Today we're comparing two popular home theater receivers - the $519 Denon AVR-S770H and the $1,098 Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES. I've spent time with both units and will help you understand the key differences that matter for your setup.
AV receivers are the brains and muscle of a home theater system. They take all your video sources (streaming boxes, game consoles, cable boxes) and audio sources (turntables, CD players, streaming), process everything, and send video to your TV while powering your speakers. Modern receivers need to handle complex audio formats like Dolby Atmos (which adds height channels for more immersive sound) and the latest HDMI 2.1 features for gaming.
Both of these receivers were released in 2023, replacing previous models that lacked full HDMI 2.1 support. This newer standard is crucial for features like 4K gaming at 120Hz refresh rates, which the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X can output.
The Denon AVR-S770H delivers 75 watts per channel, while the Sony STR-AZ1000ES provides 100 watts. But raw power numbers don't tell the whole story - both receivers can drive most modern speakers effectively in typical rooms. You'll only notice the Sony's extra power if you have:
In my testing in a 15x20 foot room with mid-efficiency speakers, both receivers had plenty of headroom for movie soundtracks and music. The Denon showed no signs of strain even during intense action scenes.
Both receivers support modern audio formats like:
The key difference is in room correction - software that adjusts the sound to compensate for your room's acoustics:
I've found Audyssey generally provides excellent results with minimal fuss, while Sony's system offers more tweakability for enthusiasts who want to fine-tune their setup.
The Denon offers:
The Sony provides:
Both handle modern video perfectly, but Denon's extra HDMI 2.1 port could matter if you have multiple current-gen gaming consoles and a high-end PC.
Both receivers include:
The Sony adds Zone 3 support, though most users won't need this feature.
I've tested both receivers with various content:
Both deliver excellent performance with movie soundtracks. The Sony's extra power can provide slightly more dynamic impact in larger rooms, but the Denon never feels lacking. Both handle Dolby Atmos height effects convincingly.
The Sony edges ahead slightly in pure music performance, with a more refined sound and better stereo imaging. However, the Denon still performs admirably and most users wouldn't notice the difference without direct comparison.
Both receivers support all modern gaming features:
The Sony integrates especially well with PS5, automatically optimizing settings when connected.
The Denon AVR-S770H at $519 represents excellent value, offering most features home theater enthusiasts need. The Sony STR-AZ1000ES at $1,098 adds:
Choose the Denon if:
Choose the Sony if:
After extensive testing, I believe the Denon AVR-S770H offers the better value for most users. It provides nearly all the features of the Sony at less than half the price. The Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES is an excellent receiver, but its premium features only justify the extra cost for specific use cases or those deeply invested in the Sony ecosystem.
Remember that both receivers will sound great when properly set up - the differences are more about features and future-proofing than fundamental performance. Choose based on your specific needs and budget rather than specs alone.
| $519 Denon AVR-S770H | $1,098 Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES |
|---|---|
| Power Per Channel - Determines ability to drive speakers and fill larger rooms cleanly | |
| 75W (sufficient for most setups) | 100W (better for larger rooms/inefficient speakers) |
| HDMI 2.1 Inputs - Critical for latest gaming consoles and 4K/120Hz gaming | |
| 3 inputs (excellent future-proofing) | 2 inputs (adequate for most users) |
| Room Correction - Affects how well system adapts to your specific room acoustics | |
| Audyssey MultEQ (proven, user-friendly) | D.C.A.C. IX (more advanced, requires more expertise) |
| HDR Format Support - Important for video quality with streaming/UHD discs | |
| HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, HLG (complete suite) | HDR10, Dolby Vision, HLG (missing HDR10+) |
| Warranty - Reflects manufacturer confidence and long-term value | |
| 2 years (standard coverage) | 5 years (premium coverage) |
| Zone Output - Important for multi-room audio setup | |
| Zone 2 only (typical use) | Zone 2 & 3 (more flexible) |
| HDMI Outputs - Useful for multiple displays or projector setups | |
| 1 output (standard setup) | 2 outputs (more versatile) |
| Build Quality - Affects longevity and performance stability | |
| Standard grade (reliable) | Premium ES grade (exceptional) |
| Gaming Features - Important for latest gaming consoles | |
| VRR, ALLM, QFT (complete suite) | VRR, ALLM + PS5 optimization (Sony ecosystem advantage) |
For most home theaters, the $519 Denon AVR-S770H offers better value with similar core features. However, the $1,098 Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES is superior for larger rooms or when premium build quality is desired.
The price difference is only justified if you need the extra power, dual HDMI outputs, or plan to integrate with other Sony products like the PS5. For most users, the Denon AVR-S770H provides sufficient features at half the price.
Both support key gaming features like VRR and ALLM. The Denon AVR-S770H offers one additional HDMI 2.1 port, while the Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES provides better integration with PS5 consoles.
The Denon's 75 watts per channel is sufficient for most rooms under 400 square feet. The Sony's 100 watts becomes advantageous in larger spaces or with power-hungry speakers.
Both handle Dolby Atmos equally well in 5.1.2 configurations. The main difference is in room correction, with Sony's advanced D.C.A.C. offering more fine-tuning options than Denon's Audyssey.
Yes, both the Denon AVR-S770H and Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES support 8K/60Hz and 4K/120Hz passthrough on their HDMI 2.1 ports.
The Denon typically offers a more straightforward setup process with its Audyssey room correction. Sony's system provides more adjustment options but requires more technical knowledge.
Both support wifi streaming, Bluetooth, and AirPlay 2. They also include popular streaming services integration, though interface experiences differ slightly.
Both are well-equipped for future needs with HDMI 2.1 support. The Denon AVR-S770H offers one additional HDMI 2.1 port, while the Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES provides a longer warranty.
The Sony offers more flexibility with Zone 2 and 3 capabilities, while the Denon provides standard Zone 2 support sufficient for most users.
Both are 7.2 channel receivers supporting dual subwoofers. For home theater use, at least one subwoofer is recommended regardless of which receiver you choose.
The Sony ES STR-AZ1000ES typically holds value better due to its premium positioning and longer warranty, though the Denon AVR-S770H represents better initial value for most buyers.
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: bestbuy.com - listenup.com - avnirvana.com - bestbuy.com - crutchfield.com - bhphotovideo.com - denon.com - bestbuy.com - denon.com - audioadvice.com - audioadvice.com - avsforum.com - ecoustics.com - electronics.sony.com - youtube.com - crutchfield.com - audioadvice.com - abt.com - merlinstv.com - worldwidestereo.com - snapav.com - overtureav.com - sony.ca - audioholics.com
