. The Denon has a slight edge in terms of detail and clarity, particularly in complex scenes with multiple sound effects. For music, the Denon's more recent design shows through with better stereo imaging and more precise handling of high frequencies.

Gaming Performance

If you're serious about gaming, the Denon is the clear choice. Its HDMI 2.1 ports support:

• Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) - prevents screen tearing
• Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM) - automatically switches to game mode
• Quick Frame Transport (QFT) - reduces input lag

The Sony lacks these features, though it still works fine for casual gaming.

Value Consideration

At $348, the Sony STR-DH790 represents solid value for basic home theater needs. It handles 4K video, supports modern audio formats, and provides plenty of power for most rooms. However, its 2018 release date means it's missing features that have become important in recent years.

The Denon AVR-S760H at $569.99 offers significant advantages: better room calibration, modern gaming features, and extensive streaming capabilities. It's also more future-proof, with support for 8K video and HDMI 2.1 features that are becoming increasingly important.

How to Decide

Consider these factors when making your choice:

1. Gaming Priority
   • If you have a PS5 or Xbox Series X: Choose the Denon
   • For older consoles or casual gaming: Either receiver works fine

1. Room Size and Speaker Setup
   • Large room (over 400 sq ft): Lean toward the Denon
   • Medium or small room: Either receiver has sufficient power

1. Streaming Needs
   • Want built-in streaming: Choose the Denon
   • Already have streaming devices: Either works well

1. Future-Proofing
   • Planning to keep for 5+ years: Denon is worth the investment
   • Shorter-term solution: Sony offers better value

1. Budget
   • Strict budget under $400: Sony is the clear choice
   • Can spend more: Denon's features justify the cost

Final Thoughts

For most people setting up a home theater in 2024, I recommend the Denon AVR-S760H despite its higher price. The additional features, better room calibration, and future-proof design make it a better long-term investment. However, if you're on a tight budget or don't need the latest features, the Sony STR-DH790 remains a capable receiver that will serve basic home theater needs well.

Remember, either receiver will provide good performance for movies and music. The key is matching the feature set to your specific needs and budget. Consider how you'll use the receiver now and what you might want to do with it in the future when making your decision.

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

Sony STR-DH790 7.2 Channel Home Theater AV Receiver Deals and Prices