If you're building or upgrading a home theater system, choosing the right AV receiver is crucial. Let's compare two popular options: the newer Denon AVR-S770H ($519) and the Yamaha RX-V385 ($299) to help you make an informed decision.
Think of an AV receiver as the command center of your home theater. It processes audio signals, powers your speakers, switches between video sources, and handles all the complex decoding of modern sound formats. When evaluating receivers, several key factors determine which one might be right for you.
The most important considerations are:
Let's dive into how these two receivers compare in each area.
The Denon AVR-S770H, released in 2023, offers 7.2 channels, which means it can power seven speakers plus two subwoofers. This enables several setup options:
The Yamaha RX-V385, from 2018, provides 5.1 channels - enough for a traditional surround sound setup with five speakers and one subwoofer. While this meets many people's needs, it can't support newer formats like Dolby Atmos that require height speakers.
Both receivers deliver similar power per channel:
These ratings are plenty for most home theaters in average-sized rooms. However, the Denon's dual subwoofer outputs offer better flexibility for bass management, especially in larger or awkwardly-shaped rooms where even bass distribution can be challenging.
This is where we see the biggest technological leap between these models. The Denon supports:
The Yamaha, being older, supports:
For most current content, the Yamaha's capabilities are sufficient. However, if you're planning to use an Xbox Series X, PS5, or 8K TV, the Denon's newer technology becomes important.
Both receivers handle common audio formats like Dolby Digital and DTS-HD Master Audio, but the Denon adds support for object-based formats:
Each receiver uses different room correction technology:
These systems analyze your room's acoustics using a microphone and automatically adjust various audio parameters. While both work well, Audyssey typically offers more detailed adjustments and better results.
Modern receivers are expected to handle streaming, and here's where we see another generational gap:
The Denon includes:
The Yamaha offers:
I've spent time with both receivers in various setups, and here's what stands out:
The Denon AVR-S770H excels at:
The Yamaha RX-V385 impresses with:
When considering value, think about your long-term needs:
The Denon's higher price includes:
The Yamaha offers:
Choose the Denon if you:
Choose the Yamaha if you:
The Denon AVR-S770H and Yamaha RX-V385 represent different generations of AV receiver technology. The Denon offers more future-proofing and features but costs notably more. The Yamaha, while older, remains a solid choice for basic home theater needs at a more affordable price point.
For most people building a new home theater today, I'd recommend stretching the budget for the Denon if possible. Its additional features and future-proofing will likely save money in the long run by preventing the need for early upgrades. However, if you're working with a strict budget or know you'll only need basic surround sound, the Yamaha remains a capable performer that will serve you well.
Remember, the best choice depends on your specific needs, room size, and how you plan to use your home theater system. Consider your current and future needs carefully before making your decision.
| Denon AVR-S770H ($519) | Yamaha RX-V385 ($299) |
|---|---|
| Channel Configuration - Determines possible speaker layouts and surround formats | |
| 7.2 channels (enables Dolby Atmos/DTS:X) | 5.1 channels (traditional surround only) |
| Power Per Channel - Impacts speaker compatibility and maximum volume | |
| 75W (slightly better for larger rooms) | 70W (adequate for most setups) |
| Video Support - Critical for future-proofing with new TVs/gaming | |
| 8K/60Hz, 4K/120Hz (next-gen ready) | 4K/60Hz (current standard) |
| HDMI Ports - Determines how many devices you can connect | |
| 6 in, 2 out (flexible setup) | 4 in, 1 out (basic connectivity) |
| Room Correction - Improves sound quality for your specific space | |
| Audyssey MultEQ (advanced calibration) | YPAO (basic calibration) |
| Streaming Features - Affects music playback options | |
| HEOS, WiFi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2 (comprehensive) | Bluetooth only (basic) |
| Multi-zone Capability - Important for whole-home audio | |
| Yes (can power second room) | No |
| Subwoofer Outputs - Affects bass management options | |
| Dual outputs (better bass control) | Single output (standard) |
| Release Date - Indicates technology generation | |
| 2023 (current tech) | 2018 (older generation) |
The Denon AVR-S770H ($519) is the clear choice for Dolby Atmos, as it supports 7.2 channels and can process height channels. The Yamaha RX-V385 ($299) doesn't support Dolby Atmos due to its 5.1 channel limitation.
The Denon AVR-S770H is significantly better for gaming, supporting 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz passthrough. The Yamaha RX-V385 only supports 4K/60Hz, making it less suitable for next-gen gaming consoles.
Both receivers offer similar power output - the Denon delivers 75W per channel while the Yamaha provides 70W per channel. Either is sufficient for most home theater setups in average-sized rooms.
The Denon AVR-S770H offers comprehensive streaming with HEOS, WiFi, Bluetooth, and AirPlay 2. The Yamaha RX-V385 only provides basic Bluetooth connectivity.
The Denon supports dual subwoofers (7.2), while the Yamaha only supports one subwoofer (5.1). Dual subwoofers can provide more even bass distribution in your room.
The Denon AVR-S770H features Audyssey MultEQ, offering more advanced calibration options. The Yamaha RX-V385 uses YPAO, which provides basic but effective room correction.
The Denon provides 6 HDMI inputs and 2 outputs, while the Yamaha offers 4 inputs and 1 output. More HDMI ports allow for connecting more devices simultaneously.
The Denon AVR-S770H can power a second zone of speakers. The Yamaha RX-V385 doesn't support multi-zone audio.
The Denon offers better future-proofing with 8K support, more channels, and advanced audio format compatibility. The Yamaha's features are more basic and representative of 2018 technology.
The Yamaha is simpler to set up due to fewer features and options. The Denon offers more flexibility but requires more setup time to optimize all features.
Yes, both receivers support 4K video. The Denon AVR-S770H supports up to 8K, while the Yamaha RX-V385 handles 4K/60Hz, which is sufficient for most current content.
If you need basic 5.1 surround sound, the Yamaha offers excellent value at $299. However, if you want current technology and features like Dolby Atmos, the Denon's higher price of $519 is justified by its capabilities.
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 - usa.yamaha.com - usa.yamaha.com - avsforum.com - crutchfield.com - hifiheaven.net - europe.yamaha.com - my.yamaha.com - hifiengine.com - abt.com - abcwarehouse.com
