Choosing the Right AV Receiver: Denon vs Sony Home Theater Guide

When setting up a home theater system, the AV receiver is like the conductor of an orchestra - it brings everything together. Let's compare two popular options: the newer Denon AVR-S770H ($519) and the established Sony STR-DH590 ($298). I'll help you understand what makes each unique and which might be right for your setup.

Understanding AV Receivers

Before diving into specifics, let's cover what makes a modern AV receiver important. These devices handle three main jobs:

1. Processing audio signals and decoding surround sound formats
2. Amplifying audio to power your speakers
3. Switching between video sources while maintaining quality

Think of it as the brain, muscle, and traffic controller of your home theater system, all in one box.

The Tech Evolution

The Denon AVR-S770H was released in 2023, while the Sony STR-DH590 came out in 2018. This five-year gap represents significant technological advances, particularly in these areas:

Video Capabilities

The Denon supports 8K video (which shows four times more detail than 4K) and high refresh rates up to 120Hz (meaning smoother motion, especially important for gaming). The Sony handles 4K/60Hz, which is still excellent for most current content but won't support next-generation gaming consoles at their highest capabilities.

Audio Processing

Both receivers handle surround sound, but there's a notable difference in their approach:

• The Denon supports object-based audio formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, which can place sounds precisely in three-dimensional space. Imagine hearing a helicopter actually moving over your head, or rain falling from above.
• The Sony focuses on traditional surround formats like Dolby Digital and DTS, which are still great but don't offer the same level of immersion.

Channel Configurations

The number before the decimal in receiver specifications (like 7.2 or 5.2) indicates how many main speakers it can power. The number after tells you how many subwoofers it supports.

The Denon AVR-S770H offers:

• 7.2 channels for flexible setup options
• Support for 5.1.2 Dolby Atmos (where the .2 means two ceiling/height speakers)
• Multiple speaker arrangement possibilities

The Sony STR-DH590 provides:

• 5.2 channels for traditional surround sound
• Standard 5.1 setup with left, center, right, and two surrounds
• Dual subwoofer support for balanced bass

Power and Performance

Both receivers deliver enough power for most home theaters, but they approach it differently:

Denon:

• 75 watts per channel (8 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 2 channels driven)
• More consistent power across all channels
• Better suited for larger rooms or more demanding speakers

Sony:

• 90 watts per channel (6 ohms, 20Hz-20kHz, 2 channels driven)
• Higher power rating but at higher distortion levels
• Great for medium-sized rooms and efficient speakers

Room Calibration

Getting the best sound from your speakers requires proper setup. Each receiver handles this differently:

Denon includes Audyssey MultEQ, a sophisticated room correction system that:

• Measures sound from multiple positions
• Adjusts for room acoustics
• Provides more detailed fine-tuning options

Sony uses D.C.A.C. (Digital Cinema Auto Calibration), which:

• Takes measurements from one position
• Makes basic adjustments for room acoustics
• Offers simpler, more straightforward setup

Connectivity and Features

Modern home theaters need various connection options:

Denon offers:

• 6 HDMI inputs with HDMI 2.1 features
• WiFi and Bluetooth
• Voice control compatibility
• HEOS multi-room audio support

Sony provides:

• 4 HDMI inputs (HDMI 2.0)
• Bluetooth audio
• Basic control options
• FM radio tuner

Value Consideration

The price difference ($221) between these receivers reflects their capabilities:

The Denon AVR-S770H justifies its higher price with:

• Future-proof features
• More channels and setup flexibility
• Better room correction
• Advanced gaming support
• Wireless connectivity options

The Sony STR-DH590 offers excellent value through:

• Solid basic performance
• Reliable brand reputation
• Simple operation
• Lower initial investment

Real-World Performance

In practical use, both receivers perform well, but they target different users:

Movie Watching

• Denon: Provides more immersive sound with height channels and better processing
• Sony: Delivers enjoyable traditional surround sound

Music Listening

• Denon: Offers more refined sound and streaming options
• Sony: Provides good stereo performance and Bluetooth convenience

Gaming

• Denon: Supports latest gaming features like VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode)
• Sony: Works well for casual gaming but lacks latest gaming-specific features

How to Decide

Choose the Denon AVR-S770H if:

• You want the latest technology
• Your room can accommodate height speakers
• You're serious about gaming
• You plan to expand your system
• Budget isn't your primary concern

Go with the Sony STR-DH590 if:

• You want a straightforward 5.1 setup
• You're working with a tighter budget
• You don't need height channels
• You prefer simpler operation
• You're mainly watching movies and TV

Final Thoughts

Both receivers excel at their intended purposes. The Denon represents the current state of the art, with features that will keep it relevant for years to come. The Sony, while older, remains a solid choice for basic home theater needs and offers excellent value for its price point.

Remember that the best receiver is the one that matches your specific needs, room size, and budget. Don't feel pressured to buy more features than you'll use - both these receivers can provide an excellent home theater experience when matched with appropriate speakers and properly set up.

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

Sony STR-DH590 5.2 Channel 4K HDR AV Receiver Deals and Prices